Sourcing silica refractory bricks from China

Silica bricks: composition determines the code

Read from the UK Trade Tariff on 25 October 2026, heading 6902 covers refractory bricks, blocks, tiles and similar refractory ceramic constructional goods, excluding goods of siliceous fossil meals or similar siliceous earths. Silica refractory bricks containing 93% or more silica by weight fall under 6902 20 10 00. The shapes in the table share this tariff line.

The supplied tariff record shows 0% duty for goods from China, no listed anti-dumping or countervailing duty and no suspension. It attaches an import waste control, alongside export waste and cultural-object licence entries. Waste shipment controls apply only to material classed as waste. For reclaimed bricks from China, ask your customs broker to confirm the import requirement before shipment.

Confirm the commodity code using the batch chemical analysis rather than the supplier's product name. Do not assume a lower-silica brick belongs in the same line. For related refractory materials across the wider heading, see the mullite refractory bricks guide.

Specify silica content and lining geometry

Specify silica content, the intended furnace or kiln duty, maximum service temperature and the properties to be met under load. Include drawings for straight, wedge, arch and special shapes, with agreed dimensional tolerances. Ask the supplier to identify each shape and production batch on the packing list.

Agree batch tests for chemical composition, bulk density, apparent porosity, cold crushing strength, refractoriness under load and permanent dimensional change on heating. Match the test methods and acceptance values to the purchase specification. Ask the lining designer to review the proposed material and heat-up instructions before ordering.

Worked duty example

Illustrative example, not a quote: An illustrative container order of silica refractory bricks for a kiln contractor under 6902 20 10 00, invoiced at £14,000 free on board, with £3,000 of freight and insurance to the UK. The customs value is £17,000. Duty at 0% is £0. Import VAT at 20% is charged on the customs value plus duty, £17,000, so it is £3,400. With no duty, the only import tax is the VAT, which a VAT-registered importer can usually reclaim. The import duty and VAT guide explains each step.

Inspection checklist

Composition: compare sampled brick analysis with the agreed silica content and the batch report.

Geometry: measure dimensions, wedge angles and warpage against the drawings; check that adjoining shapes fit.

Condition: inspect for cracks, chipped corners, damaged edges and loose material; record defects before installation.

Packing: check pallet stability, corner protection, wrapping and dryness; reconcile shape labels with the packing list.

What goes wrong

A generic firebrick description can hide a different composition. Incorrect wedge geometry or warped faces leave uneven joints, while chipped edges interrupt the lining. Bricks that shrink on heating can open joints; poor thermal shock resistance can cause spalling during temperature changes. Resolve failed batch results before installation.

Cutting and grinding silica bricks releases respirable crystalline silica, so installers need dust control. Include handling and cutting information in the handover documents. Use quality inspection guidance to agree how samples, defects and batch reports will be recorded.

Cambridge China Bridge sources these products for UK businesses, checking the factory and the documents before shipment. See factory verification. For own-brand ranges, see sourcing for brands.