Ferrosilicon is an essential alloy material which is widely used in the manufacture of steel. This product may be extracted from the reduction of silicon with iron in electrical furnaces. The alloy is often used in the steel manufacturing process for deoxidizing and improving the magnetism and mechanics of the metal. It can also be used in various metal manufacturing industries due to its controlled composition and stability.
BIS certification is important for ensuring that Ferrosilicon meet the safety standards. According to IS 1110: 2023, the standard mentions guidelines concerning chemical composition, physical properties, production controls, and other aspects. The ferro alloy manufacturers must meet the Indian standard to sell their products in the market.
What is IS 1110: 2023
This is the Indian Standard for ferrosilicon used in steelmaking and foundry applications. It mentions the grades and quality parameters to ensure consistent performance of the alloy. As per the BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards), ferrosilicon is:
- Verified for suitability in deoxidation applications
- Evaluated for silicon and iron content
- Tested for chemical composition accuracy
- Assessed for impurity levels
Ferro Silicon Alloy BIS Approval Eligibility Guide
BIS authorisation under IS 1110: 2023 is required for businesses involved in manufacturing, importing, or supplying silicon iron alloy in India. Applicable to:
- Manufacturers (India) - Must get BIS approval if the metallurgical alloys are covered under QCO.
- Foreign Manufacturers - Need certification to export Ferrosilicon deoxidizer to India.
- Importers/Brand Owners - Must ensure that the products are BIS-certified before sale.
- Sellers/Distributors - Should only sell certified steelmaking alloy.
Testing and Inspection Requirements
To ensure consistent quality of ferrosilicon used in metallurgical applications, the Bureau of Indian Standards outlines the minimum requirements under IS 1110: 2023. This certification ensures that manufacturers meet the chemical composition standard for industrial use. The BIS testing parameters and quality checks for the ferrosilicon are listed below:
| Test Group | What is Tested | Purpose |
|---|
| Chemical Composition Tests | Silicon, carbon, sulphur, phosphorus, aluminium, calcium, manganese, boron, titanium, zirconium | Ensures correct alloy composition as per specified limits for metallurgical use |
| Particle Size Analysis | Size distribution, oversize and undersize particles | Ensures material conforms to declared size range for proper handling and application |
| Extraneous Contamination Tests | Foreign materials, slag, dust, and unwanted impurities | Ensures purity of ferrosilicon and prevents process contamination |
| Silicon Content Determination | Percentage of silicon in alloy | Ensures correct deoxidation and alloying performance in steelmaking |
| Carbon & Sulphur Analysis | Carbon and sulphur levels in alloy | Ensures controlled impurity levels for steel quality improvement |
| Phosphorus Content Test | Phosphorus percentage in ferrosilicon | Ensures controlled composition for preventing brittleness in steel |
| Aluminium Content Test | Aluminium percentage in alloy | Ensures effective deoxidation and alloy stability |
Calcium Content Test | Calcium concentration in alloy | Ensures modification of inclusions in steelmaking process |
| Manganese Content Test | Manganese percentage in alloy | Ensures strengthening and deoxidation performance in steel |
| Micro-Alloying Elements Test | Ti, B, Zr presence and concentration | Ensures controlled addition of alloying elements for steel property enhancement |
| Size & Sieve Analysis Tests | Particle size verification using IS sieves | Ensures proper grading and uniform size distribution |
Steps to get BIS Approval for Ferrosilicon
The BIS Authorisation process ensures that the steelmaking alloy meets 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 1110: 2023 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 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 Silicon Iron Alloy must be clearly and permanently marked on its packaging or on the product. Along with the ISI Mark, essential details such as the manufacturer’s identification and licence number (CM/L) must be marked. This ensures the product complies with all performance standards. Further details are mentioned below:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|
| ISI Mark | Indicates that the product is BIS certified and conforms to standards |
| Standard Number | IS 17286: 2019 |
| 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.
Validity Details for Ferro Silicon Alloy BIS License
| 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 |
Fees for Ferrosilicon Deoxidizer BIS License
The cost of BIS Approval for an industrial ferrosilicon 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
Ferrosilicon remains an important substance used in the metallurgical industry. It is necessary to obtain a certificate as per IS 1110: 1990 to ensure that the element is tested based on its composition. Proper certification also helps to reduce the risk of impurities and irregular material behavior that might influence finished metal products. Such measures allow for safe and efficient manufacturing processes in different industries. Manufacturers and vendors seeking BIS approval for ferrosilicon products generally need proper technical and procedural support during the certification process. EVTL India provides support in the documentation aspect, testing of the product and formalities involved in the certification process.
