7226.11 - Grain-oriented:

This HTS classification pertains to flat-rolled products of iron or steel, specifically those alloyed with silicon, that exhibit grain-oriented properties. These materials are crucial for electrical applications due to their magnetic characteristics, which are enhanced by the preferential alignment of their crystal grains. Typically, these products are manufactured to achieve superior magnetic permeability and low core loss when subjected to alternating magnetic fields, making them essential for transformers, inductors, and other electrical power equipment.

The distinction between this category and its sibling, 7226.19 (Other), lies in the specific compositional and performance requirements. While 7226.19 covers grain-oriented electrical steels that do not meet the precise specifications or are not intended for the same level of electrical performance as those classified under 7226.11, this current node exclusively addresses the grain-oriented silicon electrical steels with inherent electrical efficiency.

Further subdivision within this category is based on width. Subcategory 7226.11.10.00 covers material with a width of 300 mm or more, while 7226.11.90 addresses material with a width of less than 300 mm. This differentiation is significant as it often relates to the intended application and manufacturing processes, influencing how these electrical steel products are used in the fabrication of electrical components.