BIS Certification for Hot Rolled and Cold Rolled Steel Strips – IS 18316:2023

Overview

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has introduced IS 18316:2023, a crucial Indian Standard that defines the requirements for hot rolled and cold rolled steel strips used in the manufacturing of semi/fully processed non-grain oriented (NGO) electrical steel and fully processed grain-oriented (GO) electrical steel.

These materials form the backbone of India’s electrical and power infrastructure, as they are used in transformers, rotating electrical machines, inductors, generators, and other power distribution equipment. Their quality directly influences energy efficiency, durability, and performance.

Recognizing their critical role, the Government of India has made BIS certification mandatory for these products under the Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024 (QCO 2024). From October 21, 2025, even the amended version of IS 18316 will come into full effect, making compliance absolutely essential.

Importance of IS 18316:2023

Obtaining BIS certification under IS 18316:2023 offers multiple layers of importance:

1. Consumer Safety – Electrical steels manufactured with certified strips ensure that devices like transformers and motors remain safe during operation, preventing accidents or breakdowns.
   
   

2. Energy Efficiency – Certified steel strips minimize power loss, helping industries and the nation save electricity, thereby aligning with India’s energy conservation and climate commitments.
   
   

3. Market Uniformity – With standardized specifications, all manufacturers are held to the same quality level, ensuring consistency across the market.
   
   

4. Legal Requirement – Under QCO 2024, no uncertified product can be manufactured, imported, distributed, or sold in India.
   
   

5. Global Acceptance – BIS certification aligns Indian products with international standards, boosting export opportunities in regions like the EU, US, and Middle East.

Scope of IS 18316:2023

This standard covers both Hot Rolled and Cold Rolled Steel Strips that are eventually processed into electrical steels.

Key applications include:

• Power Distribution Equipment – Distribution transformers, reactors, etc.
  
  

• Rotating Electrical Machines – Motors, alternators, compressors.
  
  

• Inductors – Used in various industrial and electronic applications.
  
  

• Generators – Large-scale energy production equipment.
  
  

The scope also details:

• Chemical Composition – Defines the percentage of elements like silicon, carbon, manganese, etc.
  
  

• Physical & Mechanical Properties – Ensures appropriate hardness, elasticity, and durability.
  
  

• Dimensional Tolerances – Guarantees uniformity in thickness and width.
  
  

• Testing Requirements – Comprehensive testing to confirm compliance with quality benchmarks.

BIS Certification Process for IS 18316:2023

To obtain BIS certification, manufacturers must follow a systematic procedure:

1. Product Classification – Identify whether the product falls under IS 18316:2023 category.
   
   

2. Application Filing – Submit the application online via the BIS portal.
   
   

3. Documentation Preparation – Include technical details, test reports, manufacturing process data, and quality manuals.
   
   

4. Sample Testing – BIS-approved laboratories test samples for chemical and physical properties.
   
   

5. Factory Inspection – BIS officials visit the production facility to assess compliance with standards.
   
   

6. Grant of License – If all criteria are met, BIS issues a license to affix the ISI Mark on products.

Who Can Apply for BIS Certification?

The following stakeholders are eligible:

• Domestic Manufacturers – Indian producers of hot rolled and cold rolled steel strips.
  
  

• Foreign Manufacturers – Can apply through an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR).
  
  

• Importers & Distributors – Those importing steel strips for Indian markets must also ensure BIS compliance.

Key Requirements for Certification

Applicants need to provide:

• Manufacturing Facility Details – Complete information about equipment, production processes, and quality control.
  
  

• Testing Reports – Lab test reports proving compliance with IS 18316:2023.
  
  

• Regulatory Approvals – Certifications like ISO 9001/ISO 14001 (preferred).
  
  

• Product Samples – Must be tested for durability, composition, and efficiency.
  
  

• Marking & Labeling – Products must carry the ISI Mark with license number.
  
  

• Payment of Fees – Applicable BIS charges for processing and inspection.

Benefits of BIS Certification

• Legal Market Entry – Only certified products are legally sellable in India.
  
  

• Brand Reputation – Builds credibility with buyers, government agencies, and large enterprises.
  
  

• Tender Preference – BIS-certified suppliers get priority in PSU and government contracts.
  
  

• Export Facilitation – BIS certification makes products globally acceptable.
  
  

• Sustainability Contribution – Certified products support India’s green and energy-efficient initiatives.

Latest Updates on IS 18316:2023

• QCO 2024 Notification – Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order makes BIS certification mandatory.
  
  

• Amendment No. 1 (2025) – Effective from 21 October 2025, only the revised standard will be applicable.
  
  

• Strict Enforcement – Non-compliance will lead to penalties under Section 29 of the BIS Act, 2016, including fines and prosecution.

Role of BIS in Electrical Steel Compliance

Through IS 18316:2023, BIS ensures:

• Quality Assurance – Only high-grade steel enters India’s power sector.
  
  

• Safety Protection – Eliminates risks from substandard raw materials.
  
  

• Energy Efficiency – Contributes to reduced power loss and national energy goals.
  
  

• Industrial Growth – Strengthens India’s electrical steel ecosystem, promoting Make in India.

Common Challenges in BIS Certification

Many businesses face hurdles such as:

• Complex Documentation – Requires detailed technical and compliance reports.
  
  

• Testing Delays – Overloaded BIS labs may increase lead times.
  
  

• Amendment Tracking – Frequent updates in standards confuse manufacturers.
  
  

• Financial Burden – SMEs face high costs for testing and certification.
  
  

• Foreign Manufacturer Issues – Coordination with AIRs and BIS can be lengthy.

Conclusion

IS 18316:2023 is a cornerstone standard for India’s electrical and steel industry. It ensures that hot rolled and cold rolled steel strips used in electrical steels meet the highest benchmarks of safety, quality, and efficiency.

With BIS certification now mandatory under QCO 2024, compliance is no longer optional. For manufacturers, importers, and distributors, early preparation is the best way to avoid penalties and ensure uninterrupted market access.

Partnering with EVTL India helps simplify the process—covering documentation, testing, inspection, and compliance—ensuring faster approvals and smooth certification.

FAQs

Q1. What is IS 18316:2023?
It specifies requirements for hot rolled and cold rolled steel strips used in producing semi/fully processed electrical steels.

Q2. Is BIS Certification mandatory for this product?
Yes. Under QCO 2024, only BIS-certified products can be manufactured, imported, or sold in India.

Q3. When will the amended version take effect?
From 21 October 2025, the amended standard will be compulsory.

Q4. Who can apply?
Domestic manufacturers, foreign manufacturers (through an AIR), importers, and distributors.

Q5. What happens if a product is uncertified?
It will be penalized under Section 29 of BIS Act, 2016, including fines and prosecution.

Q6. How can EVTL India help?
We provide end-to-end consultancy – from application to final approval – ensuring quick certification with zero compliance risks.