Find HS Code and trade information for wall panel buckle

Wall Panel Buckle

A wall panel buckle is a fastening component used to secure wall panels to a supporting structure, typically studs or furring strips. These buckles offer a concealed fixing method, creating a smooth, often seamless wall surface. They are commonly used in both interior and exterior wall systems.

Material

Wall panel buckles are manufactured from a variety of materials, selected based on the application's requirements for strength, corrosion resistance, and cost:

• Steel: Galvanized steel is frequently used for its strength and affordability. Stainless steel provides enhanced corrosion resistance, suitable for exterior or high-humidity environments.
• Aluminum: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, aluminum buckles are common in architectural applications and areas where weight is a concern.
• Plastic: Used for interior applications where corrosion is not a factor, offering cost-effectiveness and ease of installation.

Purpose

The primary purpose of a wall panel buckle is to:

• Secure Panels: Provide a robust and reliable connection between the wall panel and the underlying structure.
• Concealed Fastening: Offer a hidden fixing solution, improving the aesthetic appearance of the wall.
• Allow for Expansion and Contraction: Some designs accommodate thermal movement of the panels, preventing buckling or stress.
• Facilitate Installation and Removal: Enable relatively quick and easy installation and, if necessary, removal of wall panels for maintenance or replacement.

Function

Wall panel buckles typically function by:

• Mechanical Interlocking: A clip or bracket grips the edge of the panel and attaches to a receiving component on the supporting structure.
• Spring Action: Many buckles utilize spring steel to provide tension and secure the panel tightly.
• Snap-Fit Design: Some buckles employ a snap-fit mechanism for quick and tool-less installation.
• Screw or Nail Fixation: Buckles are often secured to the supporting structure using screws or nails.

Usage Scenarios

• Interior Wall Cladding: Used in commercial and residential buildings for decorative and functional wall finishes.
• Exterior Wall Systems: Employed in rainscreen cladding, metal siding, and other exterior wall constructions.
• Acoustic Panels: Secure acoustic panels to walls and ceilings to improve sound absorption.
• Modular Wall Systems: Integral to the assembly of prefabricated or modular wall panels.
• Cleanroom Construction: Used in cleanroom environments where a smooth, easily cleanable surface is required.

Common Types

• Z-Clips: A common type featuring a "Z" shape that grips the panel edge and attaches to studs.
• C-Clips: Similar to Z-clips, but with a "C" shape. Often used for thinner panels.
• Snap-In Buckles: Designed for quick and tool-less installation, often used in modular systems.
• Rivet Buckles: Secure panels using rivets for a permanent fixing solution.
• Screw-In Buckles: Attach to the supporting structure using screws, providing adjustable tension.
• Hidden Fix Buckles: Designed to be completely concealed behind the panel, offering a seamless appearance.
• Adjustable Buckles: Allow for some adjustment to accommodate variations in panel thickness or alignment.

Based on the provided information, “wall panel buckle” can be classified under several HS codes, depending on the material and specific function. Here's a breakdown:

• 8308909000: This code covers “Clasps, frames with clasps, buckles, buckle-clasps, hooks, eyes, eyelets and the like, of base metal, of a kind used for clothing or clothing accessories, footwear, jewelry, wrist watches, books, awnings, leather goods, travel goods or saddlery or for other made up articles; tubular or bifurcated rivets, of base metal; beads and spangles, of base metal: Other, including parts: Other”. This is applicable if the buckle is made of base metal and used as a fastening component for wall panels. The total tax rate is 57.7% (Base tariff: 2.7%, Additional tariff: 25.0%, Post-April 2, 2025, additional tariff: 30.0%).
• 7326908688: This code covers “Other articles of iron or steel: Other: Other: Other: Other Other”. This is applicable if the buckle is made of iron or steel. The total tax rate is 82.9% (Base tariff: 2.9%, Additional tariff: 25.0%, Post-April 2, 2025, additional tariff: 30.0%). It is important to verify the material is indeed iron or steel.
• 3925900000: This code covers “Builders' ware of plastics, not elsewhere specified or included: Other”. If the wall panel buckle is made of plastic, this code applies. The total tax rate is 60.3% (Base tariff: 5.3%, Additional tariff: 25.0%, Post-April 2, 2025, additional tariff: 30.0%).
• 7610900080: This code covers “Aluminum structures (excluding prefabricated buildings of heading 9406) and parts of structures (for example, bridges and bridge-sections, towers, lattice masts, roofs, roofing frameworks, doors and windows and their frames and thresholds for doors, balustrades, pillars and columns); aluminum plates, rods, profiles, tubes and the like, prepared for use in structures: Other Other: Other”. This is applicable if the buckle is made of aluminum and is a component of a larger aluminum structure. The total tax rate is 85.7% (Base tariff: 5.7%, Additional tariff: 25.0%, Post-April 2, 2025, additional tariff: 30.0%).

Important Considerations:

• Material Verification: The applicable tax rate is heavily dependent on the material composition of the wall panel buckle. Accurate material verification is crucial.
• Post-April 2, 2025, Tariff Changes: Please note that additional tariffs will increase to 30.0% for several of these HS codes after April 2, 2025.
• Steel/Aluminum Additional Tariff: HS codes 7326908688, 7610900080 have an additional tariff of 25% on steel and aluminum products.