| HS Code | Official Doc | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8536410005 | Doc | 57.7% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 8536490080 | Doc | 57.7% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 8537109170 | Doc | 57.7% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 8537109160 | Doc | 57.7% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 8535904000 | Doc | 57.7% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 8535908060 | Doc | 57.7% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 8538908120 | Doc | 58.5% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 8538908160 | Doc | 58.5% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 8548000000 | Doc | 55.0% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 8479899560 | Doc | 32.5% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
Automotive Relay
An automotive relay is an electrically operated switch used to control a circuit. It allows a low-current circuit to control a high-current circuit, providing a safe and efficient method for operating high-power devices in a vehicle without overloading the vehicle’s wiring harness or control systems.
Material
Relays are constructed from several key materials:
- Coil: Typically made of copper wire, often insulated with enamel, to create an electromagnetic field when energized.
- Core: Usually laminated silicon steel to concentrate the magnetic field generated by the coil.
- Switching Contacts: Commonly alloys of silver, silver-tin oxide, or cadmium oxide for conductivity and resistance to arc erosion. Platinum is used in high-reliability applications.
- Housing: Typically molded plastic (often nylon or similar polymers) for insulation and protection.
- Terminal: Brass or other conductive metals for electrical connection.
Purpose
The primary purposes of automotive relays are:
- Current Isolation: Protect low-current switches (like those on a dashboard or operated by a vehicle's computer) from the high currents required by devices like headlights, starter motors, and fuel pumps.
- Voltage Isolation: Provide electrical isolation between the control circuit and the controlled circuit.
- Remote Control: Enable control of high-power devices from a distance.
- Amplification: A small control current can activate a much larger current.
Function
A relay operates based on the principles of electromagnetism. When a low-current signal is applied to the relay coil, it creates a magnetic field. This field attracts a movable armature, which physically closes or opens the electrical contacts, completing or breaking the high-current circuit. When the control signal is removed, a spring returns the armature to its original position, restoring the original state of the contacts.
Usage Scenarios
Automotive relays are used in a wide variety of applications, including:
- Starter Motor Control: Relays handle the high current needed to engage the starter motor.
- Headlight Control: Allow the headlight switch to operate high-power headlight bulbs.
- Fuel Pump Control: Activate and deactivate the fuel pump.
- Horn Control: Switch the high current required for the horn.
- Cooling Fan Control: Activate and deactivate electric cooling fans.
- Accessory Control: Control power to accessories like power windows, sunroofs, and heated seats.
- Lighting Systems: Control auxiliary lights, fog lights, and emergency lights.
Common Types
- Electromechanical Relays (EMR): The most common type, utilizing a physical armature and contacts.
- SPST (Single Pole Single Throw): Simplest type, either open or closed.
- SPDT (Single Pole Double Throw): Can switch between two circuits.
- DPST (Double Pole Single Throw): Two sets of contacts, either open or closed simultaneously.
- DPDT (Double Pole Double Throw): Two sets of contacts, switching between two circuits simultaneously.
- Solid State Relays (SSR): Utilize semiconductor devices (transistors, thyristors, etc.) for switching, offering faster switching speeds, longer lifespan, and no moving parts. They are more expensive than EMRs.
- Miniature Relays: Compact relays used in applications with limited space.
- Automotive Specific Relays: Designed to meet the harsh environmental conditions of automotive applications (temperature, vibration, humidity). These often have specific connector types and mounting features.
- High-Current Relays: Designed to handle very high currents, such as those required for winches or auxiliary power systems.
Automotive relays are electrical apparatus used for switching or protecting electrical circuits within automotive applications. They are specifically designed for signaling functions in vehicles.
Here are the relevant HS codes based on the provided reference material:
- 8536410005: This HS code falls under Chapter 85 – Electrical machinery and equipment. Specifically, Heading 8536 covers electrical apparatus for switching or protecting electrical circuits. The Subheading 8536410005 specifically identifies relays for a voltage not exceeding 60V, and includes automotive signaling flashers. The basic tariff is 2.7%, with an additional tariff of 25.0% (increasing to 30.0% after April 2, 2025), resulting in a total tariff of 57.7%.
- 8536490080: This HS code also falls under Chapter 85, Heading 8536 (electrical apparatus for switching or protecting electrical circuits). The Subheading 8536490080 covers relays that are 'Other', and further specifies 'Other' within that category. The basic tariff is 2.7%, with an additional tariff of 25.0% (increasing to 30.0% after April 2, 2025), resulting in a total tariff of 57.7%.
Please note that the applicable tariff for both HS codes is subject to change, with an increase to 30.0% after April 2, 2025. It is important to confirm the current tariff rates with the relevant customs authorities before importing.