EN 13046:2000

Overview

EN 13046:2000 is a European standard developed by CEN that defines the dimensions and tolerances for flexible cylindrical metallic tubes used in packaging. This standard addresses critical parameters including diameters, lengths, wall thicknesses, shoulder thicknesses, and overall tube geometry. The primary purpose of this standard is to ensure consistency and quality in the manufacturing of metallic collapsible tubes which are widely used in packaging sectors such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, hygiene products, food, and various domestic and industrial applications.

Adhering to EN 13046:2000 helps manufacturers and suppliers maintain uniformity in product design and compatibility with filling and sealing equipment, while also meeting regulatory and customer requirements for safety and usability.

Key Topics

• Dimensions
  Specifies exact measurements for the outer diameters and lengths of cylindrical metallic tubes to accommodate various packaging needs.

• Tolerances
  Defines acceptable deviations in dimension and geometry, ensuring tubes fit correctly into closures, caps, or dispensing systems without leakage or structural failure.

• Wall and Shoulder Thickness
  Details minimum and maximum thicknesses for tube walls and tube shoulders, critical for tube durability, flexibility, and protection of the contents.

• Geometry
  Describes the shape characteristics and manufacturing quality needed to maintain collapsibility while preserving product integrity.

• Material Applicability
  Focuses on flexible metallic materials suitable for collapsible tubes, commonly including aluminum and other malleable metals.

Applications

EN 13046:2000 serves as a fundamental guideline for industries that require high-quality flexible cylindrical metallic tubes, including:

• Pharmaceutical Packaging
  Tubes compliant with EN 13046 protect sensitive medicinal creams, ointments, and gels, ensuring secure packaging that facilitates proper dosing.

• Cosmetics Industry
  Used for packaging creams, lotions, and makeup products, these tubes provide a hygienic and user-friendly container while guaranteeing product preservation.

• Food Packaging
  Flexible metal tubes for food items like pastes, sauces, or condiments maintain freshness and protect against contamination.

• Hygiene Products
  Tubes for personal care products such as toothpaste, creams, and gels benefit from standardized dimensions for consistent filling and sealing.

• Industrial Uses
  Packaging of adhesives, lubricants, and other technical substances where precise tube geometry is essential for dispensing and shelf life.

Related Standards

Understanding EN 13046:2000 may involve cross-referencing related standards to ensure comprehensive compliance and quality control:

• EN ISO 21049 – Packaging - Aluminium and aluminium alloy collapsible tubes
• EN 15598 – Packaging - Metallic tubes for pharmaceutical products - Requirements and test methods
• ISO 7864 – Packaging - Tubes for pharmaceuticals - Nominal dimensions and requirements
• EN 13428 – Packaging - Requirements for the use of recycled materials in packaging

These standards collectively support the design, manufacture, and testing procedures to guarantee reliable and regulatory-compliant packaging solutions.

Keywords: EN 13046:2000, flexible cylindrical metallic tubes, packaging standards, collapsible tubes, tube dimensions and tolerances, pharmaceutical packaging, cosmetic packaging, industrial packaging, metallic tube geometry, wall thickness, shoulder thickness, CEN packaging standards.