Sep 3, 2026Packaging Guide
Aluminum Tube Size Guide: How to Choose the Right Diameter, Length and Capacity
Choosing the right aluminum tube size is important for product capacity, filling performance and packaging appearance. This guide explains aluminum tube diameter, length, capacity and closure options
Aluminum Tube Size Guide: How to Choose the Right Diameter, Length and Capacity
Choosing the right aluminum tube size is an important part of developing effective packaging for cosmetics, personal care products and pharmaceutical applications.
The diameter and length of an aluminum tube directly affect its capacity, appearance and usability. However, the same tube diameter can support different capacities depending on the tube length and the characteristics of the product.
If you are also considering aluminum aerosol packaging for perfume or fragrance products, you can learn more in our guide to Aluminum Aerosol Cans for Perfume Packaging.
At Jinmai Packaging, we provide aluminum tubes in a wide range of diameters and lengths to meet different packaging requirements.
Aluminum Tube Size Reference
The following chart provides a general reference for selecting aluminum tube dimensions and capacities.
Tube Diameter | Minimum Tube Length | Maximum Tube Length | Reference Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
Ø13.5 mm | 65 mm | 100 mm | 5–8 ml |
Ø16 mm | 70 mm | 115 mm | 8–12 ml |
Ø19 mm | 90 mm | 120 mm | 15–25 ml |
Ø22 mm | 90 mm | 140 mm | 20–35 ml |
Ø25 mm | 100 mm | 165 mm | 25–60 ml |
Ø28 mm | 105 mm | 175 mm | 40–80 ml |
Ø30 mm | 105 mm | 190 mm | 45–100 ml |
Ø32 mm | 105 mm | 190 mm | 50–110 ml |
Ø35 mm | 105 mm | 190 mm | 60–130 ml |
Ø38 mm | 150 mm | 180 mm | 110–160 ml |
Ø40 mm | 140 mm | 200 mm | 140–200 ml |
Note: The capacity shown above is for reference only. Actual filling capacity can vary depending on product density, formulation, tube structure, shoulder design and filling requirements.
How to Choose the Right Aluminum Tube Diameter
Tube diameter is one of the first specifications to consider when developing your packaging.
A smaller diameter usually creates a slimmer and more compact package, while a larger diameter allows for higher filling capacity and a wider product format.
Ø13.5–16 mm: Small Capacity Tubes
These diameters are suitable for smaller products requiring a compact and portable package.
Typical applications include:
- Cosmetic samples
- Eye creams
- Small skincare products
- Travel-size products
- Specialized personal care products
The smaller diameter also gives the tube a slim appearance that can work well for premium cosmetic packaging.
Ø19–22 mm: Small to Medium Capacity
These sizes are suitable for products that require more capacity while maintaining a relatively compact package.
They can be considered for:
- Skincare creams
- Hand creams
- Cosmetic treatments
- Personal care products
- Pharmaceutical creams
Ø25–32 mm: Medium to Large Capacity
These are versatile sizes for many cosmetic and personal care applications.
Depending on the tube length, they can provide approximately 25–110 ml of reference capacity.
They are commonly suitable for:
- Body care products
- Hair care products
- Facial creams
- Cleansing products
- Professional cosmetic products
Ø35–40 mm: Large Capacity Tubes
For products requiring larger filling volumes, Ø35 mm, Ø38 mm and Ø40 mm tubes provide a larger packaging format.
These sizes can be suitable for products requiring approximately 60–200 ml, depending on the selected tube length and product formulation.
How Tube Length Affects Capacity
Diameter is only one part of the packaging specification.
For the same diameter, increasing the tube length generally allows a larger filling volume.
For example, a Ø30 mm aluminum tube can be produced in different lengths, with a reference capacity ranging from approximately 45 ml to 100 ml.
Therefore, when selecting a tube, brands should consider both:
Diameter + Tube Length + Target Capacity
rather than choosing a diameter based on capacity alone.
How to Choose the Right Capacity
The ideal tube capacity depends on the amount of product the brand wants to sell in each package.
A useful starting point is to determine the target filling volume first.
For example:
- 5–10 ml: travel-size, sample or concentrated products
- 15–30 ml: facial skincare and treatment products
- 40–80 ml: creams, personal care and body care products
- 100–160 ml: larger personal care products
- 140–200 ml: high-capacity packaging
The actual choice should also consider the product's density and filling method.
For products sold by weight, such as creams or ointments, the required tube capacity should be evaluated based on the product's actual density rather than simply converting grams to milliliters.
Choosing the Right Cap for an Aluminum Tube
The closure is another important part of aluminum tube packaging.
Different products may require different cap designs depending on dispensing performance, user experience and brand positioning.
Screw Cap
A screw cap is a simple and reliable option for many aluminum tube applications.
It is suitable for:
- Creams
- Ointments
- Skincare products
- Pharmaceutical products
Flip-Top Cap
A flip-top cap allows users to open the tube quickly with one hand.
It is a practical choice for products used frequently, such as:
- Hand cream
- Body lotion
- Personal care products
- Hair care products
Nozzle Cap
A nozzle-style closure provides more controlled dispensing.
It can be useful when the product needs to be applied in a smaller and more precise amount.
Typical applications include:
- Treatment creams
- Cosmetic products
- Pharmaceutical products
- Specialized formulations
Custom Closures
For brands looking for a more distinctive appearance, customized cap shapes, colors and finishes can be developed according to the packaging design.
The cap can also be coordinated with the tube's printing and surface finish to create a consistent brand appearance.
Aluminum Tube Customization Options
Aluminum tubes can be customized beyond diameter and length.
Depending on the project, customization options may include:
- Tube diameter
- Tube length
- Filling capacity
- Tube printing
- Surface finish
- Cap type
- Cap color
- Nozzle design
- Shoulder design
- Brand logo
- Customized artwork
This allows brands to develop packaging that matches both their product requirements and visual identity.
What Information Should You Provide When Requesting a Quote?
When contacting an aluminum tube manufacturer, providing a few basic specifications can help the supplier recommend the appropriate tube more efficiently.
We recommend providing:
1. Target capacity
For example: 20 ml, 50 ml or 100 ml.
2. Product type
For example: cream, ointment, gel, cosmetic treatment or personal care product.
3. Preferred tube diameter
If you already have a preferred diameter, please provide it.
4. Tube length
If the length is not confirmed, the manufacturer can recommend a suitable option based on the required capacity.
5. Closure preference
For example: screw cap, flip-top cap or nozzle cap.
6. Artwork and customization requirements
Provide your logo, artwork, color requirements and printing specifications if available.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right aluminum tube is not simply about choosing a capacity.
The diameter, tube length, product characteristics, closure and overall packaging design should be considered together.
If you are not sure which size is suitable for your product, you can provide us with your target capacity, product type and preferred packaging style. Our team can help recommend a suitable aluminum tube specification for your project.
Looking for customized aluminum tubes for cosmetics, personal care or pharmaceutical products? Contact Jinmai Packaging for sizes, samples and customized packaging solutions.
