Rubber; vulcanised, thread and cord

HS code 400700 covers vulcanised rubber thread and cord, which are essential components in a wide range of industries. Vulcanised rubber is a durable and versatile material that has been chemically treated to improve its strength, elasticity, and resistance to heat, chemicals, and wear. This industry plays a crucial role in the global supply chain, providing critical inputs for the manufacturing of various products, from automotive parts to medical equipment.

The production of vulcanised rubber thread and cord involves several key steps. First, raw rubber is mixed with various additives, such as sulfur, accelerators, and fillers, to enhance its properties. The mixture is then heated and pressurized in a process called vulcanization, which cross-links the rubber molecules and creates a more stable and resilient material. Finally, the vulcanised rubber is extruded or spun into the desired thread or cord form, often with the addition of reinforcing fibers or coatings to further improve its strength and durability.

The main inputs required for the production of vulcanised rubber thread and cord include 400110 Natural rubber, in primary forms or in plates, sheets or strip and 400220 (Butadiene rubber (BR)) as the primary raw materials. Additionally, the industry relies on various chemicals, such as sulfur, accelerators, and fillers, as well as specialized machinery for the extrusion or spinning processes.

The primary outputs of this industry are vulcanised rubber threads and cords, which are used in a wide range of applications. These products are often consumed by industries such as 401110 New pneumatic tyres, of rubber for the production of tire reinforcement, 401120 Inner tubes, of rubber for inner tube manufacturing, and 401310 Retreaded or used pneumatic tyres of rubber; solid or cushion tyres, tyre treads and tyre flaps, of rubber for tire retreading. The vulcanised rubber threads and cords may also be used in the production of 560721 Twine, cordage, ropes and cables, of sisal or other textile fibres of the genus Agave and 560741 Twine, cordage, ropes and cables, of polyethylene or polypropylene, as well as in various textile and medical applications.