Find HS Code and trade information for level vial

Level Vial

A level vial, also known as a spirit level vial or simply a level, is a transparent tube, typically glass, containing a liquid – historically spirits like alcohol, hence the name, but now often mineral oil or other colored liquids – used to indicate whether a surface is perfectly horizontal (level) or perfectly vertical (plumb).

Material:

• Tube: Traditionally glass, though acrylic or plastic are also used, particularly in more affordable models. Glass offers greater clarity and resistance to deformation.
• Liquid: Mineral oil is most common due to its low viscosity, stability, and clarity. Colored liquids (often red or green) are added for increased visibility. Alcohol was used historically, but is less common now due to evaporation and flammability concerns.
• End Caps: Typically metal (aluminum, brass) or durable plastic, sealing the tube and providing mounting points.
• Frame/Housing: The vial is typically housed within a frame made of metal (aluminum, steel) or plastic, providing structural support and mounting features.

Purpose:

The primary purpose of a level vial is to establish a true horizontal or vertical reference plane. This is critical in a wide range of applications where precise alignment is necessary.

Function:

The function of a level vial relies on the principles of gravity and fluid dynamics.

• Air Bubble: The vial is partially filled with liquid, leaving an air bubble.
• Gravity's Effect: When the vial is held level, gravity causes the air bubble to rise to the highest point within the vial.
• Center Markings: Markings (typically lines or rings) are etched onto the vial to indicate the center point. When the air bubble is centered between these markings, the surface is considered level. Slight deviations from level will cause the bubble to move away from the center.

Usage Scenarios:

• Construction: Ensuring foundations, walls, floors, and roofs are level and plumb.
• Carpentry: Aligning shelves, cabinets, and other wooden structures.
• Plumbing: Installing pipes and drains with correct slope for proper water flow.
• Masonry: Laying bricks and stones evenly.
• HVAC: Installing ductwork and equipment with proper alignment.
• Photography/Videography: Maintaining a stable horizon line in compositions.
• DIY Projects: A wide range of home improvement and craft applications.

Common Types:

• Standard Level Vials: These are the most common type, typically featuring one or more vials to indicate both horizontal and vertical levels.
• Bullseye Level Vials: These have a circular vial with markings around the center, providing a 360-degree view of level. Often used for precise leveling in tight spaces.
• Torpedo Level Vials: Compact and often magnetic, ideal for working in confined areas and on metal surfaces.
• Post Level Vials: Designed to attach to posts or other vertical structures for easy leveling.
• Digital Level Vials: Utilize electronic sensors to provide a precise digital readout of the angle of inclination, often with features like audible alerts and data storage.
• Line Levels: A small vial suspended from a string, used for establishing a level line over a longer distance.

Level vials fall under several potential classifications based on their specific characteristics and applications as detailed in the provided documentation.

• 9017.80.00.00: This HS code covers “Other instruments.” The tax details are: Basic tariff: 5.3%, Additional tariff: 25.0%, Additional tariff after April 2, 2025: 30.0%. The total tariff is 60.3%. This is a broad category and may apply if the vial is considered a general measuring instrument.

• 9017.30.80.00: This HS code covers “Drawing, marking-out or mathematical calculating instruments (for example, drafting machines, pantographs, protractors, drawing sets, slide rules, disc calculators); instruments for measuring length, for use in the hand (for example, measuring rods and tapes, micrometers, calipers), not specified or included elsewhere in this chapter; parts and accessories thereof: Micrometers, calipers and gauges: Other”. The tax details are: Basic tariff: 3.9%, Additional tariff: 25.0%, Additional tariff after April 2, 2025: 30.0%. The total tariff is 58.9%. This could apply if the vial is used as a precision measuring tool in drafting or similar applications.

• 9031.80.80.85: This HS code covers “Measuring or checking instruments, appliances and machines, not specified or included elsewhere in this chapter; profile projectors; parts and accessories thereof: Other instruments, appliances and machines: Other Other”. The tax details are: Basic tariff: 0.0%, Additional tariff: 0.0%, Additional tariff after April 2, 2025: 30.0%. The total tariff is 30.0%. This is a general category for measuring instruments not specifically classified elsewhere.

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