BIS Scheme X for Power Semiconductors Converters

Power semiconductor converters allow the effective execution and modification of electrical power from one form to the other across various applications. These applications range from renewables, electric vehicles, industrial automation, and consumer electronics. They serve as the base for the electrical and electronic devices and equipment. Due to the importance and growing significance of the devices in the energy and industrial sectors of the country, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has incorporated the power semiconductor converters certification under the Scheme X certification framework.

As per the order given by the Ministry of Heavy Industries, there is an expectation from all types of manufacturers, regardless of whether they operate locally or abroad, to comply with the BIS certification for the Power Semiconductor Converters and their sub-assemblies and components, by September 1, 2026. BIS Scheme X certification for the Power Semiconductor Converters is a regulatory certification scheme, a step towards the enhancement of Indian manufacturing through improved safety, quality and globally competitive standards.

This blog will help in providing the necessary information about documentation regarding the Scheme X certification for all sub-assemblies, components and/ or types of Power Semiconductor Converters, their scope and importance, the process of certification, advantages, and other information.

Significance of BIS for Power Semiconductor Converters

Applications of power semiconductor converters include:

• Solar and wind power projects
• EV charging stations & drives
• Factory automation and robotics
• Consumer electronics and PSU
• Transmission & Distribution network

Without certification, risks include:

• Electrical malfunction and over heating
• Unsafe conditions and equipment malfunctions
• Reduced energy efficiency
• Negative bidding outcomes from government projects and tenders

Power Semiconductor Converters having Scheme X certification indicates these products adhere to the stringent Indian Standards of performance, safety and reliability.

What is BIS Scheme X Certificate of Power Semiconductor Converters?

The BIS Scheme X Certification for Power Semiconductor Converters is under the BIS Conformity Assessment Regulations, 2018. It ensures that products undergo robust testing, inspections, and compliance checks before hitting the Indian market.

Key Features:

• Compulsory for all foreign and Indian manufacturers
• Includes a comprehensive introduction to power semiconductor devices, gate drive design, and passive components.
• Product testing is mandatory at BIS-accredited laboratories
• Ejection from municipal works, and projects and tenders of the Government.

The certification ensures that Power Semiconductor Converters comply with stringent Indian Standards for performance, safety and durability.

What is BIS Scheme X Certification for Power Semiconductor Converters?

BIS Scheme X Certification For Power Semiconductor Converters is covered under the BIS Conformity Assessment Regulations, 2018. It showcases that a product would require stringent testing, inspection and compliance in India before being brought to the market here.

Key Features:

• Compulsory for Indian and foreign producers
• Spanning a broad range of power semiconductor applications (AC-DC, DC-DC, DC-AC and AC-AC)
• Mandates strength and safety certification by BIS approved labs
• Includes factory and quality system audits
• Provides the right to use the BIS Standard Mark if the product is also BIS-licensed.

BIS OTR for Power Semiconductor Converters

The new Omnibus Technical Regulation (OTR) 2024 for Power Semiconductor Converters has been published by the Ministry of Heavy Industries. This OTR order mandates Scheme X certification for these products to ensure quality and consumer safety.

Compliance Date: All manufacturers and importers must be certified till September 1, 2026. Post this boundary date, non-certified converters cannot be made, sold, or imported in India.

Advantages of BIS Certification for Power Semiconductor Converters

• Product Safety: Reduces the risk of overheating, fire accidents, and short-circuits.
• Energy Efficiency: Guarantees optimised performance and conformance with energy-saving standards.
• Market Access: OTR for Power Semiconductor Converters requires certification for market access in India.
• Competitive Advantage: Government and private tenders prefer certified products.
• Customer Trust: The BIS Standard Mark indicates reliability, safety, and quality.

Procedure for BIS Registration for Power Semiconductor Converters

• Identify Applicable IS Standards: Identify the applicable Indian Standards for the kind of converter.
• Product Testing: Any performance or safety tests will have to be performed in BIS accredited labs.
• Factory Inspection: BIS auditors check production lines, quality control and safety operations.
• Documentation Submission: Provide us with Technical Specifications, Test Reports, And Compliance Records.
• Grant of License: Upon approval, BIS grants a license to use the Standard Mark.
• Continuous Compliance: Regular Audits and Sample Testing ensure maintain Certification.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Non-compliance with the BIS Certification for Power Semiconductor Converters under the OTR for Power Semiconductor Converters can lead to:

• No sale, manufacture, or import of non-certified products
• Confiscation of goods and pecuniary penalties
• Exclusion from the participation in the government tenders, contracts
• Reputational damage in the Indian market

Conclusion

The BIS Scheme X Certification for Power Semiconductor Converters, mandated under the OTR for Power Semiconductor Converters (2024), represents a game-changer regulation mandating safe, efficient and high-quality products in India's rapidly-expanding energy and electronics markets.

For the maker / manufacturer and importers, having a Scheme X certification for Power Semiconductor Converters is not just mandatory – it is an opportunity to gain customer confidence, compliance and access to a larger market.