About HS Code 845640

This HS code covers machine tools that remove material using a high-temperature plasma arc. Plasma cutting is widely used for cutting electrically conductive materials, primarily metals like steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and copper, with high speed and efficiency. These machines are essential in heavy fabrication, shipbuilding, automotive manufacturing, and construction industries for cutting thick metal plates and complex shapes. International trade involves manufacturers exporting these robust industrial machines to fabrication shops and large-scale manufacturing facilities globally. The market is driven by the need for fast, precise, and cost-effective metal cutting solutions, especially for materials too thick for laser cutting or requiring higher speeds than oxy-fuel cutting. These machines are critical for high-volume metal processing operations worldwide.

Products Under This Code

CNC plasma cutting machines, handheld plasma cutters, robotic plasma cutting systems, plasma beveling machines, high-definition plasma cutters, underwater plasma cutting systems, gantry plasma cutters

Real World Examples

Hypertherm Powermax, ESAB Cutmaster, Lincoln Electric Tomahawk, Miller Spectrum, Messer Cutting Systems

Common Misclassification

Can be confused with 845611 (laser cutting machines) or 845630 (EDM machines) as all are non-contact cutting methods, but plasma uses an ionized gas jet. Also, 8468 (gas-operated welding/cutting machinery) if the "machine tool" aspect for material removal is not emphasized.

Products Classified Under 8456.40

Industry

This code belongs to the Electronics & Electrical Equipment industry.

Trade Overview

USA, Germany, China, and Italy are leading countries in the manufacturing and trade of plasma arc cutting machines.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 845640?

HS code 845640 covers: Machine tools; for working any material by removal of material; operated by plasma arc processes;. This HS code covers machine tools that remove material using a high-temperature plasma arc. Plasma cutting is widely used for cutting electrically conductive materials, primarily metals like steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and copper, with high speed and efficiency. These machines are essential in heavy fabrication, shipbuilding, automotive manufacturing, and construction industries for cutting thick metal plates and complex shapes. International trade involves manufacturers exporting these robust industrial machines to fabrication shops and large-scale manufacturing facilities globally. The market is driven by the need for fast, precise, and cost-effective metal cutting solutions, especially for materials too thick for laser cutting or requiring higher speeds than oxy-fuel cutting. These machines are critical for high-volume metal processing operations worldwide.

What products fall under HS code 845640?

CNC plasma cutting machines, handheld plasma cutters, robotic plasma cutting systems, plasma beveling machines, high-definition plasma cutters, underwater plasma cutting systems, gantry plasma cutters

What are common misclassifications for HS code 845640?

Can be confused with 845611 (laser cutting machines) or 845630 (EDM machines) as all are non-contact cutting methods, but plasma uses an ionized gas jet. Also, 8468 (gas-operated welding/cutting machinery) if the "machine tool" aspect for material removal is not emphasized.

How is HS code 845640 structured?

HS code 845640 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (84) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (56) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (40) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.