## Common ground
All options refer to stranded ropes, cables, or cordage made from metallic materials used for structural, electrical, or mechanical purposes.
## Options at a glance
**7312.10 – Iron or steel**
- **Defining trait:** Made primarily from iron or steel, offering high tensile strength and durability.
- **Typical examples:** Steel wire ropes for cranes, suspension cables, anchor lines.
- **Best fit when:** High strength and resistance to wear are required, such as in heavy lifting or marine applications.
**7413.00 – Copper**
- **Defining trait:** Made from copper, valued for excellent electrical conductivity and corrosion resistance.
- **Typical examples:** Electrical grounding cables, power transmission strands, flexible conductors.
- **Best fit when:** The primary function is electrical conduction or signal transmission.
**7614 – Aluminium**
- **Defining trait:** Made from aluminium, offering lightweight construction with good conductivity and corrosion resistance.
- **Typical examples:** Overhead power lines, aerial cables, lightweight suspension systems.
- **Best fit when:** Weight reduction is critical, such as in long-span electrical transmission or aerospace applications.
## Key differences
| Feature | 7312.10 (Iron/Steel) | 7413.00 (Copper) | 7614 (Aluminium) |
|------------------|----------------------|------------------|------------------|
| Primary use | Mechanical strength | Electrical conduction | Lightweight conduction |
| Weight | Heavy | Medium | Light |
| Conductivity | Low | Very high | High |
## How to choose
- Is the main purpose mechanical strength or load-bearing? → 7312.10
- Is the product used for electrical current transmission? → 7413.00
- Is weight a major concern, and is conductivity needed? → 7614
## Overlaps & pitfalls
A cable may combine materials (e.g., aluminium core with steel reinforcement), but the HS Code depends on the **primary material** by weight or function. If the product serves both mechanical and electrical roles (e.g., a copper cable used in tension), prioritize based on **main function**: strength vs. conduction. No priority rule is specified—choose the option matching the product’s primary purpose