Aerial bunched cables for working voltage up to 1100 Volts are used in power transmission systems where safe and efficient transmission of electricity is important. These cables bundle insulated conductors and help prevent theft, accidents, and faults caused by trees and weather. They can easily be installed on streets, residential colonies, industrial premises, and even rural electrification schemes. This is possible due to the compact nature of such cables.
electrification schemes. This is possible due to the compact nature of such cables. The manufacturing companies producing the aerial bunched cables in India should adhere to the standards set in the country. IS 14255: 1995 deals with such cables and prescribes various test processes that check the insulation strength of the cable, conductors, dimensional parameters, and overall performance. The evaluation of the cable depends on the results obtained from the test as compared to the requirements of the standard.
What is IS 14255: 1995
This is the Indian Standard that specifies requirements for aerial-bunched cables used in overhead power distribution systems operating at voltages up to and including 1100 volts. It outlines the safety parameters to ensure reliable performance in outdoor and utility-network applications. As per the BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards), these aerial bunched cables are:
- Tested for electrical insulation strength
- Evaluated for current carrying capacity
- Assessed for mechanical tensile strength
- Checked for weather resistance
Eligibility for Insulated Overhead Power Cables BIS License
BIS authorisation under IS 14255: 1995 is required for businesses involved in manufacturing, importing, or supplying ABC cables in India.
Applicable to:
- Manufacturers (India) - Must get BIS approval if the products are covered under QCO.
- Foreign Manufacturers - Need certification to export 1100V aerial bunched cable to India.
- Importers/Brand Owners - Must ensure that the products are BIS-certified before sale.
- Sellers/Distributors - Should only sell certified aerial bundled conductors.
Testing and Inspection Requirements
For the safety and reliable distribution of power via overhead systems, the requirements for making aerial bunched cables are specified by the Bureau of Indian Standards under IS 14255: 1995. It makes sure that these cables are made in a way which allows them to work well in all external weather conditions and maintain good electrical performance.
The BIS testing parameters and quality checks for the cables are listed below:
How to obtain BIS License for 1100V Aerial Bunched Cable
The BIS certification procedure confirms that aerial bunches of cables having a maximum voltage of up to 1100 volts satisfy all the necessary safety and electrical criteria. The Indian standard confirms the quality of the cables for safe and efficient transmission over different environments. This process is set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and includes the following steps:
- Online Registration: Manufacturers register on the BIS Manak portal by submitting company, factory, and product details. Foreign manufacturers must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR).
- Testing at BIS-Approved Laboratory: Product samples are tested in BIS-approved laboratories for key performance parameters such as electrical conductivity, conductor resistance, insulation strength, dimensional accuracy and mechanical durability.
- Application Submission: The application is submitted along with test reports, technical documents, and factory details. In the case of foreign manufacturers, AIR-related documentation must also be provided.
- Factory Inspection: BIS officials visit the manufacturing facility to evaluate production processes, safety measures, and the quality control system.
- Grant of BIS License: Once all requirements and compliance criteria are successfully fulfilled, BIS grants the certification license under Scheme-I.
- Use of ISI Mark: After approval, the manufacturer is permitted to use the ISI Mark on the product along with a valid CM/L number, indicating compliance with BIS standards.
Document List for IS 14255: 1995 Approval
| Document Category | Documents Required |
|---|
| Basic Details | GST Certificate, Email ID & Contact Number, Factory & Office Address, Rent Agreement / Lease Deed (if applicable),Partnership Deed (if applicable for partnership firms) |
| Manufacturing Details | List of Machinery, Process Flow Chart, Factory Layout Plan |
| Raw Material Details | List of Raw Materials, Supplier Details, Raw Material Invoices, Raw Material Test Certificates |
| Testing & Quality Control | List of Testing Equipment, Calibration Certificates, QC/Lab In-charge Appointment Letter & Qualification |
| Production Details | Annual Installed Capacity, Last Year Production Value |
| Product & Packaging Details | Quantity per Package, Nature of Packing, Product Printing / Marking Details |
| Management Details | Top Management Details, BIS Communication Contact Person |
| Brand & Certification Documents | Trademark / Brand Certificate, Consent Letter from BIS Recognized Laboratory |
| Additional Documents | Weekly Off Details, Hygiene Document (if applicable), Relaxation Letter (if applicable), Any Other Relevant Document |
| Foreign Manufacturer Requirement | Appointment of Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) for BIS coordination and compliance in India |
The Foreign manufacturers must designate an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) in India. The representative is the local point of contact for the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and manages all compliance and regulatory requirements in India.
Marking Requirements & License Validity
Marking Requirements
Once BIS approval is obtained, the ISI mark for aerial bunched cables must be clearly and permanently applied either on the product or its packaging. The marking should also include key information, such as the manufacturer’s identification and licence number (CM/L). Additional details are provided below:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|
| ISI Mark | Indicates that the product is BIS certified and conforms to standards |
| Standard Number | IS 14255: 1995 |
| CML Number | Certification Marks License (CML) number issued by BIS |
| Manufacturer Details | Name of manufacturer or registered trademark |
| Batch / Date | Batch number, heat number, or manufacturing date for traceability |
Note: Marking is typically applied using durable stamping, tagging, or permanent printing to ensure clear identification during handling, storage, and transportation, as per BIS marking requirements.
BIS License Validity for Aerial Bunched Cables
| particulars | Details |
|---|
| Initial Validity | Typically 1 to 2 years, depending on BIS approval conditions |
| Renewal | Must be renewed before expiry by submitting the application along with the prescribed fee and updated documents |
| Surveillane | Includes periodic factory inspections and market sample testing conducted by BIS |
| Compliance | Continuous following to standard and applicable Quality Control Orders (QCOs) is mandatory |
| Risk | Non-compliance or failed sample testing may lead to suspension or cancellation of the BIS license |
Overhead Insulated Cables BIS Approval Fee Details
The cost of BIS Approval for a power distribution cable includes charges for application, inspection, license, testing, and marking. These fees are paid to BIS as per Scheme I guidelines.
| Charge Type | Indian Manufacturers | Foreign Manufacturers |
|---|
| Application Fee | INR 1,000 | USD 15 |
| Audit Charges | INR 7,000 | USD 3,200 – 5,900 |
| License Fee | INR 1,000 | USD 15 |
| Marking Fee | As applicable | As applicable |
| Testing Charges | As applicable | As applicable |
| EVTL India Consultancy Fee | As per actual | As per actual |
Note:
- Application fee for foreign manufacturers is payable via SWIFT (SAARC countries may pay in INR with applicable GST).
- Audit charges for foreign manufacturers vary based on country/location.
- The marking fee is determined based on the product category and production volume (MSME benefits may apply).
- Testing charges are to be paid directly to BIS-recognised laboratories.
- Consultancy fees can vary depending on product type and factory location.
Conclusion
Aerial Bunched Cables have proven to be effective in providing safer and better-organized power transmission in urban and rural infrastructural projects. Certified aerial bunched cables provide higher resistance to any form of external damage. Adherence to IS 14255: 1995 standards also ensures more stability of power transmissions and increased durability in long-term outdoor use.
For efficient management of the processes of getting certifications, many companies use the services of EVTL India to help them with their BIS compliance procedures. They assist organizations in filling out applications, arranging testing of the products, and handling all technical documentation. This will go a long way in ensuring that the certification process is made easier without any complications.
