HS Code 2849

Carbides for Industrial Applications

HS code 2849 covers inorganic carbides used in industrial manufacturing, metallurgy, and abrasive production, excluding organic compounds and some precious meta

4-digit Section VIFCL Hazmat 4.3

HS Code 2849 — Carbides for Industrial Applications

This code covers inorganic compounds consisting of carbon and a more electropositive element. These materials are primarily used for their extreme hardness and thermal stability in manufacturing, cutting tools, and metallurgical alloys. Common types include calcium carbide for generating acetylene gas and silicon carbide for abrasives.

What's included

  • Calcium carbide
  • Silicon carbide
  • Tungsten carbide
  • Boron carbide
  • Aluminium carbide

What's excluded

  • Iron carbide (cementite) → use 7201 (Iron carbides are classified as pig iron or steel precursors.)
  • Precious metal carbides → use 2843 (Compounds of precious metals take precedence in Chapter 28.)

Common examples

  • Tungsten carbide tips for drill bits
  • Calcium carbide stones for lamps
  • Silicon carbide grinding powder
  • Titanium carbide coating material

Frequently asked questions

Is silicon carbide considered a hazardous material?

Generally no, but finely divided powders may require specific safety data sheets (SDS) and dust control measures during transport.

Trade & shipping notes

  • Typical duty range: 0% - 5.5%
  • Documentation: Requires a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) to verify chemical purity and crystal structure.
  • Typical shipping mode: FCL
  • Top exporters: China, Germany, Norway
  • Top importers: United States, Japan, South Korea

Key takeaway

Classification depends on chemical composition; calcium carbide requires 'Dangerous Goods' handling due to water reactivity.

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