8477.10.40.00 - For use in the manufacture of optical media

This HTS classification, 8477.10.40.00, specifically covers injection-molding machines that are designed and utilized for the manufacturing of optical media. This includes machines intended for the production of items such as CDs, DVDs, Blu-ray discs, and similar data storage mediums where precision molding is critical for data integrity and playback performance. The core function of these machines is to inject molten plastic material into a mold cavity to create the intricate patterns required for optical data storage.

This category is distinguished from its sibling categories primarily by its intended end-use. While 8477.10.30.00 is dedicated to injection-molding machines specifically for footwear manufacturing, and 8477.10.90 encompasses all other types of injection-molding machines not otherwise specified, 8477.10.40.00 is narrowly defined for the distinct requirements of optical media production. The manufacturing of optical media often necessitates specialized mold design, temperature control, and injection speed profiles that are not typical of general plastic molding or footwear production.

As this node is a leaf node within the HTS structure, there are no further subcategories to introduce. Therefore, the classification rests solely on the specific application of the injection-molding machine in the production of optical media. Importers and exporters should ensure that the machine's primary intended use and operational capabilities align with the specific requirements for manufacturing optical media to correctly apply this HTS code.