3215.11.90.20 - Flexographic

This HTS category, 3215.11.90.20, specifically classifies black printing inks designed for use with flexographic printing processes. Flexographic inks are formulated to dry rapidly and adhere well to a variety of substrates, including flexible packaging materials, labels, and corrugated cardboard, which are commonly printed using flexographic presses. These inks are typically characterized by their viscosity, drying speed, and compatibility with the rubber or photopolymer plates used in flexography.

It is crucial to distinguish this classification from its siblings. While all fall under "Black" printing inks, 3215.11.90.30 covers gravure inks, 3215.11.90.40 pertains to letterpress inks, and 3215.11.90.50 is for offset lithographic inks. Each of these ink types is engineered with specific properties to suit the distinct printing mechanisms and plate materials of their respective processes, differing in rheology, color strength, and drying characteristics.

As this HTS code represents a leaf node, there are no further subdivisions within this category. Therefore, accurate classification relies on confirming that the black printing ink is indeed intended for and suited to flexographic printing applications. This would involve examining the product's technical specifications, intended use as declared by the importer or exporter, and its physical properties in relation to the requirements of flexographic printing technology.