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There are various types of plastic tubes 18 on wholesale markets like Alibaba.com. Each of them has unique characteristics and applications. Here are some of them:
Clear Plastic Tubes
These are transparent allowing the content to be visible. They are made from materials like PVC, PET, or acrylic. Clear tubes are popular for packaging items like candles, collectibles, and small gifts. They are also used in crafts and DIY projects.
Black Plastic Tubes
These are non-transparent and are mostly used when the content needs to be concealed. They are suitable for packaging items that require protection from light. Black tubes are often used for cosmetics, such as creams and lotions.
Paper Plastic Tubes
This type of tube has a paper outer layer with a plastic liner. They are often used for products like posters, maps, and blueprints. Since they are made from paper, they are more environmentally friendly than other tubes. Most users prefer them when packaging products as they can be easily customized through printing.
Cardboard Plastic Tubes
These tubes have a cardboard shell and a plastic end cap. They are commonly used for packaging and shipping cylindrical items. Like paper tubes, they are eco-friendly and can be easily recycled.
Metallic Coated Tubes
These tubes have a metal foil coating on the inside or outside. The coating can be aluminum or gold foil. These tubes have a metallic appearance and are mostly used when a metal look is needed. They are also used for packaging premium products like wine and cosmetics.
Metallic Foil Tubes
These tubes have a foil material wrapped around them. The foil can be aluminum or any other lightweight metal. The tubes are lightweight, visually appealing, and mostly used in packaging food items.
Metal Plastic Tubes
These tubes are made of metal (aluminum, tin, or steel). They are durable and provide excellent protection against light and impact. They are also recyclable and reusable. These tubes are popular for packaging ointments, gels, and products that need to be dispensed. They can also be integrated with airless pumps for the contents to be dispensed without exposure to air.
When buying clear plastic tubes for sale, wholesale buyers should consider the following features and functions, which are also key selling points for end-users.
Material
The most common materials used to make plastic tubes include polyvinyl chloride (PVC), high-impact polystyrene (HIPS), and acrylic.
PVC is lightweight, impact-resistant, and can be produced in different colors. HIPS is often used when cost is an important factor, and the application does not require advanced mechanical properties. Acrylic is used when clarity and rigidity are important.
Durability
Plastic tubes are developed to withstand different levels of stress, impact, and environmental conditions. Factors like construction, material, and diameter determine durability.
Most are weather resistant and can function in different temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor applications.
Water Resistance
Most water, air, and moisture plastics, such as PVC, are used in applications like plumbing, drainage, and electrical wiring.
Transparency
Many clear plastic tube can be transparent or translucent. This is important for applications like packaging, where the product needs to be visible.
Customizable
The plastic tube can be customized in different sizes, diameters, and colors. Customization includes printing logos and brand names on the tube.
Low weight
These plastics are lightweight, reducing shipping costs and making them more convenient for packaging and other applications.
Recyclability
Most tube plastics are recyclable, reducing environmental impact and making them a more sustainable option for businesses and consumers.
Versatility
These tubes are versatile and used in different applications, from packaging cosmetics to containing posters, artwork, and industrial uses.
Electronics:
Electronics often use plastic tubes to house and protect wires, LED lights, and other components. These tubes offer neat organization and protection against electrical shorts or component damage. Transparent tubes also provide visual inspection of the internal wiring.
Office Supply:
These items are frequently found in offices and schools. They are used to store and protect posters, documents, blueprints, and other items. The plastic construction of the tube protects the contents from tears, creases, and environmental damage. It also enables the storage of items in a rolled format, which is more space-efficient than flat storage.
Sports and Outdoor Activities:
Plastic pipes are popular for carrying yoga mats, camping gear, fishing rods, and other sports equipment. The lightweight nature of the tubes allows for easy transportation and movement of the equipment. The open or airtight ends make it possible to store smaller items within the tube.
Construction:
Clear plastic tubes are used in construction to store and transport level rods, samples of soil, and other items. The sturdiness of the tubes ensures that the contents are not damaged during transit or movement. The transparency of the tubes allows for visual inspection of the contents. Airtight tubes also prevent spillage.
Arts and Crafts:
Crafters use different types of plastic tubes for projects and organize crafts. The tubes can be used as a project to create decorative items that can be used for home decor. They can also be used to store small craft items like beads and buttons.
Healthcare:
Plastic tubes are used in healthcare for different applications. Medical professionals use them to store and transport blood samples. Sterile plastic tubes with lids are used to store and transport medicine. They are also used for the packaging of medical equipment.
Material and durability:
The durability of the tube relies on the type of plastic from which it is made. Materials like PVC, polyethylene, and polypropylene are commonly used in construction projects and can be found in plastic tubes. When selecting a tube for a specific application, it is important to take into account the environmental factors it will be exposed to, such as temperature, UV radiation, and moisture.
Size and shape:
These tubes come in various sizes and shapes, including round, square, and rectangular. The size and shape of the tube should be determined based on the contents to be packaged or the structural elements to be built. Consider elements such as internal diameter, external diameter, and wall thickness.
Functionality:
The purpose of the tube must be determined before choosing it. Determine the requirements first, and then choose a tube that meets those needs. Consider features like caps, closures, and the ability to customize as needed.
Cost and budget:
While it's not the only consideration, cost is an important factor to consider when choosing a plastic tube. Weigh the initial cost against the tube's durability and longevity. A cheaper plastic pipe may be more expensive in the long run if it needs to be replaced frequently.
Aesthetic considerations:
This is an important factor when the tube is used for visible applications. Consider the color, finish, and design of the plastic packaging tube to ensure it blends in with the surrounding area or meets the desired style criteria.
Environmental impact:
It is equally important to consider the environmental effect of the chosen plastic tube. Opt for tubes made from recycled materials or those that can be recycled at the end of their life cycle. This reduces reliance on virgin plastic and minimizes waste, which is beneficial to the environment.
Q1: How to make a plastic pipe bend without breaking it?
A1: One way to bend a hard PVC tube is to use heat. A user can bend a pipe by softening it with a heat source like a heat gun. The user should evenly apply heat along the section of the tube they want to bend. Once the tube becomes hot to the touch and flexible, they can quickly bend it to the desired shape. The user should hold it in place to let it cool and harden into the new curve. Using a heat source allows for controlled bending without cracking the tube.
Q2: How can someone join two plastic tubes together?
A2: Joining two tubes can be done using a tube connector and clamp. Slide the connector into both open ends of the tubes. Then, use a clamp to grip the connector tightly. The clamp will secure the connector and keep the tubes from sliding apart.
Q3: What are the common types of plastic tube coatings?
A3: There are three main types of coatings. First are the anti-corrosive coatings applied on the outside of the tube to prevent rusting. Second are the internal coatings that provide a smooth lining, and lastly external coatings that improve the plastic tube's appearance and offer extra protection.
Q4: What are the common types of plastic tube caps?
A4: There are two main types of tube caps. First are the end caps that completely cover the open end of the tube. They enclose the end but can be glued or screwed on for permanent sealing or pushed on for temporary sealing. Second are the threaded inserts. They fit into the open end of the tube and have built-in threads for attaching other parts. Users can remove threaded inserts if needed.
Q5: What are the common types of plastic tube plugs?
A5: Plugs insert into the open end of the tube to seal it. There are two main types of plugs. First are the friction fit plugs. These have slightly bigger diameters than the tube's inner diameter. The user can push the plug in, and it will stay tight. Second are the expansion plugs. These are smaller than the tube's inner diameter. When inserted, the user can twist the metal part, and the plastic part will expand to grip the tube tightly.