- IS 16585:2016 sets mandatory BIS requirements for Magnetic materials used in transformer cores.
- Certification verifies core loss, magnetisation, thickness, and coating stability.
- All manufacturers and importers must secure BIS approval before selling in India.
- The process includes factory audit, sealed sampling, and testing at a BIS-recognised laboratory.
- Approval usually takes 45–70 days depending on documentation quality and lab timelines.
Introduction

A supplier of the transformer core from Nashik had a major surprise when a big utility refused their amorphous strip consignment stating that it did not meet the requirements of BIS under IS 16585:2016. Although the material passed their internal quality checks, the lack of BIS compliance prevented the shipment from going beyond the procurement stage. The case of this supplier reflects the trend of India, where utilities and OEMs are demanding certified magnetic materials to ensure the performance of transformers. Fe-based amorphous strips are extremely sensitive to changes in loss, coating, and thickness, hence the necessity of BIS conformity. Bureau of indian Standards
What is IS 16585:2016?
IS 16585:2016 is the standard set by BIS that describes the quality, magnetic properties, and the changes in the product imposed by processing of Fe-based amorphous alloy strips in a semi-processed state. These strips find extensive applications in the core of transformers where low loss and stability of the performance are indispensable.
Key Points:

- Covers Fe-based amorphous strips used in magnetic and transformer applications.
- Specifies magnetic loss, magnetisation, thickness, coating, and mechanical criteria.
- Ensures consistency during final annealing and core assembly. ISI MARK
- Mandatory for manufacturers and importers supplying to the Indian market.
- Forms the basis for BIS Certification for magnetic materials in this category.
Why is BIS Certification Mandatory
BIS Certification has to be there for a mandatory Fe-based amorphous strip as these are the materials that have a direct influence on transformer efficiency, heat generation, and long-term reliability. In that case, any variation in magnetic loss or the quality of the coating may cause the collapse of power distribution networks that utilities and OEMs will not be able to take the risk.
Key Reasons:
- Ensures stable magnetic performance and low core losses in transformers.
- Protects utilities and end users from substandard or unsafe materials.
- Maintains uniform quality across imported and domestically manufactured strips.
- Helps OEMs and DISCOMs meet India’s energy-efficiency targets.
- Prevents counterfeit or low-grade magnetic materials from entering the supply chain.
Importance and Benefits of BIS Certification
| Importance | Benefits |
| Ensures amorphous strip quality meets IS 16585:2016 requirements | Reliable magnetic performance and lower core losses |
| Protects the supply chain from substandard materials | Fewer failures and reduced warranty issues |
| Mandatory for transformer and electrical procurement in India | Faster approvals from OEMs and utilities |
| Supports national efficiency and safety standards | Better acceptance in tenders and government projects |
| Provides traceability and regulatory compliance | Smooth customs clearance and fewer shipment delays |
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 magnetic materials – IS 16585:2016 has become essential for anyone supplying Fe-based amorphous strips in India’s electrical ecosystem. As transformers become the focus of utilities’ performance demands, certified material is the key to enable manufacturers to get away from rejection, delays, and costly retesting. Those companies that take the initiative to prepare their documentation and testing ahead have the benefit of getting their approvals done more quickly and have a smoother procurement cycle. As energy-saving standards become stricter, amorphous strips that are BIS-compliant will be an indispensable requirement in all large projects. Thus, for manufacturers and importers, getting the certification on time is no longer voluntary, but rather, it is a strategic necessity for a stable market presence.



BIS Certification
CDSCO
CPCB
LMPC
WPC Approval
Global Approvals
TEC
ARAI
BEE
ISO Certification
Drone Registration
NOC For Steel



















Business Registration














Legal Services
Trademark Registration
Copyright Registration
Patent Registration












































