The pilable self-healing pipe made from insulation material is commonly used in the installation of electric cables. The conduits are designed to guide and protect electrical cables, keeping their flexibility and self-restoration capabilities following deformation. Thereby making them ideal for concealed wire installation and use in control panels.
The standard provides criteria regarding the mechanical characteristics and dimensional tolerances under mechanical and thermal stress situations. Manufacturers interested in entering the market should ensure adherence to the assessment criteria laid down by BIS, which include product testing and approval processes. In this article, we will discuss the certification process in relation to the standard criteria, testing procedures and product approval process in accordance with the Indian Standard.
What is IS 9537 (Part 4):1983
This is the Indian Standard for Pliable Self-Recovering Conduits of Insulating Materials used in electrical installations for the protection and routing of wires and cables. It specifies the requirements and testing methods to ensure the safety, flexibility, insulation properties, and mechanical strength of conduits. As per the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), these conduits are:
- Evaluated for heat and burning resistance
- Tested for electrical performance
- Checked for dimensional conformity
- Assessed for mechanical strength
Eligibility Criteria for BIS Certification of Pliable Self-Recovering Conduits
BIS authorisation under IS 9537 (Part 4):1983 is required for businesses involved in manufacturing, importing, or supplying Pliable Self-Recovering Conduits of Insulating Materials in India.
Applicable to:
- Manufacturers (India) - Must get BIS approval if the products are covered under QCO.
- Foreign Manufacturers - Need certification to export the self-recovering conduits to India.
- Importers/Brand Owners - Must ensure that the products are BIS-certified before sale.
- Sellers/Distributors - Should only sell certified Pliable Self-Recovering Conduits.
Testing and Inspection Requirements
To ensure quality in conduits employed in the installation of electrical wiring, the Bureau of Indian Standards has provided the essential criteria required as mentioned in IS 9537 (Part 4):1983. This certification would guarantee that conduits manufactured possess sufficient flexibility, insulation, durability and mechanical strength.
The BIS testing parameters and quality checks for the conduits are listed below:
How to obtain BIS License for IS 9537 (Part 4):1983 Products
BIS approval procedure helps in verifying that flexible self-recovery insulated tubes of insulating material conform to the specified standards in terms of their electrical safety, insulation properties, mechanical strength, etc. 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 dimensional accuracy, wall thickness uniformity, bending performance, compression resistance, impact strength and electrical insulation properties to ensure compliance with IS 9537 (Part 4).
- 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: A team from the Bureau of Indian Standards visits the factory to assess the manufacturing process, safety features, and quality assurance procedures.
- Grant of BIS License: Once all requirements are satisfied, the BIS issues the license for the scheme, namely Scheme I.
- Use of ISI Mark: With the issuance of the license, the product becomes eligible for being branded with the ISI mark alongside a valid CM/L number.
Documents Required for BIS 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.
Product Identification Standards for Pliable Self Recovering Conduits
Once the license is obtained by the manufacturer, the BIS Standard Mark for Flexible Self-Recovering Conduits of Insulating Material (IS 9537 Part 4:1983) shall be clearly marked on the product or its packaging. More details are mentioned below:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|
| ISI Mark | Indicates that the product is BIS certified and conforms to standards |
| Standard Number | IS 9537 (Part 4):1983 |
| 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 Requirements for IS 9537 (Part 4):1983
| 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 |
BIS Certification Cost Structure for Self-Recovering Electrical Conduits
The fee for certification under BIS for flexible, self-recovering ducts made from insulating materials (IS 9537 Part 4) includes fees for the application procedure, product testing, inspection at the factory, certification and marking. The BIS charges under Scheme I will vary according to the product scope, manufacturing facilities and the certification requirements.
| 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
Adherence to IS 9537 (Part 4):1983 compliance guidelines is a key factor that guarantees that pliable self-recovering conduits conform to predetermined standards of safety, reliability and performance. The certification system is more than just procedures; rather, it is an important system that tests and verifies that insulation reliability, mechanical recovery properties, and the process of standard testing methods are met. In this regard, compliance with IS 9537 ensures that the products qualify in terms of regulations, especially for manufacturers and importers. BIS Certification of flexible self-recovery conduits made of insulating materials increases the credibility of the product while meeting the safety standards of Indian electrical installations. As mentioned earlier, organizations that intend to enter the Indian electrical products market require compliance with such certifications and EVTL India can provide valuable assistance in this aspect.
