HS Code Subheading

Gases, rare; argon

2804.21 Subheading
Section VI — Products of the chemical or allied industries

About HS Code 280421

This HS code specifically covers elemental argon, one of the noble gases. Argon is a colorless, odorless, and inert gas, making it invaluable in various industrial processes where an unreactive atmosphere is required. It is primarily traded by industrial gas suppliers and is imported by manufacturing sectors, particularly in metallurgy and lighting. Its main application is as a shielding gas in arc welding, preventing oxidation and contamination of the weld pool. Argon is also used in steelmaking to prevent oxidation, in fluorescent and incandescent light bulbs, and in specialized lasers. Key considerations for trade include purity levels, which vary based on application, and the safe handling and transportation of compressed or liquefied gas.

Products Under This Code

Gaseous argon, liquid argon, high-purity argon, welding-grade argon, industrial argon

Real World Examples

Praxair Argon, Messer Argon, Nippon Sanso Argon, Airgas Argon

Common Misclassification

This code is specifically for argon; it could be confused with other rare gases (2804.29) or gas mixtures (2804.90) that contain argon.

EU Regulatory Requirements

This product falls under the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). Importers to the EU must declare embedded carbon emissions and purchase CBAM certificates.

Products Classified Under 2804.21

Industry

This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.

Trade Overview

China, the USA, and Germany are major importers and exporters of argon due to their extensive industrial bases.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 280421?

HS code 280421 covers: Gases, rare; argon. This HS code specifically covers elemental argon, one of the noble gases. Argon is a colorless, odorless, and inert gas, making it invaluable in various industrial processes where an unreactive atmosphere is required. It is primarily traded by industrial gas suppliers and is imported by manufacturing sectors, particularly in metallurgy and lighting. Its main application is as a shielding gas in arc welding, preventing oxidation and contamination of the weld pool. Argon is also used in steelmaking to prevent oxidation, in fluorescent and incandescent light bulbs, and in specialized lasers. Key considerations for trade include purity levels, which vary based on application, and the safe handling and transportation of compressed or liquefied gas.

What products fall under HS code 280421?

Gaseous argon, liquid argon, high-purity argon, welding-grade argon, industrial argon

What are common misclassifications for HS code 280421?

This code is specifically for argon; it could be confused with other rare gases (2804.29) or gas mixtures (2804.90) that contain argon.

How is HS code 280421 structured?

HS code 280421 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (28) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (04) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (21) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.