BIS Certification for Low-Pressure Regulators for LPG IS 9798:2013

In India, the safe and efficient use of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) in households relies heavily on a small yet vital component, the low-pressure regulator. Though often overlooked, this device plays a crucial role in ensuring that LPG from domestic cylinders is delivered at a safe, controlled pressure to household appliances like gas stoves and ovens. 

Any malfunction in the regulator could pose significant safety risks, such as gas leaks, fires, or even explosions. Recognizing its critical role, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has mandated compliance with Indian Standard IS 9798:2013 for all low-pressure regulators used with LPG mixtures.

This certification, symbolized by the ISI mark, assures consumers that the product has been rigorously tested and conforms to India's highest safety and quality standards. For manufacturers and importers, obtaining BIS certification under IS 9798:2013 is not just a mark of compliance—it's a prerequisite for legally marketing and distributing these regulators in the country.

What is a Low-Pressure LPG Regulator?

A low-pressure regulator is a pressure-reducing device that connects directly to the valve of an LPG cylinder. The gas stored in a domestic cylinder is under high pressure—too high to be safely used by household appliances. The regulator reduces this pressure to a level that is safe and suitable for cooking appliances, typically around 28 to 37 mbar (millibar), depending on the regional standard and appliance requirement.

The regulator also serves as a safety valve, automatically shutting off the gas supply in case of abnormalities like excessive flow due to leakage. In essence, it acts as the first line of defense in preventing LPG-related hazards in domestic environments.

Overview of IS 9798:2013

IS 9798:2013, titled Low Pressure Regulators for Use with Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) Mixtures, is the Indian Standard that governs the design, materials, construction, and performance of these regulators. This standard applies to both single-stage and two-stage regulators used in domestic applications.

Key highlights of IS 9798:2013 include:

●Material Requirements: Specifies compatible and corrosion-resistant materials suitable for LPG, including metals and elastomers.

●Design Specifications: Includes dimensional tolerances, pressure capacity, inlet and outlet sizes, and mechanical construction requirements.

● Performance Criteria: Focuses on consistent pressure regulation, flow rate stability, shut-off mechanism integrity, and leak prevention.

Manufacturers must ensure that each regulator complies with these stringent norms before applying for BIS certification.

Performance and Safety Testing

IS 9798:2013 mandates rigorous testing of low-pressure regulators to verify their reliability under various conditions. Some of the key tests include:

● Mechanical Strength Test: Ensures the regulator can withstand pressure without deformation or failure.

●High-Temperature Resistance Test (65°C): Evaluates the regulator’s performance under elevated temperatures.

● Low-Temperature Test (-20°C): Confirms operational safety in cold conditions.

● Immersion Test: Assesses corrosion resistance when exposed to moisture or liquid environments.

● Ageing Test: Simulates long-term usage to check material degradation over time.

● Compression Set Test for Rubber Components: Verifies the durability and elasticity of rubber seals.

● Pressure Gauge Calibration: Ensures accuracy of any pressure-indicating components.

● Load and Hardness Tests: Evaluate structural integrity and material properties.

● Bend Test: Tests mechanical flexibility and resistance to bending forces.

Each of these tests is designed to validate the regulator’s ability to perform safely and consistently over its lifecycle.

BIS Certification Process

Obtaining BIS certification for low-pressure regulators involves a comprehensive evaluation of both the product and the manufacturing setup. Here’s how the process generally works:

  1. Application Submission: Manufacturers submit an application via the BIS online portal with details about the product and production unit.

  2. Documentation: Required documents include technical specifications, test reports, manufacturing process flow, in-house testing capabilities, and quality control protocols.

  3. Product Testing: Samples of the regulator are tested in BIS-recognized laboratories against the performance and safety benchmarks specified in IS 9798:2013.

  4. Factory Inspection: BIS officials conduct an on-site inspection to verify the manufacturing environment, quality assurance systems, and process consistency.

  5. Grant of License: Upon successful compliance, the manufacturer is granted permission to use the ISI mark on their products.

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

Regulatory Mandate and Market Access

Since IS 9798:2013 is part of the mandatory BIS certification scheme, no manufacturer or importer can sell low-pressure LPG regulators in the Indian market without obtaining the ISI mark. Non-compliance can result in regulatory penalties, product recalls, or legal action.

The certification is not only a requirement for legal sale but also serves as a competitive advantage. Products bearing the ISI mark gain trust among consumers and regulatory authorities, enhancing brand reputation and market reach.

Certification Validity and Renewal

The BIS certification granted under IS 9798:2013 is typically valid for two years, after which manufacturers must apply for renewal. The renewal process requires demonstration of continued compliance and may include fresh product testing and factory re-inspection. Maintaining up-to-date certification ensures uninterrupted production and sales in the Indian market.

Conclusion

The BIS certification for low-pressure LPG regulators under IS 9798:2013 is a critical component in India’s commitment to gas safety. For consumers, it means peace of mind that their cooking gas system is safe and reliable. For manufacturers, it is both a legal requirement and a powerful endorsement of product quality.

In a country where millions rely on LPG daily, BIS certification of regulators is not just a technical compliance issue—it’s a public safety imperative. Whether you're a domestic manufacturer or an international brand aiming to enter the Indian market, securing the ISI mark under this standard is essential for credibility, safety, and business continuity.