Submersible Pump Motors are electric motors that have been specially manufactured for use while submerged in water. They are commonly used in borewells, irrigation, and drinking water supply systems. As these motors operate underwater and have electrical parts, their insulation and sealing must meet the minimum standards as set by BIS.
The quality and safety of water pump motors are governed by Bureau of Indian Standards under IS 9283: 2024. This standard outlines the design, materials, performance criteria, and testing procedures to ensure safety. It also ensures that the pump motors meet the standards set for quality and efficiency. According to the Quality Control Order (QCO), it is mandatory for manufacturers to obtain a BIS certificate before selling the product.
What is IS 9283: 2024?
- This is the Indian Standard for Submersible Pumpsets Motor, which is designed to operate efficiently for agricultural, domestic, and industrial water applications.
- This standard is set by the BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) to ensure that product quality and safety are met, and the electric motors are
- Tested for electrical performance and thermal stability
- Made from high-quality electrical and insulation materials
- Designed for safe underwater operation
- Durable and long lasting for continuous use
- Engineered to withstand voltage fluctuations
Who Needs BIS Certification for Electric Motors?
- BIS certification under IS 9283: 2024 is required for businesses involved in manufacturing, importing, or supplying motor pumps in India. Applicable to:
- Manufacturers (India): Must get BIS certification if pump motors are covered under QCO.
- Foreign Manufacturers - Need certification to export the product to India.
- Importers/Brand Owners - Must ensure that the products are BIS certified before selling.
- Sellers/Distributors - Should only sell certified electric motors.
Testing and Inspection Requirements
To ensure the premium quality, safety needs, and adequate performance of industrial motor, the standard set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) defines proper testing and inspection requirements during manufacturing.
What is R and S?
- R (Required): Test must be conducted in the manufacturer’s in-house laboratory
- S (Subcontracting Allowed): Test can be conducted in a Bureau of Indian Standards-recognized or NABL-accredited external laboratory
Material & Raw Material Tests
- Material Compliance Test - Ensures materials conform to IS 9283 specifications and Table 1 requirements (S)
- ISI Marked Material Verification - Confirms materials are certified or supported with test certificates (S)
Manufacturing & Construction Tests
- Earthing Verification Test - Ensures proper earthing provision in motors (R)
- Foreign Matter Check - Ensures absence of unwanted particles inside motor (R)
- Cable Construction Test - Verifies type, size, length, and joints of cable (R)
- Bearing Finish Inspection - Ensures proper finishing of bearings (R)
- Rotor Balancing Test - Ensures dynamic balancing of rotor (R)
Dimensional & Physical Tests
- Dimension Verification Test - Ensures compliance with specified motor dimensions (R)
- Tolerance Check Test - Verifies tolerances for anti-friction and journal bearings (R)
- Surface Finish Test - Ensures smooth and defect-free component surfaces (R)
Electrical Performance Tests (Routine Tests)
- Insulation Resistance Test (Before HV Test) - Ensures insulation integrity before high voltage test (R)
- High Voltage Test - Verifies dielectric strength of insulation (R)
- No Load Running Test - Measures voltage, current, power, and speed (R)
- Locked Rotor Test - Evaluates electrical parameters under locked condition (R)
- Reduced Voltage Running Test - Ensures motor starts and operates at reduced voltage (R)
Electrical Type & Performance Tests
- Insulation Resistance Test (After HV Test) - Confirms insulation after stress testing (R)
- Stator Resistance Measurement - Verifies winding resistance accuracy (R)
- Locked Rotor Torque Test - Measures torque during starting condition (R)
- Full Load Test - Measures voltage, current, power input, speed, and frequency (R)
- Performance Characteristics Test - Evaluates motor performance parameters (R)
- Temperature Rise Test (Rated Voltage) - Measures heating under normal conditions (R)
- Temperature Rise Test (Reduced Voltage) - Evaluates thermal performance at reduced voltage (R)
- Momentary Overload Test - Ensures motor withstands overload (R)
- Leakage Current Test - Verifies safety at rated voltage under no load (R)
Design & Functional Tests
- Terminal Marking Verification - Ensures proper marking of terminals (R)
- Efficiency Verification Test - Confirms motor efficiency as per declared class (R)
- Motor Operation Test - Ensures proper functioning under defined conditions (R)
Mechanical Strength & Durability Tests
- Bearing Performance Test - Ensures smooth operation and durability (R)
- Rotor Stability Test - Ensures vibration-free performance (R) Quality Control & Compliance Tests
- Batch Inspection Test - Ensures consistency across production batches (R)
- Quality Assurance Plan Implementation - Ensures defined testing frequency and control (R)
- Test Record Maintenance - Ensures proper documentation of all test results (R)
- Control Unit Verification - Ensures compliance per batch/control unit (R)
Marking & Certification Tests
- ISI Marking Verification - Ensures correct use of Standard Mark on motor and packaging (R)
- Labelling & Marking Check - Verifies compliance with IS 9283 marking requirements (R) Performance & Type Tests
- Performance Characteristics Test - Conducted for each model/type (R)
- Temperature Rise & Load Test - Ensures compliance under operating conditions (R)
- Periodic Testing - Ensures continued compliance of certified models (R)
BIS Certification Process for Submersible Motors
The BIS certification process ensures that the pump motors 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 safety and structural durability.
- 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 unit to verify the production process, safety measures, and quality control system.
- Grant of BIS License - If all 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.

Documents Required for IS 9283: 2024 Certification
The following documents are typically required for obtaining BIS certification:
| 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 & License Validity
Marking Requirements
When a manufacturer obtains the BIS License, the ISI Mark for the electric motor must be applied clearly and permanently on the product or its packaging. 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 follows to the standard |
| Standard Number | IS 9283: 2024 |
| 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 of BIS Licence for an Electric Motor
After obtaining BIS Certification for the industrial submersible motor, the license is valid for a fixed period and must be maintained by following BIS rules and standards.
Borewell Pump Motor Certification Cost
The cost of BIS Certification for a borewell motor includes charges for application, inspection, license, testing, and marking. These fees are paid to BIS as per Scheme I guidelines.
Cost Breakdown
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
The BIS certification process for the Submersible Pumps Motors follows the requirements specified in IS 9283: 2024. It helps in ensuring that the product meets the safety and efficiency standards. BIS certification reduces risks such as electrical failure, insulation issues, and inefficient operation during the operations of the pump motors. This ensures the product is safe in the real world condition.
Obtaining the BIS certification is easier and more efficient with the assistance of EVTL India. It provides all necessary help to the manufacturer, right from documentation, application, testing, compliance advice, and even inspections.