HS Code for Flux-cored wire

Flux-cored wire is classified under HS code 831120 because it is a composite welding material consisting of a base metal sheath filled with a core of granulated flux. This classification falls under Chapter 83, which covers miscellaneous articles of base metal. According to the General Rules of Interpretation (GRI), the product is classified based on its function as a cored wire for electric arc-welding. The flux core serves multiple purposes, including protecting the weld pool from atmospheric contamination, stabilizing the arc, and adding alloying elements to the weld metal. Because the wire is not solid but contains a non-metallic core, it cannot be classified as simple wire in Chapter 72 or 74. Instead, it is specifically categorized under 8311, which includes wire, rods, tubes, plates, and electrodes of base metal or of metal carbides, coated or cored with flux material, of a kind used for soldering, brazing, welding, or deposition of metal. The classification is governed by General Rule of Interpretation 1, which prioritizes the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes. In this case, Note 1 to Chapter 83 confirms the inclusion of these composite articles. The wire is typically wound on spools or in coils, and its technical specifications must meet welding standards such as AWS (American Welding Society) classifications, though the HS code remains broad.

Products Included

• Gas-shielded flux-cored arc welding (FCAW-G) wire
• Self-shielded flux-cored arc welding (FCAW-S) wire
• Carbon steel flux-cored wire
• Stainless steel flux-cored welding wire
• Low-alloy steel flux-cored wire

Common Misclassification

Flux-cored wire is frequently confused with HS code 7217, which covers wire of iron or non-alloy steel. However, 7217 is strictly for solid wires that do not contain a flux core. Another common error is classifying it under 831110, which is reserved for coated electrodes used in manual metal arc (MMA) welding. While both are used for welding, 831110 refers to stick electrodes where the flux is on the outside, whereas 831120 is for continuous wire where the flux is on the inside.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Flux-cored wire?

The HS code for flux-cored wire of base metal for electric arc-welding is 831120.

Does the type of flux affect the HS code?

Generally, no. As long as the wire is cored with flux and intended for electric arc-welding, it remains under 831120 regardless of the specific chemical composition of the flux.