Find HS Code and trade information for balance weight

Balance Weight

Balance weights are counterweights used to achieve equilibrium in a system, typically mechanical, to offset existing forces and ensure stable operation. They are employed across a diverse range of applications, from washing machines to engine balancing and even in personal fitness equipment.

Material

The materials used for balance weights vary depending on the application's requirements for density, cost, and corrosion resistance. Common materials include:

• Cast Iron: Frequently used in washing machines due to its high density and relatively low cost.
• Steel: Offers higher strength than cast iron and is suitable for applications requiring greater durability.
• Concrete: Used in counterweight applications like crane booms, providing significant mass at a lower cost.
• Lead: Historically used due to its high density, but its use is decreasing due to environmental concerns.
• Zinc: Used in smaller weights and applications where corrosion resistance is critical.
• Plastics/Polymer composites: Increasingly used in fitness equipment and other applications where weight needs to be adjustable or non-corrosive.

Purpose

The primary purpose of balance weights is to counteract imbalances that cause vibration, noise, or instability. These imbalances can stem from:

• Rotating Components: Uneven distribution of mass in rotating parts like washing machine drums or engine crankshafts.
• Static Loads: Unevenly distributed static loads in structures like cranes.
• Dynamic Loads: Fluctuating loads that create instability.

Function

Balance weights function by applying an opposing force equal in magnitude and opposite in direction to the imbalancing force. This results in:

• Reduced Vibration: Minimizing unwanted oscillations and improving the lifespan of mechanical components.
• Noise Reduction: Decreasing noise levels generated by vibration.
• Improved Stability: Enhancing the overall stability of the system.
• Smoother Operation: Contributing to more efficient and reliable operation.

Usage Scenarios

• Washing Machines: Used to counterbalance the drum during spinning, preventing excessive vibration and noise.
• Engine Balancing: Counterweights on crankshafts and connecting rods balance the reciprocating motion of pistons, reducing vibration and improving engine performance.
• Industrial Machinery: Employed in various rotating equipment to minimize vibration and ensure smooth operation.
• Cranes: Concrete counterweights provide stability during lifting operations.
• Fitness Equipment: Adjustable weights are used in barbells, dumbbells, and weight machines to provide resistance during exercise.
• Tires: Weights are added to the inside of tires to ensure uniform balance and prevent wobbling.
• Robotics: Used to balance robotic arms and ensure precise movement.

Common Types

• Concrete Counterweights: Large, cast concrete blocks used in cranes and other heavy lifting equipment.
• Cast Iron Weights: Commonly found in washing machines, often segmented for ease of installation.
• Steel Weights: Used in engine balancing and other applications requiring high strength.
• Adjustable Weights: Used in fitness equipment, allowing users to customize the resistance level. These can be plate weights, screw-on weights, or magnetic weights.
• Clip-on Weights: Used for balancing tires and other rotating components.
• Dynamic Balancers: Used in high-speed rotating machinery to automatically adjust balance weights based on vibration measurements.

Balance weights refer to weights used in weighing machinery to determine mass. Based on the provided information, the following HS codes are relevant:

• 8423901000: This HS code covers “Parts of weighing machinery using electronic means for gauging weight, excluding parts of machines for weighing motor vehicles”. This includes parts utilizing electronic sensors to measure weight. The first two digits, '84', indicate Chapter 84, which pertains to Nuclear reactors, boilers, machinery and mechanical appliances; parts thereof. '23' denotes Heading 23, specifically covering Weighing machinery and weights; parts of weighing machinery. '9010' represents the Subheading for Parts of weighing machinery using electronic means for gauging weight.
• 8423909000: This HS code covers “Other” parts of weighing machinery. This is a broader category encompassing parts not specifically defined elsewhere within the 8423 heading. The first two digits, '84', indicate Chapter 84, pertaining to Nuclear reactors, boilers, machinery and mechanical appliances; parts thereof. '23' denotes Heading 23, specifically covering Weighing machinery and weights; parts of weighing machinery. '9090' represents the Subheading for Other.
• 9016002000: This HS code covers “Balances of a sensitivity of 5 cg or better, with or without weights; parts and accessories thereof: Electrical balances and parts and accessories thereof”. This includes electrical balances used for precise measurements, with or without accompanying weights. The first two digits, '90', indicate Chapter 90, pertaining to Optical, precision, medical, surgical, photographic, cinematographic, measuring, checking, precision, medical or surgical instruments and apparatus; parts and accessories thereof. '16' denotes Heading 16, specifically covering Balances of a sensitivity of 5 cg or better, with or without weights; parts and accessories thereof. '0020' represents the Subheading for Electrical balances and parts and accessories thereof.
• 9016006000: This HS code covers “Balances of a sensitivity of 5 cg or better, with or without weights; parts and accessories thereof: Other”. This is a broader category for balances with a sensitivity of 5 cg or better, and their parts, not specifically classified elsewhere. The first two digits, '90', indicate Chapter 90, pertaining to Optical, precision, medical, surgical, photographic, cinematographic, measuring, checking, precision, medical or surgical instruments and apparatus; parts and accessories thereof. '16' denotes Heading 16, specifically covering Balances of a sensitivity of 5 cg or better, with or without weights; parts and accessories thereof. '0060' represents the Subheading for Other.

Regarding these HS codes, please note the varying tariff rates. HS codes 9016002000 and 9016006000 both have a base tariff of 3.9% and an additional tariff of 25.0%, increasing to 30.0% after April 2, 2025. HS codes 8423901000 and 8423909000 have a base tariff of 0.0% and 2.8% respectively, with an additional tariff of 25.0%, increasing to 30.0% after April 2, 2025.