Find HS Code and trade information for vacuum insulated food thermos

Vacuum Insulated Food Thermos

A vacuum insulated food thermos, commonly referred to as a thermos, is a portable container designed to maintain the temperature of its contents for extended periods, whether hot or cold. It achieves this through significant advancements in insulation technology.

Materials

• Inner Vessel: Typically constructed from stainless steel (grades 304 or 316) due to its durability, resistance to corrosion, and non-reactivity with food and beverages. Double-walled construction is fundamental.
• Outer Vessel: Often stainless steel, but can also be plastic or other impact-resistant materials. Provides structural support and protection.
• Vacuum Layer: The space between the inner and outer walls is evacuated to create a vacuum, significantly reducing heat transfer by conduction and convection. This is the core insulating element.
• Copper Coating: Many high-quality thermoses feature a thin layer of copper plated onto the inner surface of the outer wall. Copper further minimizes radiant heat transfer.
• Seals & Lids: Constructed from materials like silicone, polypropylene, or other food-grade plastics, designed for a tight, leak-proof seal.
• Exterior Coating: Powder coating or other finishes applied to the exterior for durability, grip, and aesthetic appeal.

Purpose

The primary purpose of a vacuum insulated thermos is to preserve the temperature of food or beverages for hours, independent of ambient temperature. This is useful for:

• Keeping hot foods hot (soups, stews, coffee, tea).
• Keeping cold foods cold (iced drinks, salads, yogurt).
• Transporting liquids without significant temperature fluctuation.

Function

The thermos functions based on three principles of heat transfer mitigation:

• Conduction: The vacuum layer eliminates direct contact between the inner and outer walls, preventing heat transfer via direct contact.
• Convection: The vacuum prevents air movement within the container, eliminating convective heat loss or gain.
• Radiation: The copper coating (when present) reflects radiant heat, further minimizing heat transfer.

The tight seal of the lid prevents air exchange, which would introduce heat or cold from the external environment.

Usage Scenarios

• Outdoor Activities: Hiking, camping, picnics, fishing, sporting events.
• Commuting: Transporting coffee or lunch to work or school.
• Travel: Maintaining beverage temperature during long journeys.
• Everyday Use: Keeping beverages hot or cold at home or in the office.
• Baby Food: Maintaining the temperature of formula or baby food.

Common Types

• Stainless Steel Thermoses: The most common type, known for durability and ease of cleaning.
• Plastic Thermoses: Lighter weight and often more affordable, but generally less durable and may retain odors.
• Food Jars: Wider-mouthed thermoses specifically designed for solid foods.
• Coffee Thermoses: Optimized for coffee, often with specialized pouring mechanisms.
• Sports Thermoses: Designed for active use, often with one-handed pouring and impact-resistant construction.
• Smart Thermoses: Incorporate temperature displays or other electronic features.
• Pump Thermoses: Feature a pump mechanism for easy dispensing of liquids.

Based on the material, use, and application scenarios, a vacuum insulated food thermos falls under the category of vessels designed to maintain the temperature of food or beverages.

Here are the relevant HS codes from the provided reference material:

• 9617001000: Vacuum flasks and other vacuum vessels, complete; parts thereof other than glass inners: Vessels: Having a capacity not exceeding 1 liter. This HS code specifically covers vacuum flasks (thermoses) with a capacity of 1 liter or less.

  • 96: Chapter 96 – Miscellaneous manufactured articles. This chapter includes a variety of manufactured articles not covered in other chapters.
  • 17: Heading 9617 – Vacuum flasks and other vacuum vessels; parts thereof. This heading specifically addresses vacuum flasks and related components.
  • 001000: Subheading 9617.00.10 – Vessels: Having a capacity not exceeding 1 liter. This further specifies the type of vessel covered – those with a capacity of 1 liter or less.

• 9617003000: Vacuum flasks and other vacuum vessels, complete; parts thereof other than glass inners: Vessels: Having a capacity exceeding 1 liter but not exceeding 2 liters. This HS code covers vacuum flasks (thermoses) with a capacity between 1 and 2 liters.

  • 96: Chapter 96 – Miscellaneous manufactured articles.
  • 17: Heading 9617 – Vacuum flasks and other vacuum vessels; parts thereof.
  • 003000: Subheading 9617.00.30 – Vessels: Having a capacity exceeding 1 liter but not exceeding 2 liters. This specifies vessels with a capacity between 1 and 2 liters.

Please note that the capacity of the vacuum insulated food thermos is crucial for determining the correct HS code. If the capacity is 1 liter or less, use 9617001000. If it is between 1 and 2 liters, use 9617003000.