FCC Part 18 Certification for ISM Equipment
Manufacturing equipment that emits RF energy for industrial, scientific, or medical purposes? Your product may require FCC Part 18 Certification.
At American Certification Body, Inc. (ACB), we specialize in providing independent and expert certification services for manufacturers of ISM (Industrial, Scientific, and Medical) equipment under FCC Part 18. As a recognized Telecommunications Certification Body (TCB), we help ensure your equipment complies with FCC rules and is approved for sale in the U.S. market.
What is FCC Part 18?
FCC Part 18 of the Code of Federal Regulations (47 CFR Part 18) covers equipment that generates and uses radio frequency (RF) energy for non-communication purposes, typically in industrial, scientific, or medical applications.
Common examples of Part 18 equipment include:
- Induction heating systems
- Industrial and consumer microwave ovens
- RF medical therapy devices (e.g., diathermy)
- Ultrasonic cleaners and welders
- RF lighting equipment (e.g., plasma lamps, UV sterilizers)
Unlike Part 15 devices, Part 18 devices are intended to emit RF energy—but must still comply with FCC limits to avoid interference with other spectrum users.
For full legal reference, visit the official FCC Part 18 rules in the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (eCFR).
Do I Need FCC Part 18 Certification?
If your equipment uses or emits RF energy for industrial, scientific, or medical purposes—not for communication—you likely need to comply with FCC Part 18.
There are two general categories under Part 18:
- Consumer ISM Equipment – Requires FCC Certification through a recognized TCB like ACB.
- Non-Consumer ISM Equipment – May qualify for Supplier’s Declaration of Conformity (SDoC) depending on the application and installation environment.
Not sure which path applies to your product? Our team will help you determine the proper classification and certification route.
Our Role in FCC Part 18 Certification
At American Certification Body, we focus on what we do best—certification. We are not a test lab. As an independent TCB, we review your test data and compliance documentation, and issue Grants of Equipment Authorization required for FCC Part 18 devices.
Why Work With ACB?
✅ Independent & Impartial – We are not tied to any specific lab. You choose your test lab—we provide the certification.
✅ Certification Experts – We’ve certified thousands of RF and ISM devices and are fluent in FCC Part 18 requirements.
✅ Flexible & Manufacturer-Friendly – We work with your existing lab data or help you find a qualified partner lab.
✅ Fast Review Times – Once complete data is submitted, certifications are often issued in just a few business days.
The FCC Part 18 Certification Process
- Testing – An FCC-recognized lab tests your equipment for radiated emissions and operating characteristics.
- Documentation Review – ACB examines your test reports, schematics, block diagrams, and labeling to confirm compliance with Part 18.
- Certification Issued – Upon successful review, ACB issues the FCC Grant of Equipment Authorization and assigns an FCC ID (if required).
- Labeling & Manuals – You’ll apply proper FCC labels and include required Part 18 notices in your product documentation.
We’ll guide you through every step—whether you’re a first-time applicant or an experienced compliance team.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Does ACB perform RF testing?
A: No. ACB is a certification body, not a lab. We certify devices based on test results you provide. We’re happy to refer you to qualified labs if needed.
Q: Which devices fall under FCC Part 18?
A: Any device that uses RF energy for non-communications purposes in ISM bands, such as microwave ovens, induction heaters, and RF medical devices.
Q: Do all ISM devices need certification?
A: Consumer ISM devices require certification. Non-consumer equipment may qualify for Supplier’s Declaration of Conformity (SDoC), depending on the product and environment.
Q: How long does certification take?
A: Once compliant documentation is submitted, most approvals are completed within a few business days.
FCC Knowledge Database (KDB) & Technical Support
The FCC Knowledge Database (KDB) is a key resource for manufacturers, offering guidance and interpretations of regulations. It also provides a communication channel with the FCC for technical inquiries and compliance-related information.
For more information and to access the KDB, visit the FCC KDB System.
Contact Us for FCC Part 18 Certification Services
Need help with FCC Part 18 Certification for your ISM equipment? ACB provides responsive, independent, and experienced certification services to help you meet U.S. regulatory requirements.
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📞 Call Us: 703-847-4700
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