Unplasticized PVC screen and casing pipes are used in borewell and tubewell applications for efficient groundwater extraction. These pipes are designed to allow controlled water inflow while preventing sand and debris from entering the water. This ensures safe and reliable water lifting systems for the people. The pipes are made from durable PVC-U material and offer high mechanical strength and long service life.
To maintain the performance of the water pipes, the Bureau of Indian Standards has established guidelines under IS 12818: 2010. This standard outline guideline includes material quality, dimensional accuracy, threading, and mechanical performance of PVC screen and casing pipes. Manufacturers must obtain the BIS License for the casting pipes to sell them to the Indian customers.
What is IS 12818: 2010
This is the Indian Standard for Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride Screen and Casing Pipes used for Tubewells, which outlines the standard requirements for threading, dimensions, material composition and mechanical properties. This standard is set by the BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) to ensure that product quality and safety are met, and the pipes are
- Evaluated for resistance to external blows and deformation
- Manufactured approved PVC-U compounds
- Checked for threading accuracy
- Ensured to maintain structural stability
- Designed to ensure efficient water flow
Who can apply for BIS Approval for PVC Tubewell Pipes
BIS authorisation under IS 12818: 2010 is required for businesses involved in manufacturing, importing, or supplying borewell casing pipe in India.
Applicable to:
- Manufacturers (India)- Must get BIS approval if the tubewell pipes are covered under QCO.
- Foreign Manufacturers - Need certification to export Unplasticized PVC pipes to India.
- Importers/Brand Owners - Must ensure that the products are BIS certified before selling.
- Sellers/Distributors - Should only sell certified PVC casing and screen pipes.
Testing and Inspection Requirements
To ensure the quality, safety needs, and adequate performance of PVC-U Pipes used in borewell screens, the standard set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) defines proper testing and inspection requirements during manufacturing.
Material & Composition Tests
- PVC Resin Verification (S) - Ensures raw material quality and compliance with IS standards
- Material Composition Check (S) - Confirms correct formulation and consistency of PVC compound
- Colour Verification (R) - Ensures uniform pipe colour as per IS 12818 requirements
Dimensional & Physical Tests
- Dimension Test (R) - Verifies outer diameter, thickness, and overall pipe dimensions
- Threading of Pipes Test (R) - Ensures correct threading of screen and casing pipes
- Density Test (R) - Confirms material density compliance with standards
- Visual Appearance Test (R) - Checks pipes for cracks, voids, or surface defects
Mechanical Strength Tests
- Resistance to External Blows at 0°C (R) - Checks impact resistance under cold conditions
- Tensile Strength Test (R) - Ensures mechanical strength of pipes under load
- Vicat Softening Temperature Test (S) - Determines heat resistance and softening point of material
Performance & Functional Tests
- Effect on Water Test (S) - Ensures pipes do not contaminate water or affect quality
- Elastomeric Sealing Ring Test (R) - Ensures proper sealing and joint performance
- Water Tightness Check (R) - Ensures leak-proof joints for borewell applications
How to apply for PVC-U Tubewell Pipes BIS License
The BIS Authorisation process ensures that the PVC screen pipes 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 to verify material composition, dimensional accuracy, mechanical strength, threading quality, and overall performance suitability.
- 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: BIS officials conduct an on-site inspection to verify the production process, safety measures, and quality control system.
- Grant of BIS License: Once all requirements are successfully met, BIS grants the certification license under Scheme-I.
- Use of ISI Mark: After approval, the manufacturer can use the ISI mark on the product with a CM/L number, indicating compliance with BIS standard.
Required Documents for IS 12818: 2010 Approval
The following documents are typically required for obtaining BIS approval:
Basic Details: - GST Certificate
- Email ID, Contact Number
- Factory, Office Address
- Rent and Lease Agreement(if applicable)
- Partnership Deed (if partnership firm)
| Product and Packing Details: - Quantity per Package
- Nature of Packing
- Nature of Printing / Marking on Product
|
Testing and Quality Control: - List of testing Equipment
- Calibration Certificates
- QC or Lab In-charge Appointment Letter
- Qualification
| Raw Material Details: - List of Row Materials
- Supplier Details
- Raw Material Invoices
- Raw Material Test Certificates
|
Manufacturing Details: - List of Machinery
- process flow chart
- Layout plan of Factory
| Brand and Certification Documents: - Trademark / Brand Certificate
- Consent Latter From BIS Recognized Laboratory
|
Production Details: - Annual Installed Capacity
- Last Year Production Value
| Additional Documents: - Weekly Off Details
- Hygiene Documents(if applicable)
- Relaxation Latter(if applicable)
- Any Other Relevant Documents
|
Management Details: - Top Management Details
- Concerned Person for BIS Communication
| Required Documents: - Agreement with AIR
- Aadhaar Card with AIR
- AIR Nomination Form
- Required Undertakings
- Scope of License
|
Foreign manufacturers must additionally appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) to coordinate with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and manage compliance requirements in India.
Marking Requirements & License Validity
Marking Requirements
When a manufacturer obtains BIS Approval, the ISI Mark for borewell screen pipes must be clearly and permanently marked on its packaging or on the product. In addition to the ISI Mark, other important details must also be provided on the product or packaging, as specified in the table below, this ensures the product meets all quality and safety standards.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|
| ISI Mark | Indicates that the product is BIS certified and conforms to standards |
| Standard Number | IS 12818: 2010 |
| 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.
PVC Casing and Screen Pipes BIS License Validity Period
After obtaining BIS approval for the PVC borewell pipes, the approval is valid for a fixed period and must be maintained by following BIS rules and standards.
| 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 |
BIS License Fee Structure for PVC Casing Pipes
The cost of BIS Approval for water well casing pipe 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 depending on the country and location.
- Audit charges for foreign manufacturers vary based on country/location.
- Marking fee depends on the product category and production volume (MSME benefits may apply).
- Testing charges are paid directly to BIS-approved laboratories.
- Consultancy fees depend on product type and factory location.
Conclusion
The Bureau of Indian Standards has specified the minimum requirements for Unplasticized PVC-U screen and casing pipes used in borewell and tubewell under IS 12818: 2010. The certification ensures that the pipes meet defined quality standards. It also guarantees that the casting pipes for the borewell perform effectively under underground pressure conditions. This standard helps to maintain uniformity and consistency in borewell piping systems across the country.
Manufacturers must get the BIS certification for the PVC pipes to avoid any legal action in India. It also enhances product credibility and market acceptance among users. Manufacturers can seek assistance from an expert to streamline the certification process. EVTL India offers professional services and help in documentation, filling the application, and testing coordination for obtaining the product license.
