Find HS Code and trade information for car hydraulic shock

Hydraulic Shock Absorber (Automotive)

A hydraulic shock absorber is a vital component of a vehicle's suspension system, designed to control spring and suspension movement. It mitigates the effects of impacts, bumps, and vibrations experienced during vehicle operation, enhancing ride quality and maintaining tire contact with the road.

Material Composition:

• Cylinder: Typically constructed from steel alloys for durability and resistance to pressure.
• Piston Rod: Usually made of hardened steel, often chrome-plated to resist corrosion and wear.
• Seals: Commonly utilize materials like nitrile rubber, Viton, or PTFE (Teflon) to prevent fluid leakage and maintain pressure.
• Hydraulic Fluid: A specialized oil, often a multi-grade petroleum-based fluid, formulated for consistent viscosity across a range of temperatures. Synthetic fluids are also used in high-performance applications.
• Reservoir (in some designs): Steel or aluminum.
• Valving Components: Steel alloys, designed for precise fluid control.

Purpose & Function:

The primary purpose of a hydraulic shock absorber is to dampen the motion of the vehicle's springs. When a vehicle encounters a bump, the springs compress and rebound. Without shock absorbers, this spring oscillation would continue for an extended period, resulting in a bouncy ride and reduced control.

The shock absorber achieves damping by forcing hydraulic fluid through small openings (valves) within the piston. This restriction converts kinetic energy into thermal energy (heat), which is dissipated. The rate at which fluid is allowed to flow controls the damping force.

Key functions include:

• Reducing body roll: Minimizing leaning during cornering.
• Maintaining tire contact: Ensuring consistent contact between tires and the road surface for optimal braking and steering.
• Improving ride comfort: Absorbing road irregularities.
• Enhancing vehicle stability: Controlling vehicle movement during acceleration, braking, and turning.

Usage Scenarios:

Hydraulic shock absorbers are integral to all vehicles with a suspension system, including:

• Passenger cars: Standard equipment for everyday driving.
• Trucks and SUVs: Heavier duty shock absorbers are used to manage increased weight and payload.
• Off-road vehicles: Specialized shock absorbers with adjustable damping and increased travel are common.
• Racing vehicles: High-performance shock absorbers are crucial for precise handling and control.
• Motorcycles: Used in front and rear suspension systems.

Common Types:

• Twin-Tube Shock Absorbers: The most common type. Consists of an inner cylinder (piston) and an outer cylinder. Fluid flows between the two. Relatively inexpensive and effective.
• Mono-Tube Shock Absorbers: Feature a single cylinder with a floating piston separating the fluid and gas chambers. Generally offer better performance and heat dissipation than twin-tube designs.
• Gas-Charged Shock Absorbers: Utilize nitrogen gas to reduce fluid cavitation (formation of bubbles) and improve damping consistency. Often used in performance applications.
• Adjustable Shock Absorbers: Allow users to modify damping characteristics (compression and/or rebound) to suit different driving conditions or preferences.
• Remote Reservoir Shock Absorbers: Feature an external reservoir to increase fluid capacity and improve heat dissipation. Common in off-road and racing applications.
• Electronic/Adaptive Shock Absorbers: Utilize sensors and electronic controls to automatically adjust damping based on road conditions and driving style.

Car hydraulic shocks fall under parts and accessories of motor vehicles. Here's a breakdown of relevant HS codes based on the provided information:

• 8708.80.05.00: This HS code covers parts and accessories of motor vehicles (headings 8701 to 8705), specifically suspension systems and parts thereof (including shock absorbers). It is further defined as suspension systems (including shock absorbers) for tractors suitable for agricultural use – other. The basic tariff is 0.0%, with an additional tariff of 25.0%, increasing to 30% after April 2, 2025, resulting in a total tariff of 55.0%.

• 7320.10.30.00: This HS code covers springs and leaves for springs, of iron or steel, specifically leaf springs and leaves therefor suitable for motor vehicle suspension, to be used in motor vehicles having a G.V.W. not exceeding 4 metric tons. The basic tariff is 3.2%, with an additional tariff of 25.0%, increasing to 30% after April 2, 2025, and a further 25% tariff on steel and aluminum products, resulting in a total tariff of 83.2%.

• 7320.10.60.15: This HS code covers springs and leaves for springs, of iron or steel, specifically leaf springs and leaves therefor suitable for motor vehicle suspension – other leaf springs having individual leaves with a thickness of 1.6 mm or more and leaves therefor. The basic tariff is 3.2%, with an additional tariff of 25.0%, increasing to 30% after April 2, 2025, and a further 25% tariff on steel and aluminum products, resulting in a total tariff of 83.2%.

Regarding HS codes 7320.10.30.00 and 7320.10.60.15, please note the need to verify the material (steel or aluminum) and the Gross Vehicle Weight (G.V.W.) of the vehicle the springs are intended for.