Masonry Cement is a specially formulated cement used primarily for brickwork, blockwork, plastering, and mortar applications. Unlike structural cement, masonry cement is designed to provide high workability, better water retention, smooth finish, and adequate bonding strength, making it ideal for non-structural masonry works.

In India, Masonry Cement is regulated by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) under IS 3466. As per the Cement (Quality Control) Order, 2003, BIS certification with an ISI Mark is mandatory for the manufacture, sale, and import of Masonry Cement.

At Standphill India, we provide expert guidance and end-to-end support for manufacturers navigating the BIS certification process for Masonry Cement, ensuring compliance with IS 3466.

What is IS 3466?

IS 3466 is the Indian Standard that specifies the requirements for Masonry Cement. The standard defines the composition, physical properties, performance characteristics, and test methods to ensure consistent quality for masonry applications.

The objective of IS 3466 is to ensure that masonry cement provides adequate strength, superior workability, and durability for mortar and plastering works without being used for structural concrete.

Regulatory Status: Mandatory BIS Certification

Masonry Cement is notified under the Cement (Quality Control) Order, 2003. Accordingly:

1. ) BIS certification is compulsory

2. ) Cement must bear a valid ISI Mark

3. ) Manufacturing, selling, or importing non-certified masonry cement is prohibited

Purpose of BIS Certification for Masonry Cement

BIS certification under IS 3466 ensures that:

1. ) Cement meets minimum strength and performance requirements

2. ) Mortar prepared using masonry cement has proper bonding

3. ) Workability and water retention are maintained

4. ) Consumers and contractors receive consistent quality products

BIS certification protects both end users and the construction ecosystem from substandard materials.

Technical Scope of IS 3466

Composition Requirements

IS 3466 permits masonry cement to be manufactured using:

i. ) Portland cement clinker

ii. ) Mineral additives such as limestone or pozzolanic materials

iii. ) Performance-enhancing additives to improve workability and plasticity

iv. ) The formulation is controlled to ensure masonry-specific performance.

Key Properties of Masonry Cement

Masonry Cement as per IS 3466 offers:

i. ) Excellent workability

ii. ) High water retention capacity

iii. ) Smooth and uniform plaster finish

iv. ) Good bonding with bricks and blocks

v. ) Reduced cracking in plaster and mortar

Applications of IS 3466 Masonry Cement

Masonry Cement is used exclusively for:

i. ) Brick masonry

ii. ) Block masonry

iii. ) Plastering works

iv. ) Pointing and finishing works

v. ) Non-structural mortar applications

It must not be used for reinforced cement concrete or load-bearing structural elements.

BIS Certification Process for Masonry Cement

The BIS certification process under IS 3466 includes:

1. ) Identification of IS 3466 as applicable standard

2. ) Preparation of technical and quality documentation

3. ) Submission of BIS application

4. ) Factory inspection by BIS officials

5. ) Sampling of masonry cement

6. ) Testing at BIS-recognized laboratories

7. ) Grant of BIS license with ISI Mark

8. ) Periodic surveillance and compliance audits

Documentation Required for BIS Certification

Manufacturers must submit:

i. ) Company incorporation and factory registration documents

ii. ) Manufacturing process flow chart

iii. ) Plant layout and machinery details

iv. ) In-house quality control laboratory details

v. ) Raw material specifications and test reports

vi. ) Quality control and testing procedures

vii. ) Trademark and authorization documents

BIS Certification Fees and Cost for Masonry Cement

For Indian Manufacturers

For Foreign Manufacturers

The exact cost depends on manufacturing capacity and compliance readiness.

Who Must Obtain BIS Certification for IS 3466 Cement?

BIS certification is mandatory for:

i. ) Indian manufacturers of masonry cement

ii. ) Foreign manufacturers exporting masonry cement to India

iii. ) Brand owners selling masonry cement under their trademark

iv. ) Dealers and distributors must ensure only ISI-marked masonry cement is sold.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Non-compliance with IS 3466 may result in:

i. ) Monetary penalties

ii. ) Seizure of non-certified cement

iii. ) Suspension or cancellation of manufacturing operations

iv. ) Legal action under the BIS Act

Benefits of BIS Certification for Masonry Cement

BIS certification provides:

i. ) Legal authorization to sell masonry cement in India

ii. ) Improved acceptance among contractors and builders

iii. ) Consistent product performance

iv. ) Reduced regulatory and legal risk

v. ) Enhanced brand credibility

Is Hiring a BIS Consultant Mandatory?

Engaging a BIS consultant is not mandatory. However, due to technical documentation, inspection readiness, and compliance requirements, professional support helps manufacturers avoid delays and rejection.

Why Choose Standphill India for BIS Certification of Masonry Cement?

Standphill India offers specialized BIS certification consultancy for masonry cement, including:

i. ) Gap analysis against IS 3466 requirements

ii. ) Documentation preparation and compliance review

iii. ) Factory inspection preparation and assistance

iv. ) Coordination with BIS-recognized laboratories

v. ) Post-certification surveillance and renewal support

Conclusion

Masonry Cement governed by IS 3466 plays a critical role in brickwork and plastering applications across India. Given its regulatory importance, BIS (ISI Mark) certification is mandatory. Manufacturers seeking long-term compliance, market access, and credibility must strictly adhere to IS 3466 requirements and obtain a valid BIS license.

Get in touch with Standphill India today and secure your BIS certification for Masonry Cement (IS 3466) hassle-free!