Latest Updates

BIS Certification for Structural Steel (Ordinary Quality) – IS 15911:2010 | Complete Guide for Manufacturers and Importers

  • Home
  • Blogs
  • BIS Certification for Structural Steel (Ordinary Quality) –…
BIS Certification for Structural Steel (Ordinary Quality) – IS 15911:2010 | Complete Guide for Manufacturers and Importers

BIS Certification for Structural Steel (Ordinary Quality) – IS 15911:2010 | Complete Guide for Manufacturers and Importers

Introduction

Structural steel is one of the most important materials used in the construction and infrastructure industries. It is widely used in buildings, industrial structures, bridges, warehouses, factories, infrastructure projects and other engineering applications.

The strength, ductility, dimensional accuracy and overall quality of structural steel directly influence the safety and durability of these structures.

To establish quality requirements for structural steel of ordinary quality, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has prescribed IS 15911:2010 – Structural Steel (Ordinary Quality) – Specification.

The standard specifies requirements for different forms of structural steel, including flat products, sections and bars. It covers important characteristics such as chemical composition, tensile properties, bend performance, dimensions and tolerances.

Structural Steel (Ordinary Quality) is also included in the Steel and Steel Products Quality Control Order framework. Manufacturers and importers dealing with products covered by the QCO must comply with the applicable BIS certification requirements.

This article explains the scope of IS 15911:2010, grade designations, mandatory certification requirements, technical specifications, testing, sample selection, documentation and the process for obtaining a BIS licence under Scheme-I.

1. What Is IS 15911:2010?

IS 15911:2010 is the Indian Standard titled:

Structural Steel (Ordinary Quality) – Specification

The standard specifies the requirements for ordinary quality structural steel supplied in different forms for general structural and engineering applications.

It establishes requirements relating to:

  • Chemical composition.
  • Mechanical properties.
  • Yield stress.
  • Tensile strength.
  • Percentage elongation.
  • Bend test.
  • Freedom from defects.
  • Dimensions and tolerances.
  • Sampling and testing.

Standard Details

Particular Details
Indian Standard IS 15911:2010
Product Structural Steel (Ordinary Quality)
Standard title Structural Steel (Ordinary Quality) – Specification
Product category Steel and Steel Products
Certification scheme Scheme-I – ISI Mark Scheme
Certification authority Bureau of Indian Standards
BIS Product Manual PM/15911/1, May 2020
Grade designations E165, E170 and E215

The BIS Product Manual for IS 15911:2010 provides guidance on sampling, product grouping, testing equipment, inspection and testing arrangements and the scope of the BIS licence.

2. What Products Are Covered Under IS 15911:2010?

IS 15911:2010 covers structural steel in different product forms.

The BIS Product Manual identifies three principal product groups.

A. Flat Products

This category includes:

  • Strips and flats.
  • Bulb flats.

Flat structural steel products are used in fabrication, structural assemblies and engineering applications.

B. Sections

Structural sections covered by the product grouping include:

  • Beams.
  • Columns.
  • Channels.
  • Angles.
  • Bulb angles.
  • Channel sections.
  • Tee bars.

These products are commonly used in structural frameworks and fabricated steel structures.

C. Bars

The product manual identifies:

  • Round bars.
  • Square bars.

These products are used in different structural and engineering applications.

Important: The actual licence scope should clearly identify the product form, grade designation and nominal size range. Certification for one product group should not automatically be assumed to cover all forms.

3. Is BIS Certification Mandatory for Structural Steel (Ordinary Quality)?

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

Yes. Structural Steel (Ordinary Quality) conforming to IS 15911:2010 is included in the Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024.

The product is also listed in the BIS Scheme-I compulsory certification framework.

Regulatory Details

Particular Details
Quality Control Order Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024
Notification S.O. 3716(E)
Notification date 29 August 2024
Gazette publication 30 August 2024
Indian Standard IS 15911:2010
Product Structural Steel (Ordinary Quality)
Certification scheme Scheme-I
Implementation Immediate effect under the notified order
Certifying authority Bureau of Indian Standards

The QCO framework requires the specified steel products to conform to the applicable Indian Standard and bear the BIS Standard Mark under a valid licence.

What Does Mandatory Certification Mean?

Manufacturers supplying covered structural steel in the Indian market must:

  1. Obtain a valid BIS licence under Scheme-I.
  2. Manufacture products in conformity with IS 15911:2010.
  3. Apply the BIS Standard Mark according to the licence conditions.
  4. Maintain the prescribed inspection and testing records.
  5. Issue the applicable test certificate with each consignment.

The QCO also provides an exemption for steel products manufactured domestically solely for export and conforming to another specification required by the foreign buyer.

The exact applicability of exemptions should be verified against the relevant notification and amendments.

4. Grade Designations Under IS 15911:2010

IS 15911:2010 identifies three principal grade designations:

  • E165
  • E170
  • E215

The letter “E” represents the yield stress-based grade designation.

The number indicates the minimum specified yield stress in MPa.

Mechanical Properties of Structural Steel

The following values are specified in Table 3 of IS 15911:2010.

Grade Minimum tensile strength (MPa) Minimum yield stress (MPa) Minimum elongation (%) Internal bend diameter
E165 290 165 23 2t
E170 330 170 23 3t
E215 370 215 23 3t

Note: Here, t represents the thickness of the test piece. The applicable test conditions and specimen requirements must be followed as prescribed in the standard.

Why Are Different Grades Important?

Different structural applications require different mechanical properties.

The selection of grade depends on:

  • Design requirements.
  • Structural loading conditions.
  • Product form and dimensions.
  • Fabrication requirements.
  • Applicable engineering specifications.

Manufacturers should ensure that the grade declared in the BIS application corresponds to the material actually produced and tested.

5. Technical Requirements Under IS 15911:2010

The standard establishes requirements to ensure the quality and performance of ordinary quality structural steel.

5.1 Chemical Composition

Chemical composition is an important factor influencing the strength, ductility, weldability and other mechanical characteristics of structural steel.

The BIS Product Manual identifies the following elements for chemical analysis:

Chemical element Requirement
Carbon (C) As specified in Table 1
Sulphur (S) As specified in Table 1
Phosphorus (P) As specified in Table 1
Manganese (Mn) As specified in Table 1
Silicon (Si) As specified in Table 1
Aluminium (Al) As specified in Table 1
Copper (Cu) Where applicable
Micro-alloying elements Where applicable

The exact permissible limits should be checked against Table 1 of the complete standard.

5.2 Tensile Strength

Tensile strength indicates the maximum stress that the material can withstand before failure during a tensile test.

The minimum tensile strength requirements are:

  • E165: 290 MPa.
  • E170: 330 MPa.
  • E215: 370 MPa.

5.3 Yield Stress

Yield stress is the stress at which the material begins to undergo permanent deformation.

The minimum yield stress requirements are:

  • E165: 165 MPa.
  • E170: 170 MPa.
  • E215: 215 MPa.

5.4 Percentage Elongation

Elongation indicates the ductility of the steel and its ability to deform before fracture.

IS 15911:2010 specifies a minimum elongation of 23% for the three grade designations listed above, using the prescribed gauge length.

5.5 Bend Test

The bend test evaluates the material’s ability to withstand bending without developing unacceptable cracks or fractures.

The internal bend diameter varies according to grade:

  • E165: 2t.
  • E170: 3t.
  • E215: 3t.

5.6 Freedom From Defects

Structural steel should be free from defects that may adversely affect its intended use.

The applicable inspection requirements should be followed to verify the product’s conformity.

5.7 Dimensions and Tolerances

Structural steel products must conform to the specified nominal dimensions and applicable tolerances.

The standard and referenced product standards provide the relevant dimensional requirements for different forms of structural steel.

6. Chemical and Mechanical Testing Requirements

Testing is an essential part of BIS certification under IS 15911:2010.

The manufacturer must demonstrate conformity with the applicable chemical and mechanical requirements.

Important Tests

Sl. No. Test Purpose
1 Chemical composition Verify specified chemical elements
2 Tensile test Determine tensile strength, yield stress and elongation
3 Bend test Verify the ability to withstand bending
4 Dimensional inspection Verify nominal dimensions
5 Tolerance inspection Check permissible dimensional variations
6 Freedom from defects Identify unacceptable product defects

6.1 Chemical Analysis

Chemical analysis is carried out to verify the composition of the steel.

The standard allows relevant instrumental or chemical analysis methods, as applicable.

The BIS Product Manual identifies instrumental techniques such as:

  • Optical emission spectrometry.
  • Atomic absorption spectrometry.
  • Inductively coupled plasma techniques.
  • Other established analytical methods.

Chemical methods are also identified as alternatives for certain elements.

6.2 Tensile Test

The tensile test is performed to determine:

  • Yield stress.
  • Tensile strength.
  • Percentage elongation.

The BIS Product Manual identifies a Universal Testing Machine (UTM) with a capacity of 0–1000 kN in its indicative equipment list.

The test should be performed according to the applicable methods specified in IS 15911:2010 and referenced standards.

6.3 Bend Test

The bend test checks whether the specimen can withstand bending to the specified internal diameter without unacceptable cracking.

The BIS Product Manual identifies steel mandrels, bend-test templates and suitable testing attachments as relevant equipment.

6.4 Dimensional Verification

Dimensional inspection verifies the nominal size and tolerances of structural steel products.

The product manual identifies equipment such as:

  • Vernier callipers.
  • Micrometers.
  • Steel scales.
  • Try-squares.
  • Radius gauges.
  • Feeler gauges.
  • Depth gauges.
  • Straight edges.
  • Steel tapes.

The selection of equipment depends on the type and dimensions of the product.

7. Product Grouping and Sample Requirements

Product grouping is one of the most important aspects of BIS certification because it determines the product varieties that can be represented by the samples tested during the certification process.

The BIS Product Manual PM/15911/1, May 2020, provides grouping guidelines based on:

  1. Form of product.
  2. Yield stress.

Group 1 – Flat Products

Includes:

  • Strips and flats.
  • Bulb flats.

The product manual specifies that one sample of any size and mode of deoxidation of the higher minimum yield stress should be drawn and tested.

After satisfactory testing, the scope can cover grades with higher to lower minimum yield stress and sizes within the group, subject to the manual’s provisions.

Group 2 – Sections

Includes:

  • Beams.
  • Columns.
  • Channels.
  • Angles.
  • Bulb angles.
  • Channel sections.
  • Tee bars.

Group 3 – Bars

Includes:

  • Round bars.
  • Square bars.

The grouping guidelines distinguish product forms. Manufacturers should therefore plan separate product-group representation and sample selection as required.

Sample Size Under the BIS Product Manual

The BIS Product Manual specifies the following sample requirements:

Test category Sample requirement
Mechanical testing 1 metre
Chemical testing 5 pieces of 50 mm length or 50 g drillings

Important Sample Planning Considerations

Before arranging sample dispatch, manufacturers should confirm:

  • Product group.
  • Grade designation.
  • Nominal dimensions.
  • Sample location and orientation.
  • Mechanical test sample length.
  • Chemical test sample quantity.
  • Required test parameters.
  • Sample identification and traceability.

The product manual also provides that the sample location should yield clear information regarding the properties in the cross-sectional and longitudinal planes.

8. Manufacturing and Quality Control Requirements

Manufacturers applying for BIS certification should maintain appropriate production and inspection controls.

The manufacturing process may involve:

  1. Selection and receipt of steelmaking raw materials.
  2. Melting and steelmaking.
  3. Casting of semi-finished steel.
  4. Reheating, where applicable.
  5. Rolling into flats, bars or sections.
  6. Cooling and finishing.
  7. Dimensional inspection.
  8. Mechanical testing.
  9. Chemical analysis.
  10. Final inspection and dispatch.

The exact process depends on the manufacturer’s production arrangement and the product form.

Laboratory Requirements

The BIS Product Manual requires the manufacturer to maintain a suitably equipped and staffed laboratory.

The laboratory should be capable of carrying out the applicable tests according to the Indian Standard.

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

Important Quality Control Records

  • Raw material and input material records.
  • Heat and cast identification.
  • Chemical analysis reports.
  • Rolling and production records.
  • Tensile test results.
  • Bend test results.
  • Dimensional inspection records.
  • Calibration records.
  • Non-conforming product records.
  • Control-unit identification.
  • Test certificates.
  • Dispatch records.

9. Scheme of Inspection and Testing Under IS 15911:2010

The BIS Product Manual includes a Scheme of Inspection and Testing (SIT) in Annex C.

It defines the control-unit requirements, tests and frequency of inspection.

9.1 Definition of Control Unit

The product manual defines a control unit as:

All structural steel hot rolled to the same dimensions and form, representing the same cast and grade designation, manufactured under uniform conditions of production in a day at the same place.

9.2 Levels of Control

The product manual specifies the following inspection and testing requirements:

Test Sample quantity Frequency
Freedom from defects As per applicable inspection provisions Adequate inspection
Ladle analysis One Each heat
Product analysis As applicable Each cast, where required
Tensile test 2 Every control unit
Bend test 2 Every control unit
Dimensions and tolerances Adequate inspection To ensure conformity of each item

Important Notes

  • Ladle analysis is applicable to manufacturers having steelmaking facilities.
  • Product analysis requirements depend on the manufacturer’s production arrangement.
  • Product analysis is not required where material is fed to rolling mills in the form of ISI-marked material received with a test certificate, as specified in the product manual.
  • The BIS Product Manual requires the manufacturer to follow the prescribed levels of control.

These requirements should be implemented through documented production and inspection procedures.

10. Documents Required for BIS Certification of Structural Steel

Manufacturers should prepare the required documents before applying for a BIS licence.

A. Company Documents

  • Certificate of Incorporation, where applicable.
  • Partnership Deed, where applicable.
  • Proprietorship proof, where applicable.
  • PAN Card of the company or proprietor.
  • GST Registration Certificate.
  • Details of directors or partners.
  • Authorisation letter for the authorised signatory.
  • Factory address proof.

B. Manufacturing Facility Documents

  • Factory layout plan.
  • Manufacturing process flow chart.
  • List of manufacturing machinery.
  • Details of steelmaking and casting facilities, where applicable.
  • Rolling mill details.
  • Production capacity details.
  • Details of raw materials.
  • Details of manufacturing operations.

C. Laboratory Documents

  • List of testing equipment.
  • Chemical analysis facility details.
  • Spectrometer details, where applicable.
  • Universal Testing Machine details.
  • Bend testing arrangements.
  • Dimensional measuring equipment.
  • Calibration certificates.
  • Equipment maintenance records.
  • Details of laboratory personnel.
  • Internal test reports.

D. Product and Quality Documents

  • Product specifications.
  • Grade-wise product details.
  • Proposed licence scope.
  • Raw material test certificates.
  • Chemical analysis reports.
  • Mechanical test reports.
  • Dimensional inspection reports.
  • Quality control procedures.
  • Batch and cast traceability records.
  • Non-conforming product control procedure.
  • Inspection and testing records.

E. Other Documents

  • Factory ownership or rent agreement.
  • Electricity bill or premises proof.
  • Details of technical personnel.
  • Applicable statutory approvals.
  • Other documents requested by BIS.

The final document checklist should be prepared according to the current BIS application requirements and the applicable product manual.

11. Step-by-Step BIS Certification Process for Structural Steel

BIS certification for Structural Steel (Ordinary Quality) is processed under Scheme-I of the BIS Conformity Assessment Regulations, 2018.

The general certification process is explained below.

Step 1: Product Applicability Assessment

The first step is to confirm that the product falls within the scope of IS 15911:2010 and the applicable Steel and Steel Products QCO.

Step 2: Product Scope Finalisation

The manufacturer should identify:

  • Product form.
  • Grade designation.
  • Nominal size range.
  • Proposed product groups.

Step 3: Factory Infrastructure Assessment

The manufacturing facility is reviewed for its production process, machinery, laboratory facilities and quality control arrangements.

Step 4: Document Preparation

The required company, manufacturing, laboratory and product-related documents are prepared.

Step 5: BIS Application Submission

The manufacturer submits the application through the applicable BIS online system and pays the prescribed fees.

Step 6: Factory Inspection

BIS may conduct a factory inspection to assess:

  • Manufacturing infrastructure.
  • Raw material control.
  • Production process.
  • Laboratory facilities.
  • Calibration arrangements.
  • Quality control records.
  • Implementation of IS 15911:2010.

Step 7: Sample Drawal

BIS may draw representative samples from the manufacturing premises according to the applicable grouping and sampling requirements.

Step 8: Laboratory Testing

Samples are tested at an appropriate BIS-recognised laboratory against the applicable requirements of IS 15911:2010.

Step 9: Compliance Evaluation

BIS reviews the factory inspection findings, test reports and other relevant documentation.

Any identified non-conformities must be addressed.

Step 10: Grant of BIS Licence

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

Step 11: Marking and Post-Licence Compliance

After obtaining the licence, the manufacturer must comply with marking requirements, maintain production and testing records and follow BIS surveillance and renewal requirements.

12. BIS Marking and Test Certificate Requirements

Structural Steel covered under the QCO must bear the BIS Standard Mark under a valid licence.

The BIS Product Manual specifies that the Standard Mark and licence number (CM/L number) must be incorporated according to the applicable marking provisions.

It also requires the following statement to be marked on metal tags tied to bundles:

“For details of BIS certification please visit www.bis.gov.in”

Test Certificate With Each Consignment

The Scheme of Inspection and Testing in the BIS Product Manual requires a test certificate for each consignment of BIS-certified material.

The certificate should include:

  • Standard Mark.
  • Control-unit number.
  • Grade and quality.
  • Section and nominal size.
  • Quantity.
  • Chemical composition.
  • Mechanical properties.
  • Relevant test results.

The Steel and Steel Products QCO framework also requires the applicable test certificate to accompany each consignment of covered products.

Manufacturers should maintain traceability between the production control unit, inspection records, BIS marking and dispatch documents.

13. BIS Testing Charges and Certification Costs

The total cost of BIS certification depends on the proposed product scope, manufacturing facility, testing requirements and other applicable expenses.

Laboratory Testing Charges

The BIS LIMS listing for IS 15911:2010 at the displayed laboratory identifies a testing charge of ₹7,200 excluding taxes for each listed chemical parameter.

The listed parameters include:

  • Carbon.
  • Sulphur.
  • Phosphorus.
  • Manganese.
  • Silicon.
  • Chromium.
  • Molybdenum.
  • Vanadium.
  • Nickel.
  • Copper.
  • Aluminium.
  • Nitrogen.

The displayed ₹7,200 figure is a parameter-wise laboratory listing, not a complete project testing quotation. The actual testing cost depends on the required test combination, sample, laboratory and applicable charges.

Other Certification Expenses

Cost component Description
Application fee Fee for submitting the BIS application
Inspection charges Applicable factory inspection expenses
Testing charges Laboratory testing of representative samples
Licence fee Applicable licence charges
Minimum marking fee As prescribed in the BIS fee schedule
Sample transportation Packing, handling and transportation
Calibration expenses Calibration of testing equipment
Consultancy charges Professional assistance, if engaged

A complete project quotation should be prepared after reviewing the proposed licence scope and manufacturing facility.

14. Common Challenges Faced by Structural Steel Manufacturers

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

1. Incorrect Product Grouping

Flat products, sections and bars are treated as separate groups under the product manual. Incorrect grouping can affect sample planning and the proposed licence scope.

2. Grade Selection Issues

Manufacturers must correctly identify E165, E170 or E215 according to the actual mechanical properties of the product.

3. Chemical Composition Control

Failure to monitor the specified chemical elements can result in non-conforming material.

4. Mechanical Testing Deficiencies

Inadequate tensile or bend testing arrangements can create difficulties during factory assessment.

5. Dimensional Variation

Inconsistent product dimensions and tolerances can result in rejection during inspection.

6. Laboratory Infrastructure Gaps

Manufacturers may not have all the equipment required for chemical analysis and mechanical testing.

7. Incomplete Traceability

Missing heat, cast or control-unit identification can create problems during inspection and certification.

How Manufacturers Can Prepare

Before applying, manufacturers should:

  • Review the complete requirements of IS 15911:2010.
  • Finalise the grade and product forms.
  • Identify the applicable grouping.
  • Check laboratory facilities.
  • Verify calibration records.
  • Establish control-unit identification.
  • Maintain batch-wise inspection and testing records.
  • Confirm the sample requirements.
  • Prepare the complete BIS application documentation.

15. How Qualitance India Can Help With BIS Certification for Structural Steel

Qualitance India provides BIS certification consultancy and regulatory compliance support to manufacturers of steel, engineering and industrial products.

For BIS certification under IS 15911:2010, our support can include:

  • Product applicability assessment under the Steel QCO.
  • Review of IS 15911:2010 requirements.
  • Identification of grade designations.
  • Product grouping and licence scope planning.
  • Manufacturing infrastructure assessment.
  • Review of chemical and mechanical testing facilities.
  • Preparation of BIS application documentation.
  • Guidance on sample selection and testing.
  • Laboratory coordination support.
  • Review of calibration and quality control records.
  • Factory inspection preparation.
  • Assistance in addressing non-conformities.
  • Guidance on BIS marking and post-licence compliance.

Our objective is to help manufacturers understand the applicable certification requirements and prepare their facilities and documentation for BIS compliance.

Qualitance India – Improving Quality & Competence

For professional assistance with BIS certification for Structural Steel (Ordinary Quality), contact us:

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


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – BIS Certification for Structural Steel (Ordinary Quality)

Q1. What is the Indian Standard for Structural Steel (Ordinary Quality)?

The applicable Indian Standard is IS 15911:2010, titled Structural Steel (Ordinary Quality) – Specification.

Q2. Is BIS certification mandatory for Structural Steel (Ordinary Quality)?

Yes. The product is included in the Steel and Steel Products Quality Control Order framework and the BIS Scheme-I compulsory certification list.

Q3. Which grades are covered under IS 15911:2010?

The standard identifies three principal grades: E165, E170 and E215.

Q4. What is the minimum yield stress for E165?

The minimum yield stress for E165 is 165 MPa.

Q5. What is the minimum yield stress for E170?

The minimum yield stress for E170 is 170 MPa.

Q6. What is the minimum yield stress for E215?

The minimum yield stress for E215 is 215 MPa.

Q7. What is the minimum tensile strength for E165, E170 and E215?

The minimum tensile strengths are 290 MPa, 330 MPa and 370 MPa, respectively.

Q8. What is the minimum elongation requirement?

The standard specifies a minimum elongation of 23% for E165, E170 and E215, using the prescribed gauge length.

Q9. Which products are covered under IS 15911:2010?

The product grouping includes flat products, sections and bars. Examples include strips, flats, bulb flats, beams, columns, channels, angles, bulb angles, tee bars, round bars and square bars.

Q10. What is the sample size required for BIS certification?

The BIS Product Manual PM/15911/1, May 2020, specifies:

  • Mechanical testing: 1 metre.
  • Chemical testing: five pieces of 50 mm length or 50 g drillings.

Q11. What is the product grouping under IS 15911:2010?

The product manual identifies three groups: flat products, sections and bars. Grouping is based on product form and yield stress.

Q12. Which tests are required under IS 15911:2010?

Important tests include chemical composition, tensile testing, bend testing, dimensional verification, tolerance inspection and freedom from defects.

Q13. What is a control unit under IS 15911:2010?

A control unit consists of structural steel hot rolled to the same dimensions and form, representing the same cast and grade designation, manufactured under uniform production conditions in one day at the same place.

Q14. How frequently should tensile and bend tests be conducted?

The BIS Product Manual specifies two samples for tensile testing and two samples for bend testing for every control unit.

Q15. Is a test certificate required with each consignment?

Yes. The BIS Product Manual requires a test certificate for each consignment of BIS-certified material, containing the Standard Mark, control-unit number and corresponding test results.

Q16. Can one BIS licence cover flats, sections and bars?

The product manual identifies separate product groups for flat products, sections and bars. The proposed licence scope and sample selection must follow the applicable grouping provisions.

Q17. What is the BIS testing charge for IS 15911:2010?

The BIS LIMS listing at the displayed laboratory shows ₹7,200 excluding taxes for each listed chemical parameter. This is not a universal or complete project testing quotation.

Q18. Can Qualitance India assist with BIS certification under IS 15911:2010?

Yes. Qualitance India can assist with product applicability, grade selection, product grouping, documentation, laboratory coordination, sample planning and factory inspection preparation.


Conclusion

BIS certification under IS 15911:2010 is an important regulatory requirement for manufacturers of Structural Steel (Ordinary Quality) covered under the applicable Steel and Steel Products Quality Control Order.

The standard identifies three principal grade designations—E165, E170 and E215—and establishes requirements relating to chemical composition, tensile strength, yield stress, elongation, bend performance, dimensions and tolerances.

Manufacturers should carefully plan their product grouping, grade selection, sample requirements, laboratory facilities and quality control procedures before applying for a BIS licence.

A structured certification process can help reduce documentation gaps, testing delays and factory inspection-related difficulties.

Planning BIS certification for Structural Steel (Ordinary Quality) under IS 15911:2010? Contact Qualitance India for professional BIS certification consultancy and regulatory compliance support.


Official References

  1. BIS Product Manual – PM/15911/1, May 2020:
    https://www.bis.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/PM-IS-15911-2010.pdf
  2. Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024 – Ministry of Steel:
    https://steel.gov.in/node/1824
  3. BIS – Scheme-I (ISI Mark Scheme):
    https://www.bis.gov.in/product-certification/products-under-compulsory-certification/scheme-i-mark-scheme/
  4. BIS Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS):
    https://lims.bis.gov.in/
  5. IS 15911:2010 – Structural Steel (Ordinary Quality):
    Obtain the complete standard and applicable amendments through the official BIS standards portal.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational and business guidance. The applicable Indian Standard, amendments, QCO notifications, product manual, sampling requirements and current BIS instructions should be verified before making certification or regulatory decisions. Exact chemical composition limits, dimensional tolerances, testing methods and acceptance criteria must be confirmed from the complete text of IS 15911:2010 and applicable BIS certification documents.

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.

Get Free Consultation +91 93106 15170
Free PDF Download

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

Talk to us?