Find HS Code and trade information for lce maker

Ice Maker

An ice maker is a machine used to create ice. It exists in various forms, ranging from small countertop units for residential use to large, complex systems for commercial applications.

Materials

Ice makers utilize several key materials in their construction:

• Refrigerant: Typically, fluorinated hydrocarbons (like R-134a or newer, more environmentally friendly alternatives) are used as the cooling agent within the refrigeration cycle.
• Metal: Stainless steel is commonly used for water reservoirs, ice storage bins, and components exposed to water to prevent corrosion and maintain hygiene. Aluminum is also used for heat exchangers.
• Plastic: Various plastics, including ABS and polypropylene, are employed for housing, water trays, and non-critical components.
• Insulation: Foam insulation is used to minimize heat transfer and improve energy efficiency.
• Electrical Components: Include motors, compressors, control boards, sensors, and wiring.

Purpose

The primary purpose of an ice maker is to produce ice for cooling beverages, food preservation, or other applications requiring chilled temperatures.

Function

Ice makers operate based on the principles of thermodynamics and the refrigeration cycle:

1. Water Supply: Water is supplied to the ice maker.
2. Freezing: A refrigerant circulates through the ice maker, absorbing heat from the water and causing it to freeze into ice cubes, nuggets, or other shapes.
3. Harvesting: Once frozen, the ice is separated from the freezing mold or chamber. This can be achieved through various methods (see "Common Types" below).
4. Storage: The harvested ice is stored in a bin for later use.
5. Automatic Operation: Most ice makers are automated, with sensors that detect water levels and ice bin fullness, controlling the freezing and harvesting cycles.

Usage Scenarios

• Residential: Countertop ice makers are used in homes for everyday ice needs, parties, or recreational activities. Refrigerator ice makers are integrated into refrigerators for convenient ice access.
• Commercial: Restaurants, bars, hotels, hospitals, and convenience stores utilize commercial ice makers to meet high ice demand.
• Industrial: Large-scale ice makers are used in food processing, chemical manufacturing, and other industrial applications.
• Marine: Ice makers are employed on boats and ships for food preservation and beverage cooling.

Common Types

• Countertop Ice Makers: Compact, portable units that produce ice relatively quickly. They typically require manual refilling of the water reservoir.
• Refrigerator Ice Makers: Integrated into refrigerators, these units automatically produce ice and store it in a dedicated bin.
• Portable Ice Makers: Similar to countertop models but often with enhanced portability features.
• Flake Ice Makers: Produce small, thin flakes of ice, ideal for food displays and cooling applications where rapid cooling is required.
• Cube Ice Makers: Produce traditional ice cubes, commonly used in beverages.
• Nugget Ice Makers: Produce soft, chewable ice nuggets, popular in restaurants and healthcare facilities.
• Sonic Ice Makers: A specific type of nugget ice maker producing pebble-shaped ice.
• Industrial Ice Makers: Large-capacity machines capable of producing significant amounts of ice for commercial or industrial applications. These may utilize different freezing technologies and harvesting mechanisms.

Harvesting Methods

• Thermal Harvesting: Uses a warm gas to melt a thin layer of ice, releasing the cubes.
• Mechanical Harvesting: Employs mechanical arms or blades to separate the ice cubes from the mold.
• Dual-Temperature Harvesting: Uses a combination of thermal and mechanical methods.

Ice Maker Classification and Tariff Information

Based on the provided information, the classification of “Ice maker” falls under refrigeration equipment. Here's a detailed breakdown of relevant HS codes and associated tariff details:

• 8418.69.01.10: This HS code covers Refrigerators, freezers and other refrigerating or freezing equipment, electric or other; heat pumps, other than the air conditioning machines of heading 8415; parts thereof: Other refrigerating or freezing equipment; heat pumps: Other Icemaking machines. This specifically identifies other icemaking machines. The base tariff is 0.0%, with an additional tariff of 25.0% and a further increase to 30.0% after April 2, 2025. The total tariff rate is 55.0%.

• 8418.69.01.80: This HS code covers Other refrigerating or freezing equipment. While broader than the previous code, it still applies to icemaking machines as a subset. The base tariff is 0.0%, with an additional tariff of 25.0% and a further increase to 30.0% after April 2, 2025. The total tariff rate is 55.0%.

Explanation of HS Code Structure (based on provided data):

• 84: This chapter covers Nuclear reactors, boilers, machinery and mechanical appliances; parts thereof.
• 8418: This heading specifically covers Refrigerators, freezers and other refrigerating or freezing equipment.
• 8418.69: This subheading covers Other refrigerating or freezing equipment.
• 8418.69.01: This further specifies the type of other refrigerating or freezing equipment.
• 8418.69.01.10 / 8418.69.01.80: These provide even more specific classifications within the "Other" category.

Important Note:

The provided reference material indicates that tariffs for these HS codes are subject to change. An additional tariff of 30.0% will be applied after April 2, 2025. Please factor this into your customs planning.