BIS Certification for Electronic Weighing Systems IS 9281 (Part 3):1981

Electronic weighing systems have become integral to modern life, offering highly accurate and dependable measurements across a broad range of sectors. From retail counters and laboratories to logistics hubs and manufacturing floors, these digital scales are essential wherever precise weight measurement is critical. Unlike traditional mechanical scales, electronic weighing systems utilize advanced load cells and digital sensors to provide fast, accurate, and repeatable readings.

In India, the performance and safety of these devices are regulated by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). One of the key standards governing their design and functionality is IS 9281 (Part 3):1981, which lays out the technical requirements and testing criteria for electronic weighing instruments and systems.

Understanding IS 9281 (Part 3):1981

IS 9281 (Part 3):1981 is part of a broader series of Indian Standards related to non-automatic weighing instruments. This particular part focuses on electronic weighing systems, establishing detailed parameters to ensure that such systems deliver accurate, consistent, and safe performance under varying conditions.

The standard emphasizes key performance aspects such as:

● Accuracy and resolution

● Stability over time and temperature

● Electrical and mechanical durability

● Environmental resilience

It applies to weighing instruments used across a wide range of capacities — from small laboratory balances to large platform or industrial scales.

Importance of BIS Certification for Electronic Weighing Systems

In India, BIS certification serves as a mark of quality, compliance, and consumer assurance. For electronic weighing system manufacturers, obtaining BIS certification as per IS 9281 (Part 3):1981 is not just about meeting regulatory norms—it builds market credibility and opens doors to government tenders, exports, and mass retail channels.

With the increasing use of digital weighing systems in trade and commerce, accuracy and trustworthiness are critical. The BIS certification ensures that products:

● Meet Indian regulatory standards

● Function reliably under Indian climatic and operational conditions

● Can be legally sold or used in weights-and-measures-regulated environments

Moreover, in many states, government bodies and institutional buyers only procure BIS-certified weighing systems, making certification an essential business requirement.

What the Standard Covers

The IS 9281 (Part 3):1981 standard encompasses technical, operational, and safety requirements. It ensures that electronic weighing systems perform consistently across their intended operating range and environmental conditions. The standard includes detailed guidelines for:

● Rated Load: Ensures the scale performs accurately within its declared weight capacity.

● Accuracy & Non-linearity: Evaluates the precision of the scale across different load points and detects any deviation from linear performance.

● Resolution: Defines the smallest unit of weight that the scale can detect and display.

● Environmental Drifts: Assesses the stability of measurement under variable temperatures and over time.

● Power Tolerance: Ensures operation is stable under varying voltage or power supply conditions.

●Load Cell Performance: Since load cells are core components, the standard also addresses their characteristics, including sensitivity, hysteresis, and output stability.

Key Tests Conducted for BIS Certification

As part of the BIS certification process, electronic weighing systems are subjected to a range of rigorous laboratory tests, conducted in NABL-accredited or BIS-recognized testing facilities. The aim is to evaluate both functional performance and environmental reliability. Major tests include:

● Rated Load Verification: Checks if the device operates reliably at its full load capacity.

● Accuracy and Resolution: Verifies that the scale measures weight within the permissible error margins across different load points.

● Non-linearity Assessment: Ensures output remains proportionate to input loads.

●Drift of No-Load Output with Temperature: Measures how the zero-point of the scale shifts due to temperature changes.

● Drift Over Time: Assesses how the no-load and full-scale readings change over time (typically 1 hour), reflecting long-term stability.

● Transducer Excitation and Signal Regulation: Ensures the load cell receives and processes electrical signals accurately.

● Tolerance on Operating Voltage: Evaluates if the device maintains functionality within acceptable voltage fluctuation limits.

These tests help verify that the instrument not only delivers accurate readings at the time of manufacture but continues to perform reliably in real-world conditions over time.

Certification Process

The BIS certification process typically involves:

  1. Application Submission: Manufacturers apply through the BIS online portal, submitting technical specifications and manufacturing details.
  2. Factory Audit: BIS officials inspect the production site to evaluate quality control measures and assess compliance with IS 9281 (Part 3):1981.
  3. Sample Testing: Random product samples are selected and tested for compliance at BIS-approved laboratories.
  4. License Granting: Upon successful completion of testing and inspection, the manufacturer is awarded the ISI mark license.
  5. Surveillance Audits: Regular post-certification inspections ensure continued compliance.

To Know The Process in Detail, Please Visit:

Under BIS Registration Products ISI and CRS

Documents Required for BIS Certification

To apply for BIS certification, manufacturers need to submit the following documents:

●  Application form

●  Manufacturing process details

●  Quality control plan

●  Test reports from BIS-approved laboratories

●  Factory layout and equipment details

●  Proof of business registration

●  Product specifications and technical details

●  Declaration of conformity to Indian standards

Additionally, manufacturers may be required to provide proof of compliance with environmental and safety regulations, depending on the specific type of product being certified.

BIS ISI Mark Certification Costing And Timeline

BIS ISI Mark Certification Costing And Timeline

Benefits of BIS Certification

● Market Access: Legal eligibility to sell products in India.

● Consumer Confidence: Enhances trust in product quality and reliability.

● Compliance with Weights & Measures Act: Enables use in trade, billing, and industrial processes.

● Competitive Advantage: BIS-certified products are preferred by institutional and government buyers.

● Export Facilitation: Helps in meeting international quality benchmarks when paired with other certifications.

How EVTL India Can Assist

Securing BIS certification can be complex, especially with technical testing and documentation involved. EVTL India offers end-to-end consulting services to simplify the process for manufacturers, including:

● Standard-specific advisory (IS 9281 Part 3:1981)

● Preparation and review of documentation

● Coordination with BIS and testing labs

● Pre-inspection readiness and compliance audits

● Ongoing support for renewals and updates

With years of experience in regulatory consulting, EVTL India ensures fast, smooth, and cost-effective BIS certification.

Conclusion

Electronic weighing systems are essential across various industries where accurate measurement is crucial. The BIS certification under IS 9281 (Part 3): 1981 serves as a vital benchmark to ensure the quality, accuracy, and durability of these systems. For manufacturers and suppliers, obtaining this certification is not just a legal obligation—it’s a testament to quality and professionalism.