Heading 8515

Electric (including electrically heated gas), laser or other light or photon beam, ultrasonic, electron beam, magnetic pulse or plasma arc soldering, brazing or welding machines and apparatus, whether or not capable of cutting; electric machines and apparatus for hot spraying of metals or cermets; parts thereof

12 declarable lines

Heading 8515 covers machines and apparatus that join metal or plastics by soldering, brazing or welding, including electric resistance, arc, laser, ultrasonic, electron beam and plasma arc processes, plus machines for hot spraying metals. It is split first by process (soldering/brazing, resistance welding of metal, arc welding of metal, other), then by whether the machine is fully or partly automatic, with a final group for parts. Duty rates in this heading range from Free to 2.5%.

Products in this heading

Soldering irons and soldering guns
Wave soldering machines for circuit boards
Resistance spot welders for sheet metal
MIG, TIG and stick arc welding machines
Plasma arc welding and cutting units
Ultrasonic plastic welding machines
Hot spray metal coating equipment
Electrode holders and other welding machine parts

How to choose the right subheading

Process used: soldering or brazing, resistance welding of metal, arc welding of metal, or another process such as ultrasonic, laser, electron beam or plasma.
Degree of automation: fully or partly automatic machines take a different subheading from other machines.
For arc welding, whether the machine is non-rotating or rotating, and for non-rotating units whether it is an AC transformer type.
Whether the item is a complete machine or apparatus, or a part of a welding machine.
For soldering equipment, whether the item is a soldering iron or gun or another soldering or brazing machine.

Often confused with

Industrial or laboratory electric furnaces and ovens
Heat treatment equipment is classified in its own heading, not as welding apparatus.
Heading 8514
Welding transformers and rectifiers sold as separate electrical units
Static converters and transformers are classified by their electrical function.
Heading 8504
Laser machine tools that cut or shape metal rather than weld
Machine tools operated by laser or other light beam belong to chapter 84.
Heading 8456
Electric heating resistors
Heating resistors are classified in 8516 even when fitted to welding equipment.
Heading 8516
Control panels and consoles for welding lines
Boards equipped with switching apparatus for electric control go to 8537.
Heading 8537

Frequently asked questions

What is the HTS code for soldering irons and guns?

Soldering irons and guns are classified under 8515.11.00.00, with a general (MFN) duty rate of 2.5%.

What is the duty on automatic arc welding machines?

Fully or partly automatic machines for arc welding of metals fall under 8515.31.00.00 and carry a general (MFN) rate of 1.6%.

How do I classify an ultrasonic welding machine?

Ultrasonic welding machines are classified under 8515.80.00.40, which is duty free under the general (MFN) rate.

Guide written from the official schedule text. Rates quoted are general (MFN) rates; check the line page for trade agreement rates and the classification of your exact product.