CLA-2-84:S:N:N1:103 884327
Ms. Angela Sharman
John A. Steer Co.
P.O. Box 1275
Sharon Hill, PA 19079
RE: The tariff classification of automatic pick and place
systems from Japan
Dear Ms. Sharman:
In your letter dated March 22, 1993 on behalf of Manix
Manufacturing Inc. you requested a tariff classification ruling.
The M500 and M550 pick and place systems are precision
assembly machines designed to surface mount a large range of
capacitors, integrated circuits, and other semiconductor devices
at high production rates. The M500 is a single head multi-
purpose pick and place machine, and the M550 is a dual head high
speed pick and place machine. The M500 can mount a wide range of
components onto printed circuit boards measuring up to 300
millimeters by 550 millimeters in size. The unit's precision
placement head, driven by a ball screw and five phase stepper
motor, features a built-in part centering mechanism for improved
placement speed, while the dispenser head incorporates a
temperature control for smooth application of adhesive or solder
paste. A fiber optic sensor detects defects and also compensates
for PC board irregularities. Up to 80 different taped components
can be mounted in a linear track feeder, and a single component
can be mounted in 1.1 - 1.5 seconds with an accuracy of .02
millimeter. The M550 is similar in design and construction to
the M500, but features two placement heads for increased mounting
speed. Both machines utilize a programmable controller to
control the various operations performed by the individual
machine.
The applicable subheading for the M500 and M550 pick and
place machines will be 8479.89.9099, Harmonized Tariff Schedule
of the United States (HTS), which provides for machines and
mechanical appliances having individual functions, not specified
or included elsewhere...:other machines and mechanical
appliances: other: other: other: other. The rate of duty will be
3.7 percent ad valorem.
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