7228.10.00.10 - Not cold-formed

This HTS category, 7228.10.00.10, specifically covers bars and rods made from high-speed steel that have not undergone a cold-forming process. High-speed steel is a type of alloy steel known for its hardness, wear resistance, and ability to maintain its cutting edge at high temperatures, making it ideal for tools like drills, milling cutters, and lathe tools. The "not cold-formed" designation is crucial, indicating that these bars and rods are typically shaped through hot rolling or extrusion processes, resulting in a different surface finish and dimensional tolerance compared to their cold-formed counterparts.

The primary distinction for this category lies in its exclusion of cold-formed high-speed steel bars and rods. Sibling categories, such as those for cold-formed high-speed steel, would encompass products that have been further processed through drawing or cold rolling. This cold-forming imparts increased strength and precision but alters the material's characteristics and is therefore classified separately.

As this is a leaf node within the HTS, there are no further subcategories. Classification at this level requires careful consideration of the material composition to confirm it meets the definition of high-speed steel and an assessment of the manufacturing process to ensure it has not been cold-formed. Customs professionals should verify that the product's cross-sectional shape and dimensions are consistent with bars or rods, as opposed to other forms of steel.