Ensuring Quality: BIS Certification for Thermoplastic Polyurethanes under IS 17397 (Part 1)

INTRODUCTION

Thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs) are crucial across various sectors, including automotive, medical, footwear, and consumer electronics, thanks to their versatility, durability, and performance. With their demand rising, maintaining consistent quality and performance is essential.

To ensure this, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has introduced IS 17397 (Part 1), which outlines standards for TPUs used in moulding and extrusion. This standard provides a structured approach for specifying TPU materials, aiming to improve product reliability, streamline manufacturing, and drive industry innovation.

INDIAN STANDARD IS 17397 (Part 1)

IS 17397 (Part 1) provides guidelines for the designation and specifications of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) elastomers used in moulding and extrusion, ensuring consistency, quality, and uniformity across TPU products for various industrial uses.

Key aspects of IS 17397 (Part 1)

• Scope and Application: This standard includes TPU elastomers in powder, granules, or pellets, with modifications like colorants, fillers, or other additives. Key applications span automotive parts, footwear, medical devices, and consumer goods.

• Designation System: TPUs are categorized based on parameters such as hardness, tensile modulus of elasticity, polymer chain structure, processing methods, and additives or fillers.

• Testing and Requirements: IS 17397 (Part 1) specifies rigorous testing methods to evaluate TPU elastomers' properties, including hardness and tensile strength. Meeting these standards ensures the reliability and performance of TPU products in their designated applications.

DRAFT QUALITY CONTROL ORDER

The Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, Government of India, has mandated that all thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs) used in India—whether domestically produced or imported—must carry the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Standard Mark under a valid BIS license. Effective from 19 September 2024, this order requires all TPU manufacturers to obtain a BIS certification license to ensure compliance.

BIS CERTIFICATION FOR IS 17397 (Part 1)

The BIS certification scheme for thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs) under IS 17397 (Part 1) is designed to guarantee the quality, safety, and reliability of TPU materials produced or imported into India. By securing BIS certification, manufacturers and distributors affirm their dedication to delivering high-quality TPU that adheres to the rigorous standards outlined in IS 17397 (Part 1).

EXPERT GUIDANCE FROM ABSOLUTE VERITAS

Absolute Veritas offers comprehensive support for BIS certification, assisting manufacturers with:

• Application Submission: Ensuring all applications are complete and accurate.

• Factory Inspection: Preparing for BIS inspections through effective quality control.

• Sample Testing: Coordinating with BIS labs to confirm compliance.

• Grant of Licence:Facilitating certification upon successful testing.

For Foreign manufacturers, Absolute Veritas provides:

• Nominating Authorized Indian Representatives

• Signing Agreements: Drafting and executing necessary BIS agreements.

• Performance Bank Guarantees

• Regular Monitoring: Conducting audits to ensure continuous compliance.

BENEFITS OF CHOOSING ABSOLUTE VERITAS

Partnering with Absolute Veritas

• Expertise: Extensive regulatory knowledge.

• Time and Cost Savings: Streamlined certification processes.

• Performance Bank Guarantees

• Assurance of Compliance: Reduced risk of rejection.

• Continuous Support: Ongoing assistance for maintaining compliance.

CONCLUSION

The introduction of IS 17397 (Part 1) represents a major advancement in the Indian industrial sector, particularly for those involved with thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs). This standard ensures that TPU products adhere to stringent quality and performance benchmarks, simplifying their selection and use across various industries. Compliance with IS 17397 (Part 1) is more than a regulatory necessity; it reflects a manufacturer's dedication to quality and excellence.

Navigating the BIS certification process can be complex, but Absolute Veritas makes it easier. Their expert services, including consultation, sampling coordination, documentation, and liaison, streamline the certification journey. Partnering with Absolute Veritas enables manufacturers to confidently achieve BIS certification, ensuring their TPUs meet the highest standards of quality and reliability.