Glass; safety glass, toughened (tempered), of size and shape suitable for incorporation in vehicles, aircraft, spacecraft or vessels

HS code 700711 covers toughened (tempered) safety glass, which is a critical component in the manufacturing of vehicles, aircraft, spacecraft, and vessels. This specialized type of glass is designed to provide enhanced safety and durability, making it an essential material in the transportation and aerospace industries. The global demand for toughened safety glass has been steadily increasing, driven by factors such as rising vehicle production, advancements in transportation technology, and heightened safety regulations.

The production of toughened safety glass, as described by HS code 700711, involves a process known as tempering. This process involves heating the glass to a high temperature, typically around 650°C, and then rapidly cooling it. This rapid cooling creates compressive stresses on the surface of the glass, which significantly increases its strength and impact resistance. The resulting toughened glass is then cut and shaped to the desired size and specifications for incorporation into various transportation and aerospace applications.

The main inputs required for the production of toughened safety glass under HS code 700711 include high-quality float glass, specialized tempering equipment, and energy sources for the heating and cooling processes. Additionally, the industry may rely on various types of machinery and tools for cutting, shaping, and finishing the glass to meet the specific requirements of its end-users.

The primary output of the industry covered by HS code 700711 is toughened safety glass, which is then incorporated into a wide range of transportation and aerospace products. This includes 870321 passenger cars, 880240 aircraft, 890190 vessels, and 880320 spacecraft, among others. The toughened safety glass produced under this code is known for its superior strength, impact resistance, and thermal properties, making it a crucial component in ensuring the safety and reliability of these transportation and aerospace systems.