The tariff classification of a gland protector from China

N011235 June 11, 2007 CLA-2-84:RR:E:NC:N1:102 CATEGORY: Classification TARIFF NO.: 8481.90.9080 Ms. Courtney D. Brown Star USA, Inc. 250 N Davis Rd. Ashland, OH 44805 RE: The tariff classification of a gland protector from China Dear Ms. Brown: In your letter dated May 14, 2007 you requested a tariff classification ruling on behalf of Star USA. Descriptive information was provided. The item that you plan to import is described as a gland protector. It is made of stainless steel and provides the path which fluid flows through a valve. The gland protector completes the valve in that allows the valve to be connected to piping so that it can function as designed. In your request you suggest that the gland protector is provided for as other articles of iron or steel in heading 7326, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS). However, we find that the gland protector is more specifically provided for in HTSUS heading 8481, which provides for parts of valves. The applicable subheading for the gland protector will be 8481.90.9080, HTSUS, which provides for parts of taps, cocks, valves and similar appliances. The rate of duty is free. 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