Aluminum squeeze tube manufacturing process

The extrusion process lies at the heart of aluminum squeeze tube manufacturing, representing a pivotal stage where raw aluminum material is transformed into the versatile vessels we rely on for packaging various products. It begins with the meticulous preparation of aluminum billets, carefully selected for their composition to ensure optimal strength and malleability. These billets undergo precise heating to a temperature where they become pliable, ready for the extrusion process.

Custom-designed extrusion dies are then employed, each tailored to the specific dimensions and shape requirements of the squeeze tube. These dies act as molds through which the heated aluminum billets are forced under immense pressure within the extrusion press. As the aluminum material passes through the die, it takes on the desired cross-sectional profile of the squeeze tube, emerging as a continuous length of extruded aluminum.

Following extrusion, the aluminum profiles undergo a cooling process to stabilize their shape, often accompanied by annealing to relieve internal stresses and enhance material properties. Once cooled, the extruded profiles are precisely cut to the appropriate lengths corresponding to the intended tube sizes. Additional finishing processes, including trimming, deburring, and surface treatments, may be applied to ensure the smoothness and uniformity of the tube surfaces.

The trimming and threading process of aluminum squeeze tubes is a critical step that ensures the tubes are properly finished and ready for sealing. 

Heating: Annealing involves heating the aluminum tubes to a specific temperature range, typically below the material's melting point but high enough to induce recrystallization and grain growth. The exact temperature and duration of the annealing process depend on factors such as the alloy composition, thickness of the material, and desired properties.

Holding and Cooling: Once the tubes reach the annealing temperature, they are held at this temperature for a predetermined period to allow for sufficient recrystallization and stress relief. Following this dwell time, the tubes are gradually cooled at a controlled rate to room temperature. This gradual cooling helps to prevent the formation of new stresses and ensures uniform properties throughout the material.

Priming: In some cases, a primer or pre-treatment solution is applied to the surface of the aluminum tubes to promote adhesion and improve the bonding between the metal substrate and the lacquer coating. This primer layer helps to ensure uniform coverage and enhance the overall durability of the lacquer finish.

Application of Lacquer: The lacquer coating is then applied to the surface of the aluminum tubes using various methods such as spraying, dipping, or roller coating. The choice of application method depends on factors such as the type of lacquer used, the desired thickness of the coating, and the production requirements.

Curing: Once applied, the lacquer coating undergoes a curing process to dry and harden the material. This typically involves passing the tubes through a high-temperature oven or infrared drying system, where the lacquer undergoes polymerization and cross-linking to form a durable and protective film.

Coating Application: The coating material is applied to the surface of the aluminum tubes using various methods such as spraying, dipping, or electrostatic deposition. The choice of application method depends on factors such as the type of coating material, desired thickness, and production requirements.

Printing Method Selection: Various printing methods can be used to apply the desired design onto the surface of the aluminum tubes. Common printing techniques include offset printing, flexographic printing, digital printing, and silk-screen printing. The choice of printing method depends on factors such as the complexity of the design, the desired print quality, and the production volume.

Ink Selection: The appropriate ink or printing material is selected based on factors such as adhesion to aluminum, durability, and color vibrancy. Specialized inks may be used to ensure compatibility with the aluminum substrate and to withstand external factors such as moisture, abrasion, and chemical exposure.

Printing Process: Once the printing setup is ready, the aluminum tubes are fed into the printing machine, where the design is transferred onto the surface of the tubes. The printing process may involve multiple passes or colors to achieve the desired design and color accuracy. Precision machinery ensures that the design is applied accurately and uniformly to each tube.

Drying/Curing: After printing, the ink or printing material undergoes a drying or curing process to ensure that it adheres firmly to the surface of the aluminum tubes. This may involve passing the printed tubes through a drying oven or using UV curing systems to expedite the curing process and enhance the durability of the print.

Cap Selection: The first step in the capping process is selecting the appropriate caps or closures for the aluminum squeeze tubes. Caps come in various designs, sizes, and materials, depending on factors such as the type of product being packaged, dispensing requirements, and branding considerations.

Feeding and Orientation: Once selected, the caps are fed into the capping machine, where they are oriented and positioned correctly for placement onto the aluminum squeeze tubes. Automated systems ensure consistent and accurate alignment of the caps to facilitate smooth and efficient capping.

Tube Feeding: Simultaneously, the aluminum squeeze tubes are fed into the capping machine, typically via a conveyor belt or automated feeding system. The tubes are positioned underneath the capping heads in preparation for the capping process.

Capping: As the tubes and caps are aligned, the capping machine applies downward pressure to secure the caps onto the tubes. Depending on the capping mechanism, this may involve screwing, crimping, or snapping the caps into place. Precision equipment ensures that the caps are tightly sealed to prevent leakage and maintain product freshness.

Latex Sealant Selection: The appropriate latex sealant material is selected based on factors such as compatibility with the aluminum substrate, flexibility, and resistance to moisture and other environmental factors. Latex sealants are typically formulated to provide a flexible and durable seal that can withstand the rigors of handling and use.

Application: The latex sealant is applied to the opening or neck of the aluminum squeeze tubes using specialized equipment such as dispensing nozzles or applicator brushes. The sealant is carefully applied to ensure complete coverage and uniform thickness, creating a tight and secure seal between the tube and the cap.

Curing: Once applied, the latex sealant undergoes a curing process to dry and harden the material. This typically involves allowing the sealant to air dry or passing the sealed tubes through a curing oven. The curing process ensures that the sealant forms a strong and resilient bond with the aluminum substrate, providing a reliable barrier against moisture and contaminants.