8516.50.00 - Microwave ovens

HTS code 8516.50.00 encompasses microwave ovens. These appliances utilize electromagnetic radiation to heat food by exciting the water molecules within. The primary function is cooking or reheating food, distinguished from other electrothermic appliances by their specific microwave heating mechanism.

This category is distinct from sibling headings within 8516. For instance, it does not include electric water heaters (8516.10), space heating apparatus (8516.2), hairdressing appliances (8516.3), or electric flatirons (8516.40). Furthermore, it is separate from other types of ovens and cooking apparatus that do not rely on microwave technology, such as those listed under 8516.60.

Subdivisions within 8516.50.00 are based on the capacity of the microwave oven. The subcategories, 8516.50.00.30, 8516.50.00.60, and 8516.50.00.90, differentiate based on whether the internal volume does not exceed 22.5 liters, exceeds 22.5 liters but not 31.0 liters, or exceeds 31.0 liters, respectively. This capacity-based distinction aids in further refining the classification for statistical and trade purposes.