BIS Certification for Steel Rivet Bars (Medium and High Tensile) for Structural Purposes | IS 1148:2009
BIS Certification for Steel Rivet Bars (Medium and High Tensile) for Structural Purposes
Steel rivet bars are used in structural engineering and manufacturing applications where reliable mechanical properties, strength and material consistency are essential. These bars are intended for producing rivets used to connect structural components such as steel plates, beams and other fabricated members.
To ensure the quality and reliability of steel rivet bars supplied in India, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has prescribed requirements under IS 1148:2009 – Steel Rivet Bars (Medium and High Tensile) for Structural Purposes.
The standard covers requirements relating to chemical composition, mechanical properties, dimensions, tolerances, cleanliness and testing.
Steel rivet bars covered under this standard are also included in the Ministry of Steel’s Steel and Steel Products Quality Control Order framework. Manufacturers and importers should therefore understand the applicable BIS certification and regulatory requirements before supplying these products in India.
This article explains the product scope, mandatory certification position, technical requirements, testing parameters, documents and BIS certification process under IS 1148:2009.
1. What is IS 1148:2009?
IS 1148:2009 is the Indian Standard titled:
Steel Rivet Bars (Medium and High Tensile) for Structural Purposes.
It is the fourth revision of the standard and superseded IS 1149:1992, which covered high-tensile steel rivet bars for structural purposes.
The standard specifies requirements for steel rivet bars intended for structural applications.
It covers plain carbon steel rivet bars and also addresses low-alloy steel options using common micro-alloying elements such as:
- Niobium (Nb)
- Vanadium (V)
- Titanium (Ti)
- Boron (B)
The standard also provides for steel supplied in copper-bearing quality.
The requirements are intended to ensure that the steel possesses suitable chemical, physical and mechanical characteristics for its intended application.
Latest amendment: BIS lists Amendment 1 to IS 1148:2009, published in 2023. Manufacturers should obtain and apply the current consolidated standard, including applicable amendments, when preparing for certification.
2. Is BIS Certification Mandatory for Steel Rivet Bars under IS 1148:2009?
Yes. Steel Rivet Bars covered under IS 1148:2009 are included in the Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024.
The Ministry of Steel issued the Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024 through notification S.O. 3716(E), dated 29 August 2024.
The product is identified in the QCO as follows:
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Product | Steel Rivet Bars (Medium and High Tensile) for Structural Purposes |
| Indian Standard | IS 1148:2009 |
| QCO | Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024 |
| Notification | S.O. 3716(E), dated 29 August 2024 |
| ITC (HS) Codes | 72149990, 72286099 |
| Certification scheme | BIS Scheme-I |
| Standard Mark | ISI Mark |
| Certifying authority | Bureau of Indian Standards |
The 2024 QCO applies from its publication date unless a different implementation date is specified for a particular entry. The listed product is subject to implementation with immediate effect.
The QCO requires covered products to conform to the corresponding Indian Standard and carry the Standard Mark under a BIS licence.
It also requires the applicable test certificate bearing the Standard Mark to accompany each consignment.
Important exemption: The QCO provides an exception for steel and steel products manufactured domestically for export that conform to another specification required by the foreign buyer. The precise applicability of this exception should be assessed against the notification and actual export arrangement.
Manufacturers and importers should verify the latest applicable government amendments before placing products on the market.
3. Product Scope under IS 1148:2009
IS 1148:2009 covers steel rivet bars of medium and high tensile strength intended for structural purposes.
The standard addresses the following principal product characteristics:
- Chemical composition
- Mechanical properties
- Tensile strength
- Bend properties
- Shear strength
- Hot compression behaviour
- Dimensions and tolerances
- Steel cleanliness
- Freedom from defects
The standard covers plain carbon steel rivet bars and provides for specified low-alloy and copper-bearing steel options.
The manufacturer should identify the exact grade, steel composition, dimensions and product configuration intended for certification.
The proposed product scope should be consistent with the applicable standard and the BIS-approved licence scope.
4. Technical Requirements under IS 1148:2009
The standard specifies technical requirements intended to ensure that steel rivet bars possess the required properties for structural applications.
4.1 Chemical Composition
Chemical composition is one of the most important parameters for determining the strength, ductility and mechanical behaviour of steel.
IS 1148:2009 specifies chemical requirements for the applicable steel grades and product categories.
The chemical parameters include:
- Carbon
- Manganese
- Silicon
- Sulphur
- Phosphorus
- Other specified alloying elements, where applicable
For low-alloy steel, common micro-alloying elements may include niobium, vanadium, titanium and boron.
The standard also permits copper-bearing quality steel.
The manufacturer must ensure that the chemical composition of the supplied material conforms to the applicable grade requirements.
4.2 Mechanical Properties
Mechanical properties determine whether the rivet bar can withstand the forming and service conditions associated with its intended structural application.
The standard includes mechanical requirements assessed through tests such as:
- Tensile test
- Bend test
- Shear test
- Hot compression test
The acceptance requirements depend on the applicable grade and relevant provisions of the standard.
4.3 Steel Cleanliness and Freedom from Defects
The standard includes requirements relating to the cleanliness of steel and freedom from defects.
The steel should be produced and inspected to ensure that harmful defects do not adversely affect the intended performance of the rivet bars.
Manufacturers should establish suitable controls for raw material inspection, production monitoring and final product inspection.
4.4 Dimensions and Tolerances
Steel rivet bars must comply with the dimensional requirements specified in the standard.
The manufacturer should maintain appropriate inspection arrangements for the applicable dimensions and tolerances.
Dimensional conformity is important for ensuring consistency during rivet manufacturing and subsequent structural assembly.
Note: Exact numerical limits for chemical composition, mechanical properties and dimensional tolerances must be taken from the current consolidated edition of IS 1148:2009, including Amendment 1:2023. They should not be replaced with generic structural steel values.
5. Testing Requirements for BIS Certification
Testing is an important part of the BIS certification process.
The principal tests and inspection parameters identified under IS 1148:2009 include the following:
| Test / Inspection | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Chemical analysis | Verification of chemical composition |
| Tensile test | Evaluation of tensile properties |
| Bend test | Assessment of bend performance |
| Shear test | Evaluation of shear strength |
| Hot compression test | Assessment of behaviour under hot compression |
| Dimensions and tolerances | Verification of dimensional conformity |
| Steel cleanliness | Assessment of material quality |
| Freedom from defects | Identification of harmful defects |
5.1 Chemical Analysis
Chemical analysis verifies whether the material conforms to the specified chemical composition for the declared steel grade.
The manufacturer should maintain heat-wise chemical analysis records and ensure traceability between the steel heat and finished product.
5.2 Tensile Test
The tensile test evaluates the mechanical strength and deformation characteristics of the steel.
The test is used to determine the applicable tensile properties required by the standard.
5.3 Bend Test
The bend test evaluates the ability of the steel to withstand bending under the prescribed test conditions.
It helps identify defects or material characteristics that may cause unacceptable cracking during deformation.
5.4 Shear Test
The shear test assesses the material’s resistance to shear loading.
This is relevant to the performance of material intended for rivet manufacturing and structural joining applications.
5.5 Hot Compression Test
The hot compression test evaluates the material’s behaviour under the specified hot compression conditions.
The test is particularly relevant to assessing the material characteristics associated with hot forming operations.
5.6 Dimensional and Visual Inspection
Dimensional inspection verifies compliance with the specified dimensions and tolerances.
Visual inspection and other applicable checks help establish that the product is free from unacceptable defects.
The final testing programme must follow the current standard, applicable amendments and the relevant BIS certification requirements.
6. Manufacturing and Quality Control Requirements
A manufacturer applying for BIS certification should demonstrate that its production and inspection arrangements can consistently produce steel rivet bars conforming to IS 1148:2009.
Depending on the manufacturing arrangement, relevant operations may include:
- Steelmaking and preparation of the required steel grade.
- Chemical composition control.
- Casting and preparation of steel for rolling.
- Hot rolling into bars.
- Control of rolling parameters.
- Cooling and finishing operations.
- Dimensional inspection.
- Mechanical testing.
- Visual inspection and defect control.
- Identification, marking and dispatch.
The actual manufacturing process and machinery requirements depend on the manufacturer’s declared operations and product scope.
The factory should maintain records covering:
- Raw material and heat identification
- Chemical analysis
- Production parameters
- In-process inspection
- Finished product testing
- Calibration of equipment
- Non-conforming product control
- Corrective actions
- Batch and dispatch traceability
7. Documents Required for BIS Certification
The following documents are generally relevant for preparing a BIS application for Steel Rivet Bars under IS 1148:2009.
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
- Machinery details and specifications
- Production capacity details
- Product specifications
- Steel grade and designation details
- Product size and dimensional range
- Raw material specifications
- Process control procedures
C. Quality Control and Testing Documents
- Quality control plan
- Inspection and testing plan
- In-house laboratory equipment list
- Calibration certificates
- Testing procedures
- Chemical analysis reports
- Heat-wise inspection records
- Mechanical test reports
- Dimensional inspection records
- Finished product inspection records
- Non-conformity and corrective action procedures
D. BIS Application Documents
- BIS application and supporting information
- Product description and proposed certification scope
- Trademark or brand authorisation documents, where applicable
- Factory and laboratory details
- Applicable declarations and undertakings
- Relevant fee payment details
The final documentation requirements depend on the manufacturer’s production arrangement and the applicable BIS certification procedure.
8. BIS Certification Process for Steel Rivet Bars
The certification process generally involves the following stages.
Step 1: Product and Standard Verification
Confirm that the product falls within the scope of IS 1148:2009.
The manufacturer should identify the applicable steel grade, product dimensions and manufacturing arrangement.
Step 2: Factory and Laboratory Assessment
Review the manufacturing facility, machinery, production processes and quality-control infrastructure.
The factory should have suitable arrangements for the tests required under the applicable standard.
Step 3: Preparation of BIS Application
Prepare the required company, factory, manufacturing and product documentation.
The proposed scope should be clearly defined before application submission.
Step 4: Product Testing
Arrange product testing against the applicable requirements of IS 1148:2009, including Amendment 1:2023.
Testing should cover the relevant chemical, mechanical and other specified requirements.
Step 5: BIS Factory Inspection
BIS may conduct an inspection to assess:
- Manufacturing facilities
- Production process
- Testing infrastructure
- Quality-control arrangements
- Raw material traceability
- Inspection and testing records
- Product marking arrangements
- Sample selection and testing
Step 6: Grant of Licence
After satisfactory evaluation of the application, factory facilities and product conformity, BIS may grant a licence to use the ISI Standard Mark.
The manufacturer must follow the licence conditions and applicable marking requirements.
Step 7: Post-Licence Compliance
After licence grant, the manufacturer must maintain continuous conformity through:
- Routine product testing
- Maintenance of inspection records
- Calibration of testing equipment
- Heat-wise traceability
- Control of manufacturing processes
- Compliance with marking requirements
- Cooperation with BIS surveillance activities
9. BIS Certification for Importers and Foreign Manufacturers
Foreign manufacturers intending to supply Steel Rivet Bars in India must comply with the applicable BIS certification requirements under the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS), wherever applicable.
The process generally involves:
- Review of product applicability under IS 1148:2009
- 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 facilities
- BIS factory inspection
- Product sample testing
- Grant of licence, subject to satisfactory compliance
Importers should verify that the foreign manufacturer’s licence covers the actual product, grade and scope being supplied.
10. BIS Certification Cost for Steel Rivet Bars
The total certification cost depends on the manufacturing facility, product scope, 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
- Professional consultancy charges, where applicable
Testing charges can vary depending on the laboratory, test parameters and sample requirements.
A manufacturer should obtain a project-specific estimate after reviewing the proposed scope, manufacturing facility and testing requirements.
11. Common Challenges in BIS Certification
Manufacturers may face the following challenges during certification:
1. Incorrect product classification: The product must fall within the scope of IS 1148:2009 and must not be incorrectly declared under a different steel standard.
2. Chemical composition failures: Steel may fail to meet the specified grade-wise composition requirements.
3. Mechanical test failures: The product may not satisfy the tensile, bend, shear or hot compression requirements.
4. Inadequate testing facilities: The factory may not have suitable equipment or arrangements for the required tests.
5. Poor heat-wise traceability: Manufacturers must maintain clear identification of each heat and the corresponding finished product.
6. Incomplete documentation: Missing production, inspection, calibration or testing records may create difficulties during factory assessment.
7. Non-compliant marking: The Standard Mark must be used only in accordance with the BIS licence conditions.
A preliminary factory and documentation assessment can help identify these issues before the formal certification process.
12. Why Choose Qualitance India for BIS Certification?
Qualitance India provides professional assistance to manufacturers seeking BIS product certification and regulatory compliance in India.
For Steel Rivet Bars under IS 1148:2009, our support can include:
- Product and standard applicability review
- BIS certification feasibility assessment
- Product scope and grade review
- Manufacturing process assessment
- Quality-control documentation
- Testing and laboratory coordination
- BIS application preparation
- Factory inspection preparation
- Assistance in addressing non-conformities
- Post-licence compliance guidance
Our objective is to help manufacturers understand applicable BIS 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 Rivet Bars for Structural Purposes?
IS 1148:2009 – Steel Rivet Bars (Medium and High Tensile) for Structural Purposes.
Q2. Is BIS certification mandatory for Steel Rivet Bars under IS 1148:2009?
Yes. The product is included in the Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024, with implementation from the date of publication, 29 August 2024.
Q3. Which BIS certification scheme applies to IS 1148:2009?
The applicable certification route is BIS Scheme-I, under which the manufacturer obtains a licence to use the ISI Standard Mark.
Q4. What is the latest amendment to IS 1148:2009?
BIS lists Amendment 1 to IS 1148:2009, published in 2023. Manufacturers should refer to the current consolidated standard.
Q5. Which tests are required for Steel Rivet Bars under IS 1148?
The standard includes chemical analysis, tensile test, bend test, shear test, hot compression test and applicable dimensional and defect inspections.
Q6. Which ITC (HS) codes are listed for Steel Rivet Bars under the QCO?
The listed codes are 72149990 and 72286099. Classification should be verified against the current customs tariff and the actual product.
Q7. Can foreign manufacturers obtain BIS certification for Steel Rivet Bars?
Yes. Foreign manufacturers can apply through the applicable BIS Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme, subject to the relevant requirements.
Q8. Can a manufacturer use the ISI Mark before obtaining a BIS licence?
No. The ISI Standard Mark must not be used without the required BIS licence.
Q9. Does the QCO require a test certificate with each consignment?
Yes. The Steel and Steel Products QCO, 2024 provides for a test certificate bearing the Standard Mark issued by a BIS-certified manufacturer to accompany each covered consignment.
Q10. What is the cost of BIS certification for Steel Rivet Bars?
The cost depends on the BIS fee structure, testing charges, product scope, factory infrastructure and other applicable expenses. A project-specific quotation should be prepared after reviewing the manufacturer’s requirements.
14. Conclusion
Steel Rivet Bars are important structural materials used in applications where reliable mechanical properties and material quality are essential.
IS 1148:2009 specifies requirements for medium and high tensile steel rivet bars, including chemical composition, mechanical properties, testing, dimensions and freedom from defects.
The inclusion of this product under the Steel and Steel Products Quality Control Order, 2024 makes BIS compliance an important regulatory requirement for manufacturers and suppliers covered by the notification.
Manufacturers should ensure that their products conform to the current standard, including Amendment 1:2023, and that their production, testing and quality-control arrangements are suitable for BIS certification.
Need assistance with BIS Certification for Steel Rivet Bars?
Contact Qualitance India for professional guidance on product applicability, BIS documentation, testing coordination, factory readiness and certification support.
Qualitance India – Improving Quality & Competence
Official References and Further Reading
- BIS Standard Details – IS 1148:2009: https://standards.bis.gov.in/website/standard-details
- BIS Scheme-I – Products under Certification: https://www.bis.gov.in/product-certification/products-under-compulsory-certification/scheme-i-mark-scheme/
- Ministry of Steel – Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024, S.O. 3716(E), dated 29 August 2024.
- BIS – IS 1148:2009, Steel Rivet Bars (Medium and High Tensile) for Structural Purposes.
- BIS – Amendment 1 to IS 1148:2009, 2023.
Need help with BIS certification for this product?
Get a free consultation from our compliance experts — we handle testing, documentation and the complete BIS process for you.
BIS Certification Readiness Checklist 2026
- Documents, testing & factory requirements in one place
- Covers ISI Mark, CRS, FMCS & Hallmarking
- Tick-box format — share it with your team