What Is an Industrial Paper Tube?

When thinking of paper tubes, most people might think of the cardboard tubes inside a toilet paper roll or wrapping paper. Industrial paper tubes are used for a variety of other purposes. From packaging to construction, these versatile tubes provide strength and stability to various industries. Here are a few examples of industrial tubes, how they’re made, and how they’re used.

Definition of an Industrial Paper Tube

An industrial paper tube is made of cardboard or paperboard and is used for industrial or commercial purposes. 

How They’re Made

Depending on their intended use, industrial paper tubes are made in different sizes and thicknesses. The tubes have multiple layers that provide strength and durability and can be laminated or coated for added protection. Here is how paper tubes are manufactured and their different types:

Material Selection

The first step entails choosing the appropriate material. Manufacturers consider strength, durability, and flexibility during the selection process. Kraft paper, fiberboard, and high-density paper are the most common paper tube materials. These materials are perfect for the tubes because they offer sturdiness and resilience.

Cutting and Rolling

The second step involves cutting the material into the desired width that will be used for the tube. The machinery used for cutting is mainly designed to handle large volumes of paper. Once the material is cut, it is rolled along the length to create a paper tube shape. 

Adhesive Application

Before forming the paper tube, an adhesive is smeared on one side of the paper. Upon rolling the paper up, the glue is activated, and this seals the tube together. This creates a watertight seal that adds strength to the structure of the tube.

Drying and Curing

The adhesive used in the paper tube creation process requires drying and curing. The time necessary depends on the adhesive used, but the process can take several hours in a controlled humidity environment. This time allows the glue to set properly, contributing to the tube’s rigidity and durability.

Cutting and Shaping

A machine does cutting and shaping with several blades that allow for creating different shapes and sizes. These can range from a tapered edge to a flanged edge.

Uses of Paper Tubes

From packaging materials to mechanical applications, the uses of industrial paper tubes are diverse and endless. They include:

Packaging Materials

Paper tubes are commonly used as packaging materials for various products such as textiles, food products, and industrial goods. In the textile industry, paper tubes roll fabrics, yarns, and threads to prevent damage and deformations during storage and transportation.

They are used for packaging products in the food industry, like snack bars, potato chips, and other dry food products. Paper tubes are light, eco-friendly, and cost-effective, making them a top choice for packaging materials.

Cordage and Rope Manufacturing

Paper tubes are used as cores where rope fibers are wound around to produce a strong and durable rope. The paper tube core provides stability to the rope, maintaining its shape and strength even when stretched under heavy loads.

Industrial Supplies and Equipment

Paper tubes serve as a protective layer around various industrial supplies, including carbon fiber tubing and hydraulic hoses. They provide a cushioned layer to prevent scratches and damages during transport and storage. The tubes are used as a structural component in various equipment like solar panels, where the tube’s cylindrical shape makes it ideal for supporting the panel cells.

Explore the Versatility of Industrial Paper Tubes Today

Industrial tubes are an indispensable feature in the manufacturing industry. They’re versatile, cost-effective, and eco-friendly, making them an excellent choice for various applications across several industries. The tubes have proven reliable and valuable, from packaging materials to mechanical applications. With an ever-increasing focus on sustainability, the demand for eco-friendly materials like paper tubes will likely continue to rise, making them a key feature in the industry for years to come.