7304.23.60.45 - Having a wall thickness exceeding 9.5 mm

This HTS classification, 7304.23.60.45, specifically covers seamless pipes and tubes made of alloy steel, intended for use as drill pipe in oil and gas extraction operations. These items are characterized by an outside diameter not exceeding 168.3 mm and, crucially, possess a wall thickness greater than 9.5 mm. The "alloy steel" designation indicates that the steel contains specific alloying elements beyond carbon to enhance its properties, such as strength, hardness, or resistance to corrosion and wear, which are critical for demanding drilling applications.

It is essential to distinguish this category from its sibling, 7304.23.60.30. While both fall under "Other drill pipe" of alloy steel with an outside diameter not exceeding 168.3 mm, the defining difference lies in wall thickness. This specific classification, 7304.23.60.45, applies only when the wall thickness *exceeds* 9.5 mm, whereas the sibling category applies when the wall thickness *does not exceed* 9.5 mm. This distinction is critical for customs purposes and reflects the structural integrity and intended application of the drill pipe.

As this node represents a leaf node within the HTS classification system, there are no further subcategories. Therefore, the focus for classification under 7304.23.60.45 rests solely on confirming that the seamless alloy steel pipe or tube meets the criteria of being drill pipe for oil or gas, has an outside diameter of 168.3 mm or less, and possesses a wall thickness exceeding 9.5 mm. Practical examples would include heavy-duty drill pipe designed for deep well drilling where enhanced wall thickness is required for greater strength and durability under extreme pressures and stresses.