The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) announced April 22 that it had voted to begin an investigation of certain composite wear components and products containing the same. The products are used in equipment and plants for grinding, crushing and conveying various abrasive materials.
The ITC says the investigation is based on a complaint filed by Magotteaux International S/A of Belgium and Magotteaux Inc. of Franklin, Tenn. The respondents in the investigation are AIA Engineering Ltd of India, Vega Industries of Brentwood, Tenn., and F.A.R. Fonderie Acciaierie Roiale S.p.A. of Italy.
The complaint alleges violations of section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930 in that the importation and sale of certain composite wear components and products containing those components infringe a patent owned by Magotteaux. The company is requesting the ITC issue an inclusion order and cease and desist order, according to the ITC.
No decision has been made on the merits of the case. The case will be referred to an ITC administrative law judge, who will make an initial determination as to whether there is a violation of the tariff act. That determination is subject to review by the ITC.
Within 45 days of instituting the investigation, the commission will set a target date for completing the investigation.
