Rubber; unvulcanised, (compounded other than with carbon black or silica), in plates, sheets and strip

HS code 400591 covers the classification of unvulcanized rubber compounds, excluding those containing carbon black or silica, that are produced in the form of plates, sheets, and strips. This industry plays a crucial role in the broader rubber and plastics sector, providing essential raw materials for a wide range of downstream applications across various industries, including automotive, construction, and consumer goods.

The production of the rubber compounds described by HS code 400591 typically involves a multi-step process. First, the base rubber material, such as natural or synthetic rubber, is compounded with various additives, including vulcanizing agents, accelerators, and other chemicals, to achieve the desired properties. The compounded mixture is then heated and processed through a series of rollers or extruders to form the desired shape and thickness of the plates, sheets, or strips.

The main inputs required for the production of the rubber compounds covered by HS code 400591 include the base rubber material, such as 400110 Natural rubber, in primary forms or in plates, sheets or strip, 400220 (Butadiene rubber (BR), in primary forms or in plates, sheets or strip), or 400270 (Ethylene-propylene-non-conjugated diene rubber (EPDM), in primary forms or in plates, sheets or strip). Additionally, various chemical additives, such as vulcanizing agents, accelerators, and fillers, are necessary to achieve the desired properties of the final product. Specialized machinery, such as mixing equipment, extruders, and calendering machines, are also essential for the production process.

The rubber compounds classified under HS code 400591 are primarily used as raw materials for the production of a wide range of rubber-based products. These compounds may be further processed and incorporated into the manufacturing of 401110 New pneumatic tyres, of rubber, 401220 Inner tubes, of rubber, 401693 Gaskets, washers and other seals, of vulcanised rubber other than hard rubber, and various other rubber-based components and articles. The versatility of these unvulcanized rubber compounds makes them an essential input for numerous industries, contributing to the overall growth and development of the global economy.