8456 - Machine tools for working any material by removal of material, by laser or other light or photon beam, ultrasonic, electro-discharge, electro-chemical, electron-beam, ionic-beam or plasma arc processes; water-jet cutting machines:
Sub-classifications
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8456 11
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8456 1110
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8456 1110 10
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8456 1110 50
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8456 1210
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8456 1210 10
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8456 1210 50
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8456 2010
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8456 2010 10
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8456 2010 50
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8456 2050 00
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8456 3010
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8456 3010 20
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8456 3010 50
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8456 3010 70
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8456 3050 00
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8456 40
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8456 4010
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8456 4010 10
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8456 4010 90
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8456 4090 00
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8456 5000 00
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8456 90
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8456 9031 00
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8456 9071 00
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Overview
Heading 8456 encompasses advanced machine tools specifically designed for working materials through the removal of material by non-traditional methods. This category covers a range of sophisticated technologies including laser or other light/photon beam processing, ultrasonic methods, electro-discharge machining (EDM), electro-chemical machining (ECM), electron-beam machining (EBM), ion-beam machining, and plasma arc processes. Additionally, water-jet cutting machines, which utilize high-pressure water streams (sometimes with abrasives) to cut materials, are also classified here. These machines are characterized by their precise material removal capabilities, often used for intricate designs, hard materials, or situations where traditional machining is impractical.
While heading 8456 focuses on material removal via these advanced energy-based or fluid-jet processes, it is distinct from sibling headings in Chapter 84 that cover machinery for other types of material working. For example, headings related to conventional machining like milling, turning, or grinding (which physically chip away material with rotating tools) would fall under different classifications. Similarly, machinery for forming, bending, or shaping materials without significant material removal, such as presses or stamping machines, are classified elsewhere.
The subcategories within 8456 further refine the classification based on the specific material removal process employed. These subdivisions allow for precise identification of whether the machine operates using laser, ultrasonic, electro-discharge, plasma arc technologies, or if it is a water-jet cutting machine. The "Other" category serves to capture any remaining machine tools that fit the general description of heading 8456 but do not align with the more specific listed processes. This detailed breakdown is crucial for accurate tariff assessment and trade statistics.