BIS Certification for Heald Wire – IS 8565:1977 | Complete Guide for Manufacturers and Importers

Introduction

Heald Wire is a specialised steel wire product used in textile weaving machinery. It plays an important role in controlling the movement and separation of warp threads during the weaving process, enabling the weft thread to pass through and form the required fabric structure.

The quality of heald wire is essential for smooth loom operation, dimensional accuracy, durability and prevention of thread damage. Inadequate tensile strength, poor surface finish, incorrect dimensions or unsuitable mechanical properties can lead to operational problems and affect fabric quality.

To ensure conformity and quality consistency, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has prescribed IS 8565:1977 – Specification for Heald Wire.

Heald Wire is also covered under the Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024, making BIS certification mandatory for products falling within the notified scope.

This article explains the technical requirements of IS 8565:1977, mandatory certification provisions, chemical composition, heat treatment, mechanical testing, sample preparation, documentation and the procedure for obtaining a BIS licence under Scheme-I.

1. What Is IS 8565:1977?

IS 8565:1977 is the Indian Standard titled:

Specification for Heald Wire

The standard specifies requirements for steel wire used in manufacturing healds for different textile weaving applications.

It addresses important product characteristics such as:

• Chemical composition.
• Mechanical properties.
• Tensile strength.
• Heat treatment.
• Dimensional requirements.
• Dead wire characteristics.
• Suitability for weaving applications.

The standard is intended to ensure that the wire has the strength, flexibility, resilience and dimensional accuracy required for reliable performance in textile looms.

Particular	Details
Indian Standard	IS 8565:1977
Product	Heald Wire
Standard title	Specification for Heald Wire
Product category	Steel and Steel Products
Certification scheme	Scheme-I – ISI Mark Scheme
Certification authority	Bureau of Indian Standards
Quality Control Order	Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024
Implementation date under 2024 QCO	Immediate effect from 30 August 2024

2. What Is Heald Wire?

Heald wire is a specialised steel wire component used in textile looms.

A heald is fitted within the loom harness and contains an eye through which a warp thread passes. The heald helps control the movement of individual warp threads during weaving.

The movement of healds separates the warp threads to create an opening, known as the shed, through which the weft thread passes.

Main Functions of Heald Wire

• Controls the movement of warp threads.
• Helps create the shed during weaving.
• Supports consistent fabric formation.
• Maintains correct warp thread positioning.
• Contributes to smooth loom operation.
• Reduces the risk of thread damage and weaving interruptions.

Typical Construction

A finished heald generally has:

• A loop at one end.
• A central eye for holding the warp thread.
• A loop at the other end for connection to the loom harness.

The wire used for manufacturing these components must have suitable strength, flexibility, surface quality and dimensional accuracy.

3. Applications and Types of Heald Wire Covered Under IS 8565:1977

IS 8565:1977 covers steel wire for healds used in different weaving applications.

The BIS standard information identifies applications including:

1. Healds for Jacquard harness.
2. Healds for Dobby harness.
3. Inset mail wire healds for jute weaving.
4. Contact wire healds for jute weaving.
5. Healds for cotton, silk, woollen and worsted weaving.
6. Twin wire healds used for wire weaving.

Industrial Applications

Heald wires are used in textile manufacturing facilities involving:

• Cotton weaving.
• Silk weaving.
• Woollen textile production.
• Jute weaving.
• Technical textile manufacturing.
• Industrial and specialised weaving machinery.

The specific product and application should be identified when preparing the proposed BIS licence scope.

4. Is BIS Certification Mandatory for Heald Wire?

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

Yes. Heald Wire covered under IS 8565:1977 is included in the Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024.

The Ministry of Steel has included IS 8565:1977 in Schedule 1 of the QCO.

Regulatory Details

Particular	Details
QCO	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 8565:1977
Product	Heald Wire
Schedule	Schedule 1
Implementation	With immediate effect
Certification scheme	Scheme-I
BIS authority	Bureau of Indian Standards

ITC (HS) Codes Listed in the QCO

The 2024 QCO identifies the following ITC (HS) codes against IS 8565:1977:

• 72171010
• 72171020
• 72171030
• 72179019
• 72179091
• 72179099
• 72292000
• 72299031
• 72299032
• 72299033
• 72299034
• 72299040
• 72299051
• 72299052
• 72299059
• 72299090

Businesses should verify the correct tariff classification of their specific product with their customs or trade compliance professional.

What Does Mandatory Certification Mean?

After the applicable QCO implementation date, products covered by the order cannot be manufactured, imported, distributed, sold, stored or exhibited for sale in India without the required BIS Standard Mark under a valid licence, subject to applicable exemptions.

The QCO also requires each consignment to be accompanied by a test certificate issued by a BIS-certified manufacturer.

Export exemption: The 2024 QCO excludes steel and steel products manufactured domestically solely for export and conforming to another specification required by the foreign buyer.

Importers and manufacturers should verify the precise applicability of the exemption and other relevant notifications before relying on it.

5. Technical Requirements Under IS 8565:1977

The standard focuses on ensuring that the steel wire possesses the mechanical and chemical properties required for manufacturing reliable healds.

The BIS technical guidance identifies a typical wire diameter range of approximately 0.25 mm to 1.32 mm.

The principal technical requirements include:

5.1 Chemical Composition

Chemical composition is an important factor in determining the strength, hardness, flexibility and performance of heald wire.

The BIS technical information identifies the following carbon range:

Chemical element	Requirement identified in BIS technical guidance
Carbon	0.35% to 0.70%
Sulphur	Maximum limit prescribed by the standard
Phosphorus	Maximum limit prescribed by the standard

Carbon content influences the mechanical properties of the steel wire, while sulphur and phosphorus must be controlled to maintain material quality.

The exact permissible limits and applicable chemical analysis requirements should be verified from the complete text of IS 8565:1977.

5.2 Tensile Strength

Tensile strength is one of the most important properties of heald wire.

The wire must withstand the mechanical stresses experienced during weaving without breaking or losing its required performance.

The standard identifies two principal heat treatment conditions, with different tensile strength requirements.

Heat treatment condition	Tensile strength
Hardened and tempered	Minimum 1100 N/mm²
Patented and drawn	1300–2000 N/mm²

The applicable requirement depends on the declared product condition and relevant provisions of the standard.

5.3 Dimensional Requirements

Heald wire must maintain accurate dimensions to ensure compatibility with loom components and consistent weaving performance.

Dimensional deviations may affect the fit, movement and operation of healds.

The BIS technical guidance identifies a typical diameter range of 0.25 mm to 1.32 mm.

Manufacturers should verify the permissible dimensional tolerances against the relevant provisions of IS 8565:1977.

5.4 Surface Quality

The wire should have a suitable and smooth surface finish.

Surface defects, irregularities or imperfections can damage warp threads and affect the performance of the finished heald.

5.5 Flexibility and Resilience

Heald wire must possess sufficient flexibility and resilience to withstand repeated movement during weaving operations.

The material should retain its required mechanical characteristics during service.

6. Heat Treatment Requirements for Heald Wire

Heat treatment plays an important role in achieving the required mechanical properties.

The BIS technical information identifies two principal conditions.

A. Hardened and Tempered

Hardened and tempered wire is processed to achieve a combination of strength and toughness.

The technical guidance identifies a minimum tensile strength of:

1100 N/mm²

This condition provides the mechanical characteristics required for relevant heald wire applications.

B. Patented and Drawn

Patented and drawn wire undergoes a controlled heat treatment and drawing process to achieve higher tensile strength.

The identified tensile strength range is:

1300–2000 N/mm²

This condition is suitable for applications requiring higher mechanical performance.

Why Is Heat Treatment Important?

Proper heat treatment helps manufacturers achieve:

• Required tensile strength.
• Suitable flexibility.
• Improved resilience.
• Consistent mechanical properties.
• Better service performance.
• Reduced risk of premature wire failure.

Manufacturers should maintain documented heat treatment parameters and inspection records as part of their production quality control system.

7. Dead Wire Test Under IS 8565:1977

The Dead Wire Test is an important performance-related test identified in the standard.

The purpose of this test is to assess the straightness behaviour of the wire and determine whether it retains its shape without unwanted distortion when unwound.

Dead Wire Test for Hardened and Tempered Wire

For hardened and tempered wire, the test checks whether the wire unwinds straight.

The wire should not exhibit unacceptable distortion or irregular curling.

Dead Wire Test for Patented and Drawn Wire

For patented and drawn wire, the test evaluates whether the wire remains as straight as possible after unwinding.

The test checks for unwanted corkscrew effects or similar distortions.

Importance of the Dead Wire Test

This test is important because excessive distortion may:

• Affect heald manufacturing.
• Cause alignment problems.
• Create difficulties during installation.
• Interfere with loom operation.
• Increase the possibility of thread damage.
• Affect weaving efficiency.

The detailed test procedure and acceptance requirements must be followed as specified in IS 8565:1977.

8. Testing Requirements for BIS Certification

Testing is an essential part of BIS certification under IS 8565:1977.

The manufacturer must demonstrate that the product complies with the relevant technical requirements of the Indian Standard.

Important testing and inspection areas include:

Sl. No.	Test / Inspection	Purpose
1	Chemical composition	Verify carbon, sulphur and phosphorus requirements
2	Tensile strength	Verify the required mechanical strength
3	Dimensional verification	Check wire diameter and applicable tolerances
4	Dead Wire Test	Evaluate straightness and distortion behaviour
5	Surface inspection	Identify defects and irregularities
6	Heat treatment verification	Verify the declared manufacturing condition

8.1 Chemical Analysis

Chemical analysis determines whether the material conforms to the specified composition.

The manufacturer should maintain suitable chemical analysis facilities or make appropriate arrangements for testing.

8.2 Tensile Testing

Tensile testing evaluates the ability of the wire to withstand applied tensile force.

The result is used to determine whether the material satisfies the applicable strength requirement.

8.3 Dimensional Inspection

Dimensional inspection verifies that the wire diameter and relevant dimensions conform to the specified tolerances.

Suitable calibrated measuring equipment should be maintained.

8.4 Dead Wire Testing

The test evaluates the wire’s behaviour after unwinding and checks for unwanted distortion.

8.5 Surface Inspection

The wire should be inspected for visible surface defects that may affect the finished heald or weaving performance.

Important: The exact testing method, frequency, acceptance criteria and required equipment must be checked against the complete standard and applicable BIS product-specific inspection requirements. The above list is a technical overview, not a substitute for the prescribed testing schedule.

9. Manufacturing and Quality Control Requirements

Manufacturers applying for BIS certification should establish suitable production and quality control arrangements.

The manufacturing process may involve the following activities, depending on the manufacturer’s production route:

1. Selection and receipt of steel wire rod or input material.
2. Verification of raw material quality.
3. Wire drawing.
4. Intermediate processing and heat treatment, where applicable.
5. Patenting, hardening or tempering, depending on the product condition.
6. Final drawing and dimensional control.
7. Surface inspection.
8. Dead Wire Test.
9. Final inspection and testing.
10. Packing, identification and dispatch.

Recommended Quality Control Records

The manufacturer should maintain appropriate records covering:

• Raw material inspection.
• Chemical analysis reports.
• Heat treatment records.
• Wire drawing parameters.
• Diameter measurements.
• Tensile test results.
• Dead Wire Test results.
• Surface inspection records.
• Calibration records.
• Non-conforming product records.
• Batch identification and traceability.
• Dispatch inspection and test certificates.

The actual manufacturing and inspection requirements should be aligned with the Scheme of Inspection and Testing applicable to IS 8565:1977.

10. Product Grouping and Sample Selection

Product grouping is an important part of BIS certification because it determines the scope of products that may be covered under a licence.

For Heald Wire, manufacturers should identify the proposed varieties and product conditions before finalising the application.

Important details include:

• Wire diameter.
• Steel grade or composition.
• Heat treatment condition.
• Manufacturing process.
• Product application.
• Other relevant characteristics specified in the standard.

The manufacturer should not assume that approval of one wire diameter or one heat treatment condition automatically covers all other varieties.

The applicable product manual and BIS sampling guidelines should be reviewed to establish:

1. The applicable product grouping.
2. Representative sample selection.
3. Number of samples required.
4. Sample dimensions and quantity.
5. Testing requirements for each variety.
6. Proposed licence scope.

Sample quantity and grouping: A verified current sample quantity and complete grouping table were not available in the BIS technical reference reviewed for this article. These details should be confirmed from the applicable BIS product manual or with the concerned BIS office before sample dispatch.

11. Documents Required for BIS Certification of Heald Wire

Manufacturers should prepare the necessary documentation before submitting their BIS application.

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.
• Wire drawing machine details.
• Heat treatment equipment details.
• Production capacity details.
• Details of raw materials.
• Details of manufacturing operations.

C. Laboratory Documents

• List of testing equipment.
• Chemical analysis facility details.
• Tensile testing machine details.
• Dimensional measuring equipment.
• Dead Wire Test arrangements.
• Calibration certificates.
• Equipment maintenance records.
• Details of laboratory personnel.
• Internal test reports.

D. Product and Quality Documents

• Product technical specification.
• Product catalogue, where applicable.
• Proposed licence scope.
• Raw material specifications.
• Chemical analysis reports.
• Heat treatment records.
• Tensile test reports.
• Dimensional inspection reports.
• Dead Wire Test records.
• Surface inspection records.
• Batch traceability records.
• Quality control procedures.

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 latest BIS application requirements.

12. Step-by-Step BIS Certification Process for Heald Wire

BIS certification for Heald Wire is generally processed under Scheme-I of the BIS Conformity Assessment Regulations, 2018.

The broad certification process is explained below.

Step 1: Product and Standard Applicability Review

The first step is to confirm whether the product falls within the scope of IS 8565:1977 and the applicable Steel and Steel Products QCO.

Step 2: Product Scope Finalisation

The manufacturer should identify the wire diameters, heat treatment conditions and other product varieties proposed for certification.

Step 3: Factory Infrastructure Assessment

The manufacturing facility is reviewed to assess its machinery, manufacturing process, testing arrangements and quality control system.

Step 4: Document Preparation

The application documents, manufacturing details, laboratory information and product specifications 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 an inspection to assess:

• Manufacturing infrastructure.
• Raw material control.
• Production process.
• Testing facilities.
• Calibration arrangements.
• Quality control records.
• Implementation of the applicable standard.

Step 7: Sample Drawal

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

Step 8: Laboratory Testing

Samples are tested at an appropriate BIS-recognised laboratory against the applicable requirements of IS 8565:1977.

Step 9: Compliance Evaluation

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

Any identified non-conformities must be addressed.

Step 10: Grant of BIS Licence

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

Step 11: Marking and Post-Licence Compliance

After grant of licence, the manufacturer must comply with applicable marking provisions, maintain quality control records and follow BIS surveillance and renewal requirements.

13. BIS Marking and Test Certificate Requirements

Heald Wire covered under the QCO must bear the BIS Standard Mark under a valid licence.

The manufacturer must comply with the marking requirements specified in IS 8565:1977 and the applicable BIS licence conditions.

Consignment Test Certificate

The Steel and Steel Products QCO, 2024, also requires each consignment of covered steel products to be accompanied by a test certificate issued by the BIS-certified manufacturer.

The certificate should contain the applicable product identification and test information in accordance with the standard, QCO and BIS requirements.

Manufacturers should maintain traceability between:

• Production batch.
• Inspection and test records.
• BIS marking.
• Test certificate.
• Dispatch documents.

This helps ensure that the supplied product can be linked to its manufacturing and inspection records.

14. BIS Certification Fees and Other Costs

The total cost of BIS certification depends on the product scope, factory infrastructure, laboratory testing requirements and other applicable expenses.

The overall certification budget may include:

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 applicable BIS fee schedule
Sample transportation	Packing, handling and transportation
Calibration expenses	Calibration of testing and measuring equipment
Consultancy charges	Professional assistance, if engaged

There is no single universal project cost for every Heald Wire manufacturer.

The final cost should be estimated after reviewing the proposed licence scope, factory facilities, sample requirements and current BIS fee schedule.

15. Common Challenges Faced by Heald Wire Manufacturers

Manufacturers may encounter several technical and procedural challenges while applying for BIS certification.

1. Incorrect Product Scope

Failure to identify the correct wire diameters and heat treatment conditions may lead to an incomplete licence scope.

2. Inadequate Testing Facilities

Manufacturers may not have suitable facilities for tensile testing, chemical analysis or Dead Wire Test.

3. Heat Treatment Control

Inconsistent heat treatment may result in variations in tensile strength and other mechanical properties.

4. Dimensional Variation

Incorrect wire diameter or dimensional inconsistency can affect the performance of finished healds.

5. Poor Surface Quality

Surface defects may damage warp threads and affect the weaving operation.

6. Incomplete Batch Traceability

Missing batch-wise inspection and test records can create difficulties during factory assessment.

7. Inadequate Sample Planning

Incorrect sample selection may result in additional testing or delays in certification.

How Manufacturers Can Prepare

Before applying, manufacturers should:

• Review the complete requirements of IS 8565:1977.
• Finalise the proposed product scope.
• Check manufacturing infrastructure.
• Verify laboratory capabilities.
• Maintain calibration records.
• Establish batch-wise quality control.
• Prepare inspection and testing records.
• Confirm sample requirements with BIS.

16. How Qualitance India Can Help With BIS Certification for Heald Wire

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

For BIS certification under IS 8565:1977, our support can include:

• Product applicability assessment under the Steel QCO.
• Review of IS 8565:1977 requirements.
• Identification of proposed product scope.
• Manufacturing infrastructure assessment.
• Review of wire drawing and heat treatment processes.
• Guidance on testing and laboratory requirements.
• Preparation of BIS application documents.
• Assistance with sample planning.
• Laboratory coordination support.
• Factory inspection preparation.
• Assistance in addressing non-conformities.
• Guidance on BIS marking and post-licence compliance.

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

Qualitance India – Improving Quality & Competence

For professional assistance with BIS certification for Heald Wire, contact us:

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

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – BIS Certification for Heald Wire

Q1. What is the Indian Standard for Heald Wire?

The applicable Indian Standard is IS 8565:1977, titled Specification for Heald Wire.

Q2. Is BIS certification mandatory for Heald Wire?

Yes. Heald Wire under IS 8565:1977 is included in the Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024. Products covered by the QCO require BIS certification under Scheme-I.

Q3. When did mandatory BIS certification for Heald Wire become effective?

The 2024 Steel QCO dated 29 August 2024 lists IS 8565:1977 for immediate implementation. The order came into force on its publication in the Gazette on 30 August 2024.

Q4. What is the typical diameter range of Heald Wire?

The BIS technical guidance identifies a typical wire diameter range of approximately 0.25 mm to 1.32 mm. The actual applicable dimensions and tolerances should be checked against IS 8565:1977.

Q5. What are the heat treatment conditions covered?

The technical guidance identifies hardened and tempered, and patented and drawn wire conditions.

Q6. What is the minimum tensile strength for hardened and tempered wire?

The technical guidance identifies a minimum tensile strength of 1100 N/mm² for hardened and tempered wire.

Q7. What is the tensile strength range for patented and drawn wire?

The identified tensile strength range is 1300–2000 N/mm².

Q8. What is the Dead Wire Test?

The Dead Wire Test evaluates the straightness behaviour of wire after unwinding. It checks whether the wire remains straight without unwanted distortion or corkscrew effects.

Q9. What is the carbon content requirement under IS 8565:1977?

The BIS technical guidance identifies a carbon content range of 0.35% to 0.70%. The complete standard should be consulted for all chemical composition requirements.

Q10. Which tests are important for Heald Wire BIS certification?

Important testing areas include chemical composition, tensile strength, dimensional verification, surface inspection and Dead Wire Test, as applicable under the standard.

Q11. What documents are required for BIS certification?

Common documents include company registration, factory layout, manufacturing process flow chart, machinery list, testing equipment details, calibration records, product specifications and quality control records.

Q12. Can one BIS licence cover different wire diameters?

The applicable product grouping and sampling provisions must be reviewed before deciding the licence scope. Manufacturers should not assume that one sample automatically covers every diameter and heat treatment condition.

Q13. Is BIS certification required for imported Heald Wire?

Products covered under the applicable QCO cannot be imported for the Indian market without meeting the prescribed BIS certification requirements, subject to applicable exemptions.

Q14. Is a test certificate required with each consignment?

Yes. The Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024, requires a test certificate with each consignment of covered steel products, issued by the BIS-certified manufacturer.

Q15. Can Qualitance India help manufacturers obtain BIS certification for Heald Wire?

Yes. Qualitance India can assist with applicability review, documentation, product scope, sample planning, laboratory coordination, factory inspection preparation and certification-related compliance support.

Conclusion

BIS certification under IS 8565:1977 is an important regulatory requirement for manufacturers and suppliers of Heald Wire covered under the Steel and Steel Products Quality Control Order, 2024.

The standard focuses on important product characteristics such as chemical composition, tensile strength, heat treatment, dimensional accuracy and straightness behaviour.

Manufacturers should establish appropriate production controls, laboratory arrangements, batch traceability and inspection procedures to demonstrate conformity with the applicable requirements.

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

Planning BIS certification for Heald Wire under IS 8565:1977? Contact Qualitance India for professional BIS certification consultancy and regulatory compliance support.

Official References

1. BIS – IS 8565:1977 Technical Guidance / Standard Information:
   https://www.services.bis.gov.in/tmp/tbl5_2024-11-26-10-46.pdf
2. Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024 – S.O. 3716(E), dated 29 August 2024:
   https://steel.gov.in/sites/default/files/QCO%202024.pdf
3. BIS – Products Under Compulsory Certification, Scheme-I:
   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. Ministry of Steel – Quality Control Orders:
   https://steel.gov.in/
6. BIS – Product Certification Process:
   https://www.bis.gov.in/product-certification/

 

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