2001 (8) TMI 193 - AT - Central Excise

Summary

Issues involved: Classification of pipes and fittings as part of sprinklers and irrigation systems, and valuation of such pipes and fittings.

Classification Issue:
The question in appeal E/1042/95 is the classification of pipes and fittings as part of sprinklers and irrigation systems. The Commissioner held these items to be classifiable under heading 39.17 as pipes, tubes, or hoses, rather than as claimed by the appellant under heading 84.24 for irrigation systems. The appellant argued that the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System of Nomenclature support their classification under heading 84.24 as mechanical appliances for distribution of gases or liquids. Reference was made to a previous Tribunal decision in Elgi Ultra Appliances v. CCE, which favored the appellant's argument.

Valuation Issue:
The valuation issue in appeal E/3262/2000 pertains to the duty payable on the pipes and fittings classified under heading 39.17. The departmental representative contended that Note (4) and (5) regarding machines under Chapter 84 do not apply to the pipes in question, as they are not machines. However, the Tribunal noted that the pipes and tubes are essential for the functioning of the irrigation system as a whole, directly contributing to its function of water transportation and dispersal.

The Tribunal further considered that the pipes and tubes were supplied as a package against specific orders, cut to size, and assembled on-site to constitute the irrigation network. It was clarified that no manufacturing process occurred outside the appellant's factory, and cutting the piping to size did not change its classification. The Tribunal emphasized that if the pipes were intended and supplied for use as component parts of irrigation systems, they should be classified under heading 84.24. In this case, the Tribunal found that the requirements for classification under heading 84.24 were met, as evidenced by statements from company employees and the Commissioner's findings.

Conclusion:
Based on the evidence presented, the Tribunal concluded that the pipes and fittings should be classified under heading 84.24 for irrigation systems, entitling them to exemption benefits. As a result, the demand for duty was deemed unsustainable, and both appeals were allowed with the impugned order set aside. Consequential relief was granted according to law.