Cold-rolling is an energy-intensive process that becomes less economical at heavier gauges; most downstream users requiring 3 mm or greater thickness opt for hot-rolled product unless a specific surface finish, tighter dimensional tolerance, or work-hardened mechanical property is needed. The limited volume under this subheading reflects that specialized demand.

Mill test certificates should explicitly state that the product was cold-reduced and not subsequently annealed or temper-rolled to a condition that would reclassify it under a different subheading. Process records confirming the final cold-reduction pass and the absence of post-rolling heat treatment are the standard supporting documents for this classification.