CLA-2-84:OT:RR:NC:1:102

Mr. T. L. McCracken
Supply Chain Customs Brokers
4607 44th Street S.E.
Kentwood, Michigan 49512

RE: The tariff classification of parts for a motorized conveyor pulley from Germany

Dear Mr. McCracken:

In your letter dated August 7, 2008 you requested a tariff classification ruling on behalf of your client, Sparks Belting Company. Descriptive literature and a brochure were submitted.

The articles in question are described as a labyrinth seal and ground sleeve. The subject items are parts of a motorized pulley assembly used to drive a conveyor belt. The metallic labyrinth seal is also known as nilos ring seals. You indicate the seal is designed to prevent the entry of foreign matter into the pulley.

The ground sleeve is a hardened steel sleeve that is pressed onto a shaft in the pulley. You state this sleeve provides a covering for a damaged surface on the shaft and prevents the oil seal from creating grooves that would cause the pulley to leak. Based on the information made available, the ground sleeve is a plain shaft bearing that relies on a sliding surface, rather than rolling elements, to mediate against friction.

The applicable subheading for the labyrinth seal will be 8484.20.0000, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), which provides for mechanical seals. The rate of duty will be 3.9 percent ad valorem.

The applicable heading for the ground sleeve will be 8483.30.8090, HTSUS, which provides for other plain shaft bearings without housing. The rate of duty will be 4.5 percent ad valorem.

Duty rates are provided for your convenience and are subject to change. The text of the most recent HTSUS and the accompanying duty rates are provided on World Wide Web at http://www.usitc.gov/tata/hts/.

This ruling is being issued under the provisions of Part 177 of the Customs Regulations (19 C.F.R. 177).

A copy of the ruling or the control number indicated above should be provided with the entry documents filed at the time this merchandise is imported. If you have any questions regarding the ruling, contact National Import Specialist Kenneth T. Brock at (646) 733-3009.

Sincerely,

Robert B. Swierupski
Director
National Commodity Specialist Division