- IS 9516:1980 sets quality and safety requirements for Heat-Resisting Steels.
- Certification confirms proper material composition, strength, and high-temperature performance.
- It helps win public-sector and major industrial clients by proving compliance with strict standards.
- The process includes document filing, sample testing, factory inspection, and ISI mark approval.
- Certified producers gain an edge over competitors, reduce risks, and earn greater customer trust.
Introduction

In 2019, a steel manufacturer of moderate scale in Pune was experiencing the problem of client rejection of their product multiple times, even though the company was producing a technically sound heat-resistant steel. Customers demanded guarantees that the metal would be able to endure high temperatures safely and that it would meet Indian standards. After some time, the company came to the conclusion that getting BIS Certification for Heat-Resisting Steels IS 9516:1980 was the most important thing. Shortly after the certification, they not only re-established client trust but also won government contracts, thus demonstrating that certification is equally a business strategy as it is a compliance requirement. Bureau of Indian Standards
What is IS 9516:1980?
IS 9516:1980 is an Indian Standard that outlines the requirements for heat-resisting steels. The standard defines the chemical composition, mechanical properties, and performance limits so that the steels can be verified as resistant to high temperatures without the occurrence of scaling, oxidation, or loss of strength. Any supplier of the industrial equipment like boilers, furnaces, and pressure vessels needs to be compliant with this standard first.
Key Points:

- It mainly limits the chemical composition of carbon, silicon, chromium, and other elements.
- It prescribes the mechanical properties to be tensile strength, yield strength, and elongation.
- At the same time, the standard is guaranteeing resistance to oxidation and scaling at high temperatures.
- The standard applies to the production of heat-resistant steel products for industry. ISI MARK
- It is a useful instrument for manufacturers to fulfill the regulatory and quality requirements of the Indian market.
Why is BIS Certification Mandatory
BIS Certification is required for metal parts that resist heat made from steel and that fall under the scope of IS 9516:1980. The reason goes far beyond quality assurance – it is a safety issue besides ensuring the regular standards of the Indian market. Certification allows consumers to be sure that they are not purchasing substandard products, while producers obtain the license to use the ISI mark on their steel products.
Key Points:
- The first and foremost reason for such certification is to ensure chemical and mechanical standards of the product as specified in IS 9516:1980 are met.
- The certificate serves as an official permit to sell heat-resisting steel products in India.
- Certification is an advantage that gives industrial clients and government bodies confidence in the quality of the certified product.
- Certification lowers the chance of product failure in situations where the product will be subjected to high temperatures.
- Grants access to government tenders and regulated markets.
Importance and Benefits of BIS Certification
| Importance | Benefits |
| Ensures compliance with IS 9516:1980 standards | Enhances market credibility and client trust |
| Confirms steel quality for high-temperature applications | Access to government projects and industrial contracts |
| Reduces risk of product failure | Ability to command premium pricing over non-certified products |
| Legal requirement for selling heat-resisting steels in India | Strengthens brand reputation and reliability |
| Provides standardised testing and audit verification | Facilitates export opportunities and international recognition |
Step-by-Step Process of BIS Certification

Step1:Documentation
- Collect required technical documents
- Prepare product specifications
- Gather company registration details
- Ensure documents follow BIS format
Step2:Product Testing
- Send samples to a BIS-approved lab
- Conduct safety and quality tests
- Receive test reports
- Confirm compliance with BIS standards
Step3:Application Submission
- Fill out the BIS application form
- Upload all required documents
- Attach valid test reports
- Pay the necessary BIS fees
Step4:Scrutiny and Inspection
- BIS reviews submitted documents
- Authority verifies test results
- Factory/product inspection may occur
- Clarifications requested if needed
Step5:Grant of License
- BIS approves the application
- License number is issued
- Product can carry BIS mark
- Renewal required before expiry
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 from 20 to 30 days, with only 7-15 days for the testing.
- Costs: The cost of the government and the test varies depending on the product. There can be some additional charges though.
- Validity: The validity period is 2 years in most situations.
- Renewal: The renewal is done before the expiration; there should be updated documents/tests; the renewal
Why Choose Diligence Certifications
- Expert team with strong BIS and regulatory knowledge
- Fast, streamlined processing to reduce approval delays
- Accurate documentation and testing coordination
- Transparent guidance with clear communication
- High success rate and complete end-to-end support
Conclusion
BIS Certification for Heat-Resisting Steels IS 9516:1980 is not just a regulatory requirement; it is essentially a quality, credibility, and business expansion investment. A certified steel enables the end-users to be sure of the steel performance in the high-temperature regime, hence reducing the risk and making it possible to access government and industrial projects. Moreover, producers can raise the level of customer confidence and compliance by supplementing BIS certification with their diligence certificates thereby assuring both product quality and operational transparency. For firms that want to differentiate themselves in a competitive market, obtaining these certifications is a vital move to success and gaining clients’ trust in the long run.
Frequently Ask Questions
IS 9516:1980 - What is it?
It is a specification standard in India that details the material specifications of the steel that can resist heat.
What makes BIS certification mandatory for heat-resisting steels?
By doing this, the Indian Bureau of Standards (BIS) is ensuring safety, quality, and that the product is conforming to the Indian standards.
Under IS 9516:1980, who is supposed to have the BIS certification?
Those who are Manufacturing heat-resisting steel that is intended for industrial and government use.
What are the certified tested properties?
Besides the chemical composition, the mechanical properties of the material are also on the list of the evaluated ones. Such as tensile strength, yield strength, elongation, and resistance to high temperature.
How long is the BIS certification period?
As a rule, it takes from 20 to 30 days and the time for laboratory testing is about 7–15 days.
What are the documents required for BIS certification?
They are business, manufacturing, product, testing, and legal compliance-related documents.
Is factory inspection mandatory for BIS certification?
Yes, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) factory inspection may be scheduled for the verification of quality assurance.
What is the duration of BIS certification for heat-resisting steels?
Generally, it is valid for 2 years, and a renewal is required before the expiration date.
Can foreign manufacturers be permitted to apply for BIS certification?
Certainly, if they have an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR).
What are the benefits of BIS certification?
In short, it helps gain the trust of the customers, assures that the company is following the rules, considerably reduces the risk, and gives access to government and large industrial contracts.



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