8414.80.20.15 - Centrifugal and axial

HTS 8414.80.20.15 specifically classifies centrifugal and axial compressors that do not fall under more specific headings within the broader category of "Other compressors." This classification applies to compressors where the primary mechanism for increasing gas pressure involves rapidly rotating impellers. Centrifugal compressors utilize an impeller to impart kinetic energy to the gas, which is then converted into pressure energy as the gas slows down in a diffuser. Axial compressors, on the other hand, employ a series of rotating and stationary blades to gradually increase the pressure of the gas as it moves along the compressor's axis.

This category is distinguished from its sibling category, "Other, including reciprocating and rotary," which covers compressors that operate through the to-and-fro motion of a piston within a cylinder (reciprocating) or the rotation of vanes or screws (rotary) to compress gas. Therefore, the key differentiator lies in the fundamental principle of compression: centrifugal and axial compressors rely on kinetic energy imparted by rotating elements, whereas reciprocating and rotary compressors utilize displacement.

As this is a leaf node in the HTS structure, there are no further subcategories. Classification within 8414.80.20.15 is determined by the identification of the compressor as either centrifugal or axial in design. Importers and exporters should ensure that the product's design and mode of operation align with the principles of centrifugal or axial compression when assigning this HTS code. This avoids misclassification with displacement-type compressors.