BIS ISI Certification for PVC Insulated Cables (IS 694: 2010)

BIS ISI Certification for PVC Insulated Cables (IS 694: 2010). In electrical industry, manufacturers need to go beyond just producing cables—they must deliver products that are tested, certified, and trusted. One such benchmark for quality in India is the BIS ISI Certification for PVC Insulated Cables. Under the Indian Standard IS 694:2010, manufacturers must ensure their products meet specific quality and safety standards to enter and sustain in the Indian market. This article explains everything you need to know about BIS Certification for PVC Insulated Cables, including technical standards, testing procedures, labeling requirements, and certification processes.
What is BIS ISI Certification?
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the national standard body of India, responsible for establishing and enforcing quality standards for products and services. BIS grants the ISI (Indian Standards Institute) mark to products that conform to Indian standards. This mark indicates safety, reliability, and quality, and is essential for many electrical items, including PVC insulated cables.
When it comes to cables and wiring used in electrical installations, the BIS ISI Certification for PVC Insulated Cables is crucial. It certifies that the cable is manufactured under a controlled process with proper infrastructure and quality management practices.
What is IS 694:2010 – The Governing Standard
The BIS Certification for PVC Insulated Cables is granted under Indian Standard IS 694:2010. This standard outlines the technical requirements and quality benchmarks for cables used in domestic and commercial electric circuits.
IS 694:2010 covers PVC insulated cables for working voltages up to and including 1100 volts. These cables can be used in lighting, power supply, outdoor settings, and even in low-temperature environments.
The standard provides detailed guidelines for:

Types of conductors (copper and aluminium)

PVC insulation requirements

Cable construction

Voltage ratings

Fire safety categories (FR and FR-LSH)

Categories Covered Under IS 694:2010
The standard classifies PVC insulated cables into different categories based on their use environment and fire-retardant properties. This helps end-users and manufacturers select the correct type of cable for a specific purpose.
1. Indoor Installation (Category 01)
Cables used for domestic or office purposes fall under this category. They are suitable for dry and sheltered environments.
2. Outdoor Installation (Category 02)
These cables are designed to withstand external weather conditions and are suitable for industrial and external use.
3. FR (Flame Retardant)
This category includes cables that resist flame propagation. It is especially useful in residential and commercial buildings to prevent the spread of fire.
4. FR-LSH (Flame Retardant Low Smoke and Halogen)
These cables offer enhanced fire resistance and low emission of smoke and halogen gases. They are ideal for enclosed spaces such as hospitals, theatres, and data centers.
Conductor Specifications
The core of a cable is its conductor. As per IS 694:2010, conductors must be made of annealed copper (bare or tinned) or aluminium with high conductivity. These conductors must comply with IS 8130 standards and may fall under Class 1 (solid), Class 2 (stranded), or Class 5 (flexible).

Copper Conductor: Offers superior conductivity and flexibility.

Aluminium Conductor: Economical and lightweight but used in specific applications.

The conductor quality is vital to ensure consistent current flow and prevent overheating, which could lead to insulation failure or short circuits.
PVC Insulation Standards
The cables must be insulated using high-quality polyvinyl chloride (PVC) compounds. PVC insulation provides excellent resistance to:

Heat and temperature variations

Moisture

Chemicals

Mechanical wear

The insulation materials and thickness must be suitable for the voltage class and installation environment. Specific types of PVC are recommended for FR and FR-LSH categories to ensure safety.
Voltage Rating and Application
IS 694:2010 includes cables rated for voltages up to and including 1100 V. These cables are suitable for both AC and DC systems:

AC Applications: Cables rated up to 1100 V are used in home wiring, office installations, and power distribution networks.
DC Applications: Cables under this standard can be used up to 1500 V DC to earth, especially in battery banks, telecom systems, and solar panel installations.

This broad applicability makes BIS ISI Certified PVC Insulated Cables suitable for various industries, including construction, electrical contracting, real estate, and public infrastructure.
Testing Requirements for BIS Certification
To obtain BIS ISI Certification for PVC Insulated Cables, the product must undergo several tests as mentioned in IS 694:2010. These tests evaluate the mechanical, thermal, electrical, and fire-retardant properties of the cable.
1. Spark Test
This test ensures the insulation is not compromised by pinholes or weak spots. A high voltage spark is passed through the cable to detect flaws.
2. Flammability Test
Used for FR and FR-LSH categories, this test ensures the cable does not catch fire easily and helps contain flame propagation.
3. Oxygen Index Test
Measures the minimum concentration of oxygen required to support cable combustion. A higher oxygen index indicates better fire resistance.
4. Halogen Acid Gas Evolution Test
This test assesses the quantity of toxic halogen gases released during burning. Lower emissions indicate better safety in enclosed spaces.
5. Temperature Index Test
This test indicates the temperature at which the material degrades or fails. It defines the safe operational limits of the cable.
6. Smoke Density Rating
Evaluates the visibility loss due to smoke generation when the cable burns. Essential for FR-LSH cables used in crowded or sensitive areas.
7. Flex Test
Checks the flexibility and mechanical strength of the cable under repeated bending conditions.
8. Annealing and Tensile Tests
These tests assess the mechanical properties of copper (annealing) and aluminium (tensile strength) conductors.
9. Wrapping Test for Aluminium Wires
Determines the flexibility and bonding strength of the insulation over aluminium conductors.
10. Conductor Resistance
Verifies the conductor's resistance to electric current flow. Lower resistance signifies better performance.
11. Shrinkage Test
Measures the shrinkage in insulation after heating. Excessive shrinkage can expose the conductor and cause safety hazards.
12. Hot Deformation and Heat Shock Test
These thermal tests examine the insulation's ability to withstand deformation and cracking under high temperatures.
13. Insulation Resistance Test
Determines the electrical resistance between the conductor and the outer environment, ensuring there is no leakage of current.
14. HV Test (High Voltage)
The cable is subjected to high voltage under room temperature conditions to ensure there is no breakdown in insulation.
Each test is essential to verify compliance with IS 694:2010. A cable must pass all these tests in a BIS-recognized laboratory before certification.
Packaging and Marking Requirements
Apart from technical compliance, the product must also meet packaging and labeling norms. The cables must be packed in rolls, drums, or coils and appropriately labeled with the following information:

Manufacturer’s name and address

Type of cable and voltage rating

BIS license number

ISI standard number (IS 694:2010)

Batch number and manufacturing date

Length and conductor size

Fire rating (FR/FR-LSH)

The ISI mark must be visibly stamped on the cable and packaging. This mark assures the customer that the cable conforms to Indian standards.
How to Obtain BIS ISI Certification for PVC Insulated Cables
To apply for the BIS Certification for PVC Insulated Cables, a manufacturer must follow these steps:
Step 1: Prepare for Certification
Ensure that the manufacturing facility complies with IS 694:2010 standards. This includes having the necessary infrastructure, testing equipment, and trained quality personnel.
Step 2: Submit Application
An application is to be submitted to BIS through the online Manak portal, along with details of the product, manufacturing unit, and test reports.
Step 3: Product Testing
Samples of the cable must be submitted for third-party testing in BIS-approved laboratories. The product must pass all the required tests.
Step 4: Factory Audit by BIS
BIS officers will visit the factory to evaluate the production process, quality assurance system, and laboratory facilities.
Step 5: Grant of License
Once all requirements are met, BIS grants the license and permits the use of the ISI mark on the product.
The license is valid for a specific period and must be renewed periodically. The manufacturer must continue to maintain the standards throughout the license validity.
Why BIS ISI Certification is Important for PVC Cables

Legal Compliance – Certain categories of cables are mandatorily required to be BIS-certified before sale in India.

Market Access – Without certification, the product cannot be sold in major government tenders or reputed private projects.

Customer Trust – The ISI mark gives customers confidence that the product meets safety and performance standards.

Quality Control – Certification ensures that the manufacturing unit maintains a high standard of production and testing.

Conclusion
The BIS ISI Certification for PVC Insulated Cables is more than a statutory requirement—it is a guarantee of safety, quality, and reliability. By following the Indian Standard IS 694:2010 and undergoing rigorous testing and evaluation, manufacturers not only comply with regulations but also enhance their credibility in the market. In a sector where trust and durability matter, BIS Certification for PVC Insulated Cables serves as a strong foundation for long-term growth.
If you need any support in BIS Registration, then you can connect with BIS experts at Compliance Calendar through email info@ccoffice.in or Call/Whatsapp at +91 9988424211.
FAQs
Q1. What is BIS ISI Certification for PVC Insulated Cables?
Ans. BIS ISI Certification for PVC Insulated Cables is a quality assurance certification issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards under IS 694:2010 to confirm that cables meet Indian safety and performance standards.
Q2. Which Indian standard applies to PVC insulated cables?
Ans. The Indian standard applicable is IS 694:2010, which specifies requirements for single and multicore PVC insulated cables for working voltages up to and including 1100 V.
Q3. Is BIS certification mandatory for PVC insulated cables in India?
Ans. Yes, BIS certification is mandatory for manufacturing and selling PVC insulated cables in India to ensure consumer safety and product reliability.
Q4. What types of cables are covered under IS 694:2010?
Ans. IS 694:2010 covers indoor and outdoor PVC insulated cables with copper or aluminium conductors, including categories like Flame Retardant (FR) and Flame Retardant Low Smoke and Halogen (FR-LSH).
Q5. What are the key tests required for BIS certification of PVC cables?
Ans. Important tests include Spark Test, Flammability Test, Oxygen Index Test, Smoke Density Test, Conductor Resistance, Insulation Resistance Test, and High Voltage Test.
Q6. What materials are used for conductors in BIS-certified PVC cables?
Ans. Conductors must be annealed copper (bare or tinned) or aluminium, conforming to IS 8130 standards for conductivity and flexibility.
Q7. Can BIS certification be obtained online?
Ans. Yes, manufacturers can apply for BIS certification through the Manakonline portal, where they must submit the required documents and product details.
Q8. How long does it take to get BIS certification for PVC cables?
Ans. The certification process generally takes 30 to 90 days, depending on factory audit schedules, sample testing, and document verification.
Q9. What information must be printed on the cable packaging?
Ans. Packaging must include the manufacturer's name, ISI mark, IS number (IS 694:2010), cable type, voltage rating, length, size, batch number, and fire-safety rating (FR/FR-LSH).
Q10. What is the validity of the BIS license for PVC insulated cables?
Ans. The BIS license is typically granted for two years, and it must be renewed by submitting periodic surveillance reports and quality compliance proofs.

In electrical industry, manufacturers need to go beyond just producing cables—they must deliver products that are tested, certified, and trusted. One such benchmark for quality in India is the BIS ISI Certification for PVC Insulated Cables. Under the Indian Standard IS 694:2010, manufacturers must ensure their products meet specific quality and safety standards to enter and sustain in the Indian market. This article explains everything you need to know about BIS Certification for PVC Insulated Cables, including technical standards, testing procedures, labeling requirements, and certification processes.

What is BIS ISI Certification?

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the national standard body of India, responsible for establishing and enforcing quality standards for products and services. BIS grants the ISI (Indian Standards Institute) mark to products that conform to Indian standards. This mark indicates safety, reliability, and quality, and is essential for many electrical items, including PVC insulated cables.

When it comes to cables and wiring used in electrical installations, the BIS ISI Certification for PVC Insulated Cables is crucial. It certifies that the cable is manufactured under a controlled process with proper infrastructure and quality management practices.

What is IS 694:2010 – The Governing Standard

The BIS Certification for PVC Insulated Cables is granted under Indian Standard IS 694:2010. This standard outlines the technical requirements and quality benchmarks for cables used in domestic and commercial electric circuits.

IS 694:2010 covers PVC insulated cables for working voltages up to and including 1100 volts. These cables can be used in lighting, power supply, outdoor settings, and even in low-temperature environments.

The standard provides detailed guidelines for:

Types of conductors (copper and aluminium)
PVC insulation requirements
Cable construction
Voltage ratings
Fire safety categories (FR and FR-LSH)

Categories Covered Under IS 694:2010

The standard classifies PVC insulated cables into different categories based on their use environment and fire-retardant properties. This helps end-users and manufacturers select the correct type of cable for a specific purpose.

1. Indoor Installation (Category 01)

Cables used for domestic or office purposes fall under this category. They are suitable for dry and sheltered environments.

2. Outdoor Installation (Category 02)

These cables are designed to withstand external weather conditions and are suitable for industrial and external use.

3. FR (Flame Retardant)

This category includes cables that resist flame propagation. It is especially useful in residential and commercial buildings to prevent the spread of fire.

4. FR-LSH (Flame Retardant Low Smoke and Halogen)

These cables offer enhanced fire resistance and low emission of smoke and halogen gases. They are ideal for enclosed spaces such as hospitals, theatres, and data centers.

Conductor Specifications

The core of a cable is its conductor. As per IS 694:2010, conductors must be made of annealed copper (bare or tinned) or aluminium with high conductivity. These conductors must comply with IS 8130 standards and may fall under Class 1 (solid), Class 2 (stranded), or Class 5 (flexible).

Copper Conductor: Offers superior conductivity and flexibility.
Aluminium Conductor: Economical and lightweight but used in specific applications.

The conductor quality is vital to ensure consistent current flow and prevent overheating, which could lead to insulation failure or short circuits.

PVC Insulation Standards

The cables must be insulated using high-quality polyvinyl chloride (PVC) compounds. PVC insulation provides excellent resistance to:

Heat and temperature variations
Moisture
Chemicals
Mechanical wear

The insulation materials and thickness must be suitable for the voltage class and installation environment. Specific types of PVC are recommended for FR and FR-LSH categories to ensure safety.

Voltage Rating and Application

IS 694:2010 includes cables rated for voltages up to and including 1100 V. These cables are suitable for both AC and DC systems:

AC Applications: Cables rated up to 1100 V are used in home wiring, office installations, and power distribution networks.
DC Applications: Cables under this standard can be used up to 1500 V DC to earth, especially in battery banks, telecom systems, and solar panel installations.

This broad applicability makes BIS ISI Certified PVC Insulated Cables suitable for various industries, including construction, electrical contracting, real estate, and public infrastructure.

Testing Requirements for BIS Certification

To obtain BIS ISI Certification for PVC Insulated Cables, the product must undergo several tests as mentioned in IS 694:2010. These tests evaluate the mechanical, thermal, electrical, and fire-retardant properties of the cable.

1. Spark Test

This test ensures the insulation is not compromised by pinholes or weak spots. A high voltage spark is passed through the cable to detect flaws.

2. Flammability Test

Used for FR and FR-LSH categories, this test ensures the cable does not catch fire easily and helps contain flame propagation.

3. Oxygen Index Test

Measures the minimum concentration of oxygen required to support cable combustion. A higher oxygen index indicates better fire resistance.

4. Halogen Acid Gas Evolution Test

This test assesses the quantity of toxic halogen gases released during burning. Lower emissions indicate better safety in enclosed spaces.

5. Temperature Index Test

This test indicates the temperature at which the material degrades or fails. It defines the safe operational limits of the cable.

6. Smoke Density Rating

Evaluates the visibility loss due to smoke generation when the cable burns. Essential for FR-LSH cables used in crowded or sensitive areas.

7. Flex Test

Checks the flexibility and mechanical strength of the cable under repeated bending conditions.

8. Annealing and Tensile Tests

These tests assess the mechanical properties of copper (annealing) and aluminium (tensile strength) conductors.

9. Wrapping Test for Aluminium Wires

Determines the flexibility and bonding strength of the insulation over aluminium conductors.

10. Conductor Resistance

Verifies the conductor's resistance to electric current flow. Lower resistance signifies better performance.

11. Shrinkage Test

Measures the shrinkage in insulation after heating. Excessive shrinkage can expose the conductor and cause safety hazards.

12. Hot Deformation and Heat Shock Test

These thermal tests examine the insulation's ability to withstand deformation and cracking under high temperatures.

13. Insulation Resistance Test

Determines the electrical resistance between the conductor and the outer environment, ensuring there is no leakage of current.

14. HV Test (High Voltage)

The cable is subjected to high voltage under room temperature conditions to ensure there is no breakdown in insulation.

Each test is essential to verify compliance with IS 694:2010. A cable must pass all these tests in a BIS-recognized laboratory before certification.

Packaging and Marking Requirements

Apart from technical compliance, the product must also meet packaging and labeling norms. The cables must be packed in rolls, drums, or coils and appropriately labeled with the following information:

Manufacturer’s name and address
Type of cable and voltage rating
BIS license number
ISI standard number (IS 694:2010)
Batch number and manufacturing date
Length and conductor size
Fire rating (FR/FR-LSH)

The ISI mark must be visibly stamped on the cable and packaging. This mark assures the customer that the cable conforms to Indian standards.

How to Obtain BIS ISI Certification for PVC Insulated Cables

To apply for the BIS Certification for PVC Insulated Cables, a manufacturer must follow these steps:

Step 1: Prepare for Certification

Ensure that the manufacturing facility complies with IS 694:2010 standards. This includes having the necessary infrastructure, testing equipment, and trained quality personnel.

Step 2: Submit Application

An application is to be submitted to BIS through the online Manak portal, along with details of the product, manufacturing unit, and test reports.

Step 3: Product Testing

Samples of the cable must be submitted for third-party testing in BIS-approved laboratories. The product must pass all the required tests.

Step 4: Factory Audit by BIS

BIS officers will visit the factory to evaluate the production process, quality assurance system, and laboratory facilities.

Step 5: Grant of License

Once all requirements are met, BIS grants the license and permits the use of the ISI mark on the product.

The license is valid for a specific period and must be renewed periodically. The manufacturer must continue to maintain the standards throughout the license validity.

Why BIS ISI Certification is Important for PVC Cables

Legal Compliance – Certain categories of cables are mandatorily required to be BIS-certified before sale in India.
Market Access – Without certification, the product cannot be sold in major government tenders or reputed private projects.
Customer Trust – The ISI mark gives customers confidence that the product meets safety and performance standards.
Quality Control – Certification ensures that the manufacturing unit maintains a high standard of production and testing.

Conclusion

The BIS ISI Certification for PVC Insulated Cables is more than a statutory requirement—it is a guarantee of safety, quality, and reliability. By following the Indian Standard IS 694:2010 and undergoing rigorous testing and evaluation, manufacturers not only comply with regulations but also enhance their credibility in the market. In a sector where trust and durability matter, BIS Certification for PVC Insulated Cables serves as a strong foundation for long-term growth.

If you need any support in BIS Registration, then you can connect with BIS experts at Compliance Calendar through email info@ccoffice.in or Call/Whatsapp at +91 9988424211.

FAQs

Q1. What is BIS ISI Certification for PVC Insulated Cables?

Ans. BIS ISI Certification for PVC Insulated Cables is a quality assurance certification issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards under IS 694:2010 to confirm that cables meet Indian safety and performance standards.

Q2. Which Indian standard applies to PVC insulated cables?

Ans. The Indian standard applicable is IS 694:2010, which specifies requirements for single and multicore PVC insulated cables for working voltages up to and including 1100 V.

Q3. Is BIS certification mandatory for PVC insulated cables in India?

Ans. Yes, BIS certification is mandatory for manufacturing and selling PVC insulated cables in India to ensure consumer safety and product reliability.

Q4. What types of cables are covered under IS 694:2010?

Ans. IS 694:2010 covers indoor and outdoor PVC insulated cables with copper or aluminium conductors, including categories like Flame Retardant (FR) and Flame Retardant Low Smoke and Halogen (FR-LSH).

Q5. What are the key tests required for BIS certification of PVC cables?

Ans. Important tests include Spark Test, Flammability Test, Oxygen Index Test, Smoke Density Test, Conductor Resistance, Insulation Resistance Test, and High Voltage Test.

Q6. What materials are used for conductors in BIS-certified PVC cables?

Ans. Conductors must be annealed copper (bare or tinned) or aluminium, conforming to IS 8130 standards for conductivity and flexibility.

Q7. Can BIS certification be obtained online?

Ans. Yes, manufacturers can apply for BIS certification through the Manakonline portal, where they must submit the required documents and product details.

Q8. How long does it take to get BIS certification for PVC cables?

Ans. The certification process generally takes 30 to 90 days, depending on factory audit schedules, sample testing, and document verification.

Q9. What information must be printed on the cable packaging?

Ans. Packaging must include the manufacturer's name, ISI mark, IS number (IS 694:2010), cable type, voltage rating, length, size, batch number, and fire-safety rating (FR/FR-LSH).

Q10. What is the validity of the BIS license for PVC insulated cables?

Ans. The BIS license is typically granted for two years, and it must be renewed by submitting periodic surveillance reports and quality compliance proofs.