NY 866645
SEP 24 1991
CLA-2-28:S:N:N1:104 866645
Mr. James Alberdi
A.J. Arango, Inc.
P.O. Box 3007
Tampa, Florida 33601
RE: The tariff classification of smoke test tubes, gas detector
tubes and gas dosimeter tubes from Japan.
Dear Mr. Alberdi:
In your letter dated August 29, 1991 on behalf of Sensidyne
Inc. of Clearwater, Florida, you requested a tariff
classification ruling.
The smoke test tubes generate smoke for the purpose of
tracing air currents in ventilation studies and for respiratory
fit tests. (The latter tests are performed to determine the
effectiveness of a respirator seal in excluding the ambient
atmosphere.) They do not measure or analyze any gas or vapor. The
tubes are made of clear, uncalibrated glass measuring
approximately 5 1/2 inches in length and a 1/4 inch diameter
except at the tapered ends. When the ends are broken, the stannic
chloride within the tube reacts with ambient humidity to liberate
a white smoke consisting of HCL and tin compounds.
The applicable subheading for the smoke test tubes will be
2827.37.0000, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States
(HTS), which provides for other chlorides: of tin. The duty rate
will be 4.2 percent ad valorem.
The question of classification for the gas detector tubes
and gas dosimeter tubes is being referred to the Office of
Regulations and Rulings, U.S. Customs Service Headquarters, 1301
Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington D.C. 20229. A ruling will
be issued to you from that office.
This ruling is being issued under the provisions of Section
177 of the Customs Regulations (19 C.F.R. 177).
A copy of this ruling letter should be attached to the entry
documents filed at the time this merchandise is imported. If the
documents have been filed without a copy, this ruling should be
brought to the attention of the Customs officer handling the
transaction.
Sincerely,
Jean F. Maguire
Area Director
New York Seaport