Tube Filling and Sealing Machine: 7 Steps Explained

Have you ever wondered how ointments, toothpaste, or skincare products are filled into tubes and sealed? The answer is — a tube filling and sealing machine.

This article will walk you through the working process of the machine in 7 simple steps.  

What is a tube filling and sealing machine?

A tube filling and sealing machine is an automated device used to fill, seal, and code ointments, toothpaste, skincare products, or food into tubes. It significantly improves production efficiency and consistency and is widely used in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industries.

Main Components of a Tube Filling and Sealing Machine

A standard fully automatic tube filling and sealing machine typically consists of the following components:

◾ Tube hopper: Stores aluminum, plastic, or composite tubes.

◾ Transfer gripper: Secures and transports the tubes, ensuring precise docking at each station.

◾ High-precision filling pump: Core component, controls the metered injection of material.

◾ Sealing mechanism: Selects hot air, hem crimping, or laser sealing depending on the tube material.

◾ Coding device: Prints the production date, batch number, and expiration date.

How a Tube Filling and Sealing Machine Works: 7-Step Process

Step 1: Tube Loading

The operator pours the empty tube into the tube hopper, and the machine automatically loads the tube, eliminating manual placement.

Step 2: Automatic Alignment

The system automatically adjusts the tube position, ensuring the opening faces upward, preparing it for filling and sealing.

Step 3: Nitrogen Filling (Optional)

In the production of pharmaceuticals or oxidizing products, nitrogen is injected into the tube to expel oxygen and extend shelf life.

Step 4: High-Precision Filling

The filling head descends, and a piston pump meteredly injects the material.

Accuracy reaches ±0.5%, significantly reducing material waste.

Step 5: Tail Sealing

Different tail sealing methods are available depending on the tube material:

◾ Hot Air Sealing (Plastic Tube): Hot air softens the tail, then folds and presses it shut.

◾ Flanged Sealing (Aluminum Tube): Mechanical grippers fold the tube multiple times, creating a tight seal.

◾ Laser Sealing (Composite Tube): Laser melts the film layer, resulting in a smooth and aesthetically pleasing finish.

Step 6: Coding

Print the production date, batch number, expiration date, etc. on the seal.

Step 7: Automatic Discharge

Filled tubes are transported from the conveyor belt to a collection bin, where they await cartoning or subsequent packaging.

Comparison of Different Sealing Methods

Conclusion

If you are looking for an efficient and reliable fully automatic filling and sealing machine, please contact us. Our team of experts will provide you with free consultation and customized solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the filling accuracy?

A: High-end models achieve an accuracy of ±0.5%, while standard models achieve ±1%.

Q: Does it support different hose specifications?

A: Yes. Simply replace the filling nozzle, gripper, and mold. The quick-change module reduces setup time.

Q: How is the machine cleaned?

A: Pharmaceutical-grade models are equipped with CIP cleaning; basic models require manual disassembly.

Q: What materials can be filled?

A: Ointments, toothpaste, skin creams, gels, and even food products like mustard.