{"id":4356,"date":"2026-10-29T11:16:39","date_gmt":"2026-10-29T11:16:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/qualitanceindia.com\/?p=4356"},"modified":"2026-10-29T11:16:39","modified_gmt":"2026-10-29T11:16:39","slug":"bis-certification-for-stainless-steel-tubes-for-the-food-and-beverage-industry-is-6913","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/qualitanceindia.com\/bis-certification-for-stainless-steel-tubes-for-the-food-and-beverage-industry-is-6913\/","title":{"rendered":"BIS Certification for Stainless Steel Tubes for the Food and Beverage Industry | IS 6913"},"content":{"rendered":"<h2>Introduction<\/h2>\n<p>Stainless steel tubes are widely used in food processing, beverage production, dairy plants, breweries, pharmaceutical manufacturing and other hygienic processing applications. These tubes carry liquids and process materials where corrosion resistance, mechanical strength, surface finish and dimensional accuracy are important for reliable operation.<\/p>\n<p>In India, the relevant Indian Standard is <strong>IS 6913<\/strong>, which originally covered stainless steel tubes for the food and beverage industry under the 1973 edition. BIS subsequently published <strong>IS 6913:2023 \u2014 Stainless Steel Tubes for the Food, Beverage, Dairy and Pharmaceutical Industry<\/strong> and issued an updated product manual in June 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Manufacturers planning certification should therefore distinguish between the older <strong>IS 6913:1973<\/strong> and the revised <strong>IS 6913:2023<\/strong>. BIS&#8217;s current product-specific guidance lists the 2023 edition, and the BIS LIMS listing indicates that the 2023 standard was included with effect from 1 April 2026. The applicable standard and QCO requirements should be confirmed before submitting an application or manufacturing products for the Indian market.<\/p>\n<p>Official references: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bis.gov.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Revised-PM-6913.pdf\">BIS Product Manual for IS 6913:2023<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bis.gov.in\/product-certification\/product-specific-guidelines\/\">BIS Product-Specific Guidelines<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2>1. What Is IS 6913?<\/h2>\n<p>IS 6913 is the Indian Standard for stainless steel tubes intended for food-related and associated hygienic processing applications.<\/p>\n<p>The revised <strong>IS 6913:2023<\/strong> expands the title to cover the food, beverage, dairy and pharmaceutical industries. Its product requirements address tube manufacturing, steel grades, dimensions, tolerances, surface finish, mechanical properties and applicable testing.<\/p>\n<p>The 2023 product manual identifies three manufacturing processes:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Seamless (SML):<\/strong> Tubes manufactured without a longitudinal welded seam.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Welded (WLD):<\/strong> Tubes manufactured by forming and welding stainless steel material.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Heavily Cold Worked Welded (HCW):<\/strong> Welded tubes subjected to the specified heavy cold-working process.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Tubes may also be supplied in hot-finished or cold-finished condition, subject to the requirements of the standard.<\/p>\n<p>The applicable scope depends on the grade, manufacturing process, dimensions, supply condition and surface finish declared by the manufacturer.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Important:<\/strong> A manufacturer&#8217;s product specification, customer drawing or description such as \u201cfood-grade stainless steel tube\u201d does not by itself establish conformity with IS 6913. The actual product must meet the applicable requirements of the Indian Standard.<\/p>\n<p>Source: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bis.gov.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Revised-PM-6913.pdf\">BIS Product Manual \u2014 IS 6913:2023<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2>2. IS 6913:1973 vs IS 6913:2023<\/h2>\n<p>Manufacturers and importers should pay particular attention to the revision of this standard.<\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th>Particular<\/th>\n<th>IS 6913:1973<\/th>\n<th>IS 6913:2023<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Standard title<\/td>\n<td>Stainless Steel Tubes for the Food and Beverage Industry<\/td>\n<td>Stainless Steel Tubes for the Food, Beverage, Dairy and Pharmaceutical Industry<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Product manual<\/td>\n<td>Older product manual for the 1973 edition<\/td>\n<td>Revised BIS product manual dated June 2025<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Manufacturing processes<\/td>\n<td>Welded and seamless tubes, with the scope described in the earlier manual<\/td>\n<td>Seamless, welded and heavily cold-worked welded tubes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Grade classification<\/td>\n<td>Grades A, B, C and D under the older manual<\/td>\n<td>Austenitic and duplex steel grades with numerical symbols<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Licence-scope parameters<\/td>\n<td>Grade, finishing type, tube type and optional corrosion-resistance requirement<\/td>\n<td>Grade, process, dimensions, supply condition, surface finish and optional\/supplementary tests<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>The older product manual includes grouping guidelines for grades A, B, C and D and identifies a sample quantity of two one-metre tube pieces, along with prepared chemical-test specimens or drillings.<\/p>\n<p>The revised manual specifies a <strong>2.5-metre tube sample<\/strong> and uses the revised grade and process classifications.<\/p>\n<p>These requirements should not be mixed. An applicant must follow the edition applicable to the application and current BIS instructions.<\/p>\n<p>Official references:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bis.gov.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/PM_IS_6913_28082020.pdf\">Older product manual \u2014 IS 6913:1973<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bis.gov.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Revised-PM-6913.pdf\">Revised product manual \u2014 IS 6913:2023<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>3. Is BIS Certification Mandatory for Stainless Steel Tubes?<\/h2>\n<p>BIS certification is mandatory for products brought under a government-notified Quality Control Order (QCO). The Ministry of Steel has notified QCOs for numerous steel and steel products, and BIS certification is required for products covered by the applicable orders.<\/p>\n<p>Stainless steel tubes for the food and beverage industry were included in the regulatory framework for miscellaneous steel products under the earlier IS 6913:1973 designation. BIS&#8217;s current product manual now covers IS 6913:2023, and the BIS LIMS listing records the 2023 standard as included with effect from 1 April 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Before placing products on the Indian market, manufacturers and importers should verify:<\/p>\n<ol start=\"1\">\n<li>Which edition of IS 6913 is currently applicable to the product.<\/li>\n<li>Whether the product is covered by the current QCO and its amendments.<\/li>\n<li>The effective date and any applicable exemption.<\/li>\n<li>Whether a valid BIS licence covers the relevant manufacturing site and product scope.<\/li>\n<li>Whether the proposed grade, manufacturing process and dimensions fall within that scope.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>The applicable QCO and subsequent amendments should be checked against official government publications. Do not rely solely on an older QCO summary or a supplier&#8217;s statement that certification is not required.<\/p>\n<p>Official references:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bis.gov.in\/product-certification\/products-under-compulsory-certification\/\">BIS Products Under Compulsory Certification<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/steel.gov.in\/\">Ministry of Steel \u2014 Quality Control Order information<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/lims.bis.gov.in\/\">BIS LIMS<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>4. Product Scope Under IS 6913:2023<\/h2>\n<p>The revised product manual identifies several parameters that are relevant to the scope of a BIS licence.<\/p>\n<h3>4.1 Steel grade<\/h3>\n<p>The revised standard covers austenitic and duplex stainless steel grades. The product manual lists the following examples.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Austenitic grades:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>304 \u2014 X04Cr19Ni9<\/li>\n<li>304L \u2014 X02Cr19Ni10<\/li>\n<li>312 \u2014 X02Cr20Ni18Mo6CuN<\/li>\n<li>316 \u2014 X04Cr17Ni12Mo2<\/li>\n<li>316L \u2014 X02Cr17Ni12Mo2<\/li>\n<li>904LN \u2014 X01Cr20Ni25Mo6Cu<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Duplex grades:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>1803 \u2014 X02Cr22Ni5Mo3N<\/li>\n<li>2205 \u2014 X02Cr22Ni6Mo3N<\/li>\n<li>2507 \u2014 X02Cr25Ni7Mo4CuN<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>This list reproduces examples from the product manual; the full grade coverage and designation must be checked against the applicable standard.<\/p>\n<h3>4.2 Manufacturing process<\/h3>\n<p>The manufacturer must identify whether the tubes are seamless, welded or heavily cold-worked welded. The grouping guidance treats manufacturing process as an important factor because the final properties depend on the steel composition, manufacturing route and heat treatment.<\/p>\n<h3>4.3 Dimensions<\/h3>\n<p>The scope includes the outside diameter and wall thickness ranges intended to be covered by the licence. The manufacturer should identify the minimum and maximum dimensions and ensure the required manufacturing and testing capability is available for those ranges.<\/p>\n<h3>4.4 Supply condition<\/h3>\n<p>Tubes may be supplied hot-finished or cold-finished, subject to the applicable requirements.<\/p>\n<h3>4.5 Surface finish<\/h3>\n<p>The revised product manual identifies surface-finish parameters, including mill finish and mechanically polished surface finish. The actual finish options and applicable requirements should be checked against the standard.<\/p>\n<h3>4.6 Optional and supplementary tests<\/h3>\n<p>Certain tests may be optional or supplementary depending on the product and applicable requirements. Their applicability should be declared and agreed with BIS and the testing laboratory before sampling.<\/p>\n<p>Source: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bis.gov.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Revised-PM-6913.pdf\">BIS Product Manual \u2014 Scope of Licence<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2>5. Technical Requirements and Quality Parameters<\/h2>\n<p>The revised standard addresses the characteristics required to demonstrate conformity of stainless steel tubes for the intended applications.<\/p>\n<h3>5.1 Chemical composition<\/h3>\n<p>Chemical composition is an essential consideration when verifying stainless steel grade. The revised product manual identifies elements including carbon, silicon, manganese, nickel, chromium, molybdenum, sulphur, phosphorus, nitrogen and copper as relevant to chemical-composition testing, depending on the grade and requirements.<\/p>\n<p>The manufacturer should maintain material identification and traceability records so the steel grade can be linked to the finished tube.<\/p>\n<h3>5.2 Dimensions and tolerances<\/h3>\n<p>Dimensional verification includes the applicable outside diameter, wall thickness, length and tolerances specified by the standard and declared product scope.<\/p>\n<h3>5.3 Surface finish<\/h3>\n<p>Surface finish is particularly important for tubes intended for hygienic processing. The revised standard includes requirements concerning finish, and the product manual identifies a surface-roughness tester and vision-based inspection system among the indicative equipment.<\/p>\n<p>The exact finish and roughness requirements must be verified against the relevant clauses of IS 6913:2023. A general description such as \u201cpolished\u201d is not sufficient evidence of compliance.<\/p>\n<h3>5.4 Mechanical properties<\/h3>\n<p>The revised product manual identifies tensile testing and hardness testing among the applicable tests. These tests help establish whether the tube meets the mechanical-property requirements specified for the relevant product.<\/p>\n<h3>5.5 Heat treatment<\/h3>\n<p>The product manual identifies heat treatment as a factor affecting the final properties of the tube. Manufacturers should maintain the applicable heat-treatment process controls and records.<\/p>\n<h3>5.6 Corrosion resistance<\/h3>\n<p>Corrosion-related requirements depend on the applicable clauses, material and selected supplementary tests. The product manual identifies an intergranular corrosion test and also lists certain optional or supplementary tests.<\/p>\n<p>The manufacturer should not assume that every corrosion test is mandatory for every tube. The applicable test requirements must be established from the standard and the declared product scope.<\/p>\n<h2>6. Tests Required for BIS Certification<\/h2>\n<p>The revised BIS product manual identifies the following principal tests and equipment.<\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th>Test or inspection<\/th>\n<th>Purpose<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Chemical composition<\/td>\n<td>Verify the applicable chemical-composition requirements<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Dimensional checks<\/td>\n<td>Verify dimensions and tolerances<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Surface-finish inspection<\/td>\n<td>Assess the specified finish<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Tensile test<\/td>\n<td>Verify applicable tensile properties<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Hardness test<\/td>\n<td>Verify applicable hardness requirements<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Reverse flattening test<\/td>\n<td>Assess the relevant tube characteristic<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Hydrostatic test<\/td>\n<td>Verify the applicable pressure-test requirement<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Intergranular corrosion test<\/td>\n<td>Assess corrosion-related conformity where applicable<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Flaring test<\/td>\n<td>Listed for seamless tubes as an optional\/supplementary test<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Flange test<\/td>\n<td>Listed for welded tubes as an optional\/supplementary test<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Flattening test<\/td>\n<td>Listed as an optional\/supplementary test<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Chemical-cleaning-related tests<\/td>\n<td>Listed as optional\/supplementary tests, subject to applicability<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>The exact test programme depends on the standard, grade, manufacturing process and declared optional or supplementary requirements.<\/p>\n<h3>Hydrostatic testing<\/h3>\n<p>The revised product manual specifically states that the hydrostatic test under Clause 14 is to be carried out at the factory on the full tube lengths from which samples are drawn for inspection and testing.<\/p>\n<p>Manufacturers should therefore plan for suitable hydrostatic-testing equipment and retain the relevant test records.<\/p>\n<h3>Can all tests be completed in one day?<\/h3>\n<p>The revised product manual states that all tests are possible to be carried out in one day. This is a guidance entry for inspection planning and does not guarantee that the full certification process, including application review, sampling, testing, factory assessment and licence grant, will be completed in one day.<\/p>\n<p>Source: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bis.gov.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Revised-PM-6913.pdf\">BIS Product Manual \u2014 Test Equipment and Inspection Scheme<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2>7. Sample Requirements and Product Grouping<\/h2>\n<p>For certification under IS 6913:2023, the current BIS product manual specifies a <strong>sample quantity of 2.5 metres<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>The parameters to be declared in the test request include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Outside diameter and wall thickness.<\/li>\n<li>Grade designation.<\/li>\n<li>Manufacturing process: seamless, welded or heavily cold-worked welded.<\/li>\n<li>Application.<\/li>\n<li>Supply condition: hot-finished or cold-finished.<\/li>\n<li>Surface finish.<\/li>\n<li>Optional or supplementary tests, where applicable.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The laboratory or BIS may require additional information or samples in accordance with the standard and applicable instructions.<\/p>\n<h3>Grouping guidelines<\/h3>\n<p>The product manual identifies two broad grade groups for grouping purposes.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Group 1 \u2014 Austenitic steels:<\/strong> Includes the listed austenitic grades such as 304, 304L, 312, 316, 316L and 904LN.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Group 2 \u2014 Duplex steels:<\/strong> Includes the listed duplex grades such as 1803, 2205 and 2507.<\/p>\n<p>For each relevant manufacturing process, the grouping guidance recommends selecting samples that cover the combination of minimum and maximum outside diameter and wall thickness intended for the licence, preferably using different grade designations where appropriate.<\/p>\n<p>The manufacturer must have the necessary manufacturing and testing facilities for every grade and size included in the proposed licence scope. During operation of the licence, BIS may draw designations for independent testing in rotation.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Practical recommendation:<\/strong> Prepare a product matrix covering grade, process, outside diameter, wall thickness, supply condition and surface finish before selecting samples. Confirm the final grouping and sampling plan with BIS.<\/p>\n<p>Source: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bis.gov.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Revised-PM-6913.pdf\">BIS Product Manual \u2014 Annex A<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2>8. Laboratory and Testing Equipment Requirements<\/h2>\n<p>The revised product manual includes an indicative list of equipment required for testing against the standard.<\/p>\n<p>Depending on the applicable tests, the equipment may include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Spectrometer or other suitable instrumental chemical-analysis equipment.<\/li>\n<li>Sample preparation facilities, including cutting, grinding and polishing.<\/li>\n<li>Certified standard reference materials.<\/li>\n<li>Vernier calipers, micrometers, steel scales and measuring tapes.<\/li>\n<li>Vision-based inspection system.<\/li>\n<li>Surface-roughness tester.<\/li>\n<li>Universal tensile testing machine with extensometer.<\/li>\n<li>Rockwell hardness tester and calibration blocks.<\/li>\n<li>Flattening-test equipment.<\/li>\n<li>Hydrostatic testing equipment.<\/li>\n<li>Apparatus for the applicable intergranular corrosion test.<\/li>\n<li>Additional apparatus for applicable supplementary tests.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The product manual describes the equipment list as indicative and for guidance. The manufacturer must establish the actual facilities required for the declared product scope and test programme.<\/p>\n<h3>In-house testing and subcontracted testing<\/h3>\n<p>Manufacturers should review the inspection and testing provisions of the current product manual and the requirements communicated by BIS. The permitted testing arrangement can depend on the test, facility capability and applicable BIS instructions.<\/p>\n<p>Where any testing is proposed to be subcontracted, confirm the acceptability of the laboratory and the specific test before finalising the application or sample plan.<\/p>\n<h2>9. Documents Required for BIS Certification<\/h2>\n<p>The following is a practical preparation checklist. The final application requirements should be confirmed through BIS for the manufacturing site and product scope.<\/p>\n<h3>A. Company and factory documents<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Company registration or constitution documents.<\/li>\n<li>Manufacturing-unit address and contact details.<\/li>\n<li>Factory layout and manufacturing-process flow chart.<\/li>\n<li>Details of production machinery and capacity.<\/li>\n<li>Details of technical and quality-control personnel.<\/li>\n<li>Product list covering grades, dimensions, manufacturing processes and surface finishes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>B. Raw material and traceability documents<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Raw material specifications.<\/li>\n<li>Material test certificates.<\/li>\n<li>Supplier details and material identification records.<\/li>\n<li>Heat or batch traceability records.<\/li>\n<li>Procedures for receiving and verifying raw materials.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>C. Manufacturing and quality-control documents<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Manufacturing process and inspection procedures.<\/li>\n<li>Heat-treatment procedure and records, where applicable.<\/li>\n<li>Dimensional inspection formats.<\/li>\n<li>Surface-finish inspection records.<\/li>\n<li>Hydrostatic testing procedure and records.<\/li>\n<li>Applicable mechanical and chemical test records.<\/li>\n<li>Control-unit or batch identification system.<\/li>\n<li>Procedures for handling non-conforming products.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>D. Laboratory documents<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>List of testing equipment.<\/li>\n<li>Equipment calibration certificates and schedules.<\/li>\n<li>Test procedures and work instructions.<\/li>\n<li>Personnel competency records.<\/li>\n<li>Laboratory test formats and retained records.<\/li>\n<li>Details of any proposed external testing facilities.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>E. BIS application documents<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Application and declarations required by BIS.<\/li>\n<li>Product and scope details.<\/li>\n<li>Factory and manufacturing information.<\/li>\n<li>Relevant test reports or evidence requested by BIS.<\/li>\n<li>Applicable fee and licence-related documents.<\/li>\n<li>Additional information requested during application scrutiny or factory assessment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>This list is intended to help manufacturers prepare. It should not be treated as a substitute for the current official application checklist.<\/p>\n<h2>10. BIS Certification Process for Stainless Steel Tubes<\/h2>\n<p>The certification process should be planned against the applicable edition of IS 6913 and the manufacturer&#8217;s actual manufacturing capabilities.<\/p>\n<h3>Step 1: Confirm the applicable standard<\/h3>\n<p>Establish whether the product falls under IS 6913:2023 and verify the current QCO position, effective date and any applicable exemption.<\/p>\n<h3>Step 2: Define the product scope<\/h3>\n<p>Prepare a list of grades, manufacturing processes, dimensions, supply conditions and surface finishes proposed for the licence.<\/p>\n<h3>Step 3: Review manufacturing and testing readiness<\/h3>\n<p>Assess machinery, heat-treatment capability where applicable, laboratory facilities, calibration, inspection procedures and traceability.<\/p>\n<h3>Step 4: Prepare the application<\/h3>\n<p>Compile the factory, company, product and quality-control documents required by BIS. Complete the relevant application through the official BIS process.<\/p>\n<h3>Step 5: Confirm grouping and sample requirements<\/h3>\n<p>Apply the grouping guidance to the intended product range. Confirm sample selection and the test request with BIS and the relevant laboratory.<\/p>\n<h3>Step 6: Complete product testing<\/h3>\n<p>Arrange testing according to the applicable requirements and address any observations or non-conformities.<\/p>\n<h3>Step 7: Facilitate factory assessment<\/h3>\n<p>BIS assesses the manufacturing infrastructure, process controls, quality-control arrangements and testing capabilities as required under the applicable certification scheme.<\/p>\n<h3>Step 8: Close observations<\/h3>\n<p>Provide corrective actions, additional records or further test evidence where required.<\/p>\n<h3>Step 9: Licence grant and Standard Mark<\/h3>\n<p>After BIS confirms that the applicable requirements have been met and grants the licence, the manufacturer may use the Standard Mark only in accordance with the approved licence scope and conditions.<\/p>\n<p>BIS certification is not automatically granted upon submission of an application or successful completion of one test report.<\/p>\n<p>Official reference: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bis.gov.in\/product-certification\/product-certification-faq\/\">BIS Product Certification FAQs<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2>11. BIS Certification Fees and Testing Costs<\/h2>\n<p>The total cost depends on the applicable BIS charges, laboratory testing, product scope, sample preparation, manufacturing readiness and any professional support required.<\/p>\n<p>Potential cost components include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Applicable BIS application and processing charges.<\/li>\n<li>Factory assessment and other applicable certification charges.<\/li>\n<li>Laboratory testing charges.<\/li>\n<li>Sample preparation and transportation.<\/li>\n<li>Calibration or laboratory upgrades.<\/li>\n<li>Quality-system and documentation preparation.<\/li>\n<li>Consultancy charges, if applicable.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Laboratory testing charges<\/h3>\n<p>BIS LIMS provides laboratory-specific information for IS 6913. The displayed charges and available testing facilities may vary by laboratory and by the test parameters covered.<\/p>\n<p>The BIS Central Laboratory listing for IS 6913:1973 displays a test-charge breakup with some parameters not separately priced in the visible listing, so a complete, current total cannot be reliably quoted from that entry alone. BIS LIMS also lists IS 6913:2023 with a displayed total of \u20b922,200 for one listing; the applicable test scope, exclusions and current validity should be confirmed directly before using this figure for budgeting.<\/p>\n<p>Check the latest information through <a href=\"https:\/\/lims.bis.gov.in\/\">BIS LIMS<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Important:<\/strong> Laboratory charges are not the same as the complete BIS certification cost. A valid estimate requires confirmation of the applicable edition, grade, manufacturing process, dimensions, supplementary tests and current fee schedule.<\/p>\n<h2>12. How Long Does BIS Certification Take?<\/h2>\n<p>There is no single guaranteed timeline for all IS 6913 applications. The duration depends on the product range, application completeness, laboratory availability, testing results, factory readiness and the time required to resolve any observations.<\/p>\n<p>Common causes of delay include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Applying under the wrong edition of the standard.<\/li>\n<li>Incomplete product-scope information.<\/li>\n<li>Missing material traceability or test records.<\/li>\n<li>Inadequate laboratory or hydrostatic-testing facilities.<\/li>\n<li>Incorrect sample selection.<\/li>\n<li>Testing delays or non-conformities.<\/li>\n<li>Additional evidence or corrective actions requested during assessment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Manufacturers should first complete a readiness review and establish the applicable product scope before setting a project completion target.<\/p>\n<h2>13. Common Mistakes to Avoid<\/h2>\n<p>Manufacturers and importers should avoid the following issues:<\/p>\n<ol start=\"1\">\n<li>Continuing to rely on IS 6913:1973 without checking the revised 2023 edition.<\/li>\n<li>Assuming that every stainless steel tube described as \u201cfood grade\u201d automatically complies with IS 6913.<\/li>\n<li>Confusing a material grade such as 304 or 316 with complete product conformity.<\/li>\n<li>Preparing samples without considering process, grade, outside diameter and wall thickness.<\/li>\n<li>Omitting surface-finish or heat-treatment controls where applicable.<\/li>\n<li>Failing to maintain material identification and traceability.<\/li>\n<li>Treating an indicative laboratory charge as the total certification cost.<\/li>\n<li>Assuming that one sample automatically covers every product in the proposed scope.<\/li>\n<li>Using the Standard Mark without a valid licence covering the relevant product.<\/li>\n<li>Relying on outdated QCO summaries instead of checking the current official position.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h2>14. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<\/h2>\n<h3>Q1. Is IS 6913:1973 still the applicable standard?<\/h3>\n<p>BIS has published the revised IS 6913:2023 and an updated product manual for stainless steel tubes for the food, beverage, dairy and pharmaceutical industry. Manufacturers should verify the current applicable edition and QCO position before applying.<\/p>\n<h3>Q2. Is BIS certification mandatory for stainless steel tubes?<\/h3>\n<p>Mandatory certification depends on the applicable government-notified QCO. Verify the current order, standard reference, effective date and any exemptions against official sources before placing the product on the Indian market.<\/p>\n<h3>Q3. Which industries are covered by IS 6913:2023?<\/h3>\n<p>The revised standard&#8217;s title covers the food, beverage, dairy and pharmaceutical industries.<\/p>\n<h3>Q4. Which manufacturing processes are covered?<\/h3>\n<p>The revised product manual identifies seamless, welded and heavily cold-worked welded tubes.<\/p>\n<h3>Q5. Which stainless steel grades are included?<\/h3>\n<p>The product manual lists austenitic and duplex steel grades, including examples such as 304, 304L, 316, 316L, 904LN, 1803, 2205 and 2507. Confirm the complete applicable grade designation against the standard.<\/p>\n<h3>Q6. What is the sample quantity for IS 6913:2023?<\/h3>\n<p>The current product manual specifies a sample quantity of 2.5 metres. Confirm any additional sample or specimen requirements with the designated laboratory and BIS.<\/p>\n<h3>Q7. Which tests are required?<\/h3>\n<p>The applicable tests may include chemical composition, dimensions, surface finish, tensile properties, hardness, reverse flattening and hydrostatic testing. Corrosion and other tests depend on the applicable clauses and supplementary requirements.<\/p>\n<h3>Q8. Is hydrostatic testing required at the factory?<\/h3>\n<p>The revised product manual states that the hydrostatic test under Clause 14 is to be carried out at the factory on the full tube lengths from which inspection and testing samples are drawn.<\/p>\n<h3>Q9. Can one licence cover multiple grades and sizes?<\/h3>\n<p>Potentially, subject to the applicable grouping guidelines, successful conformity assessment and the manufacturer&#8217;s demonstrated manufacturing and testing capabilities. The approved licence scope must be confirmed with BIS.<\/p>\n<h3>Q10. How much does BIS certification cost?<\/h3>\n<p>There is no single universal cost. It depends on the applicable BIS charges, laboratory testing, product scope, supplementary tests, sample logistics and factory readiness.<\/p>\n<h3>Q11. How long does the process take?<\/h3>\n<p>The timeline varies with application completeness, product testing, factory assessment, laboratory availability and the resolution of observations. A reliable estimate requires a product-specific readiness review.<\/p>\n<h3>Q12. Can an importer apply for the manufacturing licence?<\/h3>\n<p>BIS product certification licences are generally issued to manufacturing units. Importers should ensure that the overseas or domestic manufacturer holds the appropriate valid BIS licence for the covered product and scope, where certification is mandatory.<\/p>\n<h2>15. BIS Certification Consultancy for Stainless Steel Tubes<\/h2>\n<p>BIS certification for stainless steel tubes requires careful attention to the applicable edition of IS 6913, product scope, manufacturing process, material grade, dimensional range, testing and ongoing conformity controls.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Qualitance India<\/strong> supports manufacturers with BIS product certification and regulatory compliance requirements.<\/p>\n<p>Our assistance can include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Preliminary review of the applicable Indian Standard and QCO.<\/li>\n<li>Product-scope planning for grade, process and dimensions.<\/li>\n<li>Documentation and quality-control preparation.<\/li>\n<li>Sample planning and laboratory coordination.<\/li>\n<li>Manufacturing and testing readiness review.<\/li>\n<li>Application coordination and support in responding to observations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The applicable standard, QCO, fee schedule, testing programme and approval timeline must be confirmed for each manufacturing unit and product range.<\/p>\n<h3>Contact Qualitance India<\/h3>\n<p><strong>Qualitance India \u2014 Improving Quality &amp; Competence<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Call \/ WhatsApp:<\/strong> +91 93106 15170<\/li>\n<li><strong>Email:<\/strong> <a href=\"mailto:info@qualitanceindia.com\">info@qualitanceindia.com<\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Website:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/qualitanceindia.com\/\">https:\/\/qualitanceindia.com<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Contact us to discuss your stainless steel tube product range and the applicable BIS certification requirements.<\/p>\n<h2>Official References<\/h2>\n<ol start=\"1\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bis.gov.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Revised-PM-6913.pdf\">BIS Product Manual \u2014 IS 6913:2023, June 2025<\/a><\/li>\n<li>[BIS Product Manual \u2014 IS 6913:1973, August 2020](<a href=\"https:\/\/www.bis.gov.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/202\">https:\/\/www.bis.gov.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/202<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Introduction Stainless steel tubes are widely used in food processing, beverage production, dairy plants, breweries, pharmaceutical manufacturing and other hygienic processing applications. These tubes carry liquids and process materials where corrosion resistance, mechanical strength, surface finish and dimensional accuracy are important for reliable operation. In India, the relevant Indian Standard is IS 6913, which originally [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":4357,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_bbp_topic_count":0,"_bbp_reply_count":0,"_bbp_total_topic_count":0,"_bbp_total_reply_count":0,"_bbp_voice_count":0,"_bbp_anonymous_reply_count":0,"_bbp_forum_subforum_count":0,"inline_featured_image":false,"slim_seo":{"title":"BIS Certification for Stainless Steel Tubes for the Food and Beverage Industry | IS 6913 - Qualitance India","description":"Introduction Stainless steel tubes are widely used in food processing, beverage production, dairy plants, breweries, pharmaceutical manufacturing and other hygi"},"_slim_seo_primary_term_category":46,"_slim_seo_primary_term_post_tag":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[46,1,47],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-4356","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-bis-certification","category-blog","category-manufacturers"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/qualitanceindia.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4356","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/qualitanceindia.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/qualitanceindia.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/qualitanceindia.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/qualitanceindia.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4356"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/qualitanceindia.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4356\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4358,"href":"https:\/\/qualitanceindia.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4356\/revisions\/4358"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/qualitanceindia.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/4357"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/qualitanceindia.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4356"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/qualitanceindia.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4356"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/qualitanceindia.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4356"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}