Continuous hinges are generally referred to as piano hinges, which are used to support doors,
lids, and panels. They are distinct from typical hinges because they run the full length of the
doors or panels to make them more stable. These types of hinges are used in furniture,
electrical panels, storage cases, industrial casings, and other such equipment.
These parts significantly influence the stability and the performance capability of the whole
structure. As such, it becomes important to ensure that the materials used are consistent in
terms of their quality, performance ability, and other factors. The BIS certification of these parts
according to IS 3818: 1992 includes quality assurance, dimensional accuracy, appearance, load
carrying capacity, and functional performance, among others.
What is IS 3818: 1992?
This is the Indian Standard for Continuous (Piano) Hinges used in doors, cabinets, furniture,
and electrical enclosures. It mentions the performance requirements to ensure smooth
operation and long service life. As per the BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards), these continuous
hinges are:
- Assessed for corrosion resistance
- Evaluated for dimensional consistency
- Tested for smooth movement
- Inspected for workmanship
Furniture Piano Hinge BIS License Eligibility Guide
BIS authorisation under IS 3818: 1992 is required for businesses involved in manufacturing, importing, or supplying cabinet continuous hinges in India.
Applicable to:
- Manufacturers (India) - Must get BIS approval if the metal strip hinges are covered under QCO.
- Foreign Manufacturers - Need certification to export the products to India.
- Importers/Brand Owners - Must ensure that the products are BIS-certified before sale.
- Sellers/Distributors - Should only sell certified corrosion-resistant piano hinges.
Testing and Inspection Requirements
To ensure reliable performance of hinges used in doors, shutters, and furniture units, the Bureau of Indian Standards outlines the minimum requirements under IS 3818: 1992. This certification ensures that manufacturers produce continuous hinges with consistent strength, proper alignment, and accurate dimensional tolerances for smooth operation.
The BIS testing parameters and quality checks for the piano hinges are listed below:
BIS Approval Process for Long Continuous Hinge
The BIS Authorisation process ensures that the industrial piano hinges meet the required
standards for proper and efficient operation. 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 physical properties, moisture content, chemical characteristics, dimensional stability, and overall material performance.
- Application Submission: The application is submitted along with test reports, technical documents, and factory details. Foreign manufacturers must also submit AIR-related documents.
- Factory Inspection: The Bureau of Indian Standards officials inspect the manufacturing units to verify the production process, safety measures, and quality control system.
- Grant of BIS License:Upon successful verification of all requirements, BIS grants the certification license under Scheme-I.
- Use of ISI Mark: Once approved, the manufacturer can use the ISI mark on the product with a CM/L number, confirming that the product meets BIS standards.
list of Documents for IS 3818: 1992Approval
| 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 are required to appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) in India. The representative is the local point of contact for the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and takes care of all rules and compliance work in India.
Marking Requirements & License Validity
Marking Requirements
Once a manufacturer obtains BIS approval, the ISI Mark for long-length hinge must be clearly
and permanently affixed on the product or its packaging. It should also include key details such
as the manufacturer’s identification and licence number (CM/L). This ensures the product
complies with all safety and quality standards. Further details are provided below:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|
| ISI Mark | Indicates that the product is BIS certified and conforms to standards |
| Standard Number | IS 3818: 1992 |
| 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.
corrosion - resistant piano hinges BIS License Validity
| 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 | BIS may inspect factories and test samples periodically |
| Annual Fees | Annual license fee must be paid regularly |
| Compliance | Continuous compliance with BIS requirements is necessary |
| License Format | BIS is shifting towards a 10-digit license number format |
| Non-Compliance Risk | May lead to suspension or cancellation of license |
Fee breakdown for cabinet continuous hinge BIS license
The cost of BIS Approval for micro silica 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
The continuous hinges (piano hinges) are used to ensure even weight bearing and movement
on large surfaces and the chance of deformation is reduced. The products which meet IS 3818:
1992 standards shall be evaluated to check their effectiveness and structural strength. Thus,
they can be effectively used in both commercial and industrial applications over a long period of
time.
The required documentation and testing processes need to be followed to comply with BIS
standards. EVTL India provides assistance to manufacturers and importers in terms of
undergoing compliance testing processes. Their services help reduce any potential delays
associated with certification.
