8482.99.15 - For tapered roller bearings

This HTS subcategory, 8482.99.15, specifically covers inner and outer rings or races that are designed for use with tapered roller bearings. Tapered roller bearings are characterized by their conical rollers and raceways, enabling them to handle both radial and axial loads simultaneously. The rings classified here are the crucial components that form the outer and inner boundaries of the bearing assembly, guiding the tapered rollers during operation.

Distinguishing this category from its sibling, 8482.99.05.00, is the specific type of bearing for which these rings are intended. While 8482.99.05.00 encompasses rings for general ball bearings (which utilize cylindrical or spherical rolling elements), 8482.99.15 is exclusively for the raceway components of tapered roller bearings. This distinction is critical for accurate tariff assessment, as the design and manufacturing tolerances of rings for tapered roller bearings differ significantly due to their conical geometry and load-bearing capabilities.

Within this category, further classification is provided by the subcategory 8482.99.15.80, which designates "Other" rings. This subdivision acknowledges that while the primary classification is for tapered roller bearing rings, there may be specific types or variations not explicitly detailed by a more granular code, allowing for the capture of all relevant components within this specialized group.