Find HS Code and trade information for cast aluminum road studs

Cast Aluminum Road Studs

Definition: Cast aluminum road studs, also known as road markers or pavement markers, are safety devices embedded in road surfaces to provide visual guidance to drivers, particularly at night or in adverse weather conditions. They delineate lane boundaries, indicate edges of roadways, and highlight specific areas like crosswalks or turn lanes.

Material:

• Aluminum Body: Typically manufactured from cast aluminum alloys (often A380 alloy due to its durability and corrosion resistance). The aluminum provides a robust and weather-resistant housing.
• Retroreflective Material: Crucially, the upper surface incorporates retroreflective elements. These are commonly glass beads or microprismatic sheeting. These materials reflect a significant portion of headlight beams back towards the source, making the stud highly visible. Higher grades utilize larger or more numerous retroreflectors for increased visibility.
• Binder/Adhesive: A strong epoxy or polyurethane-based adhesive secures the stud to the road surface.
• (Optional) Rubber Pad: Some designs incorporate a rubber pad between the aluminum base and the road surface to provide cushioning and improve adhesion.

Purpose:

• Lane Guidance: The primary function is to define traffic lanes, aiding drivers in maintaining proper positioning, especially in low visibility.
• Edge Delineation: Mark the edges of roadways, preventing drivers from inadvertently leaving the paved surface.
• Hazard Marking: Highlight potentially dangerous areas like intersections, crosswalks, pedestrian crossings, and curves.
• Temporary Traffic Control: Used in construction zones or for temporary lane configurations.
• Improved Safety: Reduce nighttime and inclement weather accidents by providing clear visual cues.

Function:

Road studs function by reflecting light from vehicle headlights back towards the driver. The retroreflective material is designed to maximize this reflection, even at oblique angles. The studs are strategically placed to create a continuous visual line, guiding the driver along the intended path. The robust construction ensures they remain firmly embedded in the pavement, withstanding traffic loads and weathering.

Usage Scenarios:

• Highways and Freeways: Extensive use for lane demarcation and edge delineation.
• Rural Roads: Enhance visibility on roads with limited lighting.
• City Streets: Used in intersections, crosswalks, and areas with complex traffic patterns.
• Construction Zones: Temporary lane markings and hazard warnings.
• Airports: Runway and taxiway markings.
• Parking Lots: Define parking spaces and traffic flow.

Common Types:

• Single-Lens Studs: Feature a single retroreflective lens. Generally the most economical option.
• Double-Lens Studs: Offer increased retroreflectivity due to two lenses. Provide better visibility in challenging conditions.
• Bi-Directional Studs: Reflect light from both sides, useful for reversible lanes or areas where vehicles may approach from multiple directions.
• Uni-Directional Studs: Reflect light in a single direction, optimized for one-way traffic.
• Active Reflective Studs (Solar Powered): Incorporate solar panels and LEDs to provide brighter, more consistent illumination, particularly useful in areas with frequent fog or rain.
• Delineator Studs: Larger studs used for more prominent lane guidance, often used in construction zones.
• Temporary Studs: Designed for short-term installations, often with adhesive backing for easy removal.
• Raised Pavement Markers (RPMs): While sometimes used interchangeably with "road studs," RPMs often refer to plastic-bodied markers with retroreflective sheeting. Cast aluminum studs are generally more durable.

Cast aluminum road studs fall under articles of aluminum. Here are the relevant HS codes based on the provided reference material:

• 7616.99.51.60: This HS code covers “Other articles of aluminum: Other: Other: Other: Castings”. The two-digit sections represent:

  • 76: Aluminum and aluminum articles.
  • 16: Aluminum articles.
  • 99: Other.
  • 51: Other.
  • 60: Castings. The total tax rate for this HS code is 57.5%, comprising a 2.5% base tariff, a 25.0% additional tariff, and a 30.0% additional tariff applicable after April 2, 2025.

• 7325.99.10.00: This HS code covers “Other cast articles of iron or steel: Other: Other: Of cast iron”. While primarily for iron or steel castings, it's included as road studs could potentially be manufactured using cast iron as an alternative material. The two-digit sections represent:

  • 73: Articles of iron or steel.
  • 25: Cast iron.
  • 99: Other.
  • 10: Other.
  • 00: Of cast iron. The total tax rate for this HS code is 80.0%, comprising a 0.0% base tariff, a 25.0% additional tariff, and a 30.0% additional tariff applicable after April 2, 2025.

• 7325.99.50.00: This HS code covers “Other cast articles of iron or steel: Other: Other: Other”. Similar to the previous HS code, it's included as road studs could potentially be manufactured using cast steel as an alternative material. The two-digit sections represent:

  • 73: Articles of iron or steel.
  • 25: Cast iron.
  • 99: Other.
  • 50: Other.
  • 00: Other. The total tax rate for this HS code is 82.9%, comprising a 2.9% base tariff, a 25.0% additional tariff, and a 30.0% additional tariff applicable after April 2, 2025.

Regarding HS code 7616.99.51.60, please note that the description specifically mentions "castings". Ensure the road studs are indeed manufactured via a casting process to align with this HS code classification.