85015100
ELECTRICAL MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT AND PARTS THEREOF; SOUND RECORDERS AND REPRODUCERS, TELEVISION IMAGE AND SOUND RECORDERS AND REPRODUCERS, AND PARTS AND ACCESSORIES OF SUCH ARTICLES›Electric motors and generators (excluding generating sets)
Other AC motors, multi-phase - Of an output not exceeding 750 W
Subcodes (1)
Scope of subheading 850151 - multi-phase AC motors up to 750 W
Subheading 850151 of the Combined Nomenclature covers multi-phase alternating current motors with an output not exceeding 750 W. Multi-phase motors (most commonly three-phase) are powered from 400 V / 50 Hz supply and offer higher efficiency and reliability than single-phase motors. In the power range up to 750 W, they are used in small industrial pumps, fans, conveyor drives, mixers, packaging machines and light production automation. Typical designs include induction (asynchronous) motors with squirrel-cage rotors and permanent magnet synchronous motors. Classification requires confirmation that the motor operates on multi-phase AC (minimum two phases, typically three) and that shaft output does not exceed 750 W. Single-phase AC motors are classified under 850140, while multi-phase motors above 750 W up to 75 kW fall under 850152. Output power refers to continuous rated conditions S1 per IEC 60034.
Regulatory requirements for multi-phase AC motors up to 750 W
Importing multi-phase AC motors under subheading 850151 into the EU requires a customs declaration with the correct CN code and EORI number. The Ecodesign Regulation (EU) 2019/1781 sets minimum energy efficiency requirements for three-phase induction motors. Since July 2023, motors rated 0.12–0.75 kW must meet at least efficiency class IE2, with further tightening to IE3 planned for some power ranges from 2027. Motors under subheading 850151 rated 120–750 W may therefore be subject to these requirements. The RoHS 2 Directive (2011/65/EU) and WEEE Directive (2012/19/EU) apply to electrical and electronic equipment. The LVD Directive (2014/35/EU) applies to equipment rated 50–1000 V AC. The EMC Directive (2014/30/EU) covers finished devices. CBAM does not apply. Import documentation: commercial invoice, technical specification with IE efficiency class, transport document.
Customs duties and trade in multi-phase AC motors up to 750 W
MFN duty rates for multi-phase AC motors under subheading 850151 should be verified in TARIC. Preferential rates available under EU FTAs (CETA, EPA, EU-Korea, EVFTA, TCA) require compliance with rules of origin and provision of proof of origin. Small three-phase motors are imported mainly from China, which dominates global electric motor production. Importers should check TARIC for current trade measures, including any anti-dumping duties on electric motors from China. IE2/IE3 efficiency class requirements affect the import structure by eliminating the lowest-efficiency motors from the EU market. Manufacturers from third countries must adapt their products to European ecodesign requirements, which may influence import prices. Imports from sanctioned countries are subject to restrictions. VAT is charged on import.
Ecodesign requirements for electric motors 8501 51
Electric motors under CN 8501 51 are subject to Ecodesign Regulation (EU) 2019/1781, requiring minimum efficiency class IE3 or IE4 for three-phase motors. Since 1 July 2023, motors 75–200 kW must meet IE4. MFN duty: 2.7%. Import requires a CE declaration (LVD + EMC) and ecodesign documentation. Non-compliant motors may be refused entry by market surveillance authorities.
Frequently asked questions
What efficiency class must three-phase motors under subheading 850151 meet?
Under Regulation (EU) 2019/1781, three-phase induction motors rated 0.12 kW (120 W) to 0.75 kW must meet at least efficiency class IE2 since July 2023. Further tightening is planned. IE efficiency classes are defined in IEC 60034-30-1: IE1 (standard), IE2 (high), IE3 (premium), IE4 (super premium). Motors not meeting the required efficiency class cannot be placed on the EU market. The motor nameplate must display the IE class designation. The importer is responsible for product compliance with applicable requirements.
How do multi-phase motors under 850151 differ from single-phase motors under 850140?
Multi-phase motors (850151) are powered by at least two phases of AC (typically three phases at 400 V in Europe), while single-phase motors (850140) use one phase (230 V). Three-phase motors offer higher energy efficiency, greater starting torque, less vibration and longer service life than single-phase motors of the same power. However, they require three-phase supply, limiting their use in domestic installations. Correct customs classification depends on the number of supply phases.
Are permanent magnet synchronous motors classified under subheading 850151?
Yes, multi-phase permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSM) with output up to 750 W are classified under subheading 850151, as they are multi-phase AC motors. Subheading 850151 is not limited to induction motors - it covers all multi-phase AC motors up to 750 W, including induction, synchronous, reluctance and PMSM types. PMSM motors achieve very high efficiency (class IE4 or IE5) and are increasingly used in industrial automation. Duty rates should be verified in TARIC.
What ecodesign requirements apply to motors under 8501 51?
Motors under CN 8501 51 are subject to Regulation (EU) 2019/1781. Three-phase motors must meet IE3 or IE4 efficiency class depending on power and market placement date.
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