Steel, alloy; flat-rolled, width less than 600mm, of high speed steel

HS code 722620 covers the classification of flat-rolled steel alloy products with a width of less than 600mm, specifically those made of high-speed steel. This industry plays a crucial role in the manufacturing sector, providing essential materials for a wide range of applications, from cutting tools and machinery to aerospace and automotive components. As a specialized segment of the broader steel industry, the production and trade of these high-speed steel products are integral to the global economy.

The production of high-speed steel flat-rolled products under HS code 722620 typically involves a multi-step process. First, the raw materials, including iron, alloying elements, and other additives, are melted and refined to achieve the desired chemical composition. The molten steel is then cast into ingots or continuously cast into slabs or billets. These semi-finished products are then subjected to various hot and cold rolling processes to reduce the thickness and achieve the desired dimensions and surface finish. The final products are often heat-treated to enhance their hardness, strength, and wear resistance, making them suitable for demanding applications.

The main inputs required for the production of high-speed steel flat-rolled products under HS code 722620 include high-purity iron ore, alloying elements such as tungsten, chromium, vanadium, and cobalt, as well as specialized machinery and equipment for melting, casting, and rolling the steel. Additionally, the industry relies on a skilled workforce with expertise in metallurgy, process control, and quality assurance.

The primary outputs of the industry covered by HS code 722620 are high-speed steel flat-rolled products, which are used in a variety of applications. These materials are often consumed by industries such as 820240 Handtools for the production of cutting tools, 846020 Machine-tools for working metal by removal of material for the manufacture of machinery components, and 880000 Aircraft, spacecraft, and parts thereof for aerospace applications. The specialized properties of these high-speed steel products make them essential for maintaining the efficiency and performance of these downstream industries.