Stainless Steel Butt Hinges are mechanical fittings used for the smooth opening and closing of doors and windows. These steel hinges have high strength and durability. They are used in architectural hardware since the butt hinges do not corrode easily. SS hinges ensure the smooth functioning of doors and windows for many years due to their durability.
The Bureau of Indian Standards has specified requirements under IS 12817: 2020 to ensure the quality of hinges. This Indian Standard assures that the fittings meet the requirements. Furthermore, it ensures the smooth functioning of the hinges despite frequent use. The manufacturer of hinges must meet the standard to use the certification mark on the product.
What is IS 12817: 2020?
This is the Indian Standard for Steel Pivot Hinges used in doors and windows. In order to ensure that the metal sheet is safe for use, certain requirements must be met. As per the BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards), SS hinges are:
- Assessed for durability
- Verified for proper fitting
- Tested for load-bearing capacity
- Evaluated for surface finish
- Checked for corrosion resistance
SS Butt Hinges BIS Approval Eligibility Requirements
BIS authorisation under IS 12817: 2020 is required for businesses involved in manufacturing, importing, or supplying Stainless Steel Hardware Hinges in India. Applicable to:
- Manufacturers (India) - Must get BIS approval if the products are covered under QCO.
- Foreign Manufacturers - Need certification to export hinges to India.
- Importers/Brand Owners - Must ensure that the products are BIS certified before selling.
- Sellers/Distributors - Should only sell certified SS Hardware Accessories.
Testing and Inspection Requirements
To ensure consistent quality of Architectural Stainless Steel Hinges, the Bureau of Indian Standards has laid the minimum requirements under IS 12817: 2020. This certification ensures that manufacturers follow standardised production practices. It also ensures that the hinges are safe for doors and windows.
The BIS testing parameters and quality checks for SS Butt Hinges are listed below:
BIS Approval Process for Stainless Steel Pivot Hinges

The BIS Authorisation process ensures that the SS 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 material, dimensional accuracy, and surface finish.
- 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 inspect the manufacturing units to verify the production process, safety measures, and quality control system.
- Grant of BIS License: If all the above requirements are 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, confirming that the product meets BIS standards.
Required Documents for IS 12817: 2020 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 |
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 Stainless Steel Fittings must be clearly and permanently marked on its packaging or on the product. In addition to the ISI Mark, essential details such as the licence number (CM/L), manufacturer’s identification, etc.
This ensures the product meets all quality and safety standards. More details are mentioned below:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|
| ISI Mark | Indicates that the product is BIS certified and conforms to standards |
| Standard Number | IS 12817: 2020 |
| 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.
SS Butt 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 | 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 |
Stainless Steel Hardware Hinges BIS License Fee Details
The cost of BIS Approval for hinges 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 differ based on country/location.
- Marking fee depends on the product category and production volume (MSME benefits may apply).
- Testing charges are to be paid directly to BIS-recognised laboratories.
- Consultancy fees vary depending on product type and factory location.
Conclusion
As per IS 12817:2020, set by the Bureau of Indian Standards, this standard specifies the requirements for Stainless Steel Butt Hinges. It ensures that hinges are manufactured for safe operation. It also maintains consistent quality and durability in all certified hardware products. Obtaining the BIS Certification for SS Hinges enhances product credibility in the Indian market. It also ensures the hinges meet the legal compliance. Manufacturers holding BIS certification are permitted to sell their products. Professional help from EVTL India helps the manufacturers to get the product licence in a relaxed manner. It provide guidance with testing, documentation and filling the application.