Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/644
Of 15 April 2019 — CELEX 32019R0644
Description of the goods
An apparatus for the precise transfer of liquid droplets (so-called ‘liquid handler’) measuring approximately 540 × 680 × 930 mm and weighing approximately 128 kg. The apparatus consists of two devices for receiving microplates (source plate and destination plate), two deionisation rods and an ultrasound head incorporated in a compact housing with a control LED, a small display and an emergency button. The apparatus utilises the Acoustic Droplet Ejection (ADE) method which uses sound energy (targeted ultrasonic pulses) to move ultralow volume of droplets of liquid from a source plate to an inverted destination plate with extremely high precision and accuracy. The system transfers droplets of 2,5 nano-litres per ejection enabling the transfer of larger volumes of liquid. Multiple droplets are ejected from the source at up to 500 times per second. The apparatus is used in the preparation of samples in laboratory sites to transfer specific volumes of reagents from one microplate to another.
Reasons
Classification is determined by general rules (GIR) 1, 3(b) and 6 for the interpretation of the Combined Nomenclature and by the wording of CN codes 8479, 8479 89 and 8479 89 97. The apparatus is a composite product within the meaning of GIR 3(b) and it is to be classified according to the component that gives the product its essential character. Despite the fact that measuring and analysing are necessary in order to ensure a precise dosing of the volume of liquid, it is the exact dosing, using ultrasound, of the ejected droplets that is considered to be the function that gives the apparatus its essential character. Classification under heading 9026 as instruments or apparatus for measuring or checking the flow, level, pressure or other variables of liquids or gases is excluded as measuring and analysing are ancillary functions of the apparatus. The apparatus is therefore to be classified under CN code 8479 89 97 as other machines and mechanical appliances having individual functions, not specified or included elsewhere.