8480.50.00 - Molds for glass

This HTS category, 8480.50.00, specifically covers molds designed and manufactured for the shaping and forming of glass. These molds are integral to the glass manufacturing process, facilitating the production of a vast array of glass articles, from containers and tableware to more specialized items like optical lenses or glass components for electronics. Their construction and design are tailored to withstand the high temperatures and abrasive nature of molten glass, ensuring precise replication of intricate shapes.

Distinguishing this category from its siblings, 8480.50.00 focuses exclusively on molds for glass. While other codes within 8480 cover molding boxes for metal foundry, mold bases, molding patterns, and molds for metal, metal carbides, mineral materials, rubber, or plastics, this particular subheading is solely dedicated to the unique requirements of glass molding. The material composition and operational tolerances of glass molds differ significantly from those used for other materials, necessitating this specific classification.

The subcategories within 8480.50.00 further refine the classification based on the molding technique employed. 8480.50.00.10 encompasses molds specifically designed for injection or compression molding of glass, processes that involve forcing molten or semi-molten glass into a cavity under pressure. Conversely, 8480.50.00.90 covers all other types of glass molds not falling into the injection or compression categories, accommodating various forming methods such as blowing, pressing, or casting.