Difference between an Aluminium Tube & an ABL Tube

Summary

In this video, Josh and Steve from World Trade Packaging explain the key differences between aluminum tubes and ABL (Aluminum Barrier Laminate) tubes. They discuss how ABL tubes offer superior print quality, enhanced barrier protection, and more durability without the risk of tearing or leakage. ABL tubes are also cost-effective with lower minimum order quantities and can be easily sealed with standard equipment. The video highlights how more brands are opting for ABL tubes due to these benefits, making them a preferred choice for packaging needs.

Takeaways

• 😀 ABL stands for Aluminium Barrier Laminate, which combines aluminum with plastic to provide a strong protective barrier.
• 😀 Aluminium tubes are pure aluminum, offering robust protection but may not be ideal for all types of artwork.
• 😀 ABL tubes are better for printing complex designs, gradients, and images due to their flat printing process.
• 😀 The primary benefit of aluminium tubes is their strong barrier protection, especially for aggressive products like toothpaste.
• 😀 ABL tubes are less likely to tear or crumple compared to aluminum tubes, reducing the risk of leakage or cuts.
• 😀 ABL tubes offer a retro aesthetic look, which some customers prefer, but they also provide practical benefits over aluminium tubes.
• 😀 A wider range of tube caps is available for ABL tubes, while fewer options exist for pure aluminum tubes.
• 😀 ABL tubes typically have lower minimum order quantities (MOQs) compared to aluminum tubes, making them more cost-effective for smaller runs.
• 😀 While aluminum tube runs often require a minimum of 20,000 units, ABL tubes can be produced in smaller batches of 10,000 or fewer.
• 😀 ABL tubes are compatible with a wider range of standard tube filling equipment, such as hot jaw and hot air sealing components.
• 😀 Many Australian manufacturers are now using ABL tubes due to their advantages, such as shorter lead times and better cost efficiency.

Q & A

What is the difference between an aluminium tube and an ABL tube?

An aluminium tube is made entirely of aluminium, while an ABL (Aluminium Barrier Laminate) tube consists of aluminium surrounded by plastic. The plastic provides an additional barrier layer.

Why would someone choose an aluminium tube over an ABL tube?

Aluminium tubes are typically chosen for their aesthetic qualities, especially when the product requires a strong, durable barrier for certain types of contents like toothpaste or aggressive products.

What are the advantages of using an ABL tube for artwork?

ABL tubes are printed flat, which allows for more vibrant and detailed artwork, especially when the design includes gradients or more than four colors, providing a higher-quality print compared to a traditional aluminium tube.

What are the primary benefits of using an ABL tube over an aluminium tube?

ABL tubes offer several advantages including better resistance to tearing and crimping, a wider variety of available caps, lower minimum order quantities (MOQs), and the ability to be filled and sealed by a wider range of manufacturers.

Why might an ABL tube be more durable than an aluminium tube?

ABL tubes are less likely to tear or develop cuts, reducing product leakage and avoiding the potential for injury due to sharp edges. The outer plastic layer adds to the tube's durability.

How does the barrier protection of an ABL tube compare to that of an aluminium tube?

Both tubes offer strong barrier protection, but ABL tubes combine the protective qualities of aluminium with the flexibility of plastic, which can provide better overall sealing and durability, especially for products that may react with the packaging.

What makes ABL tubes a more cost-effective option compared to aluminium tubes?

ABL tubes generally have lower MOQs, which means companies can place smaller orders at a lower cost. Aluminium tubes require a minimum order of 20,000 units, which can be more expensive due to the larger volume.

Are there limitations in terms of caps for aluminium tubes?

Yes, aluminium tubes typically have a limited selection of compatible caps, whereas ABL tubes offer a much wider range of cap options, providing more flexibility in design and function.

Why are ABL tubes becoming increasingly popular with brands?

ABL tubes are gaining popularity because they offer several benefits such as lower lead times, reduced costs, more flexibility in production, and the ability to work with more manufacturers for filling and sealing.

Can ABL tubes be filled and sealed using standard tube-filling equipment?

Yes, ABL tubes can be filled and sealed using standard equipment, including hot jaw and hot air sealing methods, making them easier to handle by a wide range of manufacturers.