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- It is obligatory for alloy steel billets, blooms and slabs to have a BIS certification under the standard IS 4368:1967.
- The main purpose of that is to guarantee uniformity in chemistry, mechanical properties and suitability for forging.
- Plants must maintain heat traceability, reduction ratio records and calibrated QC labs.
- BIS approval involves factory audits, sampling and periodic surveillance.
- Certification reduces rejections and improves acceptance with major OEMs.
Introduction
A forging unit owner from Pune once shared how repeated cracking in heat-treated parts led to rejected batches, despite the supplier’s mill certificates claiming “full compliance.” The OEM finally made BIS Certification under IS 4368:1967 mandatory for every alloy steel billet entering their plant. Similar pressures now face billet manufacturers and importers across India, where inconsistent chemistry and poor reduction practices can shut down entire forging lines.As OEMs are tightening quality controls and customs are enforcing mandatory standards, BIS certification has become a real necessity. It is a kind of insurance for both suppliers and engineering clients, as it guarantees that the alloy steel stock will be of a predictable, traceable and compliant standard. Bureau of Indian Standards
What is IS 4368:1967?
IS 4368:1967 is the Indian Standard that specifies the requirements for alloy steel billets, blooms and slabs used for forging in general engineering applications. It defines the acceptable chemical composition, mechanical properties, internal soundness and dimensional tolerances for these steel products. The standard ensures that forging stock is consistent, safe, and suitable for downstream processes like machining and heat treatment.
Key Points
- Fabricates alloy steel billets, blooms as well as slabs lead to forging only.
- Defines the chemistry limits for carbon, manganese, chromium, nickel and molybdenum.
- Specifies the mechanical properties to be measured are tensile strength, hardness and elongation.
- Includes soundness requirements through macro-etch tests and visual defect controls.
- Forms the basis for BIS Certification, now mandatory for manufacturing and imports. ISI MARK
Why is BIS Certification Mandatory
• It is required under the Government of India’s Steel Quality Control Orders.
• Ensures alloy steel billets meet IS 4368:1967 specifications.
• Prevents supply of sub-standard or unsafe steel in engineering applications.
• Protects OEMs from failures caused by inconsistent chemistry or forging behaviour.
• Mandatory for both domestic manufacturers and imported consignments.
Importance and Benefits of BIS Certification
| Importance | Benefits |
| Ensures compliance with IS 4368:1967 | Reduces rejections and quality disputes |
| Mandatory under Steel Quality Control Orders | Improves acceptance with major OEMs |
| Controls chemistry and forging suitability | Enhances product reliability and consistency |
| Prevents entry of sub-standard steel | Supports smooth import and customs clearance |
| Protects engineering supply chains | Strengthens supplier reputation and market reach |
Step-by-Step Process of BIS Certification
Step1:Documentation
- Collect required business and product documents
- Ensure compliance with BIS standards
- Prepare technical files and product details
- Verify authenticity of all submitted records
Step2:Product Testing
- Send product samples to a BIS-recognized lab
- Conduct tests as per relevant Indian Standards (IS)
- Obtain an official test report
- Fix issues if the product fails and retest
Step3:Application Submission
- Fill out the BIS registration form online
- Upload documents and test reports
- Pay the required government fees
- Track application status on the BIS portal
Step4:Scrutiny and Inspection
- BIS reviews documents and test reports
- Factory inspection may be conducted (if applicable)
- Clarifications or additional documents may be requested
- Compliance is verified before approval
Step5:Grant of License
- BIS issues the registration certificate
- Unique R-number or license number is provided
- Manufacturer can affix the BIS mark on products
- Renewal required as per BIS validity timeline
Documents Required for BIS Certification
| Category | Documents Required |
| Business Documents | Business license/registration, ISO certificate, organizational details |
| Manufacturer Details | Factory layout, process flow chart, machinery list, production details |
| Product Documents | Product specifications, component list, user manual, model details |
| Testing Documents | Test report from BIS-recognized lab, sample details, test request form |
| Legal & Compliance | Authorization letter, brand ownership proof, trademark certificate (if any) |
| Import/Foreign Manufacturer (If applicable) | AIR (Authorized Indian Representative) details, contract agreement, overseas manufacturer documents |
Timelines, Costs, Validity & Renewal
- Timelines:Usually 20–30 days; testing takes 7–15 days.
- Costs:Govt + testing fees vary by product; extra charges possible.
- Validity:Typically valid for 2 years.
- Renewal:Done before expiry; needs updated docs/tests; extends up to 5 years.
Why Choose Diligence Certifications
- Experienced team with deep BIS & regulatory expertise
- Smooth, end-to-end support from documentation to approval
- Strong coordination with labs for faster test reports
- Transparent guidance with no hidden steps or confusion
- High success rate with timely certification delivery
Conclusion
BIS Certificate for alloy steel billets, blooms and slabs for forging as per IS 4368:1967 is basically intertwined with both legal necessities and market expectations. It is a guarantee of fixed chemistry, a forging process that can be anticipated and a reduction in the number of quality issues arising from customer plants. Those who manufacture and import and are compliant early, therefore, have the benefit of a smoother audit and quicker acceptance. OEMs are increasingly opting for suppliers who are certified as it lowers their production risks. With the loosening of engineering standards, certification is becoming a competitive advantage rather than a mere formality.
Frequently Ask Questions
What is BIS Certification for alloy steel billets under IS 4368:1967?
BIS Certification is a standard by the Bureau of Indian Standards which is given to alloy steel billets, blooms, and slabs that conform to all the technical requirements of IS 4368:1967.
Is BIS Certification mandatory for alloy steel billets and blooms?
Yes, these goods are under the control of the Steel Quality Control Orders and thus, a BIS certification is mandatory for productions and imports.
Who requires BIS Certification for alloy steel billets?
Local Chinese manufacturers, foreign mills supplying to India and importers bringing in the country.
What are the mandatory tests in IS 4368:1967?
Tests on chemical composition, tensile strength, hardness, micro-etching soundness, and dimensions.
BIS Certification duration?
BIS Certification average duration is 20–30 days, besides other factors which also determines this time such as quality of documentation, testing time and BIS audit scheduling.
Can imported alloy steel billets enter India without BIS Certification?
No. Customs will seize the goods that are not in compliance with IS 4368:1967 and do not have a BIS licence.
Documents required for BIS Certification?
Business registration, factory details, a production flow chart, testing reports, quality control records, and product specifications.
Does the BIS perform a factory visit?
BIS officials do a thorough examination of the plant and verify the processes, equipment calibration, and traceability systems.
What is the duration of a BIS license?
Normally it is valid for two years, with the possibility to renew for up to 5 years depending on the compliance and documentation.
How Diligence Certifications can facilitate BIS approval?
They are the ones who perform all the activities from the beginning until the end with the client which include Documentation, testing coordination, audit preparation and licence management so that they get the approval quickly.
