Copper Alloy Gate, Globe and Check Valves are used in various municipalities and industries in regulating, isolating, and controlling water flow in the pipeline system. The gate valve is normally utilized in complete shut-off service, the globe valve helps in controlling water flows, while check valves help in preventing backflow in the system. They are commonly fitted in water works systems, pumping stations, and water supply systems where effective flow control and pressure control are necessary.
Compliance with IS 778:1984 specifies quality and performance criteria for waterworks valves under Indian Standards. The BIS testing for such valves is done to ensure that each type of valve conforms to the necessary technical standard before certification. This includes pressure endurance, leakage tightness, material compositions, and mechanical properties among others.
What is IS 778: 1984?
This is the Indian Standard for Copper Alloy Gate, Globe and Check Valves for Waterworks Purposes, used in water distribution and control systems. It mentions the requirements for materials, design and performance to ensure safe and durable operation in waterworks. As per the BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards), these valves are:
- Assessed for pressure handling
- Evaluated for durability
- Checked for chemical composition
- Tested for sealing performance
Who is eligible for Plumbing Valves BIS License?
BIS authorisation under IS 778: 1984 is required for businesses involved in manufacturing, importing, or supplying brass gate globe check valves in India.
Applicable to:
- Manufacturers (India) - Must get BIS approval if the products are covered under QCO.
- Foreign Manufacturers - Need certification to export the waterworks valve to India.
- Importers/Brand Owners - Must ensure that the products are BIS-certified before sale.
- Sellers/Distributors - Should only sell certified copper alloy flow control valves.
Testing and Inspection Requirements
To maintain the uniform quality of Copper Alloy Gate, Globe, and Check Valves for Waterworks Purposes, the Bureau of Indian Standards outlines the minimum requirements in IS 778: 1984. This certification ensures that manufacturers produce valves with dependable material quality, sound construction, and reliable performance for water distribution systems. The BIS testing parameters and quality checks for the valves are listed below:
| Test Group | What is Tested | Purpose |
|---|
| Chemical Composition Test | Cast brass / bronze and other specified copper alloys | Ensures metallurgical properties, strength, and corrosion resistance |
| Design & Manufacturing Inspection | Valve type, class, ends, bonnet type, disc assembly, and body seat construction | Ensures proper design conformity and functional reliability |
| Dimensional & Tolerance Check | Valve dimensions, end connections, and internal/external fitting accuracy | Ensures proper sizing, interchangeability, and correct installation fit |
| Hydrostatic Body Test | Pressure resistance of valve body under hydraulic conditions | Ensures structural integrity and leak-free performance under working pressure |
| Back Seat Test | Sealing performance at back seat position | Ensures tight shut-off and safety during maintenance or stem operation |
| Seat Leakage Test | Leakage through valve seat under pressure conditions | Ensures proper sealing and prevention of water loss |
| Construction & Workmanship Inspection | Assembly quality, machining, threading, and finish of components | Ensures durability, reliability, and proper mechanical functioning |
| Finish & Surface Quality Check | Surface finish, coating, and protection against defects | Ensures corrosion resistance and long service life |
| Functional Performance Test | Operation of gate, globe, and check mechanisms | Ensures smooth operation and reliable flow control in waterworks applications |
Copper Alloy Waterworks Valves BIS License Process
The BIS Authorisation process ensures that the water distribution gate valve meets the required standards for 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 hydrostatic pressure resistance, leakage performance, dimensional accuracy, material composition, structural strength and corrosion resistance.
- Application Submission: The application form is filed together with test reports, technical documents, and factory details. Foreign manufacturers must also submit AIR-related documents.
- Factory Inspection: BIS representatives will come to the manufacturing plant to assess production practices, safety measures, and the quality control system.
- Grant of BIS License: Upon fulfillment of all necessary criteria, BIS grants the certification license under Scheme-I.
- Use of ISI Mark: Following approval, the manufacturer is authorized to use the ISI Mark on the product along with a valid CM/L number, confirming that the product meets BIS standards.
List of Documents for IS 778: 1984 License
| 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.
Marking Requirements & License Validity
Marking Requirements
Once the product has been granted a license from the BIS, the ISI Mark for industrial water valves and gates must be prominently marked either on the package or on the product itself. Other details like the manufacturer's identity and license number (CM/L) should also appear in the mark. Further details are given below:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|
| ISI Mark | Indicates that the product is BIS certified and conforms to standards |
| Standard Number | IS 778: 1984 |
| 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 for Check Valves 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 |
Water Distribution Valve BIS Approval Cost
The cost of BIS Approval for a municipal waterworks valve 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
Copper Alloy Gate, Globe and Check Valves for Waterworks Purposes under IS 778:1984 are standardized products used for efficient functionality in water distribution networks. Certification of the valves guarantees that the valves provide an effective seal, have sufficient structural integrity, and function properly under working pressure. It will reduce any chances of leaks and pipeline malfunctions and also promote longevity within the municipal and industrial water supply systems. The certification will make it easier for the valves to be considered in the construction project due to regulations in such industries. EVTL India works with clients seeking BIS certification in various ways to make the process much easier for them.
