8467.29.00.15 - Orbital and straight-line sanders

This HTS category, 8467.29.00.15, specifically covers orbital and straight-line sanders that are equipped with a self-contained electric motor and are designed for hand-held operation. These tools are characterized by their oscillating or reciprocating sanding action, which is utilized for smoothing surfaces. The key differentiator for this classification is the specific type of sanding motion employed.

Distinguishing this category from its sibling, 8467.29.00.10 (Angle grinders, sanders and polishers), is the functional movement of the sanding pad. While angle grinders may incorporate sanding or polishing discs that rotate in a planar fashion, orbital and straight-line sanders utilize a distinct back-and-forth or circular oscillating movement to abrade surfaces. Polishers, also mentioned in the sibling category, typically use rotary or orbital-rotary actions with specific buffing pads for finishing, whereas sanders are primarily for material removal and surface preparation.

As a leaf node within the HTS structure, 8467.29.00.15 does not have further subdivisions. Therefore, classification within this code relies on the precise identification of the tool as either an orbital sander, which moves in small, random circles, or a straight-line sander, which moves back and forth in a linear path, and the presence of an integrated electric motor for powered operation.