About HS Code 282630
Synthetic cryolite, chemically known as sodium hexafluoroaluminate, is a critical industrial chemical primarily used as a solvent for alumina in the electrolytic production of aluminium (the Hall-Héroult process). Its key function is to significantly lower the melting point of alumina, thereby reducing the substantial energy required for smelting. It also finds minor applications in the production of abrasives, enamels, and specialty glass. Major importers are countries with substantial primary aluminium smelting operations, including China, India, Russia, Canada, and the United Arab Emirates. Exporters are typically nations with robust chemical industries capable of synthesizing this compound from fluorspar and aluminium hydroxide, such as China, the United States, and various European chemical manufacturers. The global trade volume is directly linked to the health of the aluminium industry and its continuous demand for energy-efficient production methods.
Products Under This Code
Synthetic cryolite, Sodium hexafluoroaluminate, Na3AlF6, Cryolite powder, Granular cryolite, Aluminium sodium fluoride
Real World Examples
Solvay (fluorine chemicals), Honeywell (fluorine products), Stella Chemifa (fluorine compounds), Rio Tinto Alcan (aluminium production input)
Common Misclassification
This code is specifically for synthetic cryolite; it is often confused with natural cryolite (252920) or other aluminium fluorides (282612), which have different origins and classifications. Accurate identification is crucial.
Products Classified Under 2826.30
Industry
This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.
Trade Overview
China, India, Russia, and the UAE are major importers, while China, the United States, and European chemical producers are key exporters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 282630?
HS code 282630 covers: Sodium hexafluoroaluminate (synthetic cryolite). Synthetic cryolite, chemically known as sodium hexafluoroaluminate, is a critical industrial chemical primarily used as a solvent for alumina in the electrolytic production of aluminium (the Hall-Héroult process). Its key function is to significantly lower the melting point of alumina, thereby reducing the substantial energy required for smelting. It also finds minor applications in the production of abrasives, enamels, and specialty glass. Major importers are countries with substantial primary aluminium smelting operations, including China, India, Russia, Canada, and the United Arab Emirates. Exporters are typically nations with robust chemical industries capable of synthesizing this compound from fluorspar and aluminium hydroxide, such as China, the United States, and various European chemical manufacturers. The global trade volume is directly linked to the health of the aluminium industry and its continuous demand for energy-efficient production methods.
What products fall under HS code 282630?
Synthetic cryolite, Sodium hexafluoroaluminate, Na3AlF6, Cryolite powder, Granular cryolite, Aluminium sodium fluoride
What are common misclassifications for HS code 282630?
This code is specifically for synthetic cryolite; it is often confused with natural cryolite (252920) or other aluminium fluorides (282612), which have different origins and classifications. Accurate identification is crucial.
How is HS code 282630 structured?
HS code 282630 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (28) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (26) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (30) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.