Iron; alloy pig iron, spiegeleisen, in pigs, blocks or other primary forms

HS code 720150 covers the classification of iron alloy pig iron, spiegeleisen, and other primary forms of iron. This industry is a crucial component of the global steel and metal manufacturing sector, providing essential raw materials for a wide range of downstream industries. Pig iron, in particular, is a foundational input for the production of various steel products, making it a vital link in the supply chain for construction, automotive, machinery, and numerous other sectors.

The production of pig iron and other primary iron forms typically involves the smelting of iron ore in a blast furnace. This process involves the reduction of iron ore using coke and limestone as reducing agents, resulting in the creation of molten pig iron. The molten pig iron is then cast into various shapes and sizes, such as pigs, blocks, or other primary forms, depending on the intended use and further processing requirements.

The main inputs for the production of pig iron and other primary iron forms include iron ore, coke (a processed form of coal), and limestone. These raw materials are essential for the smelting process, which also requires significant energy inputs, such as electricity or natural gas, to power the blast furnaces. Additionally, specialized equipment, such as furnaces, casting molds, and material handling systems, are necessary for the efficient production and shaping of the final products.

The primary outputs of HS code 720150 are pig iron, spiegeleisen, and other primary forms of iron. These materials are then consumed by a variety of downstream industries, including 720810 Flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel, of a width of 600 mm or more, hot-rolled, not clad, plated or coated, 720711 Semi-finished products of iron or non-alloy steel, and 730110 Sheet piling of iron or steel, whether or not drilled, punched or made from assembled elements, among others. The versatility of these primary iron forms allows them to be further processed and transformed into a wide range of steel and metal products that are essential for the global economy.