One of the most common types of product packaging tubes is laminate tubes. They feature a multi-layer design that makes them highly effective at protecting contents from environmental contamination or damage. That is why many manufacturers use them to package their products. The barrier layer is key to the effectiveness of a laminate tube. It can be made from a variety of materials depending on the product and its contents. Two of the most commonly used materials are aluminum foil and ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) film. Below, we highlight how tubes made from these materials differ and what applications they are suitable for.
What Is the Difference Between ABL, PBL, and Co-Extruded Tubes?
Aluminum Barrier Laminate (ABL) Tubes
Aluminum barrier laminate (ABL) tubes use aluminum foil for the barrier layer. It protects the contents against light, air, and moisture. Additionally, it stops the product from absorbing flavors from the other packaging layers or the environment. These plastic-metal tubes meet the packaging requirements for cosmetic and pharmaceutical products. While they are most commonly used to package toothpaste, they are also recommended for cream, gels, ointments, and pastes. One of the key distinctions of ABL tubes is their ability to hold their “squeeze shape”. They do not return to their original shape once squeezed, which makes them ideal for products that require precise dispensing.
Plastic Barrier Laminate (PBL) Tubes
Plastic barrier laminate (PBL) tubes use ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) film for the barrier layer. It prevents oxygen from passing into the product from the environment and oils from passing from the product into the other layers. The process of making PBL tubes starts with layering the EVOH film with other plastics materials (e.g., polyethylene) to form a sheet. Then, the sheet is cut and rolled into tubes. Next, the longitudinal edges of the tube are welded together to form the tube body. Finally, the body is sealed to the tube shoulder. One of the key distinctions of PBL tubes is their ability to hold their original shape. They do return to their original shape once squeezed, which makes them a more stable packaging option.
Co-Extruded (COEX) Tubes
Similar to PBL tubes, co-extruded (COEX) tubes use EVOH film for the barrier layer, which protects the contents from oxygen transfer and the packaging from oil transfer. However, rather than being made from cut, rolled, and sealed plastic layers, they are made from extruded plastic layers. The result is a tube with no seams. Like a PBL tube, it will bounce back to its original shape after being squeezed.
What Tube Is Right for You?
ABL, PBL, and co-extruded tubes are used for similar applications in the cosmetic, food, and pharmaceutical industries. However, they offer distinct advantages and disadvantages that make them suitable for different products. For example:
- ABL tubes are an economical collapsible tube option that offers broad customizability. They can be decorated in various ways to suit different products and brands. Additionally, they are an excellent packaging solution for aggressive products, such as adhesives, antiseptics, essential oils, liniment creams, and toothpastes.
- PBL tubes are generally used for cosmetics, personal care products, and pharmaceuticals. However, they also find use in the food industry.
- Co-extruded tubes offer seamless construction and flexible barrier options. For these reasons, they are commonly used for premium cosmetic and personal care products that must look good on the shelves. They are also suitable for packaging food and pharmaceuticals.
Learn More About Packaging Tubes at E2Global
Want to learn more about ABL, PBL, and co-extruded tubes or need them for your operations? Contact the experts at E2Global! Our Tube Advantage team will help you navigate the options available to create an effective tube solution that meets your specifications and standards.
