Originally Published PMPN September 2001
PRODUCT UPDATE: Tubes
Convenient-to-Use TubesCustomized tubes and closures offer controlled dispensing of fluid products.
A one-piece closure for tubes is child resistant and senior friendly. The 18-mm TubeLoK closure features a push-and-turn mechanism that is easy to operate while meeting Consumer Product Safety Commission requirements for child resistance. The closure system creates a spring effect under downward pressure, locking the cap in place with an audible click when released. The packaging system also involves a plug that ensures package seal integrity and prevents product from being dispensed prematurely while the closure is being removed. The closure was developed for prescription and over-the-counter products such as antiseptics and anesthetics that come in the form of creams, ointments, gels, and jellies. Rexam Closures, Evansville, IN.
A tube-in-a-tube package is able to contain two interactive components, keeping them separate until they are dispensed from the tube for use. A laminate outer tube that offers high barrier protection is snapped together at the tube shoulder with a plastic inner tube, and product is dispensed through multiple ports in a specially designed orifice. Dispense ratio is determined by the two tube materials, the orifice design, and the viscosity of the products. A stock cap can be supplied, or the package can be customized with a proprietary cap. Cebal Americas, Norwalk, CT.
Designed for dispensing when control and precision are necessary, unit-dose tubes are available in various sizes and colors. Constructed of one-piece low-density polyethylene, the MicroDose tubes are recyclable. The tubes can dispense as little as 40 ml of product to a specific site. For faster dispensing, the snip-off tip can be shortened to open a larger diameter. The MicroDose units can be filled in volumes ranging from 0.18 to 8.0 ml, with tolerances as close as ±0.02 ml. Ink-jet printing on the unit-dose tubes is also available for product identification or lot coding. Unicep Packaging Inc., Sandpoint, ID.
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