7228.10.00.30 - With a maximum cross-sectional dimension of less than 18 mm

This HTS classification covers cold-formed bars and rods specifically made from high-speed steel, with a maximum cross-sectional dimension that is less than 18 millimeters. High-speed steel is an alloy steel characterized by its hardness, wear resistance, and ability to retain hardness at high temperatures, making it suitable for cutting tools. The "cold-formed" aspect indicates that the bars and rods have undergone a process of shaping at or near room temperature, often through drawing, rolling, or extrusion, which results in tighter tolerances and improved surface finish compared to hot-formed products.

The defining characteristic that distinguishes this category from its sibling is the precise measurement of its cross-sectional dimension. While this subcategory is for high-speed steel bars and rods with a maximum cross-sectional dimension *less than* 18 mm, the sibling category, HTS 7228.10.00.60, covers similar products where the maximum cross-sectional dimension is *18 mm or more*. This distinction is crucial for accurate classification and is based on a physical measurement of the product.

As this is a leaf node in the HTS structure, there are no further subcategories. Therefore, the focus for classification within this specific code rests solely on confirming that the product is indeed a cold-formed bar or rod of high-speed steel and that its largest cross-sectional dimension falls within the specified range of less than 18 mm. Examples of such products might include small diameter drills, reamers, or milling cutters, which are manufactured from high-speed steel and are subsequently formed into bar or rod stock that meets these dimensional criteria.