BIS Certification for Copper | IS 191:2007 | ISI Mark

Introduction

Copper is one of the most important non-ferrous metals used in electrical, engineering, manufacturing and industrial applications because of its high electrical and thermal conductivity, ductility and suitability for further fabrication. Copper refinery shapes are commonly used as feedstock for manufacturing wires, cables, components and other copper products.

For manufacturers seeking BIS certification for copper, the applicable Indian Standard is IS 191:2007 – Copper — Specification (Fourth Revision). The standard specifies requirements for the chemical composition and physical properties of different grades of copper in refinery shapes such as wire bars, cakes, billets and ingots. BIS identifies one amendment to the standard, and its product manual provides the certification sampling, testing, grouping and Scheme of Inspection and Testing requirements.

An important regulatory development should also be understood. The Government introduced the Copper (Quality Control) Order, 2023, which required copper covered by IS 191:2007 to conform and bear the Standard Mark under a BIS Scheme-I licence. That order was later withdrawn on 13 November 2025. Therefore, the dedicated Copper QCO 2023 is not the current basis for compulsory certification in October 2026. BIS nevertheless continues to maintain IS 191:2007 within its Scheme-I certification framework, and manufacturers can use the applicable BIS voluntary product-certification route where certification is commercially or contractually required.

What Is BIS Certification for Copper?

BIS Certification for Copper is a conformity assessment process under BIS Scheme-I, through which a manufacturer can obtain a licence to use the BIS Standard Mark / ISI Mark on copper conforming to the applicable Indian Standard.

The BIS Product Manual for IS 191:2007 states that the manual is intended for BIS offices, existing licensees and prospective applicants seeking BIS certification under Scheme-I. It also provides the sampling guidelines, testing equipment, Scheme of Inspection and Testing and scope-related information.

For Copper, the applicable standard is:

IS 191:2007 – Copper — Specification (Fourth Revision)

The standard has one amendment.

Important Regulatory Update: Copper QCO Status

Manufacturers should distinguish between BIS certification availability and compulsory certification under a Quality Control Order.

The Ministry of Mines originally issued the Copper (Quality Control) Order, 2023, covering Copper against IS 191:2007 and requiring the Standard Mark under a BIS Scheme-I licence.

An amendment issued on 3 November 2023 specified that the order would come into force from 1 June 2024.

However, the Government subsequently issued S.O. 5174(E) dated 13 November 2025, withdrawing the Copper (Quality Control) Order, 2023.

Therefore, as of October 2026, manufacturers should not describe the withdrawn Copper QCO 2023 as the current compulsory-certification notification.

At the same time, BIS continues to maintain the IS 191:2007 product certification manual and laboratory testing scope, and the BIS Scheme-I framework permits product certification where applicable.

What Is IS 191:2007?

IS 191:2007 – Copper — Specification is the Indian Standard for specified copper refinery shapes.

According to BIS's technical summary, the standard specifies chemical composition and physical properties for different types of copper supplied in refinery shapes such as:

• Wire bars
• Cakes
• Billets
• Ingots

These materials are intended for further fabrication or alloying.

The standard covers requirements relating to:

• Chemical composition
• Electrical conductivity/resistivity
• Dimensions
• Mass
• Tolerances
• Hydrogen embrittlement for specified grades

Copper Grades Covered Under IS 191:2007

BIS identifies the following important copper grades/designations under IS 191:2007:

Cu-CATH-1

High-purity electrolytic cathode copper.

Cu-CATH-2

High-purity electrolytic cathode copper.

Cu-ETP

Electrolytic Tough Pitch Copper.

Cu-FRHC

Fire-Refined High Conductivity Copper.

Cu-FRTP

Fire-Refined Tough Pitch Copper.

Cu-DHP

Copper-Deoxidized High Phosphorus.

Cu-DPA

Copper-Deoxidized Phosphorus Arsenical.

Cu-ATP

Copper-Annealed Tough Pitch.

These grades have different chemical and physical characteristics and may require different compliance checks.

Forms of Copper Covered by the Standard

IS 191:2007 addresses copper in refinery forms including:

• Electrolytic cathode
• Cast cakes
• Billets
• Wire bars
• Ingots
• Other applicable refinery shapes covered by the specification

The precise certification scope should be established according to the manufacturer's actual production forms and the relevant designation.

Requirements Under IS 191:2007

BIS's technical summary confirms that IS 191:2007 contains requirements for both chemical and physical properties.

The main requirements include:

Chemical Composition Copper and applicable impurity/element limits must comply with the requirements for the relevant designation.

Electrical Properties Requirements for electrical conductivity/resistivity apply as specified.

Dimensions and Mass Dimensions, mass and relevant tolerances are specified for the refinery shapes.

Freedom from Defects The product must satisfy the applicable requirements relating to freedom from defects.

Hydrogen Embrittlement This test applies to specified designations, particularly Cu-DHP, Cu-DPA and Cu-ATP under the BIS product manual.

BIS Testing Requirements for Copper

The BIS Product Manual identifies the principal quality-control tests for IS 191:2007 as:

1. Dimensions, Mass and Tolerances

The manufacturer must verify dimensions, mass and applicable tolerances for the copper product.

Under the Scheme of Inspection and Testing, this control is carried out on each piece.

2. Chemical Composition

Chemical composition is a major conformity requirement.

The product manual identifies:

• Ladle analysis
• Product analysis

The applicable chemical analysis is linked to IS 191 and IS 440 or an established instrumental/chemical method, with alternative relevant ISO/IEC methods permitted where applicable.

3. Freedom from Defects

The production is subject to adequate inspection to ensure the products are free from the relevant defects.

4. Resistivity

Electrical resistivity is checked according to the applicable requirements of IS 191 and IS 3635.

The product manual specifies resistivity testing for one sample from each control unit.

5. Hydrogen Embrittlement

Hydrogen embrittlement testing is applicable to:

• Cu-DHP
• Cu-DPA
• Cu-ATP

The Scheme of Inspection and Testing specifies the frequency as one sample for every 100 pieces or part thereof of each control unit for the applicable designations.

Copper Chemical Composition Testing

Chemical composition is one of the key requirements under IS 191:2007.

The BIS test certificate format provided in the product manual identifies chemical parameters including:

• Cu + Ag
• Ag
• Phosphorus
• Arsenic
• Antimony
• Bismuth
• Iron
• Lead
• Sulphur
• Total impurities

The actual limits depend upon the relevant grade/designation specified in IS 191:2007.

Manufacturers should ensure that production chemistry consistently meets the applicable grade requirements.

Electrical Resistivity Requirement

Electrical resistivity is particularly important because copper refinery shapes are frequently used for subsequent electrical applications.

The product manual identifies:

IS 191:2007 and IS 3635 as the relevant references for resistivity testing.

The manufacturer's testing system should therefore be capable of accurately determining resistivity according to the applicable method.

Hydrogen Embrittlement Testing

Hydrogen embrittlement is a special requirement for certain deoxidized copper grades.

According to the BIS Product Manual, the test applies to:

Cu-DHP, Cu-DPA and Cu-ATP.

The test equipment listed by BIS includes:

• Muffle furnace
• Bend testing equipment

The corresponding test method is identified with IS 1919 in the product manual.

Sampling Requirements for BIS Certification of Copper

The BIS Product Manual specifies the following sampling requirements for IS 191:2007.

Grouping Guideline

One sample of any form of a given designation intended to be covered shall be drawn and tested to include the designation in applicable forms to be supplied in the licence scope.

Sample Size

The product manual specifies:

3 numbers for mechanical tests

250 g drilled sample for chemical tests, or 5 specimens of 5 cm × 5 cm

5 m annealed wire of 2 mm diameter for resistivity testing.

The exact sample arrangement should always be coordinated with the concerned BIS officer/laboratory according to the proposed licence scope and actual product form.

Product Grouping Under IS 191:2007

Product grouping is important because Copper may be manufactured in several grades and refinery shapes.

The BIS guideline states that one sample of any form of a given designation intended to be covered shall be drawn and tested to include the designation in applicable forms within the licence scope.

For example, a manufacturer may need to evaluate its intended scope by considering:

• Copper designation
• Refinery form
• Dimensions
• Production process
• Applicable physical properties

The final scope should be prepared carefully because the BIS licence covers only the varieties specifically included in the approved scope.

Scope of BIS Licence for Copper

The BIS Product Manual identifies the licence scope using parameters including:

Product: Copper

Grades/Designations: Such as Cu-CATH-1 and other applicable grades

Type: Such as Electrolytic Cathode and other applicable types

Form of Refinery Shape: Such as Cast Cake and other applicable forms

Dimensions: Applicable dimensional range

The product manual gives an example scope entry of thickness up to 10 mm, but the final scope of an individual licence depends on the varieties and dimensions actually assessed and approved.

Manufacturers should therefore finalize the desired scope before beginning the certification process.

Control Unit for Copper

The BIS Scheme of Inspection and Testing defines:

Each refinery shape produced from the same charge to uniform size under identical conditions shall constitute a control unit.

This control-unit concept is important for factory quality control and periodic testing.

Manufacturers should maintain production and testing records so that each applicable control unit can be traced and verified.

Scheme of Inspection and Testing for Copper

The BIS Product Manual provides a specific Scheme of Inspection and Testing for IS 191:2007.

The manufacturer is required to maintain:

Laboratory Facility

A suitably equipped and staffed laboratory should be maintained for the applicable testing requirements.

Calibration Plan

The manufacturer must prepare a calibration plan for the relevant testing equipment.

Test Records

Records of tests carried out to establish conformity must be maintained.

Standard Mark

Products covered by a BIS licence are to bear the Standard Mark in accordance with the approved licence scope and applicable requirements.

Test Certificate

For each consignment of BIS-certified material, the product manual provides for a test certificate containing the Standard Mark, control-unit/cast information and corresponding test results.

Major Testing Equipment for Copper

BIS's product manual provides an indicative list of equipment.

Important equipment includes:

For Dimensions

• Weighing balance
• Scale
• Micrometer
• Feeler gauge
• Plain aluminium bar

For Resistivity

• Kelvin double bridge with knife edges
• Oil bath
• Thermometer
• Hygrometer
• Muffle furnace
• Analytical balance

For Chemical Analysis

• Optical emission spectrometer
• Milling machine
• Sulphur analyser

For Electrolytic Copper Analysis

• Electro analyser
• Platinum electrodes
• Required acids and chemicals
• Hot plate
• Hot-air oven
• Stopwatch and associated laboratory equipment

For Hydrogen Embrittlement

• Muffle furnace
• Bend-testing equipment

BIS notes that this is an indicative list for guidance.

BIS Certification Process for Copper

Obtaining an ISI Mark licence for Copper under IS 191:2007 involves assessment of the manufacturer's manufacturing and testing capabilities and conformity of the product.

BIS explains that Scheme-I certification involves assessment of manufacturing infrastructure, process controls, quality-control arrangements and testing capabilities. Product conformity can be established through third-party laboratory testing, factory testing or a combination as permitted under the applicable certification procedure.

Step 1 – Identify the Product and Standard

Confirm:

• Copper grade
• Refinery form
• Product dimensions
• Manufacturing process
• Intended BIS scope
• Testing requirements

The applicable standard is IS 191:2007.

Step 2 – Review the Desired Licence Scope

Decide which:

• Grades
• Types
• Forms
• Dimensions

are required in the BIS licence.

Step 3 – Check Factory Infrastructure

BIS requires the manufacturer to have appropriate manufacturing infrastructure, process controls, quality control and testing capabilities.

Step 4 – Prepare Testing Facilities

Establish the required testing facilities or permissible arrangements for subcontracted testing.

Step 5 – Apply Online

BIS accepts product-certification applications online through the Manakonline portal.

Step 6 – Factory Assessment

BIS assesses the manufacturing premises, process controls and testing capability through factory inspection.

Step 7 – Sampling and Testing

Samples are taken and tested according to the relevant certification procedure.

Step 8 – Resolve Non-Conformities

If technical or documentation issues are identified, the manufacturer must take corrective action and meet BIS requirements.

Step 9 – Grant of Licence

After satisfactory assessment and establishment of conformity, BIS grants the licence to use the Standard Mark for the approved scope.

Option 1 and Option 2 for BIS Product Certification

BIS explains that Scheme-I product certification can follow different applicable routes.

Under Option 1, the application is followed by factory inspection, sample drawing and testing for establishing conformity.

Under Option 2, the application is accompanied by a test report from a BIS-recognized/empanelled laboratory, followed by factory inspection and related assessment.

BIS states that the average timeline for grant of licence is generally around:

Option 1: Four months

Option 2: One month

These are general BIS norms and actual time may vary due to inspection scheduling, testing, document deficiencies, queries or other factors.

Documents Required for BIS Certification for Copper

Typical documents may include:

• Manufacturer company documents
• Factory address proof
• Manufacturing registration/licence documents
• Details of manufacturing machinery
• Manufacturing process flow
• Process-control details
• Quality-control plan
• Testing equipment details
• Calibration certificates
• Product specifications
• Copper grade/designation details
• Product dimensions
• Brand/trademark documents, where applicable
• Test reports
• Internal test records
• Authorized signatory information
• Applicable undertaking/declarations
• Purchase/raw-material records
• Proposed marking details

The exact document list may depend on the application route, product scope and BIS assessment requirements.

BIS ISI Mark for Copper

Once a BIS licence is granted for IS 191:2007, the manufacturer can use the BIS Standard Mark / ISI Mark only for the products and varieties included in the approved licence scope.

BIS states that a licence is granted for one product/one Indian Standard, although the licence may cover multiple varieties, grades or sizes where included in the approved scope.

Therefore, a manufacturer should not use the ISI Mark on Copper varieties that are outside the approved scope.

Copper Marking and Test Certificate

The IS 191:2007 Scheme of Inspection and Testing requires the Standard Mark and licence number to be incorporated according to the licence and Indian Standard requirements.

The product manual also requires a test certificate for each consignment of BIS-certified material, containing relevant control-unit information and test results.

Manufacturers should maintain consistency between:

• Product markings
• BIS licence scope
• Test certificate
• Control-unit records
• Production records

BIS Certification Fees for Copper

BIS's current product-certification FAQ states that the general Scheme-I fee structure includes:

Application Fee: ₹1,000

Inspection Fee: ₹7,000 per man-day

After the decision to grant the licence:

Annual Licence Fee: ₹1,000 plus the applicable minimum marking fee specified for the product.

The exact payable amount can vary according to the current BIS fee structure, inspection requirements, minimum marking fee and application circumstances.

Laboratory testing charges are separate.

Current BIS Laboratory Testing Charges for IS 191:2007

BIS LIMS currently shows several laboratory-specific entries for IS 191:2007 – Copper – Specification (Fourth Revision).

Examples visible in BIS LIMS include:

• ₹45,000 at one listed laboratory, with grade-specific charges shown in the breakup
• ₹9,000 at another laboratory
• ₹6,200 at another laboratory
• ₹5,500 at another laboratory
• ₹2,000 at another laboratory

These figures are laboratory-specific, can have different testing scopes and exclusions, and are displayed exclusive of applicable taxes. One BIS LIMS entry specifically notes different charges for Cu-CATH grades, Cu-ETP/Cu-FRHC and other grades.

Therefore, the actual laboratory budget should be calculated after deciding the required copper grades, forms and test scope.

Is BIS Certification for Copper Mandatory?

As of October 2026, the answer requires an important distinction.

The Copper (Quality Control) Order, 2023, which had made the Standard Mark compulsory for Copper under IS 191:2007, was withdrawn on 13 November 2025.

Therefore, the withdrawn QCO should not be cited as the current compulsory requirement.

However, BIS certification under Scheme-I remains available, and a manufacturer can pursue an ISI Mark licence for Copper under IS 191:2007 through the applicable BIS certification procedure. BIS's product manual expressly addresses prospective applicants for certification under Scheme-I.

Where a buyer, tender, contract, customer specification or another applicable regulatory requirement specifically requires BIS certification, the manufacturer's current contractual/regulatory requirements should also be checked.

Can Manufacturers Still Obtain an ISI Mark for Copper?

Yes. BIS continues to provide the Scheme-I certification framework and maintains a product manual for IS 191:2007 – Copper.

The manufacturer's product must conform to the applicable Indian Standard and meet BIS certification requirements before the Standard Mark can be used.

Who Can Apply for BIS Certification for Copper?

Manufacturers with an appropriate manufacturing facility can apply for BIS certification.

The manufacturer should have:

• Suitable production facilities
• Appropriate process controls
• Quality-control systems
• Required testing facilities
• Qualified personnel
• Ability to manufacture conforming Copper
• Capability to maintain the required records

BIS explicitly identifies manufacturing infrastructure, process controls, quality-control and testing capabilities as essential requirements for obtaining a product certification licence.

Can a Trader or Importer Obtain the BIS Licence?

A BIS product certification licence is associated with the manufacturer and manufacturing premises.

BIS states that separate applications are required for different manufacturing locations, even where the product and Indian Standard are the same.

For foreign manufacturers, BIS has the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS) for applicable non-electronic products.

BIS Certification for Foreign Copper Manufacturers

Foreign manufacturers supplying Copper to India may pursue the applicable BIS certification route under the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme where certification is required or commercially sought.

The FMCS framework is specifically intended for foreign manufacturers seeking BIS licences for products other than electronic and IT products.

The foreign manufacturer's production facility must meet the applicable manufacturing, testing and conformity requirements.

Importance of Chemical Analysis in Copper Manufacturing

Copper quality is strongly related to chemical composition.

Maintaining chemistry within the applicable limits helps manufacturers control:

• Conductivity
• Material consistency
• Refining quality
• Subsequent processing behaviour
• Grade conformity

The IS 191 Scheme of Inspection and Testing requires chemical analysis as part of the manufacturer's conformity-control system.

Importance of Resistivity Testing

Electrical resistivity is an important quality characteristic for copper.

It helps establish whether the material meets the relevant electrical-property requirements of the specified grade.

The BIS product manual identifies resistivity testing against IS 191 and IS 3635 and requires testing of one sample from each control unit under the specified factory-control system.

Internal Laboratory Requirements

For a BIS-licensed manufacturer, the laboratory system should be suitably equipped and staffed for the applicable tests.

The BIS product manual requires:

• Suitable laboratory arrangements
• Equipment calibration planning
• Test records
• Conformity assessment records

Where subcontracting is permitted, the applicable testing must be carried out through laboratories recognized by BIS or Government laboratories empaneled by BIS, according to the product manual provisions.

Calibration Requirements

Accurate test results depend on properly calibrated equipment.

The IS 191 product manual requires the manufacturer to prepare a calibration plan for test equipment.

Relevant instruments can include:

• Micrometers
• Weighing balances
• Resistivity equipment
• Spectrometers
• Analytical balances
• Thermal equipment
• Other applicable testing instruments

Calibration and traceability records should be maintained.

Common Reasons for BIS Certification Delays for Copper

Manufacturers may face delays because of:

• Incorrect copper grade selected
• Incomplete scope definition
• Incorrect product dimensions
• Inadequate laboratory facilities
• Calibration gaps
• Chemistry not meeting grade requirements
• Resistivity failure
• Hydrogen embrittlement failure where applicable
• Insufficient testing records
• Improper control-unit records
• Manufacturing process deficiencies
• Incomplete documents
• Brand/document inconsistencies
• Factory inspection observations
• Delayed corrective action
• Incorrect marking

A technical review before application can reduce avoidable issues.

Technical Preparation Before BIS Inspection

Before the BIS assessment, the manufacturer should review:

Manufacturing Process

Ensure the production process is documented and controlled.

Chemical Analysis

Verify the laboratory's ability to conduct required chemical analysis.

Resistivity

Ensure resistivity equipment is available, calibrated and operational.

Dimensions

Check availability of micrometers, balances and other dimensional measuring equipment.

Hydrogen Embrittlement

Where Cu-DHP, Cu-DPA or Cu-ATP is proposed, ensure the relevant testing capability or permitted testing arrangement is available.

Calibration

Maintain valid calibration records.

Test Records

Maintain production and test records according to the applicable SIT.

Marking

Prepare the marking arrangement according to the approved scope.

BIS Surveillance After Grant of Licence

Obtaining a BIS licence is not the end of the compliance process.

BIS states that it carries out surveillance of licensed manufacturers, including factory surveillance inspections. During surveillance, BIS verifies continued maintenance of:

• Manufacturing infrastructure
• Process controls
• Quality-control arrangements
• Testing capabilities
• Product conformity

BIS may also draw samples from the factory or market for independent testing.

Manufacturers must therefore continue operating their quality-control system after receiving the BIS licence.

Renewal of BIS Licence for Copper

BIS states that Scheme-I certification may initially be granted for a period of up to two years and can subsequently be renewed for periods up to five years from the last validity date, subject to the applicable renewal requirements.

During renewal, the manufacturer should maintain:

• Production records
• Testing records
• Marking records
• Calibration records
• Scope details
• Applicable BIS fees
• Compliance with current requirements

Change in Scope of BIS Licence

A manufacturer may later need to add:

• New copper grades
• New forms
• New sizes
• New dimensions
• Other varieties

BIS permits change in the scope of a licence subject to the applicable procedures and conformity assessment requirements.

The new variety should not be commercially represented as BIS-certified until it is properly included in the approved licence scope.

Why Choose Qualitance India for BIS Certification for Copper?

Qualitance India provides BIS certification consultancy support to manufacturers seeking BIS licences and ISI Mark certification.

Our support can include:

Product and Standard Identification

Review of Copper grades, forms, dimensions and applicable requirements under IS 191:2007.

Licence Scope Planning

Assistance in deciding the grades, forms and dimensions proposed for the BIS licence.

Documentation Support

Support with manufacturer documents, product specifications, process information, laboratory details and application documentation.

Testing Coordination

Assistance with BIS-recognized laboratory coordination and sample testing.

Technical Review

Review of chemical composition, resistivity, dimensions, laboratory capability and applicable special tests.

Factory Inspection Preparation

Preparation support for manufacturing, testing, calibration, quality-control and record requirements.

BIS Application Support

Assistance with online application and related BIS certification documentation.

BIS Query Support

Assistance with addressing deficiencies and observations during the certification process.

Licence Scope Changes

Support for addition of grades, sizes, forms and other eligible varieties.

Renewal Support

Assistance with renewal and continued compliance.

Quick Process for BIS Certification for Copper

Product Assessment → IS 191:2007 Review → Scope Finalization → Factory & Laboratory Preparation → BIS Application → Inspection/Testing → Corrective Action → BIS Evaluation → Licence Grant → ISI Mark Use → Surveillance & Renewal

Frequently Asked Questions About BIS Certification for Copper

1. What is the BIS standard for Copper?

The applicable Indian Standard is IS 191:2007 – Copper — Specification (Fourth Revision).

2. Is IS 191:2007 a current standard?

BIS continues to maintain IS 191:2007 in its standards and certification systems, and the product manual remains available for certification under Scheme-I.

3. How many amendments does IS 191:2007 have?

The BIS Product Manual identifies one amendment.

4. What copper grades are covered?

Important designations include Cu-CATH-1, Cu-CATH-2, Cu-ETP, Cu-FRHC, Cu-FRTP, Cu-DHP, Cu-DPA and Cu-ATP.

5. What products are covered under the standard?

The standard covers copper refinery shapes such as wire bars, cakes, billets and ingots, subject to the applicable scope.

6. What are the main tests for Copper under IS 191:2007?

Major conformity checks include dimensions, mass and tolerances, chemical composition, freedom from defects, resistivity and hydrogen embrittlement for applicable grades.

7. Which grades require hydrogen embrittlement testing?

The BIS Product Manual identifies Cu-DHP, Cu-DPA and Cu-ATP for this test.

8. What sample is required for chemical testing?

The product manual specifies 250 g of drilled material or five specimens of 5 cm × 5 cm for chemical testing.

9. What sample is required for resistivity testing?

The product manual specifies 5 m of annealed wire of 2 mm diameter for resistivity testing.

10. How many samples are required for mechanical tests?

The BIS Product Manual specifies three numbers for mechanical tests.

11. What is the product grouping guideline?

One sample of any form of a given designation intended to be covered shall be drawn and tested to include that designation in the applicable forms supplied within the licence scope.

12. What is the control unit for Copper?

Each refinery shape produced from the same charge to uniform size under identical conditions constitutes a control unit.

13. How frequently is resistivity tested?

The Scheme of Inspection and Testing specifies one sample from each control unit.

14. How frequently is hydrogen embrittlement tested?

For the applicable Cu-DHP, Cu-DPA and Cu-ATP designations, testing is specified at one sample for every 100 pieces or part thereof of each control unit.

15. Is a factory laboratory required?

The BIS product manual requires a suitably equipped and staffed laboratory, with the applicable testing facilities and arrangements.

16. Are calibration records required?

Yes. BIS requires the manufacturer to prepare a calibration plan for applicable test equipment.

17. Are test records required?

Yes. Manufacturers must maintain records of tests carried out to establish conformity.

18. Can Copper receive an ISI Mark?

Yes. BIS maintains Scheme-I certification for Copper under IS 191:2007, and a manufacturer obtaining the applicable BIS licence can use the Standard Mark according to the approved scope.

19. Is Copper BIS certification compulsory in 2026?

The dedicated Copper (Quality Control) Order, 2023 was withdrawn on 13 November 2025. Therefore, that withdrawn QCO is not the current basis for compulsory certification.

20. Can a manufacturer still obtain BIS certification voluntarily?

Yes. BIS continues to maintain IS 191:2007 under its Scheme-I product certification framework.

21. What was the old Copper QCO?

The Copper QCO 2023 required Copper covered by IS 191:2007 to conform to the standard and bear the Standard Mark under a BIS Scheme-I licence.

22. When was the Copper QCO originally scheduled to come into force?

An amendment dated 3 November 2023 specified 1 June 2024 as the commencement date.

23. When was the Copper QCO withdrawn?

It was withdrawn on 13 November 2025 through S.O. 5174(E).

24. What are the BIS government fees?

BIS's current product-certification FAQ states an application fee of ₹1,000, inspection fee of ₹7,000 per man-day, and, after grant, annual licence fee of ₹1,000 plus applicable minimum marking fee.

25. What is the cost of Copper laboratory testing?

BIS LIMS currently shows laboratory-specific examples ranging from a few thousand rupees to higher package charges such as ₹45,000, depending on grade, testing scope and laboratory.

26. Are laboratory charges inclusive of taxes?

The BIS LIMS examples are displayed as exclusive of taxes.

27. What is the BIS certification timeline?

BIS indicates an average timeline of approximately one month under Option 2 and four months under Option 1, subject to complete application, inspection, testing and resolution of queries.

28. Can one licence cover multiple Copper grades?

A licence may cover multiple varieties where those varieties are included in the approved scope, subject to the applicable grouping and conformity requirements. BIS states that a licence can cover more than one variety/grade/size of a product where appropriately included in its scope.

29. Can one licence cover different manufacturing locations?

No. BIS states that separate applications are required for separate manufacturing premises.

30. What happens during BIS factory inspection?

BIS assesses manufacturing infrastructure, process controls, quality-control arrangements, testing capabilities and product conformity.

31. Does BIS conduct surveillance after certification?

Yes. BIS conducts factory and market surveillance and may draw samples for independent testing.

32. Is a test certificate required for Copper consignments?

The IS 191 Scheme of Inspection and Testing provides for a test certificate containing the Standard Mark, control-unit/cast number and corresponding test results.

33. Which method is used for chemical analysis?

The BIS product manual identifies IS 191 and IS 440 and permits established instrumental/chemical methods and relevant alternative ISO/IEC methods under the stated conditions.

34. Is copper resistivity important for certification?

Yes. Resistivity is one of the specified physical-property tests and is part of the factory-control requirements.

35. Can BIS certification be obtained for imported Copper?

The applicable foreign-manufacturer certification route can be used where BIS certification is required or sought for foreign-manufactured non-electronic products.

36. Can a trader apply for the BIS manufacturing licence?

BIS certification is tied to the manufacturer and manufacturing premises; certification applications relate to the manufacturing operation.

37. Can additional Copper sizes be added later?

A manufacturer can apply for change in scope to add eligible varieties, subject to BIS's applicable procedure and conformity requirements.

38. Can the ISI Mark be used on products outside the approved scope?

No. The Standard Mark can be used only for varieties covered by the BIS licence scope.

39. How long is a Scheme-I BIS licence valid?

BIS states that Scheme-I certification may initially be granted for up to two years and can be renewed for a longer period subject to the applicable requirements.

40. Why should Copper manufacturers obtain BIS certification even where certification is not presently compulsory?

BIS certification can provide documented conformity to IS 191:2007 and an ISI Mark where required by customers, tenders, contracts or commercial specifications. The certification also provides a structured third-party quality-assurance framework.

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Related Copper Standards and Products

Manufacturers involved in Copper products should also evaluate whether their particular product falls under another Indian Standard.

Related standards can include:

• Copper Wire Rods for Electrical Applications – IS 12444:2020
• Copper Rods and Bars for Electrical Purposes – IS 613:2000
• Copper Strip for Electrical Purposes – IS 1897:2008
• Copper Rods and Bars for General Engineering Purposes – IS 4171:1983
• Copper Tubes for Plumbing – IS 14810:2000
• Other copper and copper-alloy standards

These standards are separate from IS 191:2007 and applicability depends on the actual product. The Government's 2024 Copper Products QCO covered several such copper-product standards separately.

Why Qualitance India for Copper BIS Certification?

Qualitance India provides professional BIS certification consultancy services for Copper manufacturers.

We assist manufacturers with:

Standard Identification Understanding whether IS 191:2007 or another copper standard applies to the product.

Product Scope Planning Identifying applicable grades, forms, sizes and varieties for certification.

Laboratory Coordination Assistance with recognized laboratory testing and sample coordination.

Testing Support Guidance regarding chemical analysis, resistivity, dimensions and special tests such as hydrogen embrittlement.

Documentation Support Preparation and review of BIS application and technical documents.

Factory Inspection Preparation Support with quality-control arrangements, laboratory readiness, calibration and records.

BIS Application Support Assistance throughout the online application and certification process.

BIS Query Support Assistance with responding to BIS observations and technical/documentary queries.

ISI Mark Compliance Guidance for correct use of the Standard Mark within the approved scope.

Renewal & Scope Expansion Support for renewal and addition of eligible grades, forms and dimensions.

Contact Qualitance India for BIS Certification for Copper

Qualitance India BIS Certification & Compliance Consultancy

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

Manufacturers seeking BIS Certification for Copper under IS 191:2007, Copper ISI Mark licensing, laboratory testing, factory inspection preparation or BIS compliance support can contact Qualitance India for professional assistance.

Conclusion

IS 191:2007 – Copper — Specification (Fourth Revision) remains an important Indian Standard for specified copper refinery shapes and grades. BIS's product manual provides detailed requirements covering sampling, chemical composition, dimensions, resistivity, hydrogen embrittlement, testing equipment, control units, factory quality control and Standard Mark provisions.

Manufacturers should also understand the current regulatory position. The Copper (Quality Control) Order, 2023 was withdrawn on 13 November 2025, so it should not be presented as the current compulsory QCO for Copper in 2026.

At the same time, BIS continues to maintain IS 191:2007 under Scheme-I, enabling eligible manufacturers to pursue BIS product certification and use the ISI Mark in accordance with the approved licence scope.

For Copper manufacturers, successful BIS certification requires proper grade identification, scope planning, reliable chemical and physical testing, calibrated equipment, factory quality-control systems, documentation and compliance with BIS assessment requirements.

Qualitance India provides BIS Certification Consultancy for Copper, IS 191:2007 testing, BIS licence application, factory inspection preparation, ISI Mark compliance, scope expansion and renewal support.