Lead ores and concentrates

HS v2022 Code: 260700

About lead ores and concentrates

HS code 260700 covers lead ores and concentrates, which are essential raw materials for the production of lead, a versatile metal with a wide range of industrial and commercial applications. The lead industry plays a crucial role in the global economy, supporting industries such as automotive, construction, electronics, and energy storage. As a major component in lead-acid batteries, lead ores and concentrates are particularly important for the growing demand in renewable energy and electric vehicle technologies.

Production process

The production of lead from ores and concentrates typically involves several key steps. First, the ore is extracted from the earth through mining operations. The ore is then crushed, ground, and concentrated to increase the lead content. This is often done through flotation or other separation techniques. The concentrated ore is then smelted, typically in a blast furnace, to extract the lead metal. The smelting process involves reducing the lead oxide in the ore to metallic lead, which is then further refined and cast into various forms for industrial use.

Production inputs

The main inputs required for the lead ore and concentrate industry include the raw lead-bearing ores, which are mined from the earth's crust. Additionally, the industry relies on various types of machinery and equipment for mining, crushing, concentrating, and smelting the ores. Energy sources, such as electricity and fuel, are also essential inputs for the production process. Finally, the industry may utilize other materials, such as fluxes and reducing agents, to aid in the smelting and refining of the lead.

Production outputs

The primary output of the lead ore and concentrate industry is refined lead metal, which is then used in a wide range of applications. Lead is commonly used in the production of lead-acid batteries, which are essential for the automotive industry and increasingly for energy storage in renewable energy systems. Lead is also used in construction materials, radiation shielding, and various other industrial and consumer products. Other potential outputs from the lead ore and concentrate industry may include 260800 Zinc ores and concentrates, which can be produced as a by-product during the smelting and refining process.

Revisions to 260700

Classification codes are adjusted frequently. The code may have been revised or replaced between system versions. The table below shows the history (newest to oldest) of the code 260700. The most recent 1 version of this code (260700) is in the HS v2022 system (this version):

This page shows the most recent version of code 260700.

Older versions

Family tree for lead ores and concentrates

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    A["<a href='/classifications/hs/v2022/26'>26: Ores, slag and ash</a>"]
A --> B["<a href='/classifications/hs/v2022/2607'>2607: Lead ores and concentrates</a>"]
B --> C["<a href='/classifications/hs/v2022/260700'>260700: Lead ores and concentrates</a>"]

    
    

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