2004 (12) TMI 481 - AT - Central Excise

Summary

Issues Involved:
Classification of Coil Transfer Car under Heading No. 84.55 or 86.06 of the Central Excise Tariff Act.

Analysis:
The appeal before the Appellate Tribunal CESTAT, New Delhi revolves around the classification of the Coil Transfer Car manufactured by M/s. Bhilai Engineering Corporation. The primary issue is whether this apparatus should be classified under Heading No. 84.55, as contended by the Commissioner (Appeals), or under Heading No. 86.06, as claimed by the Revenue.

The arguments presented by both parties shed light on the nature and usage of the Coil Transfer Car. The learned Advocate emphasized that the car is a material handling apparatus integral to the Rolling Mill, thus falling under Heading No. 84.55. Reference was made to the Explanatory Notes of H.S.N., highlighting that auxiliary equipment such as handling equipment is crucial for the operation of rolling mills. Additionally, a previous decision was cited to support this classification.

On the contrary, the learned SDR argued that rolling mills primarily consist of rollers for shaping metal, and the Coil Transfer Car is used after the metal has been rolled out, making it distinct from the rolling mill machinery. Referring to the Explanatory Notes of H.S.N., it was asserted that Heading 86.06 encompasses vehicles for goods transport on railways, including within factories, aligning with the rail movement of the coil transfer car.

Upon deliberation, the Tribunal examined the essence of both headings. Heading 84.55 pertains to metal rolling mills and associated parts, requiring a demonstration of the car's integration with the rolling mill machinery. In contrast, Heading 86.06 covers railway or tramway goods transport vehicles not self-propelled, which suits the description of the coil transfer car moving on rails within a factory setting. Notably, the Tribunal differentiated a previous case involving Torpedo Ladle Cars classified under Heading 84.54 due to specific mention in the tariff.

Ultimately, the Tribunal set aside the Commissioner's order and ruled in favor of the Revenue, classifying the Coil Transfer Car under Heading No. 86.06 based on its rail movement for goods transportation within the factory premises.