BIS Certification for Hermetic Compressors – IS 10617:2018 – Qualitance India

Updated on 3 November 2026 By Qualitance India Compliance Team

BIS Certification for Hermetic Compressors – IS 10617:2018

Hermetic compressors are essential components used in refrigeration and air-conditioning systems. They are widely installed in room air conditioners, refrigerators, commercial refrigeration equipment, chillers and other cooling applications.

A hermetic compressor contains the motor and compressor mechanism within a sealed housing. Its performance, electrical safety, pressure resistance, leakage protection and reliability directly influence the performance and safety of the refrigeration or air-conditioning system.

To ensure product quality and conformity with Indian requirements, hermetic compressors are covered under the compulsory BIS certification framework in India.

Manufacturers intending to manufacture, import or sell covered hermetic compressors in the Indian market must comply with IS 10617:2018 – Hermetic Compressors: Specification and obtain the applicable BIS licence under Scheme-I of the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018.

This article explains the BIS certification requirements, compressor categories, product grouping, sample quantity, testing parameters, factory laboratory requirements, documents and the application procedure.

1. Is BIS Certification Mandatory for Hermetic Compressors?

<badge color=”success”>Mandatory BIS Certification</badge>

Yes. BIS certification is mandatory for hermetic compressors covered under the Air Conditioner and its related Parts, Hermetic Compressor and Temperature Sensing Controls (Quality Control) Order, 2019, as amended from time to time.

The applicable Indian Standard is:

IS 10617:2018 – Hermetic Compressors: Specification (Second Revision)

The Quality Control Order requires covered hermetic compressors to conform to the applicable Indian Standard and bear the BIS Standard Mark under a licence issued by BIS in accordance with Scheme-I.

BIS identifies IS 10617:2018 as a product under mandatory certification.

Important: Latest QCO Amendments and Exemptions

Manufacturers and importers should carefully review the amendments to the Air Conditioner QCO before relying on any exemption.

The important developments include:

2025 amendment: Provided a time-limited actual-user exemption for certain hermetic compressors up to 2 TR (7,000 W) supplied to manufacturers of air-conditioning and refrigeration equipment and related parts. The one-year period commenced with publication of the amendment on 22 April 2025 and has elapsed.
8 May 2026 amendment: Introduced a specific exemption up to 31 March 2027 for qualifying imports of reciprocating hermetic compressors of fixed-speed and variable-speed (inverter) types, rated below 2 TR, intended for refrigerators and similar refrigeration appliances. The exemption is subject to the specified quantity limit and actual manufacturing-use conditions.
October 2026 amendment: Introduced a limited annual exemption for up to 6,000 hermetic compressors and heat exchangers per eligible manufacturer for maintenance and sales, subject to the prescribed conditions, declarations and stock records. It also addresses declared pre-existing stock.

These exemptions are conditional and product-specific. They do not amount to a blanket exemption from BIS certification for all hermetic compressors.

Manufacturers should verify their product type, rated capacity, intended application, importer/manufacturer status and eligibility under the exact Gazette provision before relying on an exemption.

2. Applicable Indian Standard – IS 10617:2018

Particular	Details
Product	Hermetic Compressors
Indian Standard	IS 10617:2018
Standard title	Hermetic Compressors – Specification
Revision	Second Revision
Amendment	One amendment recorded in BIS Standard Details
Certification scheme	BIS Scheme-I (ISI Mark Scheme)
Certification authority	Bureau of Indian Standards
Applicable QCO	Air Conditioner and its related Parts, Hermetic Compressor and Temperature Sensing Controls (Quality Control) Order, 2019, as amended
Certification status	Mandatory for products covered by the QCO

Applicable BIS Product Manual

BIS has issued the following product manual:

Document No.: PM/IS 10617/2/December 2020

The product manual provides guidance on:

Product grouping
Sample quantity
Test equipment requirements
Scheme of Inspection and Testing
Routine and type testing
Laboratory arrangements
Licence scope and marking

The manual specifies a sample quantity of three compressors for the certification process.

Applicants should review the applicable amendment to IS 10617:2018 along with the product manual before finalising the testing programme.

3. Categories of Hermetic Compressors Covered Under IS 10617:2018

Hermetic compressors are classified according to their operating application and evaporating temperature range.

The BIS product manual identifies three major categories.

A. Low Back Pressure (LBP)

LBP compressors are generally used in low-temperature refrigeration applications, such as:

Domestic refrigerators
Deep freezers
Commercial freezers
Low-temperature refrigeration equipment

B. Commercial Back Pressure / Medium Back Pressure (CBP/MBP)

CBP/MBP compressors are used in medium-temperature refrigeration applications, including:

Commercial refrigeration equipment
Display cabinets
Beverage coolers
Cold storage refrigeration systems
Medium-temperature cooling applications

C. High Back Pressure (HBP)

HBP compressors are generally used in higher-temperature evaporating applications, including:

Room air conditioners
Commercial air-conditioning systems
High-temperature refrigeration applications

The manufacturer must identify the applicable compressor category and declare the varieties proposed for inclusion in the BIS licence.

4. Product Classification and Licence Scope

The BIS product manual specifies that the licence scope should identify the compressor category, cooling capacity and phase.

The recommended scope format is:

“Hermetic Compressor Category (LBP, CBP/MBP, HBP); Cooling capacity up to and including ______; Single phase / Three phase.”

The manufacturer must declare the compressor varieties intended to be covered under the licence.

The final scope of licence may be restricted based on:

Manufacturing capabilities
Testing facilities
Compressor category
Cooling capacity
Single-phase or three-phase configuration

The manufacturer should prepare a model-wise product list before submitting the BIS application.

5. Technical and Quality Requirements Under IS 10617:2018

IS 10617:2018 establishes requirements for hermetic compressors relating to performance, electrical safety, construction and mechanical integrity.

The major areas of assessment include:

A. Compressor Performance

The compressor must demonstrate conformity with the applicable cooling capacity and performance requirements.

B. Startability

The compressor must be capable of starting under the specified test conditions.

C. Locked Rotor Performance

The compressor is evaluated under locked rotor conditions to assess its electrical and operational characteristics.

D. Electrical Safety

Electrical safety requirements include:

High-voltage test
Leakage current test
Electrical insulation requirements

E. Mechanical Strength

The compressor shell and pressure-containing components must satisfy the applicable mechanical strength requirements.

F. Holding Charge and Leakage

The compressor must meet the specified holding charge and shell leakage requirements.

G. Running Overload

The compressor is evaluated under the applicable running overload conditions.

H. Resistance to Rusting

Ferrous parts must comply with the applicable resistance-to-rusting requirements.

The precise acceptance criteria, test conditions and limits must be taken from the applicable edition of IS 10617:2018 and its amendment.

6. Testing Requirements for BIS Certification

Testing is a critical stage of BIS certification for hermetic compressors.

The BIS Product Manual PM/IS 10617/2/December 2020 identifies the following major tests.

Sr. No.	Test parameter	Clause reference
1	Compressor Performance Test	5.1 and 6.1.1
2	Startability Test	6.1.2
3	Locked Rotor Test with Accessories	6.1.3
4	High Voltage Test	6.1.4 and 6.3(a)
5	Leakage Current Test	6.1.5
6	Bursting Test	6.1.7
7	Holding Charge Test	6.2
8	Shell Leakage Test	6.3(c)
9	Running Overload Test	7
10	Locked Rotor Test	8
11	Resistance to Rusting Test	9 and Annex B

A. Compressor Performance Test

This test evaluates the compressor’s performance and cooling capacity under the specified test conditions.

The BIS product manual identifies a calorimeter conforming to IS 5111 as the relevant testing facility.

B. Startability Test

The compressor’s ability to start under the prescribed conditions is evaluated.

The product manual identifies:

Thermocouple
Pressure gauge
Voltmeter

C. Locked Rotor Test

This test evaluates compressor behaviour under locked rotor conditions.

The identified equipment includes:

Thermocouple
Pressure gauge
Voltmeter
Power multimeter
Arrangement for counting cycles
High-voltage tester
Stopwatch

D. High Voltage Test

This test evaluates the electrical insulation strength of the compressor.

The product manual identifies a high-voltage tester, power multimeter and stopwatch.

E. Leakage Current Test

The leakage current test evaluates electrical leakage under the prescribed test conditions.

F. Holding Charge and Shell Leakage Test

These tests assess the integrity of the compressor shell and its ability to retain the specified charge without leakage.

The product manual identifies an air compressor, dry air/nitrogen/helium, pressure gauge and test bath for relevant pressure and leakage testing arrangements.

G. Bursting Test

The bursting test evaluates the pressure resistance and mechanical integrity of the compressor shell.

The identified equipment includes:

Air compressor
Water pump
Pressure gauge
Temperature gauge
Burst testing equipment

H. Running Overload Test

This test evaluates compressor operation under the specified overload conditions.

The product manual identifies a calorimeter or test bench, thermocouple, pressure gauge, voltmeter and power multimeter.

I. Resistance to Rusting Test

This test evaluates the resistance of ferrous parts to rusting.

The product manual identifies:

Dry film thickness gauge
Carbide-tipped scribe or multi-blade scribing tool
Specified tape
Chemicals referred to in the standard

The product manual’s equipment list is indicative and should not be treated as exhaustive.

7. Sample Quantity Required for BIS Testing

<badge color=”success”>Sample quantity: 3 compressors</badge>

As per BIS Product Manual PM/IS 10617/2/December 2020:

Three compressors are required as the product sample quantity.

The sample selection must follow the grouping guidelines specified in Annex A.

The highest cooling capacity from each compressor category must be tested separately for single-phase and three-phase configurations.

Important Sample Selection Conditions

The highest cooling capacity from each category (LBP, CBP/MBP and HBP) is selected for testing.
Single-phase and three-phase compressors are considered separately.
The manufacturer must declare the compressor varieties proposed for coverage.
The licence scope may be restricted according to the manufacturer’s manufacturing and testing capabilities.

The exact sample allocation should be finalised with reference to the applicable grouping provisions and BIS instructions.

8. Product Grouping Guidelines Under IS 10617:2018

Product grouping is particularly important for manufacturers producing multiple compressor models, capacities and electrical configurations.

As per Annex A of the BIS product manual, the following parameters are considered.

A. Compressor Category

Low Back Pressure (LBP)
Commercial Back Pressure / Medium Back Pressure (CBP/MBP)
High Back Pressure (HBP)

B. Number of Phases

Single phase
Three phase

C. Cooling Capacity

The highest cooling capacity from each category must be tested separately for single-phase and three-phase configurations to cover the relevant range in that category.

Practical Example of Product Grouping

Consider a manufacturer producing the following compressors:

Model	Category	Phase	Cooling capacity
Model A	LBP	Single phase	150 W
Model B	LBP	Single phase	250 W
Model C	LBP	Three phase	350 W
Model D	CBP/MBP	Single phase	600 W
Model E	CBP/MBP	Three phase	900 W
Model F	HBP	Single phase	1,500 W
Model G	HBP	Three phase	2,000 W

In this example, the manufacturer must evaluate the highest-capacity model in each applicable category and phase configuration.

The final testing and licence coverage should be determined according to the actual product range and Annex A grouping requirements.

Important Note

During operation of the licence, BIS may ensure that all varieties covered in the licence are tested in rotation, to the extent possible.

Therefore, manufacturers should maintain testing and production records for all licensed models.

9. Factory Laboratory Requirements

The manufacturer must maintain an appropriately equipped and staffed laboratory for carrying out the tests specified in IS 10617:2018.

As per Annex C of the BIS product manual:

A suitable laboratory must be maintained.
Testing equipment must be available as required.
A calibration plan must be prepared.
Test records must be maintained.
Production must be inspected and tested according to the prescribed levels of control.

Major Laboratory Equipment

Test	Major equipment / facility
Compressor performance test	Calorimeter as per IS 5111
Startability test	Thermocouple, pressure gauge, voltmeter
Locked rotor test	Thermocouple, pressure gauge, voltmeter, power multimeter, cycle counter, high-voltage tester, stopwatch
High voltage test	High-voltage tester, power multimeter, stopwatch
Pneumatic test of shell	Air compressor, dry air/nitrogen/helium, pressure gauge, test bath
Bursting test	Air compressor, water pump, pressure gauge, temperature gauge, burst testing equipment
Running overload test	Calorimeter or test bench, thermocouple, pressure gauge, voltmeter, power multimeter
Resistance to rusting	Dry film thickness gauge, scribing tool, specified tape and chemicals

The above list is based on the BIS product manual and is indicative.

Can Testing Be Subcontracted?

The product manual permits subcontracting of specified tests to:

Laboratories recognised by BIS; or
Government laboratories empanelled by BIS.

The manual identifies subcontracting as permitted for several type tests, including compressor performance, startability, locked rotor, high voltage, leakage current, bursting and running overload tests.

However, certain tests are marked as requiring testing arrangements at the manufacturer’s premises.

The manufacturer should therefore prepare a test-wise infrastructure assessment before applying.

10. Scheme of Inspection and Testing (SIT)

The manufacturer must implement the Scheme of Inspection and Testing specified in Annex C of the BIS product manual.

The SIT defines routine tests, type tests, sampling frequencies and quality-control requirements.

A. Laboratory and Calibration

A suitable laboratory must be maintained, and a calibration plan must be prepared for the testing equipment.

B. Test Records

The manufacturer must maintain records of all tests carried out to establish conformity with the standard.

C. Levels of Control

The product manual specifies the following principal testing frequencies.

Test	No. of samples	Frequency / control
Compressor performance test	2 units of identical type and capacity from each rating	Produced in a year
Startability test	As specified in the product manual	Type test
Locked rotor test with accessories	As specified in the product manual	Type test
High voltage test	As specified in the product manual	Type test
Leakage current test	As specified in the product manual	Type test
Bursting test	As specified in the product manual	Type test
Holding charge	As specified in the product manual	Type test
High voltage routine test	Each compressor	Routine test
Shell leakage test	Each compressor	Routine test
Running overload test	2 units of identical type and capacity from each rating	Produced in a year
Locked rotor test	2 units of identical type and capacity from each rating	Once in five years or whenever there is a design change, whichever is earlier
Resistance to rusting	As specified in the product manual	Each consignment of ferrous parts

Important Control Requirements

Compressor Performance Test: Two units of identical type and capacity from each rating produced in a year are to be tested. In case of failure, subsequent production is subject to intensified testing until twenty consecutive samples pass, after which the original frequency may be restored.

High Voltage Test: This is a routine test and must be carried out on each compressor.

Shell Leakage Test: This is also a routine test for each compressor.

Locked Rotor Test: Two units of identical type and capacity from each rating are tested once in five years or whenever there is a change in design, whichever is earlier.

Resistance to Rusting: Testing is required for each consignment of ferrous parts.

The manufacturer must comply with the obligatory levels of control specified in the product manual and maintain appropriate records.

11. BIS Marking Requirements

After obtaining the BIS licence, the manufacturer must apply the Standard Mark in accordance with IS 10617:2018 and the applicable licence conditions.

The compressor must be marked with the particulars required by the standard and the approved licence.

The manufacturer must ensure:

The BIS Standard Mark is applied only to conforming products.
The BIS licence number (CM/L number) is correctly displayed.
Product identification and traceability details are maintained.
Marking is consistent with the approved licence scope.

All production covered by the licence and conforming to the Indian Standard must bear the Standard Mark.

12. Documents Required for BIS Certification of Hermetic Compressors

Manufacturers should prepare the following documents before submitting a BIS application.

A. Company and Legal Documents

Certificate of Incorporation / Company Registration
PAN card
GST registration certificate
Factory address proof
Authorised signatory details
Authorisation letter or board resolution, wherever applicable
Company profile

B. Manufacturing Documents

Manufacturing process flow chart
Detailed manufacturing process description
Factory layout plan
List of manufacturing machinery
Production capacity details
Compressor model-wise list
Product drawings and technical specifications
Compressor category details (LBP, CBP/MBP and HBP)
Cooling capacity details
Single-phase and three-phase model details
Details of assembly and testing facilities

C. Quality Control Documents

Quality Control Manual
Scheme of Inspection and Testing
List of testing equipment
Equipment calibration certificates
In-house laboratory details
Compressor performance test records
Routine testing formats
High-voltage test records
Shell leakage test records
Locked rotor test records
Running overload test records
Resistance-to-rusting test records
Non-conforming product control procedure

D. BIS Application Documents

BIS application form and declarations
Details of products proposed for certification
Model-wise scope details
Manufacturing unit details
Required undertakings and declarations
Applicable application and processing fee payment details

The exact document requirement may vary depending on the manufacturing process, compressor category, production arrangement and proposed licence scope.

13. BIS Testing Charges for Hermetic Compressors

Testing charges depend on the laboratory, compressor category, cooling capacity and applicable testing scope.

The testing programme may include compressor performance, startability, electrical safety, pressure testing, overload testing and resistance to rusting.

Applicants should obtain a current test-wise quotation from the selected BIS-recognised or empanelled laboratory before dispatching samples.

The overall certification project cost may include:

BIS application fee
Factory inspection charges
Laboratory testing charges
Sample transportation expenses
Licence and marking fee
Calibration and laboratory infrastructure costs
Consultancy charges, if applicable

Important: The BIS product manual does not establish a universal testing tariff. Laboratory charges should not be treated as fixed BIS-wide fees.

14. Step-by-Step BIS Certification Process for Hermetic Compressors

The general BIS certification process under Scheme-I is explained below.

Step 1 – Product Applicability Assessment

Confirm that the compressor falls within the scope of IS 10617:2018 and the applicable Quality Control Order.

Step 2 – Compressor Category Identification

Identify whether the product is LBP, CBP/MBP or HBP.

Step 3 – Model and Capacity Mapping

Prepare a model-wise list covering cooling capacity, phase and compressor category.

Step 4 – Product Grouping Assessment

Determine the representative models for testing based on the highest cooling capacity in each category and phase configuration.

Step 5 – Factory Infrastructure Assessment

Evaluate manufacturing facilities, testing equipment, laboratory arrangements and quality-control systems.

Step 6 – Documentation Preparation

Prepare the company, manufacturing, technical and quality-control documents.

Step 7 – BIS Application Submission

Submit the application through the applicable BIS certification procedure along with the required documents and prescribed fees.

Step 8 – BIS Factory Inspection

BIS assesses the manufacturing process, product construction, laboratory facilities, testing arrangements and quality-control system.

Step 9 – Sample Testing

The required compressor samples are tested against IS 10617:2018.

Step 10 – Compliance and Clarifications

The manufacturer addresses observations, testing issues or non-conformities raised during the certification process.

Step 11 – Grant of BIS Licence

After satisfactory completion of the applicable assessment and certification requirements, BIS may grant the licence to use the Standard Mark for the approved product scope.

15. Common Challenges in BIS Certification for Hermetic Compressors

Manufacturers may face several technical and procedural challenges during BIS certification.

1. Incorrect Compressor Classification

Incorrect identification of LBP, CBP/MBP and HBP categories can result in errors in the proposed licence scope.

2. Incorrect Product Grouping

Different compressor capacities and electrical configurations must be considered when selecting representative models for testing.

3. Lack of Performance Testing Facilities

Compressor performance testing requires specialised calorimeter facilities and suitable test arrangements.

4. Electrical Safety Test Failures

Insufficient insulation, improper electrical connections or design issues may result in failure during high-voltage or leakage current testing.

5. Shell Leakage and Pressure Test Failure

Manufacturing defects or inadequate sealing may lead to failures during holding charge, shell leakage or bursting tests.

6. Inadequate Calibration and Test Records

The manufacturer must maintain suitable calibration records and documented evidence of routine and type testing.

7. Incorrect Scope of Licence

The manufacturer must ensure that the proposed licence scope accurately identifies the compressor category, cooling capacity and phase configuration.

A technical gap assessment before submitting the BIS application can help reduce avoidable testing and certification delays.

16. How Qualitance India Can Help

Qualitance India provides professional BIS certification consultancy and regulatory compliance support to manufacturers and businesses seeking BIS licences in India.

For hermetic compressor certification under IS 10617:2018, our support can include:

BIS certification applicability assessment
Review of IS 10617:2018 requirements
Compressor category identification
LBP, CBP/MBP and HBP product classification
Model-wise cooling capacity and phase mapping
Product grouping and sample selection guidance
Factory infrastructure gap assessment
Laboratory and testing facility assessment
Preparation of Quality Control Manual
Preparation of Scheme of Inspection and Testing
Guidance on testing equipment and calibration
Sample testing coordination
BIS application documentation
Assistance during BIS factory inspection
Support in responding to BIS observations
Guidance through the BIS licence grant process

Our objective is to help manufacturers establish the required quality-control arrangements and manage the BIS certification process efficiently.

Qualitance India – Improving Quality & Competence

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

17. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Is BIS certification mandatory for hermetic compressors in India?

Yes. Hermetic compressors covered under the Air Conditioner and its related Parts, Hermetic Compressor and Temperature Sensing Controls Quality Control Order must comply with IS 10617:2018 and obtain the applicable BIS licence, subject to specific exemptions notified by the Government.

Q2. Which Indian Standard applies to hermetic compressors?

The applicable standard is IS 10617:2018 – Hermetic Compressors: Specification.

Q3. Under which BIS scheme is certification granted?

Certification is granted under Scheme-I of the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018.

Q4. What are the main categories of hermetic compressors?

The product manual identifies three categories: Low Back Pressure (LBP), Commercial Back Pressure / Medium Back Pressure (CBP/MBP) and High Back Pressure (HBP).

Q5. What is the sample quantity required for BIS certification?

The BIS Product Manual PM/IS 10617/2/December 2020 specifies three compressors as the sample quantity.

Q6. What are the grouping parameters for hermetic compressors?

The main grouping parameters are compressor category, number of phases and cooling capacity. The highest cooling capacity from each category is tested separately for single-phase and three-phase configurations.

Q7. What are the major tests required under IS 10617:2018?

The major tests include compressor performance, startability, locked rotor, high voltage, leakage current, bursting, holding charge, shell leakage, running overload and resistance to rusting.

Q8. Is an in-house laboratory required?

The manufacturer must maintain a suitably equipped and staffed laboratory as required by the product manual. Certain tests may be subcontracted to BIS-recognised laboratories or Government laboratories empanelled by BIS, subject to the prescribed provisions.

Q9. Can compressor testing be outsourced?

Yes. The product manual permits subcontracting of specified tests to laboratories recognised by BIS or Government laboratories empanelled by BIS. Tests identified as requiring in-house arrangements must be conducted accordingly.

Q10. What is the licence scope for hermetic compressors?

The scope identifies the compressor category, cooling capacity and whether the compressor is single phase or three phase.

Q11. Are hermetic compressors below 2 TR exempt from BIS certification?

There is no blanket exemption for every compressor below 2 TR. The 2025 actual-user exemption was time-limited, and the 2026 amendment provides a specific exemption for qualifying imports of certain reciprocating hermetic compressors below 2 TR intended for refrigerators and similar refrigeration appliances, subject to quantity and use conditions. The exact Gazette provisions must be checked.

Q12. Can foreign manufacturers obtain BIS certification for hermetic compressors?

Foreign manufacturers may apply through the applicable BIS Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS), subject to eligibility, factory inspection, testing and Authorised Indian Representative requirements.

Q13. Who can assist with BIS certification for hermetic compressors?

Qualitance India can assist manufacturers with product classification, grouping, documentation, laboratory readiness, sample testing coordination, factory inspection preparation and BIS certification support.

Conclusion

BIS certification for hermetic compressors under IS 10617:2018 is an important regulatory requirement for manufacturers supplying covered products in the Indian market.

The certification process requires careful attention to compressor classification, cooling capacity, phase configuration, performance testing, electrical safety, pressure resistance, laboratory arrangements and production quality control.

Manufacturers should review the latest BIS product manual, applicable amendments and Quality Control Order before initiating certification or relying on any exemption.

For professional assistance with BIS Certification for Hermetic Compressors, contact Qualitance India.

Qualitance India – Improving Quality & Competence

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

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