Find HS Code and trade information for control card

Control Card

A control card is a component used in various industrial and automation systems to manage and operate machinery or processes. They serve as an interface between a human operator and the controlled equipment, typically utilizing a series of switches, buttons, potentiometers, and indicators.

Material

Control cards are constructed from a variety of materials depending on the application's requirements. Common materials include:

• Plastic: Often used for the card body and button/switch housings, providing electrical insulation and a degree of durability. Common plastics include ABS, polycarbonate, and nylon.
• Metal: Used for structural support, heat dissipation, and shielding. Aluminum and stainless steel are frequently employed.
• Electronic Components: Resistors, capacitors, integrated circuits, and other components are mounted on the card's printed circuit board (PCB).
• Wiring & Connectors: Used to establish electrical connections between the card and the controlled system.

Purpose

The primary purpose of a control card is to provide a centralized and organized method for controlling and monitoring equipment. They facilitate:

• Manual Operation: Allowing operators to directly start, stop, and adjust machine functions.
• System Monitoring: Displaying status information such as speed, temperature, pressure, and error codes.
• Safety Control: Implementing emergency stop functions and safety interlocks.
• Data Input: Providing a means for operators to input setpoints and parameters.

Function

Control cards function by interpreting operator inputs and translating them into electrical signals that control the connected equipment. This typically involves:

• Signal Conditioning: Modifying electrical signals to be compatible with the controlled system.
• Logic Control: Implementing control algorithms to determine the appropriate response to operator inputs.
• Communication: Transmitting and receiving data to and from a central control system (PLC, computer, etc.).
• Power Distribution: Providing power to the connected components.

Usage Scenarios

Control cards are used in a wide range of industries, including:

• Manufacturing: Controlling production lines, robots, and automated machinery.
• Power Generation: Managing power plant operations and monitoring system parameters.
• Oil & Gas: Controlling pipelines, pumps, and refining processes.
• Water Treatment: Controlling pumps, valves, and chemical dosing systems.
• HVAC: Controlling heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
• Transportation: Controlling railway signals, traffic lights, and vehicle systems.

Common Types

• Analog Control Cards: Utilize continuously variable signals (e.g., 4-20mA, 0-10V) to control equipment. Suitable for applications requiring precise control.
• Digital Control Cards: Utilize discrete signals (on/off) to control equipment. Suitable for applications requiring simple control.
• PLC Input/Output (I/O) Modules: While not strictly "control cards," these modules perform similar functions and are commonly used in PLC-based control systems.
• Human-Machine Interface (HMI) Panels: Combine control card functionality with a display screen and user interface software.
• Relay Control Cards: Use relays to switch electrical circuits on or off, providing isolation and control of high-power devices.
• Motion Control Cards: Specifically designed for controlling motors and other motion-related devices.

Based on the provided information, a “control card” can be classified under several HS codes, depending on its specific function and materials. Here’s a breakdown of potential classifications:

• 8537109160: This code covers boards, panels, consoles, desks, cabinets, and other bases equipped with two or more apparatus of heading 8535 or 8536 for electric control or distribution of electricity, including those incorporating instruments or apparatus of chapter 90, and numerical control apparatus (excluding switching apparatus of heading 8517). Specifically, it applies to items for a voltage not exceeding 1,000 V, categorized as “Other: Programmable controllers”. If the control card is integrated into a larger control system or panel, this HS code may be applicable.

  • Chapter 85: Electrical machinery and equipment.
  • Heading 8537: Control apparatus.
  • Subheading 853710: Control panels, switchgear and controlgear.
  • Subheading 85371091: For a voltage not exceeding 1,000 V.
  • Subheading 8537109160: Programmable controllers.

• 8537109170: Similar to the above, this code also covers boards, panels, consoles, desks, cabinets, and other bases equipped with two or more apparatus of heading 8535 or 8536 for electric control or distribution of electricity, including those incorporating instruments or apparatus of chapter 90, and numerical control apparatus (excluding switching apparatus of heading 8517). However, this code is for “Other: Other” items for a voltage not exceeding 1,000 V. If the control card is part of a control system but doesn’t fall under the “Programmable controllers” category, this HS code may be suitable.

  • Chapter 85: Electrical machinery and equipment.
  • Heading 8537: Control apparatus.
  • Subheading 853710: Control panels, switchgear and controlgear.
  • Subheading 85371091: For a voltage not exceeding 1,000 V.
  • Subheading 8537109170: Other.

• 9032896085: This code covers automatic regulating or controlling instruments and apparatus; parts and accessories thereof, specifically “Other instruments and apparatus: Other: Other”. If the control card functions as a standalone regulating or controlling instrument, this HS code could be applicable.

  • Chapter 90: Instruments and apparatus which measure or check physical or chemical quantities, or monitor or control such quantities.
  • Heading 9032: Automatic regulating or controlling instruments and apparatus.
  • Subheading 903289: Other instruments and apparatus.
  • Subheading 90328960: Other instruments and apparatus.
  • Subheading 9032896085: Other.

• 9032896075: This code covers automatic regulating or controlling instruments and apparatus; parts and accessories thereof, specifically “Other instruments and apparatus: Other: Process control instruments and apparatus: Other: Other”. If the control card is specifically designed for process control applications, this HS code may be appropriate.

  • Chapter 90: Instruments and apparatus which measure or check physical or chemical quantities, or monitor or control such quantities.
  • Heading 9032: Automatic regulating or controlling instruments and apparatus.
  • Subheading 903289: Other instruments and apparatus.
  • Subheading 90328960: Other instruments and apparatus.
  • Subheading 9032896075: Process control instruments and apparatus.

• 8538901000: This code covers parts suitable for use solely or principally with the apparatus of heading 8535, 8536 or 8537: Other: Printed circuit assemblies: Of an article of heading 8537 for one of the articles described in additional U.S. note 11 to chapter 85. If the control card is a printed circuit assembly specifically designed for use with control panels or systems under heading 8537, this HS code may be applicable.

  • Chapter 85: Electrical machinery and equipment.
  • Heading 8538: Parts suitable for use solely or principally with the apparatus of headings 8535, 8536 or 8537.
  • Subheading 853890: Other.
  • Subheading 85389010: Printed circuit assemblies.

According to the provided reference material, the HS code options related to 'control card' are limited, with only the following 5 found.