BIS Certification for Centrifugally Cast (Spun) Iron Pressure Pipes | IS 1536:2001 – Qualitance India

BIS Certification for Centrifugally Cast (Spun) Iron Pressure Pipes | IS 1536:2001 – Qualitance India

BIS Certification for Centrifugally Cast (Spun) Iron Pressure Pipes | IS 1536

Centrifugally cast (spun) iron pressure pipes are used in water supply, gas distribution and sewage infrastructure. These pipes must meet applicable technical requirements for mechanical strength, pressure resistance, dimensions, tolerances and coating to ensure reliable performance in service. In India, these products are covered by the Centrifugally Cast (Spun) Iron Pipes (Quality Control) Order, 2021, which requires covered products to conform to the applicable Indian Standard and bear the BIS Standard Mark under a valid licence, subject to the Order's provisions and exemptions. <Cite refs={["turn157150view3","turn720022search0"]}/> For manufacturers, foundries, pipe suppliers and foreign manufacturers planning to supply the Indian market, BIS certification is an important regulatory requirement. Important update for applicants: The requested reference, IS 1536:2001, has been revised to IS 1536:2023 — Centrifugally Cast (Spun) Iron Pressure Pipes for Water, Gas and Sewage. BIS prescribed 19 December 2023 as the implementation deadline, after which the 2001 edition stood withdrawn. Therefore, new applications and current compliance work should be planned against IS 1536:2023 and its applicable product manual. <Cite refs={["turn157150view0","turn157150view1"]}/> Qualitance India provides professional support for BIS certification, product compliance, testing coordination and documentation for industrial products.

1. What Is IS 1536?

IS 1536 is the Indian Standard covering centrifugally cast (spun) iron pressure pipes for water, gas and sewage. Centrifugal casting is a manufacturing process in which molten metal is distributed inside a rotating mould to produce a pipe with a substantially uniform wall. The finished pipe is assessed against applicable requirements for mechanical properties, hydrostatic performance, dimensions, tolerances and coating. The BIS product manual for the revised standard identifies the product as: Centrifugally Cast (Spun) Iron Pressure Pipes for Water, Gas and Sewage — IS 1536:2023. <Cite refs={["turn157150view1"]}/> The standard is relevant to manufacturers supplying pressure pipes for infrastructure projects, including water supply networks, sewage systems and applicable gas distribution applications.

2. Is BIS Certification Mandatory for Centrifugally Cast Iron Pressure Pipes?

Yes. BIS certification is compulsory for products covered by the applicable Quality Control Order. The Central Government issued the Centrifugally Cast (Spun) Iron Pipes (Quality Control) Order, 2021, through S.O. 116(E), dated 12 January 2021. The Order came into force on 1 August 2021 and includes IS 1536:2001 in its schedule. It requires covered products to conform to the relevant Indian Standard and bear the Standard Mark under a BIS licence in accordance with Scheme-I. <Cite refs={["turn157150view3","turn720022search0"]}/> The Order also states that it does not apply to goods intended for export. The notification specifies that the latest editions of the Indian Standards, including notified amendments, apply as notified by BIS. <Cite refs={["turn157150view3"]}/>

What does mandatory certification mean for manufacturers?

Businesses supplying covered products in India should ensure that:
  • The product conforms to the currently applicable Indian Standard.
  • A valid BIS licence covers the relevant product and manufacturing premises.
  • The approved licence scope covers the intended class, size, joint and pipe type.
  • The Standard Mark and licence number are applied as authorised.
  • Manufacturing, inspection and testing records are maintained in accordance with the applicable Scheme of Inspection and Testing.
A test report alone does not replace the BIS licence where certification is compulsory.

3. IS 1536:2001 vs IS 1536:2023 — Important Changes

BIS issued implementation guidance on 13 October 2023, specifying 19 December 2023 as the final implementation date for IS 1536:2023. The old edition was to stand withdrawn after that date. <Cite refs={["turn157150view0"]}/> The major changes highlighted by BIS include the following:
Requirement Change under IS 1536:2023
Lead-joint pipes Withdrawn because exposure to lead is detrimental to health
Pipe sizes Sizes from 700 mm to 1,000 mm introduced for centrifugally cast iron pipes with screwed-on flanges
Socket-and-spigot pipes Maximum size reduced from 1,050 mm to 1,000 mm
Hydrostatic pressure For screwed-on flanged pipes of 350–600 mm, the specified test pressure increased from 1.6 MPa to 2.0 MPa
Flange drilling New tolerances introduced for bolt diameters from 34 mm to 37 mm
Hardness The specified hardness value changed to 230 HBW
Class A flanged pipes Reintroduced under the revised standard
Previous amendments Earlier amendments incorporated into the revised edition
These changes are based on the BIS implementation circular. Manufacturers must comply with all applicable requirements of the revised standard, not only the changes listed in this summary. <Cite refs={["turn157150view0"]}/> Important: The old product manual for IS 1536:2001 may still appear in historical records and laboratory listings. It should not be used as the sole basis for a new application when the current product manual is for IS 1536:2023.

4. Product Scope Under IS 1536:2023

The BIS product manual defines the licence scope using several product parameters. These must be identified before the application and sample testing are planned. <Cite refs={["turn157150view1"]}/>

4.1 Type of pipe

The product manual identifies:
  • Socket and spigot pipes
  • Flanged pipes

4.2 Pipe class

The scope includes the following classes:
  • Class LA
  • Class A
  • Class B
  • Class C
  • Class D
  • Class E
The applicable class must be selected according to the intended product and the requirements of the standard.

4.3 Nominal sizes

The revised product manual identifies the following sizes for the licence scope:
Nominal size
80 mm
100 mm
125 mm
150 mm
200 mm
250 mm
300 mm
350 mm
400 mm
450 mm
500 mm
600 mm
700 mm
750 mm
800 mm
900 mm
1,000 mm
The applicable size range depends on the relevant pipe type, class, joint and grouping guidelines. The list above is the scope stated in the BIS product manual, not a guarantee that every combination will automatically be covered under one licence. <Cite refs={["turn157150view1"]}/>

4.4 Joint type

The revised product manual identifies:
  • Push-on joint
  • Flexible joint
  • Flanged joint
Lead joints have been withdrawn from the revised edition. Manufacturers should not plan a new licence scope around lead-joint pipes under IS 1536:2023. <Cite refs={["turn157150view0","turn157150view1"]}/>

4.5 Type of mould

The product manual identifies two mould categories:
  • Metal mould
  • Sand mould
The manufacturing facility and intended product scope should be reviewed before selecting the samples and finalising the application. <Cite refs={["turn157150view1"]}/>

5. BIS Sample Requirements for IS 1536:2023

The BIS product manual specifies the following sampling requirement: Sample size: 1 pipe plus 2 rings, or 2 test bars. <Cite refs={["turn157150view1"]}/> The precise specimen preparation and testing arrangements should be confirmed against the applicable test methods and the instructions of BIS or the designated laboratory.

5.1 Product grouping guidelines

For licence scope grouping, the revised product manual uses the following parameters:
  • Class
  • Size
  • Joint
The grouping structure in the product manual is as follows. <Cite refs={["turn910031view0"]}/>
Joint type Size range Group
Push-on or flexible joint 80–300 mm Group 1
Push-on or flexible joint 350–600 mm Group 2
Push-on or flexible joint 700–1,000 mm Group 3
Flanged joint 80–300 mm Group 4
Flanged joint 350–600 mm Group 5
Flanged joint 700–1,000 mm Group 6

5.2 How samples are selected for scope coverage

For push-on and flexible joints, a sample of the relevant class and joint at the highest size in the applicable group is drawn and tested for consideration of licence coverage across the sizes in that group. For flanged joints, a sample of the relevant class and highest size in the group is tested for consideration of licence coverage within that group. Each class must be tested for inclusion of that class in the licence scope. The manufacturer must also have suitable manufacturing and testing facilities for all types, classes, sizes and joints included in the scope. <Cite refs={["turn910031view0"]}/>

5.3 Special arrangements for 700–1,000 mm pipes

The BIS product manual recognises that samples in the 700–1,000 mm size group are bulky and difficult to transport. For these groups, prepared samples for tensile testing, Brinell hardness testing and coating testing are to be sent to a BIS laboratory or an applicable recognised laboratory. The other specified requirements are to be tested at the factory as stated in the product manual. <Cite refs={["turn910031view0"]}/> This makes it particularly important for large-diameter pipe manufacturers to plan their in-house testing arrangements before applying for a licence.

6. Testing Requirements for Centrifugally Cast Iron Pressure Pipes

Testing is a major part of BIS certification and ongoing production control. The applicable requirements are specified in IS 1536:2023 and its product manual. The following tests and controls are identified in the revised product manual. <Cite refs={["turn910031view1","turn910031view2"]}/>

6.1 Ring test

The ring test is applicable to pipes cast in metal moulds, as specified in the product manual. The test evaluates the relevant mechanical performance of the pipe material using the prescribed method.

6.2 Tensile test

The tensile test assesses the mechanical properties of the pipe material. The product manual refers to IS 1608 Part 1 for the tensile-test method. The specified testing frequency depends on pipe size and the applicable control unit. <Cite refs={["turn910031view2"]}/>

6.3 Brinell hardness test

The Brinell hardness test checks the hardness of the material. The revised standard identifies a hardness requirement of 230 HBW in the implementation circular. The applicable test method is referenced in the product manual. <Cite refs={["turn157150view0","turn910031view2"]}/>

6.4 Hydrostatic test

Hydrostatic testing checks the pipe's ability to withstand the specified internal water pressure. The product manual identifies hydrostatic testing as a required production-control test for each pipe. The test pressure must be selected in accordance with the applicable size, pipe type and requirements of the revised standard. <Cite refs={["turn910031view2"]}/>

6.5 Sizes, dimensions and tolerances

The manufacturer must maintain adequate in-process controls to verify that dimensions and tolerances comply with the standard. Records must be maintained as evidence of conformity. The relevant requirements cover the applicable pipe dimensions and joint or flange details. <Cite refs={["turn910031view2"]}/>

6.6 Coating test

Coating is another specified test area. The product manual identifies coating testing as a production-control requirement to be carried out at the prescribed frequency. <Cite refs={["turn910031view2"]}/>

6.7 Rubber gasket requirements

For applicable joint arrangements, the product manual includes rubber-gasket requirements and refers to IS 12820, IS 5382 and IS 638. Conformity of each gasket consignment may be established using a supplier's test certificate or a report from a laboratory recognised by BIS or a Government laboratory empanelled by BIS. Where the gaskets are ISI marked, the product manual states that separate testing is not required. <Cite refs={["turn910031view2"]}/>

Summary of tests

Test or control Purpose / application
Ring test Applicable to pipes cast in metal moulds
Tensile test Mechanical properties
Brinell hardness test Material hardness
Hydrostatic test Pressure resistance
Dimensional inspection Sizes, dimensions and tolerances
Coating test Conformity of the specified coating
Rubber-gasket conformity Applicable gasket requirements and incoming-consignment controls
The applicable test schedule should be confirmed for the proposed product scope and the current standard.

7. Testing Equipment Required at the Factory

The BIS product manual provides an indicative list of major equipment for testing against IS 1536:2023. The actual equipment requirement and whether subcontracting is permitted are subject to BIS decisions and the applicable inspection and testing scheme. <Cite refs={["turn910031view0","turn910031view1"]}/>
Test area Indicative equipment
Ring and tensile tests Universal Testing Machine with suitable knife-edge holders
Brinell hardness Brinell Hardness Tester and standard reference blocks
Hydrostatic test Hydrostatic test setup, pressure gauge or digital transducer, water pump, end plugs and stopwatch
Dimensions and tolerances Vernier caliper, micrometer, measuring tape, internal/external calipers, measuring scale, ultrasonic thickness gauge, circumferential tape and suitable templates or gauges
Coating test Oven or muffle furnace capable of maintaining 65°C, refrigerator capable of maintaining 0°C, thermometer, penknife and associated tools

Factory testing and calibration

The product manual requires a suitably equipped and staffed laboratory for the tests assigned to the manufacturer. A calibration plan must be prepared and implemented for testing equipment, and test records must be maintained. <Cite refs={["turn910031view1"]}/> Before applying, manufacturers should evaluate whether their existing laboratory can support the proposed licence scope, particularly where large-diameter pipes require specialised equipment.

8. Scheme of Inspection and Testing (SIT)

BIS certification does not end when the initial samples pass. The manufacturer must operate the applicable Scheme of Inspection and Testing and maintain production-control records.

8.1 Control unit

Under the revised product manual, pipes of the same class, size and joint manufactured from the same cast constitute a control unit. <Cite refs={["turn910031view1"]}/>

8.2 Specified production controls

The product manual's table identifies the following controls and frequencies. These should be read with the applicable notes and approved inspection arrangements. <Cite refs={["turn910031view2"]}/>
Test / activity Frequency stated in the product manual
Rubber gasket conformity Each consignment
Ring test, for pipes cast in metal moulds Every 4 hours
Tensile test Every 4 hours for each control unit for sizes below 700 DN; every 25 pipes or part thereof for DN 700 mm and above
Brinell hardness test Every 4 hours
Hydrostatic test Each pipe
Sizes, dimensions and tolerances Adequate in-process controls with records
Coating Once a week
The table and related notes should be applied with the specific provisions in the current product manual. The manual allows certain test subcontracting where decided by BIS, and provides for justified alternative control arrangements subject to approval by the Head of the Branch Office. <Cite refs={["turn910031view2"]}/>

8.3 Test records and rejection control

Manufacturers must maintain records of tests conducted to establish conformity. Non-conforming products must be disposed of in a way that does not violate the BIS Act, 2016. <Cite refs={["turn910031view1"]}/>

8.4 Test certificate for each consignment

The product manual requires a test certificate for each consignment of BIS-certified material conforming to IS 1536:2023. The certificate must contain the Standard Mark, cast or control-unit number and corresponding test results. <Cite refs={["turn910031view1"]}/> This certificate and the associated production records should be included in the manufacturer's routine quality-control system.

9. Documents Required for BIS Certification

The exact documents depend on the manufacturer, factory, proposed scope and current BIS application requirements. The following checklist is a practical preparation guide.

A. Company and factory documents

  • Company incorporation or constitution documents, as applicable
  • Factory address and contact details
  • GST registration, where applicable
  • Authorisation letter for the application signatory
  • Manufacturing premises details
  • Factory layout and relevant production-area details, where requested
  • Manufacturing process flow chart
  • List of machinery and production equipment
  • Details of existing manufacturing and testing facilities

B. Product and technical documents

  • Product specification and technical details
  • Pipe type: socket and spigot or flanged
  • Proposed class or classes
  • Proposed nominal sizes
  • Joint type details
  • Mould type: metal or sand
  • Applicable drawings and dimensions
  • Details of coating and relevant product construction
  • Rubber-gasket details, where applicable
  • Product identification and marking details

C. Quality-control and laboratory documents

  • List of testing equipment
  • Calibration certificates for applicable equipment
  • Laboratory procedures and test methods
  • Inspection and testing plan
  • In-process quality-control formats
  • Records for tensile, ring, hardness, hydrostatic and coating tests, as applicable
  • Dimensional inspection records
  • Control-unit identification and traceability records
  • Rubber-gasket supplier certificates or relevant test reports
  • Test certificate format for each consignment

D. Application and certification records

  • Application forms and declarations required by BIS
  • Relevant fee-payment records
  • Product and sample identification records
  • Test reports from the applicable laboratory
  • Factory assessment records and responses to observations
  • Additional information or undertakings requested by BIS
This list is intended to help manufacturers prepare. It does not replace the latest BIS application instructions or the current product manual.

10. Step-by-Step BIS Certification Process

Step 1: Confirm the applicable standard

Confirm that the product falls under IS 1536 and plan the application against IS 1536:2023, the revised edition.

Step 2: Finalise the proposed licence scope

Identify the intended pipe type, class, size range, joint and mould type. Scope selection is important because the grouping guidelines determine how samples are selected for inclusion.

Step 3: Conduct a factory-readiness assessment

Review the casting process, production controls, inspection arrangements, laboratory facilities, calibration system and technical records against the applicable requirements.

Step 4: Prepare the application documents

Compile company and factory documents, product specifications, quality-control information, equipment details and the declarations required by BIS.

Step 5: Arrange sample selection and testing

Plan the required sample of one pipe plus two rings or two test bars, as applicable under the product manual. Confirm specimen preparation, sample selection and laboratory arrangements before dispatch. <Cite refs={["turn157150view1"]}/>

Step 6: Complete the factory assessment

BIS may assess the manufacturing premises, production process, laboratory, testing equipment, quality-control records and ability to manufacture the proposed scope consistently.

Step 7: Address observations and technical queries

Provide the requested clarifications and implement corrective actions where necessary. The manufacturer should ensure that the proposed licence scope is supported by suitable manufacturing and testing capabilities.

Step 8: Complete the BIS review

BIS considers the application, test results and applicable factory-assessment findings under the relevant certification procedure.

Step 9: Obtain the licence and apply the Standard Mark

The manufacturer may use the Standard Mark only in accordance with the granted BIS licence and approved scope. A submitted application or successful test report does not, by itself, authorise use of the mark.

Step 10: Maintain ongoing compliance

After the licence is granted, maintain the applicable inspection and testing scheme, calibration records, control-unit traceability, test certificates and periodic testing arrangements.

11. BIS Certification Fees and Testing Charges

The total cost depends on the applicable BIS fee schedule, laboratory test scope, factory-readiness status and any additional work needed to meet the standard. Possible cost components include:
  • BIS application and licence-related charges
  • Laboratory testing charges
  • Sample preparation and transport
  • Factory inspection or assessment-related expenses, where applicable
  • Testing equipment and calibration
  • Laboratory upgrades, where required
  • Documentation and quality-control implementation
  • Consultancy and application coordination, if engaged

Indicative laboratory information

BIS LIMS displays historical test-charge entries for IS 1536:2001, including ₹5,000 at Unique Test House LLP for the displayed scope up to 600 mm and ₹4,500 at certain BIS laboratories for listed testing entries. The listings show individual test exclusions and charges, and are not a complete quotation for all tests or a full certification project. The LIMS also lists testing information for IS 1536:2023, but a complete current consolidated price was not available in the reviewed listing. <Cite refs={["turn157150view4"]}/> Important: Do not use the historical charges for IS 1536:2001 as a guaranteed price for certification under IS 1536:2023. Obtain a current, itemised quotation from the relevant laboratory and confirm the current BIS fee schedule.

12. How Long Does BIS Certification Take?

The completion time depends on the applicant's readiness and the applicable certification procedure. Factors include:
  • Completeness of application documents
  • Manufacturing and laboratory readiness
  • Availability of the required testing arrangements
  • Sample preparation and test completion
  • Factory assessment and closure of observations
  • BIS review and any further technical queries
Large-diameter pipes may require additional planning because the product manual specifies special sample arrangements for the 700–1,000 mm groups. <Cite refs={["turn910031view0"]}/> Manufacturers should obtain a realistic timeline after the product scope, factory readiness and testing route have been reviewed. No fixed completion date should be assumed without confirmation from the relevant BIS office.

13. BIS Certification for Foreign Manufacturers

Foreign manufacturers intending to supply centrifugally cast iron pressure pipes to India must verify the applicable BIS certification route before exporting covered products. The Quality Control Order contains an exclusion for goods meant for export, but that exclusion should not be confused with a general exemption for foreign-made goods imported into India. <Cite refs={["turn157150view3"]}/> For foreign manufacturers supplying the Indian market, the applicable BIS requirements, overseas factory assessment, applicant arrangements and representative requirements should be confirmed with BIS under the relevant scheme. A foreign test report or an existing quality-management certification does not automatically substitute for the required BIS product licence.

14. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Manufacturers should avoid the following issues when preparing for certification:
  1. Applying against the withdrawn edition: IS 1536:2001 was superseded by IS 1536:2023, with implementation required by 19 December 2023.
  2. Ignoring the revised joint requirements: Lead-joint pipes were withdrawn from the revised standard.
  3. Choosing an incomplete licence scope: Class, size, joint and pipe type should be planned before sampling.
  4. Assuming one sample covers every class: The grouping guidelines state that each class must be tested for inclusion in the licence scope.
  5. Overlooking large-diameter pipe requirements: The 700–1,000 mm groups have special sample and testing arrangements.
  6. Not maintaining laboratory calibration: The product manual requires an implemented calibration plan.
  7. Ignoring production testing: Hydrostatic testing, mechanical testing, dimensional controls and coating checks must be handled under the applicable inspection and testing scheme.
  8. Using an outdated fee estimate: Historical testing entries for IS 1536:2001 may not represent the current cost for the revised standard.
  9. Using the Standard Mark before licence grant: The mark may only be applied as authorised by BIS.

15. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Is BIS certification mandatory for centrifugally cast iron pressure pipes?

Yes. The Centrifugally Cast (Spun) Iron Pipes (Quality Control) Order, 2021, requires covered products to conform to the applicable Indian Standard and bear the BIS Standard Mark under a licence, subject to the Order's provisions and exemptions. <Cite refs={["turn157150view3"]}/>

Q2. Which standard should manufacturers use: IS 1536:2001 or IS 1536:2023?

IS 1536:2001 was revised to IS 1536:2023. BIS prescribed 19 December 2023 as the implementation deadline and stated that the old edition would stand withdrawn thereafter. Current certification work should therefore be planned against IS 1536:2023. <Cite refs={["turn157150view0"]}/>

Q3. What is the sample size under the current product manual?

The product manual specifies one pipe plus two rings or two test bars, as applicable. Confirm the sample preparation and test requirements with BIS or the designated laboratory. <Cite refs={["turn157150view1"]}/>

Q4. Which pipe classes are covered?

The revised product manual identifies Classes LA, A, B, C, D and E. The class or classes included in the licence must be supported by the applicable testing and grouping requirements. <Cite refs={["turn157150view1"]}/>

Q5. Which sizes are identified in the revised product manual?

The listed nominal sizes range from 80 mm to 1,000 mm, with the specific sizes set out in the product manual. Licence coverage depends on the applicable class, joint and grouping requirements. <Cite refs={["turn157150view1"]}/>

Q6. Are lead-joint pipes covered under IS 1536:2023?

No. BIS's implementation circular states that lead-joint pipes were withdrawn in the revised standard because exposure to lead is detrimental to health. <Cite refs={["turn157150view0"]}/>

Q7. What are the major tests for IS 1536:2023?

The product manual identifies ring testing where applicable, tensile testing, Brinell hardness, hydrostatic testing, dimensional and tolerance checks, and coating testing. Rubber-gasket conformity requirements also apply where relevant. <Cite refs={["turn910031view2"]}/>

Q8. Is an in-house laboratory required?

The product manual requires a suitably equipped and staffed laboratory for the tests assigned to the manufacturer and an implemented equipment-calibration plan. Some subcontracting may be permitted where decided by BIS and subject to the stated conditions. <Cite refs={["turn910031view1","turn910031view2"]}/>

Q9. What are the testing charges?

The amount depends on the laboratory and testing scope. Historical entries for IS 1536:2001 are available in BIS LIMS, but these should not be treated as a current complete quotation for certification under IS 1536:2023. <Cite refs={["turn157150view4"]}/>

Q10. Can one licence cover multiple pipe sizes?

The product manual provides grouping rules by class, size range and joint. The applicable samples must be tested, and the manufacturer must have manufacturing and testing facilities for the entire scope included in the licence. <Cite refs={["turn910031view0"]}/>

Q11. Can a consultant help with BIS certification?

Yes. A consultant can help review the proposed scope, identify applicable requirements, prepare documents, coordinate testing and support factory-readiness and application follow-up. The grant of the licence remains a decision of BIS.

16. Get BIS Certification Assistance from Qualitance India

Planning to manufacture or supply centrifugally cast (spun) iron pressure pipes for water, gas or sewage? Qualitance India provides professional support to help manufacturers understand and prepare for BIS product certification. Our support can include:
  • Review of the applicable standard and current product manual
  • Licence scope planning by class, size, joint and pipe type
  • Factory-readiness and laboratory-capability review
  • Documentation and quality-control preparation
  • Sample testing coordination
  • Assistance with application follow-up and compliance observations
Contact Qualitance India Improving Quality & Competence Contact us to discuss your manufacturing setup, proposed pipe sizes, classes, joint types and certification requirements.

Official References

  1. BIS Product Manual — IS 1536:2023
  2. BIS Implementation Circular for IS 1536:2023 — 13 October 2023
  3. Centrifugally Cast (Spun) Iron Pipes Quality Control Order, 2021
  4. BIS Products Under Compulsory Certification — Scheme-I
  5. BIS LIMS — Testing Information for IS 1536
Note: This article is intended for general guidance. Always verify the latest applicable Indian Standard, product manual, Quality Control Order, certification procedure and fee schedule with BIS before submitting an application.

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