IS 814: BIS Certificate for Covered Electrodes for Metal Arc Welding

In metal welding, small things make big impacts. One of those small things is the electrode—a thin rod used to carry electric current in the welding process. But this rod does more than that. It decides how strong the joint will be. It decides how safe the welded structure is. So, it must meet high standards.

That’s where IS 814 comes in. This Indian Standard tells how covered electrodes should be made and tested for manual metal arc welding. These electrodes are used for welding carbon steel and carbon-manganese steel. They’re often used in the construction of buildings, bridges, power plants, and heavy machines.

To ensure safety and quality the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) issues a BIS certificate for these electrodes under the ISI Mark Scheme. Without this certificate, a manufacturer cannot legally sell or distribute these electrodes in the Indian market.

In this article, we will walk you through the complete process of getting the IS 814 BIS certificate—why it matters, who needs it, how to apply, and what rules must be followed.

Also Read: ISI Mark Certificate

What is IS 814? Understanding the Indian Standard

IS 814 is the official standard created by BIS for covered electrodes used in manual metal arc welding. This standard covers:

• Chemical composition of the electrode material
• Mechanical properties of the welded joint
• Size and shape of the electrodes
• Coating type and thickness
• Storage and packaging rules

The standard makes sure that every electrode behaves the same way under high temperature, pressure, and current. If not made properly poor-quality electrodes can lead to failed welds and unsafe structures.

Why ISI Certification is Mandatory for Covered Electrodes

In India, covered electrodes fall under mandatory certification. That means if a company makes or imports these electrodes it must get BIS approval and use the ISI mark on its products.

This rule applies to:

• Domestic manufacturers
• Foreign manufacturers exporting to India
• Suppliers working in construction, railways or oil and gas

The ISI mark on the product tells buyers that the electrode is tested and certified for quality. Using unapproved products may not only break the law, but it may also lead to penalties, product recalls, or loss of business contracts.

Also Read: BIS Certificate Registration

Who Issues the Certificate?

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the national body that issues the certificate. It comes under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Government of India. BIS checks the product, tests the quality, and gives the ISI license if everything meets the standard.

Once the license is granted, the manufacturer must keep following the rules. BIS also conducts regular surveillance audits and lab testing to make sure the product still follows IS 814.

Step-by-Step Process to Get IS 814 BIS Certificate

Setting up the certification process takes time, but with the right steps, it becomes simple. Here's how it works:

1. Choose the Right Product Code

Covered electrodes fall under IS 814:2004. You must identify the exact class and type based on your product design

2. Prepare the Application (Form-V)

Manufacturers need to fill out Form-V for BIS certification. It include the information below:

• Manufacturing address.
• Product details
• Factory layout
• Raw material list
• Machinery and testing equipment list

Every detail must match what exists on-site during the audit

3. Set Up In-House Testing Facilities

As per BIS rules the manufacturer must have in-house testing equipment. You must test the electrodes for:

• Tensile strength
• Yield strength
• Impact value
• Chemical makeup
• Bending and elongation

These tests must be done in a lab that matches the BIS test method.

4. Product Testing by BIS-Approved Labs

Once everything is in place, you must send product samples to a BIS-approved laboratory. These samples are tested as per IS 814 standards.

Only if the sample passes, you can go forward.

5. Factory Audit by BIS Officers

After lab results, BIS will send officers for an onsite inspection. They will check:

• Your machinery
• Your staff and processes
• Testing records
• Quality control checks
• Batch traceability

This is the most important step. If everything is correct, they will recommend the certificate.

6. Grant of License and Use of ISI Mark

Once approved, BIS issues a license. This license allows the use of the ISI mark on electrode packaging. The license is valid for one year and must be renewed yearly.

Manufacturers must also send monthly reports of product quality to BIS.

Conclusion

In 2025, the demand for certified electrodes will grow more than before. Big infrastructure projects, rail expansion, and renewable energy construction will all require strict quality materials. Manufacturers who already have BIS certification under IS 814 will be preferred by contractors and the government.

If you make or plan to make covered electrodes, getting the IS 814 BIS Certificate is not just required—it is smart. It protects your brand, your product, and your market reach.

Need help with certification? Our team can guide you through every step application, audit, lab testing, and compliance. Talk to us today and stay ready for tomorrow’s market.