HS Code for Metallurgical silicon

Metallurgical silicon is classified under HS code 280469. This classification is governed by the purity levels defined in Chapter 28 of the Harmonized System, which covers inorganic chemicals. Silicon is categorized based on its silicon content by weight. HS code 280461 is reserved for silicon containing not less than 99.99% of silicon by weight, typically referred to as electronic or solar grade silicon. Metallurgical grade silicon, which usually has a purity range between 96% and 99%, falls into the residual category of 280469. The classification is straightforward based on chemical composition: if the substance is elemental silicon and its purity is below the 99.99% threshold, it must be classified here. This material is primarily used as an alloying agent in the aluminum industry or as a raw material for the production of silicones and silanes. It is produced by the carbothermic reduction of quartz in an electric arc furnace, and the resulting product, despite its metallic appearance, is classified as a non-metal within the chemical chapter rather than a base metal in Section XV.

Products Included

• Silicon metal with 98.5% purity
• Silicon metal with 97% purity for aluminum alloying
• Crude silicon for chemical manufacturing
• Low-purity silicon lumps and grains
• Metallurgical grade silicon powder

Common Misclassification

The most frequent misclassification occurs with HS code 280461, which is only for high-purity silicon (99.99%+). Another common mistake is classifying metallurgical silicon as ferrosilicon under HS code 720221. Ferrosilicon is an alloy of iron and silicon containing more than 4% iron by weight. If the iron content is negligible and the product is essentially silicon, it belongs in 2804. Furthermore, silicon carbide (284920) is often confused with silicon metal, but they are chemically distinct compounds.

FAQ

What is the HS code for metallurgical silicon?

The HS code for metallurgical silicon (containing less than 99.99% silicon by weight) is 280469.

Why is metallurgical silicon not classified in Chapter 72?

Chapter 72 is for iron and steel and their alloys (ferro-alloys). Metallurgical silicon is considered a chemical element (non-metal) and is therefore classified in Chapter 28, provided it is not alloyed with iron exceeding the limits defined in Note 1(c) to Chapter 72.