Steel wire for nipples for spokes is an engineering material used to manufacture nipples
that connect and adjust spokes in bicycle, motorcycle, and light vehicle wheels. It plays
an important role in maintaining proper wheel structure by helping in spoke tensioning,
alignment, and overall balance during operation.
To ensure this wire meets required quality and performance standards for wheel
applications, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has specified guidelines under IS
8564:1977. Manufacturers must obtain BIS certification before supplying this product in
the Indian market, confirming that the steel wire complies with prescribed technical and
safety requirements for industrial use.
Overview of IS 8564:1977 Standard
This is an Indian Standard that defines the requirements for steel wire used in nipples
for spokes. It is issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) to ensure that the wire
used in wheel assemblies meets essential quality and performance expectations.
The standard ensures that the material is:
- Produced using suitable steel to achieve required strength levels
- Capable of handling tension and load applied in spoke assemblies
- Resistant to wear during continuous use in rotating wheels
- Suitable for maintaining proper wheel alignment and balance
- Tested for key parameters such as mechanical properties, dimensions, and
consistency across batches
Who requires BIS certification for Spoke Nipples Steel Wire?
BIS certification as per IS 8564 is required for all entities involved in the production and
sale of these spoke steel wires in India.
It’s applicable for :
- Manufacturers – Must obtain BIS certification for steel wires made in India.
- Importers – Must ensure imported products are BIS certified before sale.
- Suppliers/Distributors – Must sell only BIS-compliant product in the market.
BIS Testing & Quality Standards for Steel Wire for Nipples
As per IS 8564:1977, the Bureau of Indian Standards has defined specific testing and
inspection requirements to ensure the steel wire used in spoke nipples meets essential
quality and performance needs in wheel applications.
What are R and S?
- R (Required): Tests that must be conducted in the manufacturer’s in-house
laboratory
- S (Subcontracting Allowed): Tests that can be done in BIS-recognized or
NABL-accredited external labs
Chemical Composition Verification
- Ladle Analysis (R): Checks correct levels of carbon, manganese, sulphur,
phosphorus during steel production
- Product Composition Check (S): Confirms final wire composition after
processing meets IS limits
- Impurity Control (R): Ensures unwanted elements are within permissible range
Dimensional and Physical Checks
- Diameter Measurement (R): Verifies wire thickness is within standard tolerance
- Roundness Check (R): Ensures uniform cross-section for proper fitting in
nipples
- Length and Uniformity (R): Confirms consistent wire size without variation
along length
Mechanical Performance Tests
- Tensile Strength Test (R): Confirms wire can withstand required load in spoke
applications
- Elongation Test (R): Checks flexibility before fracture under stress
- Twist Test (S): Assesses behaviour under torsional force
- Wrap/Bending Test (S): Ensures wire does not crack during bending or coiling
Surface Quality Inspection
- Surface Defects Check (R): Ensures wire is free from cracks, seams, rust, or
pits
- Finish Quality (R): Confirms smooth surface suitable for nipple manufacturing
- Straightness Check (R): Ensures proper alignment for smooth processing and
assembly
process of bis certification
To obtain BIS certification, manufacturers and other entities involved must follow the
standard approval process defined by the Bureau of Indian Standards to ensure
compliance with IS 8564:1977.
- Online Registration: Register on the BIS Manak Online Portal with company details, factory address, and
product information. Foreign manufacturers must appoint an Authorized Indian
Representative (AIR) in India.
- Product Testing: Send product samples to BIS-approved laboratories. The wire is tested for chemical
composition, strength, dimensions, and surface quality as per IS.
- Application Submission: Submit the application along with test reports, manufacturing details, and quality
documents. AIR documents are required for foreign applicants.
- Factory Inspection: BIS officials inspect the manufacturing unit to check the production process, equipment,
and quality control systems.
- License Approval: If all requirements are satisfied, BIS issues the license under Scheme-I for
manufacturing and selling the product in India.
- ISI Mark Usage: After approval, the manufacturer can use the ISI mark with a CM/L number on the
product, confirming compliance with the standard.

Required BIS Documents for spoke nipples steel wires
The following documents are generally required to obtain BIS approval for spoke-nipple
steel wires:
| Basic Details | - GST Certificate
- Email ID & Contact Number
- Factory & Office Address
- Rent Agreement / Lease Deed (if applicable)
|
| Legal Documents | - Partnership Deed (if partnership firm)
|
| Manufacturing Details | - List of machinery
- Process flow chart
- Layout Plan of Factory
|
| 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
- Nature of Printing / Marking on Product
|
| Management Details | - Top Management Details
- Concerned Person for BIS Communication
|
| 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 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 and ISI Labeling
After obtaining the BIS license, the ISI mark for nipples steel wires must be clearly and
permanently applied on the product or its packaging. Other required details are provided
in the table below. This ensures the product is compliant with applicable quality and
safety standards.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|
| ISI Mark | Indicates that the product is BIS certified and conforms to standards |
| Standard Number | IS 8564
|
| 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 should be done using stamping, tags, or permanent printing so the product can
be easily identified during handling, storage, and transport, as per BIS requirements.
BIS License Validity for spoke steel wires
After getting BIS certification, the license is valid for a limited period. Manufacturers
must follow BIS rules and maintain product quality to keep the license active.
License Validity Details
| Parameter | Details |
|---|
| Initial Validity | Usually valid for 1 to 2 years, based on BIS approval |
| Renewal | Must be renewed before expiry with required documents and fees |
| Surveillance | BIS conducts factory inspections and may test market samples |
| Compliance | Continuous compliance with IS standards and QCOs is required |
| Risk | May lead to suspension or cancellation of the license |
BIS Approval Cost for steel wires used in nipples
The cost of BIS License 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.
- 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
BIS certification for steel wire used in nipples for spokes under IS 8564:1977 ensures
that the material meets the required quality standards for use in wheel assemblies. It
confirms that the wire is properly tested for chemical composition, size accuracy,
strength, and surface condition so it performs consistently in spoke applications.
With correct testing, documentation, and adherence to BIS guidelines, manufacturers
can complete the certification process and supply their products in the Indian market
smoothly. Guidance from an experienced BIS consultant like EVTL India can help
simplify the process and ensure faster compliance.