The Heavy Duty PVC insulated electric cables are widely used for power distribution across all types of electrical systems. The use of PVC-insulated cables for power distribution ensures good performance and safety. As these are vital for electricity distribution, manufacturers must meet the specifications laid out in BIS IS 1554 (Part 1):1988 for PVC insulated cables up to and including 1100 V.
According to the Indian standard, there are certain technical considerations for the PVC insulated heavy-duty electric cables such as conductor material, insulation quality, voltage rating, current carrying capacity, dielectric strength and mechanical/electrical performance. Compliance with BIS QCO and certification of PVC Insulated Electric Cables according to Indian Standard specification is mandatory for sale in India. ISI Marking on these cables confirms their reliability and suitability for use in the electrical industry.
What is IS 1554 (Part 1): 1988
This is the Indian Standard for PVC-insulated electric cables used for working voltages up to and including 1100 V. It mentions a few criteria to ensure the cables are safe for use in electrical appliances. As per the BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards), insulated cables are:
- Tested for conductor resistance
- Examined for moisture resistance
- Checked for high voltage withstand capability
- Verified for insulation and sheath thickness
Who is eligible for PVC Insulated Cables BIS License
BIS authorisation under IS 1554 (Part 1): 1988 is required for businesses involved in manufacturing, importing, or supplying heavy-duty electric cables in India.
Applicable to:
- Manufacturers (India) - Must get BIS approval if the PVC cables are covered under QCO.
- Foreign Manufacturers - Need certification to export the product to India.
- Importers/Brand Owners - Must ensure that the electrical cables are BIS-certified before sale.
- Sellers/Distributors - Should only sell certified insulated electrical cable.
Testing and Inspection Requirements
To ensure safe performance of heavy-duty electric cables, the Bureau of Indian Standards
outlines the minimum requirements under IS 1554 (Part 1): 1988. This certification ensures that
manufacturers maintain consistent safety parameters as per the standard. It also ensures that
the cables provide effective insulation and stable performance even when exposed to heat and
moisture.
The BIS testing parameters and quality checks for the insulated 1100V electric cables are listed
below:
BIS Approval Process for PVC Heavy Duty Cables
The BIS Authorisation process ensures that the electric cables 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 dimensional accuracy, mechanical strength, and overall material performance.
- 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 satisfactorily met, BIS grants the certification license under Scheme-I.
- Use of ISI Mark: Once approved, the manufacturer can affix the ISI mark on the product with a CM/L number, confirming that the product meets BIS standards.
Documents list for IS 1554 (Part 1): 1988 certification
| 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 are required to appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) in India. This person is the local point of contact for the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and takes care of all rules and compliance work in India.
Marking Requirements & License Validity
Marking Requirements
Once a manufacturer obtains BIS approval, the ISI Mark for drainage pipes must be clearly and permanently marked on its packaging or on the product. Along with the ISI Mark, important details such as the manufacturer’s identification and licence number (CM/L) are required. This ensures the product complies with all safety and quality standards. More details are mentioned below:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|
| ISI Mark | Indicates that the product is BIS certified and conforms to standards |
| Standard Number | IS 1554 (Part 1): 1988 |
| 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.
insulated heavy duty cable 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 |
Cost for pvc insulated cables BIS License
The cost of BIS Approval for Non-Pressure Sewerage Pipes 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 paid directly to BIS-recognised laboratories.
- Consultancy fees vary depending on product type and factory location.
Conclusion
IS 1554 (Part 1): 1988 specifies the standard requirements for insulated electric cables used for
working voltages up to, and including 1100 V. This standard outlines the performance and
quality parameters that the manufacturers must meet for safe usage. It also outlines parameters
related to the electrical performance of the cables to ensure reliable operation in varying load
conditions.
Obtaining a certification from the Bureau of Indian Standards aids manufacturers in meeting the
legal requirements in India. It ensures that only quality-tested cables can be sold to the
customers. EVTL India provides professional support to manufacturers in obtaining BIS
certification for PVC-insulated cables.
