Glass; drawn and blown, in sheets, coloured throughout the mass (body tinted), opacified, flashed or having an absorbent, reflecting or non-reflecting layer, but not otherwise worked

HS code 700420 covers a specific type of glass that is drawn and blown into sheets, with a distinctive coloration or treatment throughout the material. This glass is an essential component in various industries, from construction and automotive to electronics and renewable energy. Its unique properties make it a versatile material that plays a crucial role in the global economy.

The production of glass covered by HS code 700420 involves a multi-step process. First, the raw materials, such as silica sand, soda ash, and other additives, are carefully measured and melted at high temperatures to create the molten glass. The molten glass is then either drawn or blown into thin sheets, depending on the desired thickness and characteristics. During this stage, the glass can be tinted, opacified, or coated with various layers to achieve the desired optical properties.

The main inputs required for the production of glass under HS code 700420 include silica sand, soda ash, limestone, and other mineral additives. Additionally, specialized machinery, such as glass-drawing or glass-blowing equipment, is essential for the manufacturing process. Energy sources, such as natural gas or electricity, are also crucial for maintaining the high temperatures required during the melting and shaping stages.

The primary output of HS code 700420 is sheets of colored, opacified, or treated glass. These glass sheets can be used in a variety of applications, including 700510 Glass; float glass and surface ground or polished glass, in sheets, but not otherwise worked, 700600 Glass; of heading 7003, 7004 or 7005, bent, edge-worked, engraved, drilled, enamelled or otherwise worked, but not framed or fitted with other materials, and 701931 (Glass fibres (including glass wool) and articles thereof (for example, yarn, woven fabrics)).