Laminated Tubes Explained and Why They Matter

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Laminated Tubes Explained and Why They Matter

Laminated Tubes help protect things you use every day. You see these tubes in toothpaste, creams, and medicine. They have many layers to block oxygen, light, and water.

  • The world market for these tubes will be about USD 4.03 billion by 2034.
  • Their layers use plastic and aluminum for more safety.
Material TypeFunction
PBL (Plastic Barrier Laminate)Keeps products safe, stops smells from escaping, often used in cosmetics.
ABL (Aluminium Barrier Laminate)Gives better protection, used for sensitive medicine products.

These tubes help products last longer than other packages. Their bendy shape and strong layers make them special.

Key Takeaways

  • Laminated tubes keep products safe from air, light, and water. This helps products stay fresh for a longer time. These tubes are light and do not cost much. This makes them easy to move and store for companies. Laminated tubes have many designs and colors. This lets brands make packaging that looks nice. They follow strong safety rules. This keeps the products inside clean and safe for people. Picking products in laminated tubes helps the environment. Many tubes are made from recycled stuff.

Laminated Tubes Features

Laminated tubes are made with many layers. Each layer does something important.

Structure

Laminated tubes are made with many layers. Each layer does something important. The outside layer uses polyolefin. This makes the tube look shiny and smooth. The barrier layer is made from aluminum or EVOH. It stops air and light from getting in. Tie layers hold all the layers together. The inside layer touches the product and keeps it safe.

Layer TypeThickness Range (microns)
Outer Polyolefin Layer40
Barrier Layer10 to 25
First Tie Layer25
Inner Polyolefin Layer50
Second Tie Layer25
Bar chart comparing thickness of each layer in laminated tubes

This design makes the tubes strong. They do not break or tear easily. The package feels smooth and seals well. Nothing leaks out.

Tip: The layers help your product stay fresh and safe longer.

Barrier Properties

Laminated tubes keep your products safe from things that spoil them. The barrier layer blocks oxygen, water, and light. For example, ABL tubes use aluminum. This keeps out light and air. It is good for medicine and creams. PBL tubes use EVOH film. This keeps oxygen out, so your product stays good.

Laminated tubes work better than regular plastic tubes. They keep out more air and water. This helps your toothpaste, cream, or food stay fresh and work well.

IndustryImpact on Shelf Life
Food & BeverageStops moisture and oxygen, so sauces and dairy stay good.
PharmaceuticalKeeps medicine safe by blocking moisture, oxygen, and light.
Personal CareMakes products last longer, which is good for beauty brands.

Flexibility

Laminated tubes bend without breaking. This is better than aluminum tubes. Aluminum tubes can dent or crack. Plastic tubes bend too, but do not protect as well.

  • You can squeeze out creams and gels easily.
  • The tube goes back to its shape after you use it.
  • Laminated tubes fit in bags and pockets.

You can use almost all the product inside. The tube keeps the product safe from air each time you open it.

Design

Laminated tubes come in many shapes and sizes. Machines make them fast and in different ways. Bright colors and clear logos are printed right on the tube. This helps your product stand out.

  1. Automation makes tubes quickly and with fewer mistakes.
  2. Fast machines help brands fill big orders.
  3. Laminated tubes use many materials, so you get the right tube.
  • Good printing makes your brand look nice.
  • Bright colors and designs get your attention.
  • Eco-friendly printing helps the planet.

Safety

Laminated tubes follow strict safety rules. They have strong seals and tamper-evident parts. This shows your product is fresh and safe. Many tubes meet rules like ISO, FDA, and child-resistant standards.

Certification/StandardDescription
ISOChecks for quality and safety.
FDAMakes sure food and drug packaging is safe.
ISO 8317Child-resistant packaging certification.
ASTM D3475Safety and performance rules for packaging.
CPSC 16 CFR §1700U.S. rules for child-resistant packaging.
EN ISO 8317European child-resistant packaging rule.
CRC c. H-3Canadian packaging safety rule.
ISO 15378Checks packaging for medicine products.
  • Tamper-proof designs keep you safe from harm.
  • Child-resistant features protect young kids.
  • Strong seals stop germs, air, and water from getting in.

Laminated tubes keep your creams, medicines, and foods safe. You can trust the product inside is clean and protected.

Benefits

For Brands

You want your products to stand out and stay protected. Laminated Tubes help you do both. These tubes offer cost savings compared to rigid packaging. They weigh less, so you spend less on shipping and storage. You can move more products at once, which lowers your logistics costs.

AspectLaminated TubesRigid Packaging
Cost EfficiencyYesNo
WeightLightweightHeavier
Transportation EaseEasierMore Difficult
Logistics Cost ReductionYesNo
VersatilityHighLimited

You can also keep your products fresh for longer. Laminated Tubes protect sensitive ingredients from light and air. This is important for creams, sunscreens, and medicines. Your products stay stable and safe, which helps you meet strict rules for quality.

You can make your brand look unique. You can choose special colors, shapes, and designs. Digital printing lets you add bright graphics and clear logos. This helps your product catch the eye on store shelves. Many brands use these tubes to create a strong identity and attract more buyers.

  • Custom designs help your brand stand out.
  • Bright colors and unique shapes grab attention.
  • Advanced printing makes your logo look sharp and clear.
  • You can meet the needs of both local and global markets.

Note: Laminated Tubes help you save money, protect your products, and build a strong brand image.

For Consumers

You want packaging that is easy to use and keeps your products safe. Laminated Tubes make this possible. You can squeeze out just the right amount of cream or gel. The tube stays clean and does not break easily. You can carry it in your bag without worry.

  • Easy to squeeze and control how much you use.
  • More hygienic because you only touch what you need.
  • Lightweight and portable for travel or daily use.
  • Less likely to break or leak.

You also get products that last longer. The special layers in Laminated Tubes keep out air and light. Your creams, medicines, and foods stay fresh and safe for longer. You can trust that what you buy will work well until the last drop.

Tip: Choose products in Laminated Tubes for better convenience and longer-lasting quality.

Environmental Impact

You care about the planet and want packaging that is better for the environment. Laminated Tubes now use new materials and designs to help reduce waste. Some tubes use recycled plastics or bio-based materials made from plant oils. These options help lower the use of new plastic.

  • Some tubes are fully recyclable and still protect your products.
  • New designs use less plastic but keep the tube strong.
  • Bio-based plastics come from renewable sources like plant oils.
  • Tubes with recycled content help cut down on waste.

Manufacturers keep working on ways to make Laminated Tubes even greener. You can find tubes that use up to 50% recycled plastic. Some tubes are lighter, which means less plastic is needed. These changes help lower the carbon footprint of packaging.

Note: When you choose products in Laminated Tubes, you support brands that care about the environment.

Applications

Applications

Cosmetics

Laminated tubes are used a lot in cosmetics. Brands put creams, lotions, gels, and toothpaste in them. Xinfly Packaging makes tubes for fancy skincare and beauty items. These tubes keep formulas safe from air, water, and light. The tubes are soft and easy to hold. They do not break or crack easily. Printing on the tubes is bright and clear. This helps your favorite brands get noticed.

FeatureDescription
Barrier ProtectionShields formulas from oxygen, moisture, and light.
FlexibilityMore flexible than pure aluminum, providing better usability.
DurabilityMaintains structural integrity under various conditions.
Cost-EffectivenessGenerally cheaper than pure metal tubes while offering similar protection.
Printing CapabilityAllows full-color printing directly on the tube’s surface.
  • These tubes are great for creams and gels.
  • Plastic and aluminum together give better safety.
  • Your products stay fresh for a longer time.

Tip: Pick cosmetics in laminated tubes for more safety and a cool look.

Pharmaceuticals

Laminated tubes are used for medicine, ointments, and gels. Xinfly Packaging makes special tubes that follow strict safety rules. These tubes have layers that keep medicine safe from water, air, and germs. Some tubes have child-safe nozzles for extra safety. Laminated tubes help you use the right amount and keep it clean.

  • Tubes follow FDA and ISO rules.
  • They keep medicine safe from air and water.
  • You can use just what you need and waste less.

Note: Laminated tubes help your medicine stay safe and work well until the end.

Food

Laminated tubes are used for sauces, dressings, pastes, and condensed milk. Xinfly Packaging makes tubes for many food brands. These tubes have thin layers that block air, water, and light. This keeps food fresh and stops it from going bad. You can squeeze out only what you need, and the tube stays clean.

Layer CompositionBenefits
Multiple Thin LayersProvides excellent barrier properties against oxygen, moisture, light, and contamination.
High-Quality PrintabilityAllows for aesthetic appeal and branding through various printing techniques.
  • Tubes help keep vitamins and antioxidants strong.
  • Your food tastes fresh and lasts longer.

Tip: Laminated tubes make food safer and easier to use.

Industry

Laminated tubes are used for things like glue and paint. Xinfly Packaging makes tubes for many uses in factories. Companies pick laminated tubes because they keep products safe from dirt and light. Tubes are simple to use and cost less than other packages.

Reason for Choosing Laminated TubesDescription
SustainabilityThe growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions is a key factor driving market growth.
Product IntegrityLaminated tubes protect the contents from contamination and degradation.
Cost-EffectivenessThey are affordable compared to traditional packaging options.
ConvenienceTubes are easy to use and versatile for various products.
  • Tubes have tight lids to keep things safe.
  • You can use the product without touching it.

Note: Laminated tubes help keep industrial products safe and easy to use.

Laminated tubes help keep your products safe and clean. They are simple to use and easy to carry. Brands pick them because they cost less and protect well. These features help you every day in many ways:

Advantages of Laminated Tubes
Simple to use
Easy to carry
Keeps products safe and fresh
Stops water, air, and light
Harder to open by mistake
Stays clean and hygienic

Laminated tubes are still important as people want greener packaging. New ideas like smart packaging and better printing make them even more useful in the future.

Laminated Cosmetic Tubes – Frequently Asked Questions

Understand ABL vs. PBL structures, barrier performance, print quality, recyclability, cost, typical uses, and how to choose specs for your formula.

1) What is a laminated cosmetic tube?
A laminated tube is made from a multi-layer web (laminate) that’s side-seamed and headed into a tube. Layers combine plastics (PE/PP) and, for ABL, a thin aluminum foil to deliver barrier and printability.
2) What’s the difference between ABL and PBL?
ABL (Aluminum Barrier Laminate) includes an aluminum layer for high O₂/UV/aroma barrier; PBL (Plastic Barrier Laminate) is all-plastic with good barrier and better recyclability potential. Choose by formula sensitivity and ESG goals.
3) When should I choose ABL over PBL?
Pick ABL for oxygen/light-sensitive or aroma-rich formulas (e.g., retinol, vitamin C, whitening actives, medicated gels). PBL suits most creams and gels where strong—but not extreme—barrier is enough.
4) Are laminated tubes recyclable?
PBL (all-plastic) structures generally have better recyclability potential, especially in mono-material PE designs with PE caps. ABL recyclability depends on local facilities due to mixed materials. Always check market guidance.
5) How do laminated tubes compare with extruded PE tubes?
Laminates enable sharper, photo-quality graphics and controlled barrier without heavy wall thickness. Extruded single-layer PE favors simplicity and squeeze feel, but lower print resolution and barrier (unless COEX).
6) What printing and finishes are available?
High-resolution gravure/offset, silk screen spot colors, hot-foil accents, matte/gloss/pearl/tactile varnishes, and holographic effects. Request on-substrate proofs and ΔE color control.
7) What sizes and diameters can I get?
Common diameters 19–50 mm for fills ~10–250 ml. Length is tuned to target volume and wall gauge. Orifice from ~0.8–3.0 mm+ per viscosity.
8) Which caps and closures pair with laminated tubes?
Flip-top and screw caps are standard; options include acrylic/aluminum overshells, child-resistant caps, precise nozzle tips, and tamper-evident inner plugs.
9) How are laminated tubes sealed and tested?
They are headed, filled and heat-sealed. QC includes leak/pressure, torque, drop, print registration and adhesion tests; migration/compatibility tests where applicable.
10) What affects the cost of laminated tubes most?
Laminate spec (foil thickness for ABL; barrier layer for PBL), print colors/passes, hot-foil/varnishes, custom caps, and order size. Standard diameters and stock closures help manage cost.
11) What are typical MOQs and lead times?
MOQ often 5,000–10,000 pcs per design. Sampling ~7–10 days after artwork; mass production ~25–35 days post sample approval (varies by finish/season).
12) Any claims & labeling tips?
Substantiate “barrier” and shelf-life claims with data. Include INCI, net content, batch/expiry (if applicable) and region-specific labeling (EU/US). Use accurate material IDs; avoid unsupported recyclability/compostability claims.

Ready to customize your packaging? Contact our team for detailed pricing, MOQ flexibility, and fast production samples.

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Jeff Shao
Jeff – Founder & Managing Director of Xinfly Packaging

Jeff Shao is a forward-thinking entrepreneur and packaging innovator with over 20 years of experience in the cosmetic and personal-care packaging industry. As the Founder and Managing Director of Xinfly Packaging, he has transformed the company from a traditional plastic tube manufacturer into a global provider of custom, eco-friendly, and premium cosmetic tube solutions.

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