Table of Contents
Introduction
The rapid growth in industrial automation and smart manufacturing has increased the demand for reliable and efficient electrical control components like semiconductor motor controllers, starters, and soft starters. These devices are vital for the safe and efficient operation of motors, minimizing inrush currents and mechanical stress.
To ensure quality and safety, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has made ISI Mark certification mandatory for these products under the Low Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear standard - IS/IEC 60947-4-2 (Part 4/Sec 2).
What Are Semiconductor Motor Controllers and Soft Starters?
Semiconductor motor controllers and soft starters are solid-state electronic devices designed to start, stop, and control electric motors smoothly. They help reduce mechanical and electrical stress during motor startup, provide motor protection through thermal, current, and voltage control functions, and improve energy efficiency while extending motor lifespan. These devices are widely used in HVAC systems, pumps, conveyors, fans, and industrial automation applications across various industries.
Applicable Standard
| Indian Standard | IS/IEC 60947-4-2 |
| Title | Low-Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear – Part 4: Contactors and Motor Starters – Section 2 Semiconductor Motor Controllers, Starters and Soft Starters |
| Certification Type | ISI Mark Certification (Scheme I – Product Certification Scheme) |
| Regulating Body | Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) |
| Department | Ministry of Heavy Industries / Ministry of Power |
| Compliance Status | Mandatory as per Quality Control Order (QCO) |
Why BIS Certification Is Mandatory
BIS certification under IS/IEC 60947-4-2 is intended to ensure the electrical safety, performance, and reliability of semiconductor motor controllers and soft starters used in industrial and commercial installations. The certification helps ensure consistent motor-starting performance across critical applications while preventing the use of inferior, substandard, or hazardous components in the market. Since IS/IEC 60947-4-2 is harmonized with international IEC standards, it promotes global quality and safety benchmarks. As per the applicable Quality Control Order (QCO), only products holding a valid BIS licence and bearing the ISI Mark can be legally manufactured, sold, imported, or used in India.
Key Testing Parameters
Testing is carried out in BIS-recognized laboratories and includes:
- Dielectric strength
- Thermal protection and overload response
- Short-circuit withstand capability
- EMC (electromagnetic compatibility) tests
- Mechanical endurance
- Electrical operation cycles
- Performance at rated voltage and current
BIS Certification Process
The certification follows Scheme I of the BIS Product Certification Scheme:
1. Application Submission on Manakonline Portal
2. Document Upload (technical specs, factory license, process flow, etc.)
3. Product Sample Testing at BIS-approved labs
4. Factory Audit by BIS officials
5. License Grant and authorization to use the ISI Mark
6. Periodic Surveillance and renewal inspections
Required Documents
1. Company Registration and Factory License
2. Product Specifications and Drawings
3. Manufacturing Flowchart and QC Process
4. List of Production and Test Equipment
5. In-house Test Reports (if available)
6. Authorized Signatory ID and Declaration
7. Packaging and Labeling Samples
8. Power of Attorney (for foreign manufacturers)
For Overseas Manufacturers
Foreign manufacturers must apply through the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS). An Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) must be appointed to coordinate with BIS on the manufacturer’s behalf.
BIS Certification Cost (approximate)
Cost Component Estimated Amount (INR)
| Application Fee | 1,000 |
| Product Testing | 30,000 – 1,00,000 |
| Factory Inspection Charges | 7,000 – 15,000 |
| License Fee (annual) | 1,000 |
| Marking Fee (based on units) | Varies per unit produced |
How Standphill India Supports You
Standphill India provides full-spectrum certification services for electrical and electronic products under BIS regulations.
Our Services Include:
1. Determining applicable Indian Standards (IS/IEC)
2. Assistance in documentation and portal registration
Product testing coordination with approved labs
Factory audit readiness support
Application submission and follow-up
ISI mark labeling guidance and compliance checks
We help both domestic and international manufacturers secure BIS certification efficiently and correctly.
Conclusion
With automation and energy efficiency becoming core to industrial systems, the use of certified semiconductor motor controllers and soft starters is more crucial than ever. BIS certification under IS/IEC 60947-4-2 ensures your products meet quality, safety, and performance benchmarks, while staying legally compliant in the Indian market.
Partner with Standphill India to ensure your product earns the ISI mark—fast, reliably, and with full regulatory support.
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