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.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If chemically purified as iron oxides
Purified iron oxides (e.g., synthetic hematite) for pigment or chemical use fall under Chapter 28 inorganic chemicals.
If arsenic-bearing and used for arsenic or metal extraction
Chapter Note to 2620 includes residues containing arsenic used industrially, shifting from general ferrous waste.
Not sure which classification is right?
The Tariff Assistant works through the GRI rules on your specific product to reach the right HTS code — and can price the duty on it in the same conversation.
Import Tips & Compliance
• Provide pickling process documentation and iron assay (>50%) to confirm classification over chemical residues
• Test for acid residuals; neutralize if pH <6 to meet non-hazardous import standards
• Label containers with UN proper shipping name if classified as hazardous due to corrosivity
Related Products under HTS 2619.00.30.00
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.
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.
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.