Tubes are one of the best and most versatile packaging methods used in various industries, with many applications today. From cosmetics to food and pharmaceuticals, there are virtually no limitations on the use of tubes. Filling tubes with advanced machinery ensures precision and high-quality standards without being expensive! If you’re considering using tubes for your products, join us in this article as we explore the types and operation of tube filling machines.
How does a tube filling machine work
Just as tubes come in various types and materials, tube filling machines are also produced in different models and are available on the market. You can choose and purchase the appropriate machine based on your production needs and desired speed. In our previous article, “What is a Tube Filling Machine?”, we thoroughly discussed the types of tube filling machines. However, here we will briefly introduce these machines to give you a general understanding:
Manual tube filling machine: It operates manually and is suitable for filling thick and semi-solid liquids such as toothpaste, hair dye, glue, chocolate, etc., in small production units and workshops.
Semi-automatic tube filling machine: It performs half of the tasks automatically and the other half with the help of an operator. It is suitable for filling both thick and thin liquids in medium to large-scale production units, but it operates at a lower speed compared to automatic machines.
Automatic tube filling machine: It performs the packaging process with high speed and precision and is widely used in large factories.
All of these types of machines are available on the Radan Machine website, and you can purchase any of these tube filling machines through the Radan Machine website.
How does a manual tube filling machine work
Now that we are familiar with the types of tube filling machines, we can examine how the manual tube filling machine works in detail. The manual tube filling machine uses a piston inside a cylinder to push the liquid into the container. This technology, known as volumetric or volume filling, dispenses a specific amount of product into the tube each time.
The volume of the product dispensed by the operator is pre-set for repeatability and can be adjusted within the machine’s available output range (e.g., between 100-500 milliliters). These machines do not require a power source, are compact, and can often be mounted on a counter.
The operator places the tube inside the filling machine, pulls the lever to the end point, which releases the liquid from the nozzle and fills the container. Manual tube filling machines are designed to fill one tube at a time. These machines can be adjusted to work with various liquids, accommodating a wide range of viscosities. Depending on the viscosity and the volume of the liquid in each cycle, it is possible to fill up to 15 containers per minute.
How does a semi-automatic tube filling machine work
How does a semi-automatic tube filling machine work? The semi-automatic tube filling machine serves the same purpose as manual tube filling machines but comes with a power source, allowing for higher efficiency.
Semi-automatic filling machines can have up to four filling heads, meaning that four containers can be filled simultaneously, significantly increasing productivity.
Many semi-automatic tube filling machines use the same method as manual filling machines to dispense the liquid into the container. However, instead of pulling a lever, the operator presses a foot pedal switch or places the containers in position to allow them to fill automatically.
Semi-automatic tube filling machines can be used independently, on movable units, or on a table, and they draw the liquid from a separate hopper or reservoir using feeding tubes.
How does an automatic tube filling machine work
The automatic tube filling machine works in such a way that the tubes are automatically placed into the machine’s mold. Their positioning is adjusted based on the colored mark at the end of the tube using a sensor. Then, the tube is filled to the designated level by the nozzle, and its end is sealed to ensure it exits the machine automatically.
These machines are widely used in large factories due to their high speed and precision. For factories that need to fill a large number of tubes with various materials daily, purchasing an automatic tube filling machine is one of the best actions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of materials can be filled using a tube filling machine?
Tube filling machines can be used across a wide range of industries for filling food products, cosmetics and personal care items, chemicals, and more.
Which type of machine is suitable for medium to large-scale production?
The most suitable option for medium to large-scale production is a semi-automatic or automatic tube filling machine, as it offers high speed and precision.
Final Words
As you know, one of the most important factors influencing product marketing and brand recognition today is proper and attractive packaging. Packaging products (especially paste-like products) in tubes is one method that manufacturers can use to create a competitive edge and increase their customer base. These tubes must be filled using specialized machines called tube filling machines. In this article, we have reviewed how tube filling machines work and thoroughly explained their types, making it easier for you, dear readers, to make an informed decision when purchasing the right machine.