8468.10.00.00 - Hand-held blow torches

This HTS category, 8468.10.00.00, specifically encompasses hand-held blow torches that operate using gas. These devices are designed for localized application of heat, primarily for soldering, brazing, or welding, and are characterized by their portable and manually operated nature. They typically utilize a combustible gas, such as propane, butane, or acetylene, often in conjunction with oxygen, to produce a high-temperature flame.

Distinction from sibling categories is crucial for accurate classification. While the broader heading 8468 covers various machinery and apparatus for soldering, brazing, and welding, 8468.10.00.00 is narrowly focused on the *hand-held, gas-operated* variant. Sibling category 8468.20 pertains to other gas-operated machinery and apparatus that are *not* hand-held blow torches, implying larger stationary or more complex equipment. Category 8468.80 covers machinery and apparatus for these applications that are *not* gas-operated, such as electric arc welding machines. Finally, 8468.90 is reserved for parts of all machinery and apparatus falling under heading 8468.

As this node is a leaf node, there are no further subcategories. Therefore, classification within 8468.10.00.00 relies on confirming that the article is indeed a hand-held blow torch powered by gas and intended for the specified thermal joining processes. Examples include small propane torches used for plumbing or craft work, and larger oxy-acetylene hand torches for metal fabrication.