High-Purity 1070 Aluminum Slugs: Powering Seamless Impact Extruded Collapsible Tubes

High-Performance 1070 Aluminum Slugs for Cold Impact Extruded Collapsible Tubes

In the manufacture of pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and technical collapsible tubes, the backward impact extrusion process demands absolute mechanical and metallurgical consistency from the starting material. As automated high-speed tube lines operate at speeds exceeding 150–200 strokes per minute, any variation in grain morphology, hardness, or surface topography will result in wall tearing, tool jamming, or premature punch failure.

Henan Mintai Aluminum provides engineered 1070 (Al 99.7%) pure aluminum slugs, manufactured specifically to meet the rigorous forming requirements of seamless collapsible tubes, aerosol containers, and technical canisters.

Metallurgical & Mechanical Performance Highlights

1. High Purity Chemistry (EN AW-1070A / Al ≥ 99.70%)

   • Strict limitation of residual tramp elements (Si, Fe, Cu, and Zn).

   • Carefully managed Fe/Si ratios to optimize fine intermetallic distribution, preventing stress concentration and micro-cracking during extreme plastic deformation (cross-sectional reduction > 95%).

2. Fine, Equiaxed Grain Structure

   • Advanced continuous casting and rolling parameters yield a uniform grain structure (ASTM Grade 5 or finer).

   • Eliminates the “orange-peel” surface defect and minimizes anisotropy, ensuring uniform wall thickness and consistent burst pressure across the tube body.

3. Precision Annealing (Temper O)

   • Homogenized batch annealing in atmosphere-controlled furnaces guarantees uniform recrystallization.

   • Tight hardness window (HB 21–25 / HV 19–24), delivering low extrusion resistance to significantly extend the operational life of carbide punches and forming dies.

4. Engineered Surface Topography for Lubrication

   • Available in Tumbled (Rumbled) and Shot-Blasted finishes.

   • Creates a micro-dimpled surface geometry that maximizes the adhesion of dry zinc stearate or synthetic lubricants, preventing metal-to-metal die friction and galling.

Product Geometries & Manufacturing Range

• Configuration Options:

  • Pierced Slugs (With Center Hole): Calibrated internal hole diameter designed for tubes with pre-formed membrane or threaded nozzles.

  • Solid Flat & Concave Slugs: Engineered for standard flat or domed container bases.

• Diameter Range: 11.0 mm – 65.0 mm (Tolerance: -0.05 / -0.15 mm)

• Thickness Range: 2.0 mm – 10.0 mm (Tolerance: ±0.05 mm)

• Customization: Tailored chamfer angles and edge radius for smooth feeding in high-speed vibratory bowl loaders.

Critical Industrial Applications

• Pharmaceutical Packaging: Collapsible tubes for sterile medicinal ointments, topical creams, and ophthalmic gels requiring clean inner surfaces for internal lacquer adhesion.

• Cosmetics & Personal Care: High-barrier tubes for hair colorants, depilatory creams, premium lotions, and toothpaste.

• Specialty Chemicals & Adhesives: High-integrity containers for cyanoacrylates, polyurethane sealants, and industrial epoxy resins.