Mill Scale from Hot-Rolled Steel Production
Mill scale is the flaky surface of hot-rolled steel consisting primarily of iron oxides (Fe2O3 and Fe3O4), formed during the manufacturing process of steel sheets and plates. It falls under HTS 2619.00.30.00 as ferrous scale, a waste product from iron or steel manufacture containing over 50% iron by weight. This material is often collected and recycled for use in sintering processes or as a raw material in steelmaking.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If processed into ferrous scrap for melting
Once sorted, cut, and baled for direct use in steel furnaces, it becomes classified as ferroous waste and scrap under Chapter 72 rather than manufacturing waste.
If used industrially for metal extraction or chemical compounds
Per Chapter Note for 2620, certain slag, ash, and residues (including scalings) used in industry for extracting metals shift to heading 2620.
If granulated or presented as granulated slag
Granulated ferrous slag from iron/steel manufacture falls under 2618, differentiated by physical form from non-granulated scale.
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Import Tips & Compliance
• Verify iron content exceeds 50% through assay testing as per statistical notes; provide lab certificates to Customs for classification confirmation
• Ensure documentation distinguishes from granulated slag (HTS 2618) or non-ferrous scalings to avoid misclassification
• Check for hazardous contaminants like oils or heavy metals; may require EPA declarations if exceeding thresholds
Related Products under HTS 2619.00.30.00
Blast Furnace Scale Flakes
Scale generated in blast furnaces during pig iron production, appearing as thin iron oxide layers that flake off equipment surfaces. Classified under HTS 2619.00.30.00 as ferrous scale from iron manufacture, with high metallic iron content suitable for recycling. It is distinct from molten slag due to its solid, flaky waste form.
Steel Pickling Scale Residue
Iron oxide residue recovered from acid pickling baths used to clean steel surfaces during manufacturing, primarily hematite and magnetite particles. It qualifies as ferrous scale under HTS 2619.00.30.00 due to its origin as waste from steel processing with significant iron oxide content. Often reused in cement production or iron recovery.
Hot Strip Mill Blue Scale
Characteristic blue-colored iron oxide scale formed on steel strips during hot rolling at temperatures around 900°C. This ferrous scale under HTS 2619.00.30.00 is removed via descaling and collected as manufacturing waste for iron recovery. Its high purity makes it valuable for pelletizing in steel plants.
Continuous Casting Machine Scale
Flaky iron oxide waste accumulated on molds and rollers in continuous casting of steel billets and slabs. Classified as ferrous scale in HTS 2619.00.30.00 for its direct origin from steel manufacturing processes and iron-rich composition. Recycled back into sinter plants to reduce raw material costs.