The tariff classification of plastic retainers

N216223 May 16, 2012 CLA-2-39:OT:RR:NC:N4:421 CATEGORY: Classification TARIFF NO.: 3926.90.9980 Mr. Troy Crago-Edwards Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems 700 N. Douglas, Bldg 902 El Segundo, CA 90245 RE: The tariff classification of plastic retainers Dear Mr. Crago-Edwards: In your letter dated April 3, 2012, you requested a tariff classification ruling. You included illustrations depicting two styles of retainers for packing o-rings used to connect filter modules. Part number MS28774-028 is a retainer used next to the o-ring on a drain filter module. Part number MS28774-132 is a retainer used next to the o-ring on a return filter module. The retainers are molded of plastics. You indicated in a telephone conversation that the products are used as retainer rings for the packing o-rings and do not perform any sealing function. The cross section of each retainer is said to be square or rectangular, with a height from 0.045 inch to 0.052 inch, a center hole diameter of 1.770 inches to 1.772 inches and a peripheral diameter of approximately 1.943 inches. Although the retainers are marketed for use with filter modules, they are not solely or principally used as a part of a filtering machine. You did not identify the country of origin. The rate of duty provided below is the rate applicable to these products when made in a country with which the United States has Normal Trade Relations. The applicable subheading for the retainers will be 3926.90.9980, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), which provides for other articles of plastics, other. The general rate of duty will be 5.3 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 Joan Mazzola at (646) 733-3023. Sincerely, Thomas J. Russo Director National Commodity Specialist Division