Find HS Code and trade information for barometer

Barometer

A barometer is an instrument used to measure atmospheric pressure. Atmospheric pressure is the weight of the air above a given point, and barometers are essential tools in weather forecasting, altitude determination, and various scientific applications.

Materials & Construction

Barometers historically and currently utilize a variety of materials.

• Mercury Barometers: These traditional barometers employ a glass tube, typically around 85 cm long, closed at one end and filled with mercury. The tube is inverted into a reservoir of mercury (a mercury pool).
• Aneroid Barometers: These utilize a small, flexible metal box called an aneroid cell (corrugated metal bellows) that is partially evacuated of air. Changes in atmospheric pressure cause the cell to expand or contract.
• Digital Barometers: Modern digital barometers employ electronic pressure sensors. These sensors often use silicon-based technology.
• Other Materials: Glass, brass, aluminum, and various plastics are used for housings, dials, and supporting structures.

Purpose & Function

The primary purpose of a barometer is to measure atmospheric pressure.

• Weather Forecasting: Falling pressure generally indicates approaching low-pressure systems and inclement weather (storms, rain). Rising pressure usually signifies improving weather conditions.
• Altitude Determination: Atmospheric pressure decreases with increasing altitude. Barometers can be calibrated to estimate altitude, making them useful in aviation and hiking.
• Scientific Research: Used in meteorology, climatology, and physics for various measurements and studies related to atmospheric conditions.
• Industrial Applications: Used in various industrial processes where precise pressure monitoring is required.

Usage Scenarios

• Home Weather Stations: Commonly used by amateur meteorologists to track weather patterns.
• Aircraft: Essential instruments for pilots to determine altitude and monitor atmospheric conditions.
• Ships & Marine Navigation: Used for weather forecasting and navigation.
• Laboratories & Research Facilities: Employed for precise pressure measurements in experiments.
• Hiking & Mountaineering: Used to estimate altitude and track changes in atmospheric pressure.

Common Types

• Mercury Barometer: The oldest type, known for its accuracy but containing hazardous mercury. Less common today due to environmental concerns.
• Aneroid Barometer: The most common type for general use. Portable, does not contain liquids, and relatively accurate. Requires periodic calibration.
• Digital Barometer: Provides highly accurate readings and often includes additional features like data logging and temperature measurement. Commonly found in smartphones and weather stations.
• Altimeter: A type of aneroid barometer specifically calibrated to indicate altitude above a reference level (usually sea level).
• Barograph: A recording barometer that continuously records atmospheric pressure variations over time on a chart.

Barometers are instruments used for measuring atmospheric pressure. Based on the provided information, relevant HS codes are as follows:

• 9026204000: This HS code falls under Chapter 90, which covers Instruments and apparatus for measuring or checking the flow, level, pressure or other variables of liquids or gases. Specifically, it relates to instruments for measuring or checking pressure that are electrical. Examples include flow meters, level gauges, and manometers. The total tax rate is 55.0%, comprised of a 0.0% base tariff and a 25.0% additional tariff, increasing to 30% after April 2, 2025.
• 9026208000: Also within Chapter 90, this HS code covers instruments for measuring or checking pressure, but categorizes those that are not electrical. Like 9026204000, examples include flow meters, level gauges, and manometers. The total tax rate is 37.5%, consisting of a 0.0% base tariff and a 7.5% additional tariff, rising to 30% after April 2, 2025.
• 9032200000: This HS code is under Chapter 90 and covers automatic regulating or controlling instruments and apparatus, specifically Manostats. The total tax rate is 55.0%, with a 0.0% base tariff and a 25.0% additional tariff, increasing to 30% after April 2, 2025.

Regarding these HS codes, please note that the additional tariff will change to 30% after April 2, 2025. It is important to determine whether the barometer is electrical or not to select the correct HS code (9026204000 or 9026208000). If the barometer functions as an automatic regulating or controlling instrument, HS code 9032200000 may be applicable.