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ITC Seeks Comments on Polycrystalline Diamond Compacts for Commission Review

The International Trade Commission is seeking public interest comments following a final determination by one of its administrative law judges in a Section 337 investigation on polycrystalline diamond compacts (ITC Inv. No. 337-TA-1236). The ITC in a notice released May 12 said the ALJ issued a final determination on March 3 that found "at least one accused product infringes all asserted claims of the Asserted Patents, but those claims are invalid." The commission then decided to review the ALJ's determination and asked for public interest statements on the effects of a possible exclusion order and/or cease and desist orders.

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The investigation is based on a November 2020, complaint by U.S. Synthetic Corporation alleging several companies were importing abrasion-resistant polycrystalline diamond compacts for use in bearings and industrial cutting tools, as well as drill bits used to drill for crude oil, that copy its patented technologies (see 2012290028).

Comments on public interest issues raised by the recommended relief should the Commission find a violation should address how the exclusion order and cease and desist orders would affect the public health and welfare in the U.S., competitive conditions in the U.S. economy, the production of competitive articles, or U.S. consumers. Submissions are due to the ITC by close of business on May 23; replies, by close of business May 31.