7304.31 - Cold-drawn or cold-rolled (cold-reduced):

This HTS category, 7304.31, specifically covers seamless tubes, pipes, and hollow profiles of iron or nonalloy steel that have undergone a cold-drawing or cold-rolling (cold-reducing) process. This manufacturing method results in precise dimensions, smooth surface finishes, and improved mechanical properties compared to hot-finished products. The "cold-drawn or cold-rolled (cold-reduced)" designation is crucial, indicating a secondary cold working process applied after initial forming.

Within the broader classification of seamless tubes of circular cross-section for iron or nonalloy steel (7304.3), this subcategory is distinguished from its sibling, 7304.39.00 ("Other"). While 7304.39.00 would encompass seamless circular tubes of iron or nonalloy steel that are *not* cold-drawn or cold-rolled, 7304.31 exclusively pertains to those finished using these specific cold working techniques. This distinction is based on the manufacturing process and the resulting product characteristics.

This category further subdivides to provide more granular classification. The subcategory 7304.31.30.00 specifically identifies "Hollow bars," which are a type of cold-finished seamless product designed for machining or further processing into components. The remaining products within this category fall under 7304.31.60 ("Other"), encompassing all other seamless tubes, pipes, and hollow profiles of circular cross-section, made of iron or nonalloy steel, that have been cold-drawn or cold-rolled, but do not meet the specific definition of hollow bars.