Find HS Code and trade information for induction wood moisture meter

Induction Wood Moisture Meter

An induction wood moisture meter is a non-destructive instrument used to measure the moisture content of wood without penetrating the surface. It utilizes electromagnetic fields to determine the dielectric properties of the wood, which correlate to its water content.

Material & Principle of Operation

These meters employ a sensor plate that generates an electromagnetic field. When the sensor is placed on the wood surface, the field interacts with the water molecules within the wood. The meter measures changes in the field’s impedance, capacitance, or frequency, which are then converted into a moisture content reading, typically displayed as a percentage (%). Unlike pin-type meters, they do not require physical insertion of probes into the wood. The technology relies on the fact that water has a much higher dielectric constant than dry wood.

Purpose & Function

The primary purpose is to accurately and quickly assess the moisture level in wood. This is crucial for:

• Woodworkers: Ensuring wood is properly seasoned before use to prevent warping, cracking, or glue failure.
• Flooring Installers: Verifying subfloor moisture levels to avoid issues with hardwood flooring installation.
• Construction Professionals: Assessing moisture content in framing lumber, joists, and other structural wood components.
• Home Inspectors: Identifying potential moisture problems in buildings.
• Kiln Operators: Monitoring the drying process of wood.

The function is to provide a rapid, non-damaging reading of moisture content throughout the wood's thickness, to a certain depth. Readings are generally taken on the flat grain surface of the wood.

Usage Scenarios

• On-site measurement: Due to their portability, they are widely used directly at the work location.
• Batch testing: Quickly checking moisture levels across multiple pieces of lumber or flooring.
• Hidden moisture detection: While not as effective as other methods for deeply embedded moisture, they can indicate surface moisture issues.
• Monitoring during wood processing: Tracking moisture changes during air drying or kiln drying.

Common Types & Features

• Basic Models: Offer a simple moisture content reading with a limited range of wood species settings.
• Advanced Models: Include features such as:
  • Multiple Wood Species Settings: Account for variations in wood density and composition.
  • Temperature Compensation: Adjust readings based on ambient temperature for greater accuracy.
  • Data Hold Function: Freezes the reading for easy recording.
  • Backlight Display: For use in low-light conditions.
  • Calibration Adjustment: Allows for fine-tuning of the meter’s accuracy.
  • Pin Mode: Some models combine induction technology with traditional pin probes for versatility.
  • Surface Temperature Reading: Integrated sensors to measure the wood's surface temperature.
• Wide Range Models: Designed for measuring moisture in a broader variety of materials beyond wood.

Limitations

• Surface Readings: Only measures moisture near the surface; may not accurately reflect the moisture content throughout the entire piece of wood.
• Wood Species Dependence: Accuracy can be affected by the type of wood being measured; proper species selection is crucial.
• Paint/Coatings: Paint, varnish, or other coatings can interfere with the readings.
• Metallic Interference: Presence of metal near the measurement point can cause inaccurate results.
• Not suitable for very wet wood: Extremely high moisture content can exceed the meter’s measurement range.

Based on the provided information, the declared goods, “induction wood moisture meter”, can be classified under the following HS codes:

• 4417.00.80.90: This HS code falls under Chapter 44, which covers Tools, tool bodies, tool handles, broom or brush bodies and handles, of wood; boot or shoe lasts and trees, of wood. Specifically, it represents “Other” within this category. This could apply if the moisture meter incorporates wood components in its construction. The tax rate is 5.1% basic tariff, 25.0% additional tariff, and 30.0% additional tariff after April 2, 2025, resulting in a total tax rate of 60.1%.

• 9031.80.80.85: This HS code is under Chapter 90, covering Measuring or checking instruments, appliances and machines, not specified or included elsewhere in this chapter; profile projectors; parts and accessories thereof. It specifically refers to “Other instruments, appliances and machines: Other”. Given the function of measuring moisture content, this HS code is applicable. The tax rate is 0.0% basic tariff, 0.0% additional tariff, and 30.0% additional tariff after April 2, 2025, resulting in a total tax rate of 30.0%.

According to the provided reference material, the HS code options related to 'induction wood moisture meter' are limited, with only the following 2 found.

It is important to note that the final HS code classification should be determined based on the specific materials, construction, and intended use of the induction wood moisture meter. If the meter contains significant plastic components, HS code 3926.90.99.10 might also be relevant, but this would require further investigation of the product's composition.