BIS Certification for Steel Wire for Staples, Pins and Clips | IS 4224:1972 Qualitance India
BIS Certification for Steel Wire for Staples, Pins and Clips | IS 4224:1972
Steel wire is an essential raw material used in the manufacturing of staples, office pins, clips and various fastening products. The quality of the wire directly affects the strength, flexibility, forming characteristics and performance of the finished products.
To ensure consistent quality and conformity, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has prescribed requirements under IS 4224:1972 – Specification for Steel Wire for Staples, Pins and Clips.
The standard specifies requirements relating to chemical composition, freedom from defects, sizes and tolerances, finish and physical properties.
Steel Wire for Staples, Pins and Clips is also covered under the Ministry of Steel’s Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024. Accordingly, manufacturers and importers dealing with products covered by the QCO must comply with the applicable BIS certification requirements.
This article explains the product scope, mandatory certification status, technical requirements, testing parameters, documentation and the process for obtaining BIS certification under IS 4224:1972.
1. What is IS 4224:1972?
IS 4224:1972 is the Indian Standard titled:
Specification for Steel Wire for Staples, Pins and Clips (First Revision).
The standard covers requirements for three types of steel wire used in the manufacture of staples, pins and clips for various purposes.
These wires are used as raw materials in the production of fastening and stationery products.
Typical applications include:
- Office staples
- Industrial staples
- Paper pins
- Drawing pins
- Metal clips
- Stationery fastening products
- Other applicable wire-formed fastening components
The standard addresses important characteristics that influence the suitability of the wire for forming and manufacturing operations.
These include:
- Chemical composition
- Freedom from defects
- Sizes and tolerances
- Surface finish
- Tensile properties
- Reverse bend performance
- Galvanized coating, where applicable
The exact type and product requirements should be identified from the applicable standard before preparing a BIS certification application.
2. Is BIS Certification Mandatory for Steel Wire under IS 4224:1972?
<badge color=”success”>Mandatory BIS certification</badge>
Yes. Steel Wire for Staples, Pins and Clips under IS 4224:1972 is included in the Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024.
The Ministry of Steel issued the QCO through notification S.O. 3716(E), dated 29 August 2024.
The applicable regulatory details are:
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Product | Steel Wire for Staples, Pins and Clips |
| Indian Standard | IS 4224:1972 |
| Standard title | Specification for Steel Wire for Staples, Pins and Clips |
| QCO | Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024 |
| Notification | S.O. 3716(E), dated 29 August 2024 |
| Schedule | Schedule 1, Serial No. 76 |
| Implementation | With immediate effect |
| Certification scheme | BIS Scheme-I |
| Certification mark | ISI Standard Mark |
| Certifying authority | Bureau of Indian Standards |
Applicable ITC (HS) Codes
The QCO identifies the following ITC (HS) codes for this product:
- 72171020
- 72171030
- 72179099
- 72299033
- 72299052
- 72299059
- 72299090
The actual classification should be checked against the product’s material, construction and applicable customs tariff.
What does the QCO mean for manufacturers?
Manufacturers supplying covered steel wire in the Indian market must:
- Ensure conformity with IS 4224:1972 and its applicable amendments.
- Obtain the required BIS licence.
- Use the ISI Standard Mark only in accordance with the licence.
- Maintain the required production and testing records.
- Follow applicable BIS surveillance and inspection requirements.
The QCO also provides for a test certificate bearing the Standard Mark to accompany each covered consignment.
Important: The QCO contains specific provisions and exemptions, including an export-related exception for qualifying products manufactured domestically for export according to another specification required by the foreign buyer. The exemption should be assessed against the actual transaction and notification conditions.
3. Product Scope under IS 4224:1972
IS 4224:1972 covers three types of steel wire intended for the manufacture of staples, pins and clips.
The product scope is focused on steel wire supplied for further forming and manufacturing operations.
The principal product characteristics covered by the standard include:
- Chemical composition
- Wire diameter and dimensional tolerances
- Surface finish
- Freedom from defects
- Tensile properties
- Reverse bend properties
- Galvanized coating requirements, where applicable
A manufacturer should identify the actual wire type, size range and finish before applying for BIS certification.
The proposed scope should match the product manufactured at the factory and the requirements of the applicable Indian Standard.
4. Technical Requirements under IS 4224:1972
The standard establishes technical requirements to ensure that the wire is suitable for the intended manufacturing application.
4.1 Chemical Composition
Chemical composition is an important factor affecting the strength, ductility and forming characteristics of steel wire.
The standard specifies chemical composition requirements for the covered types of wire.
The principal chemical parameters include:
- Carbon
- Manganese
- Sulphur
- Phosphorus
The manufacturer must ensure that the chemical composition conforms to the limits specified in the applicable table of IS 4224:1972.
Heat-wise chemical analysis and raw material traceability should be maintained to demonstrate conformity.
4.2 Freedom from Defects
Steel wire used for staples, pins and clips should be free from defects that may adversely affect its performance during forming and subsequent use.
Defects in the wire surface can lead to breakage, poor forming quality and rejection during manufacturing.
The manufacturer should establish suitable inspection arrangements to identify unacceptable defects.
4.3 Sizes and Tolerances
The standard specifies requirements relating to wire sizes and dimensional tolerances.
Dimensional consistency is important because the wire must be suitable for the manufacturing equipment and forming operations used to produce staples, pins and clips.
Inspection should cover:
- Wire diameter
- Dimensional variation
- Uniformity of size
- Compliance with the applicable tolerances
4.4 Finish
The finish of the steel wire is an important quality characteristic.
The standard includes requirements for the finish of the supplied wire, including applicable galvanized finish provisions.
The manufacturer should ensure that the finished wire conforms to the relevant surface and coating requirements.
4.5 Physical Properties
The physical testing requirements include:
- Tensile test
- Reverse bend test
These tests help assess the mechanical behaviour of the wire during forming operations.
The wire should satisfy the applicable acceptance criteria specified in the standard.
5. Testing Requirements for BIS Certification
Product testing is an essential part of the BIS certification process.
The BIS Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) identifies the following testing parameters for IS 4224:1972.
| Test / Inspection | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Chemical analysis – Carbon | Verification of carbon content |
| Chemical analysis – Manganese | Verification of manganese content |
| Chemical analysis – Sulphur | Verification of sulphur content |
| Chemical analysis – Phosphorus | Verification of phosphorus content |
| Freedom from defects | Assessment of surface and product quality |
| Sizes and tolerances | Verification of dimensional conformity |
| Finish | Assessment of surface finish |
| Tensile test | Evaluation of tensile properties |
| Reverse bend test | Assessment of bending performance |
| Galvanized coating | Verification of applicable galvanized coating requirements |
5.1 Chemical Composition Test
Chemical analysis verifies whether the steel wire conforms to the chemical composition requirements specified for the applicable type.
The principal parameters include carbon, manganese, sulphur and phosphorus.
Manufacturers should maintain appropriate chemical test reports and traceability records.
5.2 Tensile Test
The tensile test evaluates the mechanical properties of the wire under tensile loading.
The BIS LIMS identifies IS 1608 (Part 1) as the referenced test method for tensile testing.
The test helps determine whether the wire satisfies the required mechanical properties.
5.3 Reverse Bend Test
The reverse bend test evaluates the wire’s ability to withstand repeated bending under the prescribed test conditions.
It helps assess the wire’s ductility and suitability for forming operations.
The BIS LIMS identifies IS 1716 as the referenced test method for the reverse bend test.
5.4 Size and Tolerance Inspection
Dimensional inspection verifies whether the wire diameter and applicable tolerances conform to the standard.
Suitable measuring instruments should be available, and inspection records should be maintained.
5.5 Freedom from Defects
The wire should be inspected for unacceptable surface defects and other imperfections that could affect its performance.
The inspection procedure should be documented and consistently implemented.
5.6 Galvanized Coating Test
Where galvanized wire is covered by the applicable product requirements, the coating must satisfy the relevant provisions of the standard.
The BIS Central Laboratory’s historical testing schedule identifies galvanized coating as a test parameter under IS 4224:1972.
The manufacturer should confirm the applicable coating test method and acceptance requirements from the current consolidated standard.
Important: The exact numerical limits, sample quantities, test conditions and acceptance criteria must be verified against IS 4224:1972 and its applicable amendments. They should not be assumed from generic steel wire specifications.
6. Manufacturing and Quality Control Requirements
A manufacturer applying for BIS certification should demonstrate that its manufacturing process and quality-control arrangements can consistently produce steel wire conforming to IS 4224:1972.
Depending on the manufacturing arrangement, the process may include:
- Procurement of steel wire rod.
- Incoming raw material inspection.
- Verification of chemical composition.
- Wire drawing.
- Intermediate dimensional inspection.
- Surface finishing.
- Galvanizing, where applicable.
- Final inspection and testing.
- Coil identification and marking.
- Packaging and dispatch.
The actual manufacturing process depends on whether the applicant manufactures the wire from wire rod or undertakes further processing of purchased wire.
The factory should maintain records covering:
- Raw material procurement
- Heat-wise chemical analysis
- Wire drawing parameters
- Production batch details
- Dimensional inspection
- Surface finish inspection
- Galvanizing process records, where applicable
- Tensile test results
- Reverse bend test results
- Calibration of measuring and testing equipment
- Non-conforming product control
- Corrective actions
- Finished product traceability
7. Documents Required for BIS Certification
The following documents are generally relevant when preparing a BIS application for Steel Wire for Staples, Pins and Clips under IS 4224:1972.
A. Company Documents
- Company registration certificate or constitution documents
- GST registration certificate
- PAN card
- Factory address proof
- Authorised signatory details
- Identity and address proof of authorised signatory
- Factory layout plan
- Details of manufacturing premises
B. Manufacturing Documents
- Manufacturing process flow chart
- List of manufacturing machinery
- Wire drawing machine details
- Production capacity details
- Product specifications
- Wire type and size range
- Raw material specifications
- Surface finishing details
- Galvanizing process details, where applicable
- Process control procedures
C. Quality Control and Testing Documents
- Quality control plan
- Inspection and testing plan
- In-house laboratory equipment list
- Calibration certificates
- Chemical analysis reports
- Tensile test reports
- Reverse bend test reports
- Dimensional inspection records
- Surface finish inspection records
- Galvanized coating test records, where applicable
- Finished product inspection records
- Non-conformity and corrective action procedures
D. BIS Application Documents
- BIS application and supporting information
- Product description and proposed scope
- Trademark or brand authorisation documents, where applicable
- Factory and laboratory details
- Applicable declarations and undertakings
- Relevant fee payment details
Additional documents may be required depending on the manufacturing process, product type and proposed certification scope.
8. BIS Certification Process for Steel Wire under IS 4224:1972
The certification process generally involves the following stages.
Step 1: Product and Standard Verification
Confirm that the product falls within the scope of IS 4224:1972.
Identify the wire type, size range and finish proposed for certification.
Step 2: Factory and Laboratory Assessment
Review the manufacturing facility, wire drawing machinery, testing equipment and quality-control arrangements.
The factory should have suitable arrangements for conducting the applicable tests.
Step 3: Preparation of BIS Application
Prepare the required company, manufacturing, product and quality-control documents.
The proposed product scope should be clearly defined.
Step 4: Product Testing
Arrange testing against the applicable requirements of IS 4224:1972.
Testing includes chemical analysis, tensile testing, reverse bend testing, dimensional inspection and other applicable checks.
Step 5: BIS Factory Inspection
BIS may conduct an inspection to assess:
- Manufacturing facilities
- Wire drawing process
- Surface finishing arrangements
- Galvanizing facilities, where applicable
- Testing infrastructure
- Quality-control procedures
- Raw material traceability
- Inspection and testing records
- Product marking and packaging
- Sample selection and testing
Step 6: Grant of BIS Licence
After satisfactory evaluation of the application, manufacturing facility and product conformity, BIS may grant the licence to use the ISI Standard Mark.
The manufacturer must comply with all licence conditions and applicable marking requirements.
Step 7: Post-Licence Compliance
After obtaining the licence, the manufacturer must maintain continuous conformity through:
- Routine product testing
- Raw material inspection
- Production process control
- Calibration of testing equipment
- Maintenance of quality records
- Product identification and traceability
- Compliance with marking requirements
- Cooperation with BIS surveillance activities
9. BIS Certification for Foreign Manufacturers
Foreign manufacturers intending to supply Steel Wire for Staples, Pins and Clips in India must also comply with the applicable BIS certification requirements.
They may apply under the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS), subject to the applicable requirements.
The process generally involves:
- Product and standard applicability review
- Submission of the applicable BIS application
- Appointment of an Authorised Indian Representative, where required
- Submission of manufacturing and quality-control documents
- Assessment of factory and testing infrastructure
- BIS factory inspection
- Product sample testing
- Grant of licence, subject to satisfactory compliance
Importers should verify that the overseas manufacturer’s BIS licence covers the actual product and proposed supply scope.
10. BIS Certification Cost for Steel Wire for Staples, Pins and Clips
The total cost of BIS certification depends on the product scope, factory infrastructure, testing arrangements and applicable BIS fee structure.
Potential cost components include:
- BIS application fee
- BIS licence fee
- Annual marking fee
- Product testing charges
- Sample preparation and transportation
- Laboratory charges
- Inspection-related expenses
- Consultancy and documentation charges, where professional assistance is engaged
Testing charges may vary depending on the laboratory, testing parameters and sample requirements.
A manufacturer should obtain a project-specific estimate after reviewing the proposed product scope and existing manufacturing and testing facilities.
11. Common Challenges in BIS Certification
Manufacturers may face the following challenges during certification:
1. Incorrect product scope: The manufacturer must correctly identify the type of steel wire and its intended application under IS 4224:1972.
2. Chemical composition failures: The wire may fail to satisfy the prescribed limits for carbon, manganese, sulphur or phosphorus.
3. Tensile test failure: The material may not meet the applicable mechanical requirements.
4. Reverse bend test failure: Inadequate ductility or material quality may lead to failure during reverse bending.
5. Dimensional non-conformity: Variations in wire diameter may result in rejection.
6. Surface defects: Poor raw material quality or drawing conditions may affect the surface finish.
7. Galvanized coating issues: Where galvanized wire is covered, coating non-conformity may affect product acceptance.
8. Incomplete documentation: Missing inspection records, calibration certificates and testing procedures may create difficulties during factory assessment.
A preliminary factory and documentation assessment can help identify these issues before the formal BIS application.
12. Why Choose Qualitance India for BIS Certification?
Qualitance India provides professional consultancy and regulatory compliance support for manufacturers seeking BIS product certification in India.
For Steel Wire for Staples, Pins and Clips under IS 4224:1972, our support can include:
- Product and Indian Standard applicability review
- BIS certification feasibility assessment
- Wire type and size scope review
- Manufacturing process assessment
- Quality-control documentation
- Laboratory and product testing coordination
- BIS application preparation
- Factory inspection preparation
- Assistance in addressing non-conformities
- Post-licence compliance guidance
Our objective is to help manufacturers understand the applicable regulatory requirements and establish a practical certification process.
Qualitance India – Improving Quality & Competence
Website: https://qualitanceindia.com
Email: info@qualitanceindia.com
Phone / WhatsApp: +91 93106 15170
13. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Which Indian Standard applies to Steel Wire for Staples, Pins and Clips?
IS 4224:1972 – Specification for Steel Wire for Staples, Pins and Clips.
Q2. Is BIS certification mandatory for steel wire under IS 4224:1972?
Yes. The product is included in Schedule 1, Serial No. 76 of the Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024, with implementation specified as immediate effect.
Q3. Which BIS certification scheme applies to IS 4224:1972?
The applicable certification route is BIS Scheme-I, under which the manufacturer obtains a licence to use the ISI Standard Mark.
Q4. What products are covered under IS 4224:1972?
The standard covers three types of steel wire used for manufacturing staples, pins and clips.
Q5. What are the main tests required under IS 4224:1972?
The principal tests include chemical analysis, tensile test, reverse bend test, dimensional inspection, freedom from defects and applicable finish or galvanized coating checks.
Q6. Which chemical parameters are tested?
The chemical parameters identified in the BIS laboratory scope include carbon, manganese, sulphur and phosphorus.
Q7. Which test methods are referenced for mechanical testing?
The BIS LIMS identifies IS 1608 (Part 1) for tensile testing and IS 1716 for reverse bend testing.
Q8. Are galvanized steel wires covered?
The standard’s testing references include galvanized coating requirements. The applicability of the coating requirements should be confirmed against the relevant wire type and current standard.
Q9. Which ITC (HS) codes are listed for this product under the QCO?
The listed codes are 72171020, 72171030, 72179099, 72299033, 72299052, 72299059 and 72299090.
Q10. Can a foreign manufacturer obtain BIS certification for IS 4224:1972?
Yes. Foreign manufacturers can apply through the applicable BIS Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme, subject to the relevant requirements.
Q11. Can a manufacturer use the ISI Mark before obtaining a BIS licence?
No. The Standard Mark must not be used without the required BIS licence.
Q12. What is the cost of BIS certification for steel wire?
The cost depends on BIS fees, product testing charges, sample requirements, factory infrastructure and other applicable expenses. A project-specific quotation should be prepared after reviewing the manufacturer’s requirements.
14. Conclusion
Steel Wire for Staples, Pins and Clips is an important raw material for stationery, fastening and industrial manufacturing applications.
IS 4224:1972 establishes requirements for chemical composition, freedom from defects, sizes and tolerances, finish and physical properties to ensure the suitability of steel wire for its intended applications.
Since the product is included in the Steel and Steel Products Quality Control Order, 2024, manufacturers and importers covered by the notification must comply with the applicable BIS certification requirements.
Proper product classification, chemical analysis, mechanical testing, dimensional inspection and quality-control documentation are essential for obtaining and maintaining BIS certification.
Need assistance with BIS Certification for Steel Wire for Staples, Pins and Clips?
Contact Qualitance India for professional guidance on product applicability, BIS application preparation, laboratory coordination, factory readiness and certification support.
Qualitance India – Improving Quality & Competence
Official References and Further Reading
- BIS – IS 4224:1972: Specification for Steel Wire for Staples, Pins and Clips.
- Ministry of Steel – Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024: S.O. 3716(E), dated 29 August 2024.
- BIS Scheme-I Product Listing: https://www.bis.gov.in/product-certification/products-under-compulsory-certification/scheme-i-mark-scheme/
- BIS Laboratory Information Management System – IS 4224:1972: https://lims.bis.gov.in/
- BIS Central Laboratory – Historical Testing Schedule for IS 4224:1972: https://bis.gov.in/qazwsx/lab/2797_4990.pdf
- BIS Products under Compulsory Certification: https://www.bis.gov.in/product-certification/products-under-compulsory-certification/
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