32518 - Other Basic Inorganic Chemical Manufacturing
When it comes to understanding the industrial landscape of chemical manufacturing, NAICS code 32518 plays a pivotal role. Titled Other Basic Inorganic Chemical Manufacturing, this classification covers businesses producing a variety of essential inorganic chemicals used across numerous industries worldwide. Whether you are a government contractor, industry professional, or business owner, knowing the details of this NAICS code can help you navigate opportunities and compliance requirements within the manufacturing sector.
What is NAICS Code 32518?
NAICS 32518 refers to establishments primarily engaged in the manufacture of basic inorganic chemicals that do not fit into other more specific categories. These include chemicals such as industrial gases, pigments, and other inorganic compounds which serve critical functions in manufacturing, construction, agriculture, and more.
In simpler terms: This code groups together manufacturers creating essential chemical substances that support various industrial processes but are not classified under other detailed NAICS categories.
Sector and Typical Business Activities
- Sector: Manufacturing
- Industry: Chemical Manufacturing
- Primary Activities Covered:
- Manufacturing industrial gases such as oxygen, nitrogen, and argon
- Producing pigments and dyes used in paints, coatings, inks, and plastics
- Synthesizing other basic inorganic chemical compounds like salts, acids, and elemental substances
Examples of Businesses Under NAICS 32518
- Industrial gas suppliers producing gases for welding, medical use, or food processing
- Pigment manufacturers supplying colorants to the paint and plastics industries
- Producers of inorganic chemical intermediates utilized in agriculture and manufacturing
Size Standards for NAICS 32518
Understanding the small business size standard for NAICS 32518 helps companies determine eligibility for small business government contracts and assistance programs.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| NAICS Code | 32518 |
| Title | Other Basic Inorganic Chemical Manufacturing |
| Sector | Manufacturing |
| Size Standard | 750 employees (for classification as a small business by SBA) |
This employee-based size standard means that any establishment in this industry with 750 or fewer employees generally qualifies as a small business in federal contracting.
NAICS 32518 Code Details Table
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| NAICS Code | 32518 |
| Industry Title | Other Basic Inorganic Chemical Manufacturing |
| Description | Manufacturing of inorganic chemical compounds excluding those in other specific categories (e.g., industrial gases, pigments, and dyes) |
| Sector | Manufacturing |
| Typical Business Types | Industrial gas manufacturers, pigment and dye manufacturers, basic inorganic chemical producers |
| Size Standard | 750 employees |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What kinds of products fall under Other Basic Inorganic Chemical Manufacturing?
A1: Products include industrial gases like oxygen and nitrogen, inorganic pigments, dyes, and various inorganic chemical compounds such as salts and acids used in multiple industries.
Q2: How is NAICS 32518 different from other chemical manufacturing codes?
A2: This code is a catch-all category for basic inorganic chemical manufacturers whose products aren't classified under other more specific NAICS codes for chemicals, such as fertilizers or organic chemicals.
Q3: What is the size standard for a business in NAICS 32518 to be considered small?
A3: The SBA sets the size standard at 750 employees for NAICS 32518 establishments.
Q4: Can companies involved in manufacturing industrial gases fall under this NAICS code?
A4: Yes, industrial gas manufacturing is a primary example of businesses that fall under NAICS 32518.
Q5: Why is it important to know your NAICS code?
A5: Knowing your NAICS code helps in identifying relevant industry regulations, qualifying for government contracts, and accessing industry-specific resources and support.
Conclusion
NAICS code 32518 – Other Basic Inorganic Chemical Manufacturing is a vital classification within the manufacturing sector that encompasses a wide range of inorganic chemical production activities. Whether you are dealing with industrial gases, pigments, or other inorganic compounds, understanding this NAICS code helps businesses align with federal standards, pursue contracting opportunities, and benchmark industry participation.
Stay informed about your industry's classification to leverage the benefits of targeted government programs and position your company for growth in a complex chemical manufacturing landscape.
Keywords: NAICS 32518, Other Basic Inorganic Chemical Manufacturing, industrial gas manufacturing, inorganic pigments, chemical manufacturing NAICS codes, SBA size standards, manufacturing sector, government contracting for chemical manufacturers
