8481.80.30.25 - Ball type

This HTS classification, specifically 8481.80.30.25, pertains to "Ball type" valves that are hand-operated and constructed from iron. These valves are a subset of the broader category of taps, cocks, valves, and similar appliances used for controlling the flow of fluids in various piping systems, tanks, and vessels. The defining characteristic of this group is the use of a spherical or cylindrical ball with a passageway through it to regulate or stop the flow. When the ball is rotated, its passageway aligns with or is perpendicular to the flow, thereby opening or closing the valve.

Distinguishing this category from its siblings, it's important to note the specific mechanism of flow control. While other siblings like "Gate type" (8481.80.30.10) utilize a sliding gate, "Globe type" (8481.80.30.15) employs a disc that moves up and down against a seat, and "Plug type" (8481.80.30.20) uses a tapered or cylindrical plug, this classification is exclusively for valves employing a ball mechanism. Furthermore, "Butterfly type" (8481.80.30.30) valves use a rotating disc that pivots on a central shaft. The "Other" category (8481.80.30.40) is reserved for hand-operated iron valves that do not fit the specific descriptions of ball, gate, globe, plug, or butterfly types.

As this is a leaf node within the HTS structure, there are no further subcategories under 8481.80.30.25. Classification at this level is determined by the presence of a ball mechanism, the hand-operated nature of the valve, and its construction from iron. Examples within this classification would include common residential or industrial ball valves made of cast iron or malleable iron, used in plumbing, water supply, or other general fluid control applications where manual operation is sufficient.