7202.80.00.00 - Ferrotungsten and ferrosilicon tungsten

This HTS category, 7202.80.00.00, specifically classifies ferrotungsten and ferrosilicon tungsten. These are master alloys, primarily composed of iron, with significant proportions of tungsten, and in the case of ferrosilicon tungsten, also silicon. They are produced by smelting iron ore with tungsten-bearing materials and reducing agents, or by combining ferrosilicon with tungsten. Their main application is as an additive in the production of steel and other ferrous alloys, where tungsten imparts properties such as increased hardness, strength, and heat resistance, particularly valuable in high-speed tool steels and superalloys.

Distinguishing this category from its siblings is crucial. While other ferroalloys like ferromanganese, ferrosilicon, and ferrochromium (found under HTS 7202) are also iron-based master alloys used to add specific elements to steel, 7202.80.00.00 is unique in its focus on tungsten as the primary alloying element, either alone or in combination with silicon. For instance, ferrosilicon (7202.21.00.00 - 7202.29.00.00) primarily adds silicon, and ferromanganese (7202.10.00.00) adds manganese. Ferrosilicon tungsten, by including both silicon and tungsten, represents a specific metallurgical compound with distinct applications.

As a leaf node, 7202.80.00.00 does not have further subcategories. Therefore, classification within this code relies on accurately identifying the material as either ferrotungsten (iron and tungsten) or ferrosilicon tungsten (iron, silicon, and tungsten) and ensuring it meets the chemical composition parameters generally understood for these master alloys used in metallurgical processes. Customs declarations should clearly indicate the specific product being imported or exported to ensure accurate tariff application.