8408 - Compression-ignition internal combustion piston engines (diesel or semi-diesel engines):
Sub-classifications
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8408 1000
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8408 1000 05
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8408 1000 15
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8408 1000 20
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8408 1000 30
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8408 1000 40
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8408 1000 50
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8408 90
Overview
This HTS category, 8408, encompasses compression-ignition internal combustion piston engines, commonly known as diesel or semi-diesel engines. These engines operate by igniting fuel through the heat generated by compression, a fundamental characteristic that distinguishes them from spark-ignition engines. The scope of this heading includes a wide array of diesel engines designed for various mechanical power generation applications.
When classifying within the HTS, it is crucial to differentiate this category from its sibling headings, which fall under Chapter 84 as well. For instance, while 8408 focuses specifically on compression-ignition engines, other headings within Chapter 84 cover different types of machinery and engines, such as gas turbines (8411) or non-internal combustion engines. The defining characteristic here is the compression-ignition principle and the piston engine design.
This heading is further subdivided to provide more granular classification based on the intended use of the engine. The primary subcategories include marine propulsion engines (8408.10), engines designed for propelling vehicles covered under Chapter 87 (8408.20), and a residual category for all other engines not specifically enumerated (8408.90). These subdivisions allow for precise tariff treatment based on the end application of the compression-ignition engine.