BIS Certification Consultancy for Grain Oriented Electrical Steel Sheet & Strip (CRGO) | IS 3024:2015 | BIS & ISI Mark Certification

Introduction

Grain Oriented Electrical Steel, commonly known as CRGO Steel, is a specialised electrical steel used mainly for manufacturing transformer cores and other magnetic circuits. Its carefully controlled magnetic properties allow electrical equipment manufacturers to achieve lower core losses and high magnetic performance in the rolling direction.

In India, IS 3024:2015 – Cold Rolled Grain Oriented Electrical Steel Strip and Sheet Delivered in Fully Processed State specifies requirements for fully processed grain-oriented electrical steel sheet and strip. The current BIS Product Manual, revised in March 2025, states that certification is operated under Scheme-I of the BIS Conformity Assessment Regulations, 2018 and records three amendments to the standard.

IS 3024:2015 is an important standard for manufacturers supplying CRGO electrical steel for transformer and other magnetic applications. The current BIS compulsory-certification framework lists the standard under the Steel and Steel Products category, while the applicable QCO identifies ITC (HS) Codes 72251100 and 72261100 and provides for implementation with immediate effect.

The latest BIS implementation guidance also records Amendment No. 3 to IS 3024:2015, which introduced, among other changes, the 18CG100 conventional grade and new 20HP70d and 20HP75d high-permeability grades. BIS specified 13 July 2025 as the last date for implementation of this amendment.

Qualitance India provides end-to-end BIS Certification Consultancy for Grain Oriented Electrical Steel Sheet and Strip as per IS 3024:2015, including product assessment, grade and condition review, product grouping, sample preparation, testing coordination, BIS application support and factory inspection preparation.

What is IS 3024:2015?

IS 3024:2015 is titled:

“Cold Rolled Grain Oriented Electrical Steel Strip and Sheet Delivered in Fully Processed State”

The current BIS Product Manual describes the product as fully processed, cold-rolled grain-oriented electrical steel strip and sheet. The licence scope is defined through parameters including dimensions, grade and condition.

The standard covers electrical steel intended primarily for transformer cores and other magnetic circuits where low specific total loss and high permeability in the direction of rolling are important.

The important characteristics covered under the BIS certification framework include:

Magnetic properties
Specific core loss
Magnetic polarization
Surface insulation resistance
Stacking factor
Ductility
Dimensions and tolerances
Surface condition
Suitability for cutting
Workmanship
Finish and appearance
Delivery condition

What is CRGO Electrical Steel?

CRGO means Cold Rolled Grain Oriented Electrical Steel.

It is a specialised silicon-electrical steel in which the crystal grain orientation is controlled during manufacturing so that the steel has excellent magnetic properties in the direction of rolling.

BIS's current product information describes grain-oriented electrical steel as a low-carbon silicon-iron alloy with approximately 3% silicon, where low total specific loss and high permeability in the rolling direction are achieved through appropriate metallurgical processing.

CRGO steel is manufactured in a fully processed condition with an insulating coating on the surfaces. This makes it suitable for use in laminated magnetic cores.

Applications of CRGO Steel

CRGO electrical steel is primarily used in magnetic circuits where efficient magnetic performance is required.

Common applications include:

Power transformer cores
Distribution transformer cores
Electrical transformer laminations
Reactor cores
Magnetic circuits
Power equipment
High-efficiency electrical equipment

The current BIS product information specifically states that grain-oriented electrical steels are used primarily in transformer cores operating at commercial power frequencies and other magnetic circuits.

Why is CRGO Steel Important for Transformers?

Transformer efficiency depends significantly on the magnetic properties of the core material.

CRGO steel is used because it provides:

Low core loss
High magnetic permeability
Controlled magnetic polarization
Suitable stacking factor
Surface insulation between laminations

These characteristics help transformer manufacturers achieve efficient magnetic performance.

Because these properties are critical to transformer-core design, proper testing and control of CRGO material are essential.

Scope of IS 3024:2015

The current BIS Product Manual defines the licence scope using parameters such as:

Product name
Width
Length, where applicable for sheets
Grade
Condition

The licence scope is described as:

Cold Rolled Grain Oriented Electrical Steel Strip and Sheet Delivered in Fully Processed State.

The current Product Manual also classifies the material based on:

Conventional grade or high-permeability grade
Nominal thickness
Maximum specific total loss
Domain refinement for high-permeability grades
Delivery condition

Grades Covered Under IS 3024:2015

The current framework includes conventional grain-oriented grades and high-permeability grades.

Conventional Grain Oriented Grades

The March 2025 Product Manual includes grades such as:

18CG100
23CG110
23CG120
23CG127
27CG120
27CG130
30CG130
30CG140
30CG150
35CG145
35CG155
35CG165

High Permeability Grain Oriented Grades

The Product Manual includes grades such as:

20HP70
20HP75
23HP75
23HP80
23HP85
23HP90
23HP95
23HP100
27HP85
27HP90
27HP95
27HP100
27HP110
30HP95
30HP100
30HP105
30HP110
30HP120
35HP110
35HP115
35HP125
35HP135

New Grades Added Through Amendment No. 3

BIS's March 2025 implementation guidelines added:

18CG100

for the 0.18 mm nominal thickness category and:

20HP70d and 20HP75d

for 0.20 mm high-permeability domain-refined grades.

Manufacturers should ensure that their product specifications and certification scope reflect the latest applicable amendment.

Domain Refined and Non-Domain Refined CRGO

The current BIS Product Manual recognises domain-refined and non-domain-refined conditions for applicable high-permeability grades.

For grades carrying the suffix “d”, the Product Manual explains that the suffix indicates the use of the relevant test method associated with domain-refined material.

The Product Manual also states that grades indicated with suffix “d” may be delivered in domain-refined or non-domain-refined conditions, subject to the provisions of the standard.

Is BIS Certification Mandatory for CRGO Steel?

Yes. Grain Oriented Electrical Steel Sheet and Strip under IS 3024:2015 is covered under the compulsory BIS certification framework.

The current BIS Scheme-I page includes IS 3024:2015 under Steel and Iron Products and references the applicable Steel and Steel Products Quality Control Orders.

The Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024 lists:

IS 3024:2015 – Grain Oriented Electrical Steel Sheet and Strip

with ITC (HS) Codes:

72251100
72261100

and specifies implementation with immediate effect.

For covered products, manufacturers must meet the applicable BIS certification requirements before using the Standard Mark.

Steel and Steel Products Quality Control Order

The current regulatory framework places IS 3024:2015 within the Steel and Steel Products QCO framework.

The 2024 order superseded the earlier Steel and Steel Products QCO framework, and IS 3024:2015 is listed among the specified steel products.

The applicable QCO entry identifies CRGO material under ITC (HS) Codes 72251100 and 72261100 and specifies immediate implementation.

Manufacturers and importers should always check the latest QCO amendment, exemption and government notifications before finalising a compliance position.

BIS Certification for CRGO Electrical Steel

BIS Certification for CRGO electrical steel confirms conformity with the applicable requirements of IS 3024:2015.

The current BIS Product Manual states that the certification process operates under:

Scheme-I of the BIS Conformity Assessment Regulations, 2018.

After successful certification and grant of the BIS licence, the manufacturer can use the BIS Standard Mark / ISI Mark on products covered by the approved licence scope in accordance with BIS requirements.

Who Needs BIS Certification for CRGO Steel?

BIS certification is relevant to manufacturers producing CRGO sheet and strip falling within the scope of IS 3024:2015.

This can include:

CRGO Steel Manufacturers
Electrical Steel Manufacturers
Grain Oriented Electrical Steel Manufacturers
Electrical Steel Sheet Manufacturers
Electrical Steel Strip Manufacturers
Transformer Core Material Manufacturers
Transformer Material Suppliers
Magnetic Material Manufacturers
Steel Processing Units
OEM Manufacturers
Contract Manufacturers

Businesses importing CRGO material should also verify applicable BIS and QCO requirements.

BIS Certification Eligibility Requirements

A manufacturer seeking BIS certification should have suitable manufacturing, testing and quality-control facilities.

Depending on the production setup, these may include:

Steelmaking facilities
Rolling facilities
Cold-rolling facilities
Annealing facilities
Domain-refinement facilities, where applicable
Insulation coating facilities
Slitting facilities
Cutting equipment
Magnetic-property testing facilities
Surface-insulation testing facilities
Stacking-factor testing facilities
Ductility-testing facilities
Dimensional inspection equipment
Calibration system
Quality-control personnel
Production records
Test records
Coil and batch traceability

The exact facilities depend on the grade, thickness, condition and proposed product scope.

BIS Certification Process for CRGO Steel

Step 1 – Product Applicability Assessment

The first step is to determine whether the product falls within IS 3024:2015.

Important parameters include:

Grade
Thickness
Width
Sheet or strip
Delivery condition
Domain-refined or non-domain-refined status, where applicable
Magnetic test method
Proposed licence scope

Step 2 – Grade and Condition Assessment

The manufacturer determines the applicable grade and delivery/surface condition.

The current Product Manual specifically requires the following parameters to be declared in the test request:

Grade
Condition / surface type
Magnetic-property test method
Ductility test method
Stress-relief annealing requirement for Epstein test specimen
Ageing requirement of test pieces

Step 3 – Product Grouping

Product grouping is assessed according to Annex A of the current Product Manual.

Grouping is based on:

Conventional or high permeability
Nominal thickness
Maximum specific total loss
Domain refinement
Delivery condition

Step 4 – Licence Scope Finalisation

The proposed width, length where applicable, grade and condition are finalised.

Step 5 – Documentation Preparation

Technical, production and quality-control documents are prepared.

Step 6 – Sample Preparation

CRGO samples are prepared according to the grade category and testing method.

Step 7 – Laboratory Testing

Representative samples are tested for applicable physical, mechanical and magnetic properties.

Step 8 – BIS Application

The manufacturer submits the BIS application and required documentation.

Step 9 – Factory Assessment

BIS assesses the manufacturing, testing and quality-control facilities.

Step 10 – Observation Closure

Any observations are addressed through corrective actions and supporting evidence.

Step 11 – BIS Licence Grant

After successful conformity assessment, BIS grants the licence for the approved scope.

Step 12 – ISI Marking

The manufacturer applies the BIS Standard Mark to products covered by the approved licence in accordance with BIS requirements.

CRGO Testing Requirements

Testing is one of the most important parts of BIS certification because magnetic properties determine the performance of electrical steel.

The current BIS Product Manual includes testing for:

Specific core loss
Magnetic polarization
Surface insulation characteristics
Stacking factor
Ductility
Thickness
Width
Length
Edge camber
Flatness
Burr height
Residual curvature
Surface condition
Suitability for cutting
Workmanship and appearance

Specific Core Loss

Specific core loss is one of the most important magnetic characteristics of CRGO steel.

Lower core loss means that less energy is dissipated in the transformer core during operation.

The BIS Product Manual identifies Clause 8.1 and the relevant magnetic-property tables for this requirement.

Current BIS LIMS listings provide specific testing arrangements for:

CRGO strips with annealing
CRGO strips without annealing
CRGO sheets
Aged test pieces, where applicable

Magnetic Polarization

Magnetic polarization is another important electrical-steel characteristic.

It indicates the magnetic response achieved at the specified magnetic field conditions.

The Product Manual identifies Clause 8.2 for magnetic polarization. Testing can be carried out using the Epstein method or Single Sheet Tester, depending on the applicable grade and test arrangement.

Surface Insulation Resistance

The surfaces of CRGO sheets and strips are provided with insulation to electrically separate adjacent laminations in a transformer core.

The Product Manual identifies surface insulation characteristics under Clause 9.

The test equipment list includes a Franklin tester with appropriate test head, press and pressure gauge.

Stacking Factor

Stacking factor is important in transformer-core construction because it affects the effective magnetic cross-sectional area of the assembled core.

The Product Manual identifies Clause 10.1 – Stacking Factor.

The test equipment includes:

Compression device or CTM
Pressure gauge
Vernier caliper or dial gauge
Weighing machine
Rigid metal plates

The 2025 amendment also modified the stacking-factor provisions by adding minimum specimen dimensions and tolerances for testing.

Ductility and Bend Test

CRGO sheet and strip must have suitable ductility for transformer-core manufacturing operations.

The Product Manual identifies Clause 10.2 – Ductility, including applicable bend-test procedures.

The current sample requirements include strips cut along the grain direction for ductility/bend testing.

Thickness

Thickness is a critical dimensional parameter because transformer-core design depends on precise lamination thickness.

The current BIS LIMS database lists Clause 11.1 – Thickness for IS 3024:2015.

Thickness is checked against the specified nominal thickness and applicable tolerance.

Width and Length

The current Product Manual identifies:

Width
Length, where applicable for sheets

as part of the product dimensions and licence scope.

BIS LIMS currently lists separate testing entries for width and length.

Edge Camber

Edge camber is controlled because excessive variation can affect processing, slitting and lamination preparation.

The BIS testing database lists edge-camber testing for IS 3024:2015.

Flatness

Flatness is important for proper stacking and cutting of electrical-steel laminations.

The current BIS LIMS database lists Clause 11.5 – Flatness.

Burr Height

Burr height is important for transformer-lamination production because excessive burrs can affect insulation and lamination stacking.

The Product Manual includes burr height within the dimensions and tolerances requirements, and BIS LIMS provides a separate test entry for burr height.

Residual Curvature

Residual curvature is included within the dimensional and tolerance requirements.

The Product Manual specifically identifies residual curvature as one of the full-width coil tests carried out during factory testing.

Surface Condition

Surface condition is an important characteristic for CRGO because the surface must be suitable for the required insulating coating and subsequent transformer-core manufacturing processes.

The current BIS Product Manual identifies Clause 7.4 – Surface Condition, with factory testing on full-width coils.

Suitability for Cutting

CRGO material must have suitable characteristics for cutting and processing into transformer laminations.

The Product Manual identifies Clause 7.5 – Suitability for Cutting as a factory test requirement.

Workmanship, Finish and Appearance

The product should have suitable workmanship, finish and appearance consistent with the requirements of the standard.

The current Product Manual specifies that these characteristics are tested on full-width coils during factory testing.

Epstein Method and Single Sheet Tester

The current Product Manual allows applicable magnetic properties to be tested using:

Epstein Method
Single Sheet Tester

The selected method is one of the parameters that must be declared in the test request.

The appropriate method depends on the grade and applicable provisions of the standard.

Stress Relief Annealing

For applicable CRGO grades, the Product Manual requires declaration regarding the stress-relief annealing of Epstein test specimens.

This is an important consideration because sample preparation and magnetic testing conditions can influence the results.

The requirement is specifically identified as one of the parameters to be declared in the test request.

Ageing Test

The current Product Manual also requires declaration regarding the ageing of test pieces where applicable.

It separately notes that specific core-loss testing on aged test pieces is not included within the list of all tests that may be completed in one day during factory inspection.

The ageing requirement should therefore be established before sample preparation and testing.

CRGO Sample Requirements for BIS Certification

The sample quantity depends on the type of CRGO grade.

Conventional Grades

For conventional grades, the current Product Manual specifies approximately:

50 strips of 305 mm × 30 mm, cut along the grain direction, with a minimum weight of 400 grams for magnetic properties.

It also specifies:

10 strips of 280 mm × 30 mm for ductility/bend testing.

Another:

10 strips of 280 mm × 30 mm for surface insulation testing.

High Permeability Domain Refined Grades Not Amenable to Heat Treatment

For these grades, the Product Manual specifies:

One 500 mm × 500 mm sheet for core loss and polarization
Approximately 50 strips of 305 mm × 30 mm for stacking factor
10 strips of 280 mm × 30 mm for ductility/bend testing
10 strips of 280 mm × 30 mm for surface insulation testing

High Permeability Domain Refined Grades Amenable to Heat Treatment and Non-Domain Refined Grades

The Product Manual specifies approximately:

50 strips of 305 mm × 30 mm, minimum 400 g for magnetic properties
10 strips of 280 mm × 30 mm for ductility/bend testing
10 strips of 280 mm × 30 mm for surface insulation testing

Factory Testing of CRGO

A major feature of the current Product Manual is that many physical, dimensional and appearance characteristics are to be tested on full-width coils during factory testing.

These include:

Forms of supply
Surface condition
Suitability for cutting
Thickness
Width
Length
Edge camber
Flatness
Burr height
Residual curvature
Workmanship
Finish
Appearance

This makes suitable in-house testing capability particularly important for CRGO manufacturers.

Product Grouping for IS 3024:2015

Product grouping is a critical part of CRGO BIS certification.

The current Product Manual classifies CRGO according to:

Conventional or high-permeability grade
Nominal thickness
Maximum specific total loss
Domain refinement, where applicable
Delivery condition

Conventional Grade Grouping

The current grouping table includes groups such as:

Group 1

18CG100

One sample of the grade is drawn and tested.

Group 1

23CG110, 23CG120 and 23CG127

The lower maximum-specific-total-loss grade is selected for testing so that other grades within the group having higher maximum specific total loss can also be included, subject to the Product Manual provisions.

Group 2

27CG120, 27CG130

Group 3

30CG130, 30CG140, 30CG150

Group 4

35CG145, 35CG155, 35CG165

High Permeability Grade Grouping

The Product Manual also provides grouping for HPGO grades.

For example:

20HP70 and 20HP75 are grouped together.

Similarly, groups are provided for:

23HP75–23HP100
27HP85–27HP110
30HP95–30HP120
35HP110–35HP135

The grouping provisions generally use a grade with lower maximum specific total loss as the representative sample for covering other grades within the group having higher maximum specific total loss.

Insulation Condition Grouping

The Product Manual provides an important grouping provision for insulation characteristics.

Where a sample with a higher insulation characteristic, such as F, is tested, lower insulation characteristics such as NF and PQ may also be included in the licence scope, subject to the provisions of the Product Manual.

Licence Scope Restriction

The Product Manual clearly states:

“Scope of licence shall be restricted based on the manufacturing and testing facilities available.”

This means a manufacturer should not apply for a larger CRGO grade or dimension range than its actual production and laboratory capabilities can support.

Testing Equipment for IS 3024:2015

The current BIS Product Manual provides an indicative list of testing equipment.

Magnetic Testing

For Epstein-method testing, equipment can include:

Epstein test frame
Tesla meter
Timer
Vernier calipers
Frequency meter
Flux voltmeter
RMS voltmeter
Wattmeter
RMS ammeter
Ageing oven
Micrometer
Thermometer
Air conditioner with heater
Shearing machine
Punching machine
Stress-relieving furnace
Temperature indicator
Weighing balance

Single Sheet Tester

For domain-refined grades, the Product Manual identifies:

Single Sheet Tester
Tesla meter
Timer
Frequency meter
Flux voltmeter
RMS voltmeter
Wattmeter
RMS ammeter
Ageing oven
Micrometer
Thermometer
Stress-relieving furnace
Weighing balance

Surface Insulation

Equipment includes:

Franklin tester with test head, press and pressure gauge, together with current/voltage measurement equipment.

Stacking Factor

Equipment includes:

Compression device / CTM
Pressure gauge
Vernier caliper / dial gauge
Weighing machine
Rigid metal plates

Dimensions

Equipment includes:

Measuring tape
Measuring scale
Micrometer
Long-arm digital gauge
Straight edge
Depth gauge
Steel scale
Taper gauge
Surface plate
Vernier calipers

Ductility

The Product Manual identifies:

Bend tester
Thinner brake with apron brake
Hand folder
Measuring tape

The equipment list is described by BIS as indicative and for guidance.

BIS Factory Inspection for CRGO

Factory assessment is particularly important for CRGO because many dimensional and physical characteristics are expected to be controlled at the manufacturing site.

During assessment, BIS may review:

Rolling and Processing Facilities

The manufacturing line used for producing cold-rolled grain-oriented electrical steel.

Annealing Facilities

Applicable heat-treatment and stress-relief arrangements.

Domain Refinement

Facilities and process control for applicable domain-refined grades.

Insulation Coating

Equipment and process controls for surface insulation.

Cutting and Slitting

Facilities used for producing sheet and strip dimensions.

Magnetic Laboratory

Availability of Epstein frame and/or Single Sheet Tester as applicable.

Surface Insulation Testing

Franklin-testing capability.

Stacking Factor

Appropriate compression and dimensional equipment.

Dimensional Inspection

Suitable equipment for thickness, width, length, flatness, edge camber, burr height and other dimensional parameters.

Calibration

Testing and measuring equipment should be maintained under a suitable calibration system.

Quality Records

Test and production records should be maintained.

Quality Assurance Plan

The current BIS Product Manual requires manufacturers to implement a Quality Assurance Plan consisting of regular testing and in-process controls to ensure that products bearing the Standard Mark conform to IS 3024:2015.

The manufacturer is expected to:

Define the control unit
Define testing frequency
Define number of samples
Maintain test records
Submit the Quality Assurance Plan to the BIS Branch Office for information
Follow the approved control programme

Control Unit for CRGO

The current Product Manual recommends a control unit as:

A single charge of the product of one or more casts heat-treated together with similar quality grading, up to a maximum weight of 5 tonnes or one mother coil, whichever is higher.

This definition is important for planning routine testing and production records.

Routine Testing Requirements

The current BIS Product Manual provides recommended levels of control for CRGO manufacturing.

Routine controls cover the applicable:

Magnetic properties
Surface insulation
Stacking factor
Ductility
Dimensions
Surface condition
Cutting suitability
Appearance
Other applicable characteristics

The exact frequency depends on the test and the applicable product category under the Scheme of Inspection and Testing.

Test Certificate for CRGO

For each consignment of BIS-certified CRGO material conforming to IS 3024:2015, the BIS inspection framework requires a test certificate.

The certificate should include information such as:

BIS Standard Mark
Coil/pallet number
Cast or batch number
Grade designation
Nominal thickness
Size
Delivery condition
Corresponding test results

Maintaining accurate test certificates is important for both customer documentation and product traceability.

Marking Requirements

The BIS inspection framework requires suitable product identification.

The current BIS scheme identifies marking information including:

Test number or lot identification number
Date of manufacture
Manufacturer's name or trademark
Grade
Relevant product identification

The grade designation should also appear in the test certificate.

The manufacturer must apply the BIS Standard Mark only to products covered by the approved licence and conforming to the standard.

Raw Material Requirements

The current BIS Product Manual states:

Raw Material: No specific requirement.

However, manufacturers still need effective control of incoming material and production inputs.

Important records can include:

Raw-material specification
Supplier details
Material certificates
Heat/cast records
Incoming inspection
Chemical records
Production traceability

Manufacturing Process for CRGO Steel

A CRGO manufacturing route can generally include:

Raw-material preparation
Steelmaking
Chemical composition control
Casting
Hot rolling
Cold rolling
Intermediate annealing
Decarburization and process treatment
Final cold rolling
Grain-orientation development
Final annealing
Domain refinement, where applicable
Surface insulation coating
Slitting
Cutting
Dimensional inspection
Magnetic testing
Surface insulation testing
Stacking-factor testing
Ductility testing
Final inspection
Packing
Marking

The actual process depends on the manufacturer's technology and product grade.

Documents Required for BIS Certification

Typical documents may include:

Company registration documents
Factory address proof
Factory layout
Manufacturing process flow chart
Machinery list
Product specifications
Grade details
Nominal thickness
Width range
Sheet/strip details
Delivery condition
Domain-refinement details
Raw-material information
Material certificates
Heat/cast records
Testing equipment list
Calibration certificates
Quality Assurance Plan
Inspection procedures
Production records
Test records
Magnetic-property reports
Surface-insulation reports
Dimensional inspection records
Product photographs
Packing details
Marking details
Test certificate format
Authorised signatory documents
Trademark documents, where applicable

The final documentation depends on the manufacturer's production process and proposed BIS licence scope.

Common Reasons for BIS Certification Delays

CRGO manufacturers may face delays because of:

Incorrect grade selection
Wrong nominal thickness
Incorrect maximum core-loss category
Incorrect domain-refinement declaration
Wrong delivery condition
Incorrect magnetic test method
Inadequate sample preparation
Core-loss failure
Magnetic-polarization failure
Surface-insulation failure
Stacking-factor failure
Ductility failure
Thickness non-conformity
Width or length non-conformity
Excessive flatness variation
Edge-camber issues
Excessive burr height
Poor surface condition
Cutting-related problems
Missing calibration records
Inadequate magnetic-testing facilities
Incomplete traceability
Incorrect product grouping
Factory not ready for assessment
Incomplete technical documentation
Incorrect BIS marking

The latest amendment should also be considered, especially where new grades or updated test requirements apply. BIS required implementation of Amendment No. 3 by 13 July 2025.

BIS Certification Cost for CRGO Electrical Steel

There is no single fixed BIS certification cost applicable to every CRGO manufacturer.

The overall cost can depend on:

BIS application fees
Laboratory testing
Grade
Nominal thickness
Product grouping
Magnetic testing method
Domain-refined or non-domain-refined condition
Sheet or strip production
Number of samples
Factory assessment
Testing equipment
Calibration
Documentation
Retesting, if required
Consultancy charges

Current BIS LIMS entries show laboratory-specific charges for IS 3024:2015.

For example, one current BIS listing for ERDA shows a total testing charge of ₹27,735 excluding taxes for all grades as per IS, with separate charges for magnetic, surface-insulation, stacking-factor and dimensional tests. Another current CPRI Bangalore listing shows ₹20,100 excluding taxes for its listed testing scope.

These are laboratory-specific testing charges and not the complete BIS certification cost.

Current BIS CRGO Testing Charges

Current BIS LIMS data provides examples of individual test charges.

At one current laboratory, listed charges include:

Test	Listed Charge
Thickness – Epstein method	₹575
Thickness – SST method	₹575
Specific Core Loss – CRGO strips with annealing	₹3,125
Magnetic Polarization – CRGO strips	₹1,565
Surface Insulation Resistance	₹2,230
Stacking Factor	₹575
Ductility / Bend Test	₹575
Specific Core Loss – CRGO Sheet	₹5,750
Magnetic Polarization – CRGO Sheet	₹5,750
Accelerated Ageing Core Loss	₹7,590

At CPRI Bangalore, the current listing shows separate charges of ₹1,100 for thickness, width, length, edge camber and flatness, along with ₹1,500 for bends, ₹3,500 for core loss and polarization, ₹2,500 for surface insulation and stacking factor, and ₹2,500 for surface condition.

Laboratory charges may change, so manufacturers should confirm the current quotation with the selected BIS laboratory before testing.

BIS Certification Timeline for CRGO

The certification timeline depends on:

Grade and thickness
Product grouping
Magnetic test method
Sample preparation
Laboratory availability
Magnetic test results
Factory testing
BIS application scrutiny
Factory assessment
Observation closure

CRGO certification can require more technical preparation than ordinary steel products because magnetic-property testing is a central part of conformity assessment.

Benefits of BIS Certification for CRGO Steel

Regulatory Compliance

Helps manufacturers comply with applicable BIS and Steel QCO requirements.

ISI Mark

Allows eligible manufacturers to use the BIS Standard Mark on approved CRGO products.

Verified Magnetic Performance

Testing provides evidence of conformity for core loss and magnetic polarization.

Better Transformer Efficiency

Controlled magnetic properties support efficient transformer-core design.

Surface Insulation Quality

Surface-insulation testing helps ensure proper electrical separation between laminations.

Consistent Production

Routine testing and control units help maintain consistent material quality.

Customer Confidence

BIS certification can strengthen confidence among transformer manufacturers and electrical-equipment companies.

Market Acceptance

Certification supports legal supply where BIS certification is compulsory.

Better Traceability

Coil, batch and test-certificate information support product traceability.

Why Choose Qualitance India?

Qualitance India provides professional BIS Certification Consultancy for manufacturers seeking BIS and ISI Mark certification.

For Grain Oriented Electrical Steel Sheet and Strip / CRGO as per IS 3024:2015, our consultancy support can include:

Product applicability assessment
IS 3024:2015 requirement review
Latest amendment review
Grade assessment
Nominal thickness assessment
Domain-refinement assessment
Delivery-condition assessment
Magnetic test method assessment
Product grouping guidance
Licence-scope planning
Sample selection guidance
Sample preparation guidance
Laboratory testing coordination
Magnetic testing coordination
Surface-insulation testing coordination
Ductility testing coordination
BIS application assistance
Factory inspection preparation
Quality Assurance Plan support
Testing equipment guidance
Observation closure support
BIS licence assistance

Our support is designed to help manufacturers manage the certification process from product assessment and grouping through testing, BIS application, factory inspection and licence approval.

Contact Qualitance India

Phone: +91 93106 15170 Email: info@qualitanceindia.com Website: qualitanceindia.com

BIS Certification Process – Quick Flow

Product Identification ↓ IS 3024:2015 Requirement Review ↓ Grade & Thickness Assessment ↓ Conventional / High Permeability Assessment ↓ Domain Refinement Assessment ↓ Delivery Condition Assessment ↓ Product Grouping ↓ Licence Scope Finalisation ↓ Sample Preparation ↓ Magnetic Property Testing ↓ Surface Insulation & Stacking Factor Testing ↓ Ductility & Dimensional Testing ↓ BIS Application ↓ Application Scrutiny ↓ Factory Assessment ↓ Observation Closure ↓ BIS Licence Grant ↓ ISI Mark on Approved CRGO Steel

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is IS 3024:2015?

IS 3024:2015 is the Indian Standard for Cold Rolled Grain Oriented Electrical Steel Strip and Sheet Delivered in Fully Processed State.

2. What is CRGO steel?

CRGO stands for Cold Rolled Grain Oriented Electrical Steel. It is specialised electrical steel used mainly for transformer cores and magnetic circuits.

3. Is BIS certification mandatory for CRGO steel?

Yes. IS 3024:2015 is included in the compulsory BIS certification framework for the applicable steel products.

4. Which ITC HS codes are applicable?

The 2024 Steel and Steel Products QCO lists 72251100 and 72261100 for IS 3024:2015.

5. What are the main tests for CRGO?

Important tests include specific core loss, magnetic polarization, surface insulation resistance, stacking factor, ductility, thickness, width, length, edge camber, flatness, burr height and surface condition.

6. Which magnetic testing methods are used?

The current Product Manual identifies the Epstein Method and Single Sheet Tester as applicable magnetic-property testing methods.

7. What is specific core loss?

Specific core loss measures the energy lost in the electrical steel under specified magnetic operating conditions. It is one of the most important performance characteristics of CRGO.

8. What is magnetic polarization?

Magnetic polarization is a magnetic characteristic measured under the applicable test conditions and specified in the standard's magnetic-property requirements.

9. What is surface insulation resistance?

Surface insulation resistance evaluates the electrical insulation provided by the coating on the CRGO sheet or strip.

10. What is stacking factor?

Stacking factor indicates the proportion of effective steel material in a stacked transformer core compared with the total stacked volume.

11. What sample is required for conventional grades?

The March 2025 Product Manual specifies approximately 50 strips of 305 mm × 30 mm cut along the grain direction, with a minimum 400 g required for magnetic properties, plus separate strips for ductility/bend and surface-insulation tests.

12. What sample is required for some high-permeability domain-refined grades?

For high-permeability domain-refined grades not amenable to heat treatment, the Product Manual specifies one 500 mm × 500 mm sheet for core loss and polarization and additional strips for stacking factor, ductility/bend and surface insulation.

13. Is product grouping available?

Yes. Grouping is based on conventional/high-permeability grade, nominal thickness, maximum specific total loss, domain refinement and delivery condition.

14. Can higher insulation characteristics cover lower characteristics?

The Product Manual states that testing a sample with a higher insulation characteristic, such as F, can permit lower characteristics such as NF or PQ to be included in the licence scope, subject to the stated provisions.

15. What are the new grades added by Amendment No. 3?

The 2025 amendment added 18CG100, 20HP70d and 20HP75d, among other changes.

16. When did Amendment No. 3 have to be implemented?

BIS's implementation guidance specified 13 July 2025 as the last date for implementation.

17. Is factory testing important for CRGO?

Yes. The current Product Manual specifies that several dimensional, surface and workmanship requirements are tested on full-width coils during factory testing.

18. What is the control unit for CRGO?

The recommended control unit is a single charge of product of one or more casts heat-treated together with similar quality grading, up to 5 tonnes or one mother coil, whichever is higher.

19. What is the current CRGO laboratory testing cost?

Current BIS LIMS entries show laboratory-specific charges. Examples include ₹27,735 at ERDA and ₹20,100 at CPRI Bangalore for their listed testing scopes.

20. Is ₹27,735 the complete BIS certification cost?

No. It is a laboratory-specific testing charge. BIS application fees, factory assessment, testing equipment, calibration, documentation, retesting and consultancy expenses can be additional.

21. What is the BIS certification process for CRGO?

It generally includes product assessment, grade and thickness selection, grouping, sample preparation, magnetic and physical testing, BIS application, factory assessment, observation closure and licence grant.

22. Can Qualitance India help with IS 3024:2015 certification?

Yes. Qualitance India provides product assessment, grouping guidance, documentation, sample preparation, laboratory testing coordination, BIS application support and factory inspection preparation.

Related BIS Certification Services

BIS Certification for Cold Rolled Non-Oriented Electrical Steel – IS 648:2022
BIS Certification for Transformer Core Materials
BIS Certification for Electrical Steel Sheet
BIS Certification for Electrical Steel Strip
BIS Certification for Transformer Laminations
BIS Certification for Steel Products
BIS Certification for Special Steel Products
BIS & ISI Mark Certification
BIS Factory Inspection Assistance
BIS Testing Coordination
BIS Certification Consultancy

Conclusion

IS 3024:2015 – Cold Rolled Grain Oriented Electrical Steel Strip and Sheet Delivered in Fully Processed State is an important Indian Standard for CRGO electrical steel used in transformer cores and other magnetic circuits.

The current BIS Product Manual, revised in March 2025, operates under Scheme-I and records three amendments to the standard. It defines certification scope through parameters such as grade, condition, dimensions and applicable product characteristics.

The latest framework classifies CRGO into conventional and high-permeability grades and considers nominal thickness, maximum specific total loss, domain refinement and delivery condition for grouping. The current Product Manual provides detailed grouping provisions so that suitable representative grades can cover specified related grades within the same group.

Testing is a critical part of certification and includes specific core loss, magnetic polarization, surface insulation resistance, stacking factor, ductility, thickness, width, length, flatness, edge camber, burr height and other dimensional and surface requirements.

The current BIS requirements also place significant importance on factory testing. Thickness, width, length, edge camber, flatness, burr height, residual curvature, surface condition, suitability for cutting and workmanship are identified for testing on full-width coils during factory testing.

Amendment No. 3 introduced important changes, including 18CG100, 20HP70d and 20HP75d, and BIS required implementation by 13 July 2025. Manufacturers applying for certification today should therefore ensure that their specifications, testing procedures and licence scope are aligned with the latest applicable version of the standard.

The Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024 includes IS 3024:2015 and lists ITC (HS) Codes 72251100 and 72261100, with implementation specified as with immediate effect.

Current BIS LIMS listings show laboratory-specific CRGO testing charges, including examples of ₹27,735 and ₹20,100 for different laboratory scopes. These are testing charges only and should not be treated as the complete BIS certification cost.

For manufacturers, successful CRGO BIS certification requires careful planning of the grade, nominal thickness, product grouping, delivery condition, magnetic test method, sample preparation, magnetic-property testing, surface insulation, dimensional inspection, quality-control system, calibration and factory-testing facilities.

Qualitance India provides end-to-end BIS Certification Consultancy for Grain Oriented Electrical Steel Sheet and Strip (CRGO) as per IS 3024:2015, including product assessment, grade and grouping review, sample preparation, laboratory testing coordination, BIS application support, factory inspection preparation and BIS licence assistance.

For BIS Certification and ISI Mark Consultancy for CRGO Electrical Steel, contact Qualitance India today.

Phone: +91 93106 15170 Email: info@qualitanceindia.com Website: qualitanceindia.com