Find HS Code and trade information for grease traps

Grease Traps

A grease trap, also known as a grease interceptor, is a plumbing device designed to prevent fats, oils, and grease (FOG) from entering a wastewater drainage system. These materials can solidify and cause blockages in sewer lines, leading to costly repairs and environmental issues.

Material

Grease traps are commonly constructed from the following materials:

• Cast Iron: Traditional material, durable but heavy and prone to corrosion.
• Stainless Steel: Offers excellent corrosion resistance and longevity, often used in commercial applications.
• Polypropylene: A lightweight and cost-effective plastic, suitable for residential and light commercial use.
• PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): Another plastic option, generally used for smaller, residential traps.

Purpose

The primary purpose of a grease trap is to:

• Prevent Sewer Blockages: By separating FOG from wastewater before it enters the sewer system.
• Comply with Regulations: Many municipalities require grease traps for food service establishments to prevent environmental contamination.
• Reduce Wastewater Treatment Costs: FOG can significantly increase the cost and complexity of wastewater treatment.
• Protect the Environment: Preventing FOG from entering the environment through sewer overflows.

Function

Grease traps function based on the principle of gravity separation. Wastewater enters the trap, and due to the density difference between FOG and water, the FOG rises to the top, while solids settle at the bottom. The relatively clear wastewater in the middle layer is then discharged to the sewer system. Regular cleaning is essential to remove accumulated FOG and solids.

Usage Scenarios

• Commercial Kitchens: Restaurants, cafeterias, hotels, and other food service establishments are the most common users.
• Residential Kitchens: Increasingly common, particularly in homes with frequently used kitchen sinks and dishwashers.
• Automotive Repair Shops: Used to intercept oil and grease from vehicle maintenance activities.
• Industrial Facilities: Any facility that generates wastewater containing significant amounts of FOG.

Common Types

• Under-Sink Grease Traps: Small, self-contained units installed directly under a kitchen sink. Suitable for low-volume applications.
• Under-Counter Grease Traps: Larger than under-sink models, designed for moderate-volume applications.
• Floor-Mounted Grease Traps: Typically used in commercial kitchens, offering larger capacity.
• Outdoor Grease Traps: Installed outside the building, often used for high-volume applications. Can be above-ground or buried.
• Automatic Grease Recovery Units (AGRUs): Self-cleaning units that automatically separate and collect FOG. More expensive but require less manual maintenance.
• Passive (Hydraulic) Grease Traps: Rely on gravity and the density difference between FOG and water for separation.
• Enzyme-Based Grease Traps: Utilize enzymes to break down FOG, often used as a supplemental treatment.

Grease traps are typically used in commercial kitchens and food processing facilities to intercept fats, oils, and grease (FOG) from wastewater before it enters the sewer system. They prevent blockages and environmental contamination. Based on the provided reference material, the following HS codes may be relevant:

• 3926901600: This HS code covers “Other articles of plastics and articles of other materials of headings 3901 to 3914: Other: Pacifiers”. While seemingly unrelated, if the grease trap incorporates plastic components as a significant part of its construction, this code could apply. The base tariff is 3.1%, with an additional 7.5% surcharge, increasing to 30% after April 2, 2025, resulting in a total tariff of 40.6%.

• 3926909940: This HS code covers “Other articles of plastics and articles of other materials of headings 3901 to 3914: Other: Other Covers, rings and frames for manholes; catch basins; drainage gates and frames thereof; cleanout covers and frames thereof; valve, service and meter boxes”. If the grease trap includes covers, frames, or similar components made of plastic or other materials, this code may be applicable. The tariff structure is 5.3% base, 7.5% surcharge, and 30% after April 2, 2025, totaling 42.8%.

• 7326908688: This HS code covers “Other articles of iron or steel: Other: Other: Other: Other”. If the grease trap is primarily constructed of iron or steel, this code is potentially relevant. The base tariff is 2.9%, with a 25% surcharge, increasing to 30% after April 2, 2025, and an additional 25% surcharge on steel and aluminum products, resulting in a total tariff of 82.9%.

According to the provided reference material, the HS code options related to 'grease traps' are limited, with only the following 3 found.

It is important to note that the final HS code classification will depend on the specific materials used in the construction of the grease trap and its intended function. If the grease trap is made of a combination of materials, it may be necessary to consult with a customs broker or relevant authority to determine the correct classification.