Tungsten ores and concentrates

HS code 261100 covers tungsten ores and concentrates, a critical raw material for a wide range of industries. Tungsten is a dense, hard metal with exceptional heat and wear resistance, making it essential for applications such as cutting tools, electronics, and aerospace engineering. The global tungsten industry plays a vital role in supporting technological innovation and economic development across numerous sectors.

Tungsten ores are typically extracted through mining operations, with the primary production methods including open-pit and underground mining. The extracted ore is then processed through a series of steps, including crushing, grinding, and concentration, to separate the tungsten-bearing minerals from the surrounding rock. Chemical and metallurgical processes are then used to refine the tungsten concentrate into various forms, such as tungsten metal powder or tungsten carbide.

The production of tungsten ores and concentrates requires a range of inputs, including heavy machinery for mining and processing, as well as energy sources such as electricity and fuel. Additionally, the industry relies on specialized expertise and skilled labor to operate the mining and processing equipment effectively. The availability of high-quality tungsten-bearing ores is a critical input, with the primary sources located in countries such as China, Russia, and Canada.

The primary output of HS code 261100 is tungsten concentrate, which is then further processed and used as a raw material in various downstream industries. These include the production of 820720 Interchangeable tools for hand tools such as cutting tools, 848620 Machines and apparatus for the manufacture of semiconductor devices or of electronic integrated circuits used in the electronics industry, and 840720 Spark-ignition reciprocating or rotary internal combustion piston engines for aerospace and automotive applications.