Choose a tube filling and sealing machine by matching it to (1) your tube material, (2) the sealing method that material needs, (3) fill volume and viscosity, (4) the output you need per shift, (5) the number of tube sizes you run, (6) hygiene requirements and (7) after-sales support. Plastic and laminated tubes are sealed with hot air or ultrasonics; aluminum tubes need a folding (crimp) sealer.
1. Start with the tube material
The tube decides the sealing technology, so it is the first question any machine supplier should ask.
| Tube | Typical products | Sealing method |
|---|---|---|
| Plastic (PE mono-layer) | Cosmetics, hand cream, food sauces | Hot air or ultrasonic |
| Laminated (ABL / PBL) | Toothpaste, skincare, pharma | Hot air (inner heating) |
| Aluminum | Ointment, hair dye, adhesives, paint | 2- or 3-fold crimp |
If you run both plastic and aluminum tubes, a platform like the HTGF-300 with dual sealing stations avoids buying two machines.
2. Fill volume and viscosity
Most tube fillers use a piston dosing pump because it delivers the same volume regardless of viscosity. Ask for the dosing range that covers your smallest and largest SKU — for example 5–25 ml, 15–150 ml and 30–200 ml cylinders. For very thick pastes, a jacketed, stirred hopper keeps the product flowing; for products with particles, a larger valve opening is required.
3. Output per minute — be realistic
- 8–12 tubes/min: semi-automatic machines for labs, start-ups and samples.
- 30–80 tubes/min: automatic rotary machines — the most common choice for growing brands.
- 120–150 tubes/min: twin-nozzle, high-speed machines for contract manufacturers.
Calculate from your annual volume: tubes per year ÷ working days ÷ productive hours ÷ 60, then add 20–30% for changeovers and cleaning.
4. Hot air, ultrasonic or crimp?
Hot-air sealing is the fastest and most economical for laminated tubes. Ultrasonic sealing needs no warm-up and seals cleanly even if product touches the seal area, which suits food sauces and short runs. Aluminum tubes are always folded. Read our detailed comparison of tube sealing methods.
5. Count your tube sizes
Each tube diameter needs its own tube holders (cups) and sometimes different sealing jaws. If you run many sizes, ask for quick-release tooling and a documented changeover time.
6. Hygiene and materials
Product-contact parts should be SUS304 at minimum and SUS316L for pharmaceuticals and aggressive formulas. Check for tool-free dismantling of the dosing pump and an enclosed, guarded sealing zone.
7. Testing and after-sales support
Before you pay the balance, insist on a factory acceptance test with your tubes and product (or a matched substitute), a spare-parts kit, and access to video and on-site support.
Quick RFQ checklist
- Tube material, diameter and length (send samples if possible)
- Fill volume range and product viscosity
- Target tubes per minute
- Sealing style: plain, coded, decorative
- Power supply (voltage, phase, frequency)
- Destination country and certification required (e.g. CE)
