How To Fill Cosmetic Tubes

Cosmetics tubes come in various shapes and sizes, from flexible squeeze tubes to long, narrow tubes used for lip gloss and mascara. At APG Packaging, they offer an extensive selection of quality cosmetic tubes that can be filled on-site. But how can beauty brands best fill these tubes efficiently and securely? This article is meant for cosmetic manufacturers, beauty brands, and anyone involved in the packaging of cosmetics. We will describe the different methods of filling cosmetic tubes, whether done manually or through automation.

Terms Explanation

Flexible Squeeze Tubes

These are soft, squeezable tubes typically used for creams and gels. They are usually filled using automated machinery.

Lip Balm Tubes

These are smaller, often cylindrical tubes intended for lip balms and similar products. They can be filled manually by melting the product and pouring it into the tube.

Syringe Method

A technique used to fill tubes with narrow openings (like lip gloss or mascara tubes) involving a syringe to inject the product into the tube.

Task Step Guide

Step 1: Preparing the Product

Automated Filling for Creams and Gels

1. Prepare the Filling Machine: Ensure that the automated filling machine is clean and well-maintained.

2. Load the Product: Fill the product reservoir of the machine with your cosmetic cream or gel.

3. Set Parameters: Set the filling parameters based on the volume of the product and the tube's fill capacity.

4. Start the Machine: The piston of the machine will push the product from the base, filling up the tube. Once filled, the machine will heat-seal the end, and any excess material will be trimmed.

Manual Filling for Lip Balms

1. Melt the Product: Heat the lip balm mixture until it is in a liquid state.

2. Fill the Tube: Pour the melted product into the lip balm tubes. Be sure to fill it to the rim as the product will not expand or contract upon cooling.

3. Cool and Cap: Allow the product to cool and solidify. Once cooled, cap the tube securely.

Syringe Method for Narrow Tubes

1. Prepare the Syringe: Load the syringe with the product.

2. Insert into the Tube: Insert the syringe tip into the narrow opening of the tube.

3. Fill Carefully: Slowly press the plunger to inject the product into the tube, filling it evenly. For added precision, you can extend the syringe with a trimmed pipette.

Step 2: Sealing the Tubes

1. Heat Sealing: If using an automated machine, it will usually heat-seal the tube automatically. For manual processes, a heat sealer can be employed to close the tube securely.

2. Cap the Tube: For manually filled tubes, cap them securely once the product has set.

Step 3: Quality Control

1. Inspect Each Tube: Check for any leaks, deformities, or inconsistencies.

2. Labeling: Apply labels to each tube as per your branding requirements.

3. Batch Testing: Conduct batch testing to ensure quality and consistency across all products.

Tips and Reminders

• Check Fill Capacity: Always check the fill capacity of each tube to avoid overfilling or underfilling.

• Cleanliness is Key: Maintain a sterile and clean workspace to avoid contamination.

• Temperature Control: For manual filling, ensure the product temperature is optimal to avoid issues during the filling process.

• Automated Machines: Regularly maintain and calibrate automated filling machines for consistent performance.

Conclusion

Filling cosmetic tubes efficiently ensures product quality and customer satisfaction. By understanding the types of tubes and the appropriate filling methods, manufacturers can decide between automated and manual processes. Whether you're working with flexible squeeze tubes, lip balm tubes, or narrow tubes for products like mascara, the correct approach will ensure the product is filled securely and looks professionally packaged. Keeping the work environment clean and regularly maintaining equipment are key to successful tube filling.

By following these steps, cosmetic brands can maintain consistency and quality, delivering their products safely and attractively to consumers.