HS Code for Tungsten carbide powder

Tungsten carbide powder, when mixed with metallic binders or other metal carbides, is classified under HS code 3824.30. Chapter 38 covers miscellaneous chemical products. Heading 3824 is a broad category for chemical products and preparations of the chemical or allied industries not elsewhere specified. Subheading 3824.30 specifically addresses non-agglomerated metal carbides mixed together or with metallic binders. This classification is distinct from pure, chemically defined tungsten carbide, which would fall under Chapter 28. The inclusion of a binder, such as cobalt or nickel, or the mixing of different carbides (like titanium carbide with tungsten carbide) transforms the product from a pure chemical into a preparation or mixture for industrial use, typically for the production of sintered hard metals. The powder must be non-agglomerated, meaning it has not yet been pressed or heated into a solid form. Once it is sintered into a shape, it moves to Chapters 81 or 82. Proper classification requires a laboratory analysis or a technical data sheet to confirm the presence of binders or multiple carbide types, as this distinguishes the mixture from the pure inorganic compound.

Products Included

• Tungsten carbide powder mixed with cobalt
• Mixed carbide powders (WC-TiC-TaC)
• Ready-to-press carbide grade powders
• Tungsten carbide with nickel binder
• Non-agglomerated carbide mixtures

Common Misclassification

Tungsten carbide powder is often misclassified under 2849.90, which is for pure, unmixed tungsten carbide. It is also sometimes confused with 8101.10, which is for pure tungsten metal powder, or 8209.00 if the powder has already been sintered into a solid shape.

FAQ

What is the HS code for tungsten carbide powder?

The HS code for tungsten carbide powder mixed with binders is 3824.30.

Why is it not in Chapter 28?

Chapter 28 is for separate chemically defined compounds. Once a binder like cobalt is added, it becomes a preparation classified in Chapter 38.