Home Case Index All Cases Customs Customs + AT Customs - 1995 (12) TMI AT This
Issues Involved:
1. Classification of Foot Step Bearings under Heading 84.63 or 84.38(1) of CTA, 1975. 2. Eligibility of Roller Retainers/Metal Cages for the benefit of Notification No. 35/75 (as amended). Detailed Analysis: Issue 1: Classification of Foot Step Bearings Arguments by the Importer: - The importer argued that Foot Step Bearings should be classified under Heading 84.38(1) as components of textile machinery rather than under Heading 84.63 as bearings. - The importer highlighted that Foot Step Bearings are simple mechanical parts without balls or rollers, serving only a supporting function to keep the spindle in position without vibration. Arguments by the Department: - The Department maintained that Foot Step Bearings are correctly classified under Heading 84.63 as plain shaft bearings. They emphasized that these bearings provide a smooth bearing surface, supporting rotating shafts and guiding moving parts. Tribunal's Analysis: - The Tribunal reviewed the technical literature and expert authorities on the classification of bearings. - It was noted that plain bearings, including Foot Step Bearings, support rotating shafts and guide moving parts, thus fitting the description under Heading 84.63. - The Tribunal concluded that the classification under Heading 84.63 is appropriate, as the bearings are used in connection with machinery, which does not alter their classification. Conclusion: - Foot Step Bearings are correctly classifiable under Heading 84.63 as bearings. Issue 2: Eligibility of Roller Retainers/Metal Cages for Notification No. 35/75 Arguments by the Importer: - The importer contended that Roller Retainers/Metal Cages should be eligible for the benefit of Notification No. 35/75, arguing that they are integral parts of textile machinery. - The importer claimed that the required certificate from the Textile Commissioner had been submitted. Arguments by the Department: - The Department argued that Roller Retainers/Metal Cages are classifiable under Heading 84.62, which is not covered by Notification No. 35/79. - The Assistant Collector had rejected the claim for exemption based on the classification under Heading 84.62. Tribunal's Analysis: - The Tribunal examined the technical literature, which described the function and classification of anti-friction bearings and their components, including cages. - It was found that Roller Retainers/Metal Cages are indeed parts of bearings and are classifiable under Heading 84.62. - The Tribunal noted that Heading 84.62 is not covered by the exemption Notification No. 35/79. Conclusion: - Roller Retainers/Metal Cages are correctly classifiable under Heading 84.62 and are not eligible for exemption under Notification No. 35/79. Final Judgment: - The order of the Collector (Appeals) is modified, restoring and confirming the Assistant Collector's order in full. - The department's appeal is accepted, and the assessee's appeals are rejected.
|