8461 - Machine tools for planing, shaping, slotting, broaching, gear cutting, gear grinding or gear finishing, sawing, cutting-off and other machine tools working by removing metal or cermets, not elsewhere specified or included:
Sub-classifications
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8461 20
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8461 2040 00
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8461 2080
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8461 30
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8461 50
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8461 90
Overview
Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) code 8461 encompasses a range of specialized machine tools designed for removing material to shape, finish, or cut metal and cermet workpieces. These machines are critical in manufacturing processes where precision and specific geometries are required. This category specifically addresses machinery for planing, shaping, slotting, broaching, and gear-related operations (cutting, grinding, finishing), as well as sawing and cutting-off machines. It's important to note that this category is distinct from general-purpose machine tools covered elsewhere, focusing on the distinct operational principles of material removal through specific mechanical actions.
Unlike sibling categories that might cover different types of machinery or raw materials, HTS 8461 is narrowly defined by the *method* of material removal and the *purpose* of the resulting workpiece. For example, while other machinery categories might deal with forming metals (like stamping or bending) or assembly, this chapter is exclusively about subtractive manufacturing processes for metal and cermets. The "not elsewhere specified or included" clause ensures that machines with these specific functionalities, which don't fit into more specialized headings, are correctly classified here.
Within HTS 8461, further subdivisions provide clarity on the specific operations performed. These subcategories include machines dedicated to shaping or slotting, those for broaching (creating internal shapes), gear manufacturing and finishing, and machines designed for sawing or cutting-off materials. An "Other" category exists to capture any machines that meet the broad definition of metal or cermet removal by the methods described but do not fall into the more specific subheadings. This hierarchical structure allows for precise classification based on the machine's primary function and operational mechanism.