A method for manufacturing an aluminium tube and an aluminium tube

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for manufacturing an aluminium tube (1), preferably a collapsible or squeezable aluminium tube, having a tube body (2), a shoulder (3), a neck (4) and an applicator (5) being configured to apply a material exiting from an opening (12) of the applicator (5). The method comprises the following steps: a) providing a slug comprising or consisting of aluminium or an aluminium alloy and b) forming the tube body (2), shoulder (3), neck (4) and applicator (5) of the aluminium tube (1) by impact extrusion of the slug. Further, the invention relates to an aluminium tube (1), a method for filling an aluminium tube (1) and a filled aluminium tube.

Description

[0001] P 62283 WO Oktober 23, 2025

[0002] TUBEX Tubenfabrik Wolfsberg GmbH - 1 - CG / CG

[0003] A method for manufacturing an aluminium tube and an aluminium tube

[0004] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The present invention refers to a method for manufacturing an aluminium tube, to an aluminium tube, a method for filling an aluminium tube and a filled aluminium tube.

[0006] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Tubes are collapsible containers or packages, which can be in particular used for pasty or semiliquid products like food stuff, cosmetics, care products, pharmaceutical products such as ointments or technical products such as adhesives, paints, and the like. Tubes offer many advantages. For example, they exhibit excellent barrier properties to protect the tube content against negative external influences such as light, moisture or microorganisms. In addition, tubes facilitate efficient and complete discharge of the tube content and a wide variety in terms of dimension and decoration possibilities.

[0008] Especially for cosmetics, tubes can be equipped with an applicator to apply a content of the tube evenly and directly on a surface, for example on a human skin, in particular on the lips or the eye area. Instead of expelling the content, for example a cosmetic lotion or ointment, on a surface where it needs to be applied by the user's fingers, it can be directly applied with the applicator on the desired area, for example skin area. Thus, drawbacks like unnecessary soiling of the user's fingers can be circumvented. In addition, a more accurate dosage of the content can be accomplished. In absence of an applicator, direct application of the content through a tube opening or a tube tip on a body surface would be associated with an unpleasant, stinging and rubbing sensation on the skin due to the small contact area of the tube opening or a pointed character of the tube tip. This might even lead to discomforts, trauma or injuries of users during handling of the tube.

[0009] When using the tube with an integrated applicator, the surface of the applicator is brought into direct contact with a surface, for example with a face of a user. For this purpose, the geometry of the applicator surface is adapted to the skin area to which the tube content is to be applied, for example on the lips. An opening is located in the applicator surface through which the content of the tube is expelled. Compared to conventional tube openings or tube tips, applicators typically have a much larger surface area that comes into contact with the surface on which the tube content is to be applied. P 62283 - 2 -

[0010] In many cases, the tube and the applicator are separately produced and made from different materials. Both parts then have to be connected either during manufacturing or before use, causing an additional handling step.

[0011] In principle, tubes can be made either from polymers or aluminium. Indeed, during the last decades, polymers have been applied more widely in tube production. However, the application of polymers has raised serious ecological issues with respect to disposal of plastic waste and an omnipresent pollution of the environment with plastic waste.

[0012] A plastic tube container equipped with a metal applicator is known from EP 3 207 819 A1. The applicator is attached to a top portion of the container. However, production, handling and disposal / recycling of the tube container with the attached applicator are complicated.

[0013] WO 2018 / 184804 A1 discloses a tube with an integrated applicator, wherein the tube and the applicator can be made of the same material, for example aluminium. Further, the tube shoulder and applicator can be made in one piece. However, the tube shoulder needs to be fastened to the tube body in a separate step, for example by welding.

[0014] OBJECT AND SOLUTION

[0015] In view of the foregoing, the object underlying the present invention is therefore to make available a method for manufacturing an aluminium tube and to make available an aluminium tube, which at least partly circumvents disadvantages as described above in the context of conventional tubes.

[0016] This object is accomplished by a method for manufacturing an aluminium tube according to independent claim 1 and by an aluminium tube according to claim 13. Preferred embodiments of the method and aluminium tube are defined in the dependent claims and the present description. The subject-matter and wording, respectively, of all claims is hereby incorporated into the description by explicit reference. Further, the object is accomplished by a method for filling an aluminium tube and by a filled aluminium tube as disclosed in the description.

[0017] According to a first aspect, the invention relates to a method for manufacturing an aluminium tube, in particular a flexible aluminium tube, preferably a collapsible or squeezable aluminium tube. The aluminium tube has a tube body, a shoulder, a neck and an applicator. The applicator is configured to apply a material exiting from an opening of the applicator.

[0018] The method comprises the following steps: P 62283 - 3 - a) providing a slug comprising or consisting of aluminium or an aluminium alloy and b) forming the tube body, shoulder, neck and applicator of the aluminium tube by impact extrusion of the slug.

[0019] The method according to the present invention advantageously allows the manufacture or production of a complete aluminium tube having an applicator, i.e. an aluminium tube having a tube body, a shoulder, a neck and an applicator, in the form of one piece and in particular in one manufacturing step. Thus, especially with respect to the applicator, no additional forming and / or connecting steps are necessary. Further, the use of different materials for manufacturing the aluminium tube may be advantageously avoided. This results in a significantly simplification or easiness of production, handling as well as disposal / recycling of the aluminium tube.

[0020] The term “aluminium tube” as used according to the present invention refers to an aluminium tube, i.e. a tube comprising or consisting of aluminium or an aluminium alloy, being at least in sections, in particular only in sections or continuously, i.e. completely, in or along its longitudinal direction in the form of a circular, oval or elliptic cylinder. In other words, the term “aluminium tube” as used according to the present invention refers to an aluminium tube having at least in sections, in particular only in sections or continuously, i.e. completely, in or along its longitudinal direction a circular, oval or elliptic cross-section and / or diameter, in particular outer diameter and / or inner diameter.

[0021] The term “collapsible or squeezable aluminium tube” as used according to the present invention refers to an aluminium tube being adapted or configured to be dispensed or emptied by hand pressure, in particular by hand pressure applied on the aluminium tube, in particular tube body and / or shoulder, of the aluminium tube.

[0022] Further, the aluminium tube may have a length from 40 mm to 230 mm, in particular 40 mm to 180 mm.

[0023] Further, the aluminium tube may have a diameter, in particular outer diameter, from 9.8 mm to 50 mm, in particular 11 mm to 25 mm.

[0024] Further, the aluminium tube may be free of any spray valve.

[0025] Preferably, the aluminium tube is not provided to be filled under pressure, in particular overpressure, and / or with a propellant. P 62283 - 4 -

[0026] Further, the aluminium tube may preferably have a deformation according to DIN EN 16285

[0027] (“guillotine test”) from 1 mm to 43 mm, in particular 1 mm to 13 mm.

[0028] The tube body of the aluminium tube is preferably at least in sections, in particular only in sections or continuously, i.e. completely, in or along its longitudinal direction in the form of a circular, oval or elliptic cylinder. In other words, preferably, the tube body of the aluminium tube has at least in sections, in particular only in sections or continuously, i.e. completely, in or along its longitudinal direction a circular, oval or elliptic cross-section and / or diameter, in particular outer diameter and / or inner diameter.

[0029] The tube body may have a storage volume, i.e. a cavity for storing the material, of 1 ml to 350 ml, preferably 1 ml to 50 ml. Further, the tube body may have a wall which at least partly, in particular only partly or completely, surrounds or encases the above-mentioned storage volume.

[0030] The shoulder of the aluminium tube may be immediately or not immediately arranged between the tube body and the neck of the aluminium tube. Preferably, the shoulder is immediately arranged between the tube body and the neck of the aluminium tube.

[0031] Preferably, the shoulder of the aluminium tube has a cross-section and / or diameter, in particular outer diameter and / or inner diameter, that tapers, in particular conically tapers, in the direction to the neck of the aluminium tube. Typically, the shoulder is a conically shaped portion of the aluminium tube. Expediently, the shoulder of the aluminium tube immediately merges into the neck of the aluminium tube.

[0032] The neck of the aluminium tube may be immediately or not immediately arranged between the shoulder of the aluminium tube and the applicator of the aluminium tube. Preferably, the neck is immediately arranged between the shoulder and the applicator of the aluminium tube.

[0033] Further, the neck may have at least in sections, in particular only in sections or continuously, i.e. completely, in or along its longitudinal direction the form of a circular, oval or elliptic cylinder. In other words, the neck may have at least in sections, in particular only in sections or continuously, i.e. completely, in or along its longitudinal direction a circular, oval or elliptic cross-section and / or diameter, in particular outer diameter and / or inner diameter.

[0034] Expediently, the neck is adapted or configured to allow passage of the material from an interior of the tube body to the applicator of the aluminium tube. Particularly, the neck comprises a fastening element that is adapted or configured to fasten a closure on the aluminium tube. More specifically, the neck may comprise a thread, in particular an external or male thread, in particular P 62283 - 5 - a circular external thread (circular male thread), an oval external thread (oval male thread) or elliptic external thread (elliptic male thread). The thread is preferably adapted or configured to interact or engage with a complementary internal or female thread of a cap being adapted or configured to close the aluminium tube. Alternatively, the neck may comprise a groove, in particular an external groove, in particular a circular external groove, an oval external groove or an elliptic external groove.

[0035] The term “applicator” as used according to the present invention refers to a portion of the aluminium tube being adapted or configured to apply a material from an opening of the applicator. Expediently, the opening is fluidly connected to the tube body via the neck and shoulder of the aluminium tube. Advantageously, the applicator allows application of the material without the aid of additional auxiliary means such as fingers, spatulas or the like. The applicator may have an edgeless or cornerless, in particular circular, oval or elliptic, cross-section or a polygonal crosssection.

[0036] The term “opening” as used according to the present invention refers to an open region of the applicator, wherein through said open region a material that may be contained in the aluminium tube may exit the aluminium tube.

[0037] The opening of the applicator is preferably surrounded by a front surface (end face) of the applicator. The front surface may be in the form of an inclined, a flat, a rounded, domed or a convex front surface. In particular, the inclined front surface and a longitudinal axis of the aluminium tube may form an angle from 0° to 90°, preferably 30° to 60°, more preferably 30° to 45°. Further, the inclined surface may be an elliptical or a circular surface. Further, the applicator may have an inclined, a rounded, a domed, a concave or a convex side wall or side wall surface, in particular at a front end of the applicator.

[0038] The front surface of the applicator may be adapted or configured to apply the material exiting from the opening of the applicator. In this case, the front surface of the applicator may also be termed as applying surface according to the invention. Alternatively or in combination, another surface of the applicator, for example a side wall surface, in particular not comprising the opening, may be adapted or configured to apply the material exiting from the opening of the applicator.

[0039] The term “applying surface” as used according to the present invention refers to a surface of the applicator being adapted or configured to apply the material exiting from the opening of the applicator to a surface onto which the material exiting from the opening of the applicator is to be applied, in particular to a body surface of a user such as skin, palms and / or face. Thus, according to the present invention, the opening or a cross-sectional area of the opening of the applicator is P 62283 - 6 - not part of the applying surface of the applicator, i.e. does not belong to the applying surface of the applicator.

[0040] The term “cross-sectional area of the opening” as used according to the present invention refers to a cross-sectional area of the opening which is surrounded by a surface, in particular front surface, of the applicator.

[0041] Preferably, the applicator has an applying surface, wherein the applying surface comprises or is a front surface and / or a surface of a side wall (so-called side wall surface) of the applicator.

[0042] Further preferably, the applicator has an applying surface being configured to apply the material exiting from the opening of the applicator, wherein an area of the applying surface is larger or greater than a cross-sectional area of the opening of the applicator.

[0043] Further preferably, the applicator has a ratio of the area of the applying surface to the cross- sectional area of the opening of the applicator of > 4.25, in particular > 5, preferably > 7.5, more preferably > 10, even more preferably > 15, most preferably > 20. More specifically, the applicator may have a ratio of the area of the applying surface to the cross-sectional area of the opening of the applicator of 4.5 to 100, preferably 5 to 70, more preferably 10 to 50.

[0044] Advantageously, a ratio of the applying surface of the applicator to the cross-sectional area of the opening of the applicator as mentioned in the three preceding paragraphs allows a sufficient contact between the applicator and a surface (for example skin) onto which the material exiting from the opening of the applicator is to be applied. Further, a more even and controlled application or distribution of the material exiting from the opening of the applicator onto the surface, as well as a more pleasant sensation for a user and a lower risk of injury or trauma of the user can be accomplished. Preferably, the applicator has a different form than the tube body and / or shoulder and / or neck of the aluminium tube. More preferably, the applicator has a different form than the tube body, shoulder and neck of the aluminium tube.

[0045] Further, the applicator preferably does not form or comprise an end portion of the neck of the aluminium tube. In other words, the opening of the applicator is preferably not part of an end portion of the neck of the aluminium tube.

[0046] Principally, the tube body, shoulder, neck and applicator may have a same or different wall thickness. For example, the applicator may have a wall thickness being larger than a wall thickness of the tube body and / or shoulder and / or neck, preferably tube body, shoulder and neck. In other words, it may be within the scope of the present invention that the applicator of the P 62283 - 7 - aluminium tube is preferably more rigidly formed than the tube body and / or shoulder and / or neck, preferably tube body, shoulder and neck, of the aluminium tube. Specifically, the applicator may have a wall thickness of 0.5 mm to 5 mm, in particular 0.5 mm to 4.5 mm.

[0047] Further, the applicator may have a thickness being constant or variable, preferably variable, in or along its longitudinal direction.

[0048] The tube body may have a wall thickness of 0.07 mm to 0.19 mm, in particular 0.07 mm to 0.13 mm.

[0049] The shoulder may have a wall thickness of 0.3 mm to 1 .0 mm, in particular 0.3 mm to 0.8 mm.

[0050] The neck may have a wall thickness of 0.3 mm to 2.0 mm, in particular 0.5 mm to 1 .5 mm.

[0051] The term “slug” as used according to the present invention refers to a circular or non-circular, in particular oval, elliptic or polygonal, disk, in particular cylinder, preferably flat cylinder. The cylinder may be in particular a circular, oval or elliptic cylinder. Preferably, the disk has a hole, in particular a borehole. The hole may be a centered hole, i.e. a hole being arranged in a center of the disk, or a not centered hole, i.e. a hole being not arranged in a center of the disk. Preferably, the hole is a centered hole. Alternatively, the disk may be free of any hole, in particular borehole. The slug may have a diameter of 9.6 mm to 50 mm, in particular 10.8 mm to 24.8 mm, and / or a height of 3 mm to 8.8 mm, in particular 4.2 mm to 8.8 mm.

[0052] The term “impact extrusion” as used according to the present invention refers to a process utilized to convert a slug into an aluminium tube. The aluminium tube is formed inside a die, in particular confining die, from a slug comprising or consisting of aluminium or aluminium alloy. The slug is contacted by a punch. Preferably, the punch comprises a punch head and a punch shaft. In particular, the punch head may have a punch tip. The force or pressure exercised by the punch softens and deforms the slug and the slug flows upwards and downwards along the die. Thus, the tube body of the aluminium tube is backward extruded in one direction and in particular the shoulder, neck and applicator of the aluminium tube are forward extruded in the other direction.

[0053] In an embodiment of the invention, the tube body of the aluminium tube is formed by backward extrusion during step b).

[0054] The term “backward extrusion” as used according to the present invention refers to a type of impact extrusion where the direction of the flow of the aluminium or aluminium alloy of a slug softened and / or deformed by a punch is opposite to the movement of the punch. P 62283 - 8 -

[0055] In a further embodiment of the invention, the shoulder, neck and applicator of the aluminium tube are formed by forward extrusion during step b).

[0056] The term “forward extrusion” as used according to the present invention refers to a type of impact extrusion where the direction of the flow of the aluminium or aluminium alloy of a slug softened and / or deformed by a punch is the same as that of the direction of movement of the punch used to soften and / or deform the slug.

[0057] Preferably, step b) is carried out as a combination extrusion, i.e. a combination of backward extrusion and forward extrusion.

[0058] More preferably, the tube body, shoulder, neck and applicator of the aluminium tube are formed simultaneously during step b). More specifically, the aluminium tube having a tube body, a shoulder, a neck and an applicator, is preferably produced or manufactured in the form of one piece, in particular in one step, namely in step b).

[0059] In a further embodiment of the invention, the neck is immediately formed after formation of the shoulder and the applicator is immediately formed after formation of the neck during step b), in particular during the forward extrusion.

[0060] Further preferably, the applicator is formed in a different shape to the neck and / or shoulder and / or tube body, in particular neck, shoulder and tube body, during step b), in particular during the forward extrusion. In particular, the applicator may differ in terms of diameter, in particular outer diameter and / or inner diameter, and / or wall thickness and / or form from the neck and / or shoulder and / or tube body, in particular neck, shoulder and tube body.

[0061] In a further embodiment of the invention, the slug provided in step a) has a hole, in particular a centered, i.e. centrally arranged or located, hole or a not centered, i.e. not centrally arranged or located, hole: Particularly, the slug provided in step a) may have centered, i.e. centrally arranged or located, borehole or a not centered, i.e. not centrally arranged or located, borehole. Preferably, the slug provided in step a) has a centered hole, in particular centered borehole.

[0062] Further, the slug provided in step a) may be in particular in the form of a hollow cylinder. The hollow cylinder may in particular have a circular, oval or elliptic cross-section.

[0063] In a further embodiment of the invention, in step b) a tip of a punch head of a punch is inserted in the hole of the slug or a cavity of the hollow cylinder first, before the tube body, shoulder, neck P 62283 - 9 - and applicator of the aluminium tube are formed by impact extrusion, in particular forward extrusion, of the slug.

[0064] The preceding embodiments of the invention advantageously facilitate centering of the slug and a punch shaft so that no tool damage may occur and the shaping of the aluminium tube also works, in particular due to a one-sided load. This is more advantageous, as a die typically used for the impact extrusion may not be axially symmetrical and the slug could therefore tilt in the die if it is not centered / held by the tip of the punch head.

[0065] Alternatively, the slug provided in step a) may be free of any hole, in particular borehole.

[0066] Further, step b) may be carried out with a speed of 80 aluminium tubes / min to 250 aluminium tubes / min, in particular 120 aluminium tubes / min to 200 aluminium tubes / min.

[0067] Principally, step b) may be carried out by using a punch and a die, wherein the punch and a negative form, i.e. cavity, of the die each have a symmetrical form, the punch has a symmetrical form and a negative form, i.e. cavity, of the die has a non-symmetrical form, the punch has a non- symmetrical form and a negative form, i.e. cavity, of the die has a symmetrical form or the punch and a negative form, i.e. cavity, of the die each have a non-symmetrical form. Preferably, step b) may be carried out by using a punch and a die, wherein the punch has a symmetrical form and a negative form, i.e. cavity, of the die has a non-symmetrical form. Alternatively, the punch and a negative form, i.e. cavity, of the die each preferably have a non-symmetrical form, in particular a same non-symmetrical form. The symmetrical form as mentioned in this paragraph may be an axially symmetrical form, a mirror-symmetrical form or a rotationally symmetrical form.

[0068] In a further embodiment of the invention, step b) is carried out by using a punch and a die, wherein the punch has a symmetrical, in particular an axially symmetrical, a mirror-symmetrical or a rotationally symmetrical, form and is not complementary in form to a negative form, i.e. cavity, of the die, preferably wherein the negative form of the die has a non-symmetrical form. Due to the non-complementarity of the punch and the negative form of the die, step b) results in an unevenly distributed amount of aluminium or aluminium alloy between the punch and the cavity of the die. This embodiment advantageously allows formation of an applicator having a larger wall thickness, and thus of a more rigid applicator.

[0069] In a further embodiment of the invention, step b) is carried out by using a punch and a die, wherein the punch is complementary in form to a negative form, i.e. cavity, of the die, preferably wherein the punch and the negative form of the die each have a non-symmetrical form, in particular a same non-symmetrical form. Due to the complementarity of the punch to the negative form of the P 62283 - 10 - die, this embodiment allows formation of an applicator having a smaller wall thickness, and thus saving of material.

[0070] Preferably, step b) is carried out by using a die having a negative form, i.e. cavity, wherein the negative form comprises a portion being negative in form to a positive form of an applicator, wherein the applicator does not form or does not comprise an end portion of the neck of the aluminium tube.

[0071] In a further embodiment of the invention, step b) is carried out by using a die having a negative form, i.e. cavity, wherein the negative form comprises a portion being negative in form to a positive form of an applicator having a different form than the tube body and / or shoulder and / or neck, in particular than the tube body, shoulder and neck, of the aluminium tube.

[0072] In a further embodiment of the invention, step b) is carried out by using a die having a negative form, i.e. cavity, wherein the negative form comprises a portion being negative in form to a positive form of an applicator having an applying surface being configured to apply the material exiting from the opening of the applicator, wherein an area of the applying surface is larger or greater than a cross-sectional area of the opening of the applicator. With respect to the advantages of this embodiment, reference is made to the previous description.

[0073] In a further embodiment of the invention, step b) is carried out by using a die having a negative form, i.e. cavity, wherein the negative form comprises a portion being negative in form to a positive form of an applicator having a ratio of the area of the applying surface to the cross-sectional area of the opening of the applicator of > 4.25, in particular > 5, preferably > 7.5, more preferably > 10, even more preferably > 15, most preferably > 20. More specifically, the applicator may have a ratio of the area of the applying surface to the cross-sectional area of the opening of the applicator of 4.5 to 100, preferably 5 to 70, more preferably 10 to 50. With respect to the advantages of this embodiment, reference is also made to the previous description.

[0074] In a further embodiment of the invention, the applying surface of the applicator comprises or is a front surface and / or a surface of a side wall (so-called side wall surface) of the applicator.

[0075] In a further embodiment of the invention, step b) is carried out by using a die having a negative form, i.e. cavity, wherein the negative form comprises a portion being negative in form to a positive form of an applicator having an inclined front surface, in particular wherein the inclined front surface and a longitudinal axis of the aluminium tube forms an angle from 0° to 90°, preferably 30° to 60°, more preferably 30° to 45°. Further, the inclined surface may be an elliptical or a P 62283 - 11 - circular surface. Furthermore, the applicator may be in the form of a straight circular cylinder cut at an angle. Preferably, the inclined front surface surrounds the opening of the applicator.

[0076] In a further embodiment of the invention, step b) is carried out by using a die having a negative form, i.e. cavity, wherein the negative form comprises a portion being negative in form to a positive form of an applicator having a flat, rounded, domed, curved or convex front surface.

[0077] In a further embodiment of the invention, step b) is carried out by using a die having a negative form, i.e. cavity, wherein the negative form comprises a portion being negative in form to a positive form of an applicator having a curved, convex, rounded or domed side wall or a curved, convex, rounded or domed side wall surface, in particular at a front end of the applicator.

[0078] The term “side wall” as used according to the present invention in the context of the applicator refers to a wall of the applicator that is, in particular immediately, adjacent to a / the front surface (end face) of the applicator. In particular, the side wall may surround a / the front surface (end face) of the applicator.

[0079] Accordingly, the term “side wall surface” or “surface of a side wall” as used according to the present invention in the context of the applicator refers to a wall surface of the applicator that is, in particular immediately, adjacent to a / the front surface (end face) of the applicator. In particular, the side wall surface may surround a / the front surface (end face) of the applicator.

[0080] In a further embodiment of the invention, step b) is carried out by using a die having a negative form, i.e. cavity, wherein the negative form comprises a portion being negative in form to a positive form of an applicator having a front surface and a side wall or a front surface and a side wall surface. Preferably, the front surface surrounds the opening of the applicator.. Further, the front surface may be in the form of an inclined, a flat, a rounded, a domed or a convex front surface. Particularly, the front surface may be a cut or slanted surface. Further, the side wall or side wall surface may be in particular a curved, convex, rounded or domed side wall or side wall surface. Furthermore, the front surface and / or the side wall or side wall surface are / is preferably adapted to apply the material exiting from the opening of the applicator.

[0081] The designs of the applicator as mentioned in the preceding paragraphs advantageously represent shapes allowing for a comfortable and pleasant handling on the users’ side, in particular by avoiding injuries or any unpleasant sensation. Further, these shapes enable precise and even application of the material exiting from the opening of the applicator. P 62283 - 12 -

[0082] Further, the method may comprise between step a) and step b) a further step ab) applying a lubricant to the slug. Thus, friction during step b) may be advantageously minimized. For example, metal stearate may be used as a lubricant.

[0083] Further, the method may comprise a further step c) cutting the aluminium tube, expediently at a rear end of the aluminium tube or tube body.

[0084] The term “rear end” as used according to the present invention refers to an end of the aluminium tube which is arranged or located opposite to an end of the aluminium tube where the shoulder, neck and applicator is arranged or located.

[0085] Further, the method may comprise a further step d) forming fastening elements being adapted or configured to fasten a closure on the aluminium tube, in particular on or around the neck of the aluminium tube, preferably an external thread or an external groove of the neck of the aluminium tube. An external thread of the neck advantageously facilitates closure of the aluminium tube with the aid of a screw cap. An external groove of the neck advantageously facilitates closure of the aluminium tube with the aid of a snap closure.

[0086] Further, the method may comprise a further step e) trimming or deburring an opening of the applicator, i.e. removing a burr at an opening of the applicator. During step e) the opening may also be countersunk. In other words, the method may comprise a further step e) countersinking and deburring an opening of the applicator.

[0087] Further, the method may comprise a further step f) brushing a surface of the applicator. Thus, a glassy finish can be provided to the surface of the applicator.

[0088] Further, the method may comprise a further step g) annealing the aluminium tube.

[0089] Further, the method may comprise a further step h) applying a coating, in particular a lacquer, on an interior surface of the aluminium tube, in particular on an interior surface of the tube body and / or shoulder and / or neck and / or applicator, preferably tube body and / or applicator.

[0090] Further, the method may comprise a further step i) curing of the applied coating, in particular lacquer.

[0091] Further, the method may comprise a further step j) applying a coating, in particular base coating, on an exterior surface of the aluminium tube, in particular on an exterior surface of the tube body and / or shoulder and / or neck and / or applicator, preferably tube body and / or applicator. In case of P 62283 - 13 - the applicator, the coating for an / the exterior surface may be an inner coating material such as epoxy phenolic lacquers, since the external surface of the applicator may be in contact with a content of the aluminium tube during application (if the aluminium tube is filled with a content).

[0092] Further, the method may comprise a further step k) drying the applied coating, in particular base coating.

[0093] Further, the method may comprise a further step I) printing the dried coating, in particular dried base coating.

[0094] Further, the method may comprise a further step m) capping the aluminium tube.

[0095] Further, the method may comprise a further step n) applying a latex coating or a heat-sealable varnish on an / the interior surface of the aluminium tube or tube body, in particular on an / the interior surface of the aluminium tube or tube body being close to the rear end of the aluminium tube or tube body.

[0096] Further, the method may comprise a further step o) packaging the aluminium tube.

[0097] Preferably, the method further comprises the following steps, expediently in a chronological order: c) cutting the aluminium tube, expediently at a rear end of the aluminium tube or tube body, d) optionally forming fastening elements being adapted to fasten a closure on the aluminium tube, e) trimming or deburring an opening of the applicator, f) optionally brushing a surface of the applicator, g) annealing the aluminium tube, h) optionally applying a coating, in particular lacquer, on an interior surface of the aluminium tube, in particular tube body and / or shoulder and / or neck and / or applicator, preferably tube body and / or applicator, i) optionally curing of the applied coating, in particular lacquer, P 62283 - 14 - j) optionally applying a coating, in particular base coating, on an exterior surface of the aluminium tube, in particular tube body and / or shoulder and / or neck and / or applicator, preferably tube body and / or applicator, k) optionally drying the applied coating, in particular base coating, l) optionally printing the dried coating, in particular dried base coating, m) optionally capping the aluminium tube, n) optionally applying a latex coating or a heat-sealable varnish on the interior surface of the aluminium tube or tube body, in particular on the interior surface of the aluminium tube or tube body being close to the rear end of the aluminium tube or tube body and o) packaging the aluminium tube.

[0098] With respect to further features and advantages of the steps c) to o) of the above embodiment, reference is made in its entirety to the preceding paragraphs of the description.

[0099] The aluminium alloy according to the present invention may be primary aluminium alloy.

[0100] The term “primary aluminium alloy” as used according to the present invention refers to a virgin, i.e. not recycled, aluminium alloy, typically produced by means of an aluminium smelter, comprising at least 99.5 % by weight, in particular 99.7 % by weight, of pure, i.e. elemental, aluminium, based on the total weight of the aluminium alloy. For example, the term “primary aluminium alloy” and “virgin aluminium alloy”, respectively, as used according to the present invention may refer to the aluminium alloy EN-AW 1050A (according to DIN EN 573-3) and / or EN-AW 1070A (according to DIN EN 573-3).

[0101] Alternatively, or in combination, the aluminium alloy according to the present invention may be an aluminium alloy consisting of 99.5 % by weight of Al, at most 0.25 % by weight of Si, at most 0.4 % by weight of Fe, at most 0.05 % by weight of Cu, at most 0.05 % by weight of Mn, at most 0.05 % by weight of Mg, at most 0.07 % by weight of Zn and at most 0.05 % by weight of Ti. This aluminium alloy is also named as EN-AW 1050A.

[0102] Alternatively, or in combination, the aluminium alloy according to the present invention may be an aluminium alloy consisting of 99.7 % by weight of Al, at most 0.03 % by weight of Cu, at most P 62283 - 15 -

[0103] 0.25 % by weight of Fe, at most 0.03 % by weight of Mg, at most 0.03 % by weight of Mn, at most

[0104] 0.20 % by weight.

[0105] Alternatively, or in combination, the aluminium alloy according to the present invention may be an aluminium alloy consisting of

[0106] - > 98.4 % by weight of Al,

[0107] - 0.10 % by weight to 0.30 % by weight of Si,

[0108] - 0.25 % by weight to 0.45 % by weight of Fe,

[0109] - 0.01 % by weight to 0.08 % by weight of Cu,

[0110] - 0.15 % by weight to 0.40 % by weight of Mn,

[0111] - at most 0.15 % by weight of Mg,

[0112] - at most 0.05 % by weight of Zn,

[0113] - at most 0.05 % by weight of Cr,

[0114] - at most 0.05 % by weight of Ni,

[0115] - at most 0.05 % by weight of Ti and

[0116] - at most 0.05 % by weight of other impurities, with the proviso that the aforementioned ingredients of the aluminium alloy add to 100 % by weight.

[0117] Alternatively, or in combination, the aluminium alloy according to the present invention may be an aluminium alloy consisting of

[0118] > 99.6% by weight of Al,

[0119] 0.04% by weight to 0.25% by weight of Si,

[0120] 0.08% by weight to 0.35% by weight of Fe, at most 0.05 % by weight of Cu, at most 0.03 % by weight of Mn, at most 0.03 % by weight of Mg, at most 0.05 % by weight of Zn, at most 0.03 % by weight of Ti, at most 0.05 % by weight of V and at most 0.03 % by weight of other impurities, with the proviso that the aforementioned ingredients of the composition add to 100 % by weight.

[0121] Alternatively, or in combination, the aluminium alloy according to the present invention may be a recycled aluminium or recycled aluminium alloy, in particular aluminium or aluminium alloy recycled from post-consumer recycled aluminium scrap and / or post-industrial recycled aluminium scrap. P 62283 - 16 -

[0122] Alternatively, or in combination, the aluminium alloy according to the present invention may be a blend of virgin aluminium alloy and aluminium alloy recycled from post-consumer recycled aluminium scrap and / or post-industrial recycled aluminium scrap.

[0123] Alternatively, or in combination, the aluminium alloy according to the present invention may be a blend of virgin aluminium alloy and aluminium alloy recycled from post-industrial recycled aluminium scrap.

[0124] Alternatively, or in combination, the aluminium alloy according to the present invention may be a blend of virgin aluminium alloy, aluminium alloy recycled from post-consumer recycled aluminium scrap and aluminium alloy recycled from post-industrial recycled aluminium scrap.

[0125] The term “post-consumer recycled aluminium scrap” as used according to the present invention refers to aluminium waste material generated by consumers or end-users (e.g. households or commercial or institutional facilities) of products or goods comprising or consisting of aluminium or aluminium alloy, e.g. packaging material like aluminium cans or tubes.

[0126] The term “post-industrial recycled aluminium scrap” as used according to the present invention refers to aluminium waste material generated in a production facility during a manufacturing process, typically in the form of product scrap, punching or cutting waste or raw or semi-finished products.

[0127] According to a second aspect, the invention refers to an aluminium tube, in particular a flexible aluminium tube, preferably a collapsible or squeezable aluminium tube, having a tube body, a shoulder, a neck and an applicator. The applicator is configured to apply a material exiting from an opening of the applicator.

[0128] The aluminium tube is manufactured by a method according to the first aspect of the invention. Alternatively, or in combination, the applicator, in particular at least the applicator, of the aluminium tube forms a monolithic part of the aluminium tube.

[0129] In a further embodiment of the invention, the tube body, shoulder and neck each also form a monolithic part of the aluminium tube. In other words, in a further embodiment of the invention, P 62283 - 17 - the tube body, shoulder, neck and applicator each form a monolithic part of the aluminium tube, i.e. are formed from one slug, in particular in one step.

[0130] In a further embodiment of the invention, the applicator defines a front end of the aluminium tube.

[0131] Preferably, the applicator does not form or does not comprise an end portion of the neck of the aluminium tube.

[0132] In a further embodiment of the invention, the applicator has a different form than the tube body and / or shoulder and / or neck of the aluminium tube. More preferably, the applicator has a different form than the tube body, shoulder and neck of the aluminium tube.

[0133] In a further embodiment of the invention, the applicator has an applying surface being configured to apply the material exiting from the opening of the applicator, wherein an area of the applying surface is larger or greater than a cross-sectional area of the opening of the applicator. With respect to the advantages of this embodiment, reference is made to the previous description.

[0134] In a further embodiment of the invention, the applicator has a ratio of the area of the applying surface to the cross-sectional area of the opening of the applicator of > 4.25, in particular > 5, preferably > 7.5, more preferably > 10, even more preferably > 15, most preferably > 20. More specifically, the applicator may have a ratio of the area of the applying surface to the cross- sectional area of the opening of the applicator of 4.5 to 100, preferably 5 to 70, more preferably

[0135] 10 to 50. With respect to the advantages of this embodiment, reference is also made to the previous description.

[0136] In a further embodiment of the invention, the applying surface of the applicator comprises or is a front surface and / or a surface of a side wall (so-called side wall surface) of the applicator.

[0137] In a further embodiment of the invention, the applicator has an inclined front surface. In particular, the inclined front surface and a longitudinal axis of the aluminium tube form an angle from 0° to 90°, preferably 30° to 60°, more preferably 30° to 45°. Further, the inclined surface may be an elliptical or a circular surface. Furthermore, the applicator may be in the form of a straight circular P 62283 - 18 - cylinder cut at an angle. Preferably, the inclined front surface surrounds the opening of the applicator.

[0138] In a further embodiment of the invention, the applicator has a curved, rounded, domed or convex front surface.

[0139] In a further embodiment of the invention, the applicator has a curved, rounded, domed or convex side wall or side wall surface, in particular at a / the front end of the aluminium tube.

[0140] In a further embodiment of the invention, the applicator has a front surface and a side wall or a front surface and a side wall surface. Preferably, the front surface surrounds the opening of the applicator. Further, the front surface may be in the form of an inclined, a flat, a rounded, a domed or a convex front surface. Particularly, the front surface may be a cut or slanted surface. Further, the side wall or side wall surface may be in particular a curved, convex, rounded or domed side wall or side wall surface. Furthermore, the front surface and / or the side wall or side wall surface are / is preferably adapted to apply the material exiting from the opening of the applicator.Further, the applicator may be more rigid, in particular may have a larger wall thickness, than the tube body and / or shoulder and / or neck, in particular than remaining portions of the aluminium tube

[0141] In a further embodiment of the invention, the aluminium tube or tube body has an open rear end. Advantageously, the open rear end allows filling of the aluminium tube or tube body with a desired material, in particular personal care products such as cosmetics (e.g. toothpaste), pharmaceutical products (e.g. in the form of ointments) or technical products such as paints (e.g. artist paints), adhesives, caulks, and the like. More specifically, the technical products may be paints and / or adhesives for the construction sector, where a precise, clean application of pasty products on a surface is required.

[0142] In particular, the aluminium tube is an empty, i.e. unfilled, aluminium tube. In other words, the aluminium tube may be free of any content. Alternatively, the aluminium tube or tube body may contain or be filled with a material, i.e. may contain a content, in particular as described above. In this case, the aluminium tube may have a closed or sealed, in particular crimped and / or folded, rear end. More specifically, if the aluminium tube is filled with a material and contains a content, respectively, the rear end of the aluminium tube may be closed or sealed via a double fold, triple fold or saddle fold. With respect to further features and advantages of the aluminium tube including its tube body, shoulder, neck and applicator, reference is made in its entirety to the embodiments of the P 62283 - 19 - invention disclosed under the first aspect of the invention. The features and advantages disclosed under the first aspect of the invention with respect to the aluminium tube including its tube body, shoulder, neck and applicator do apply, mutatis mutandis, with respect to the aluminium tube according to the second aspect of the invention.

[0143] According to a third aspect, the invention refers to a method for filling an aluminium tube with a material, wherein the aluminium tube has a tube body, a shoulder, a neck and an applicator. The applicator is configured to apply a material exiting from an opening of the applicator.

[0144] The method comprises the following steps: a) providing an aluminium tube manufactured by a method according to the first aspect of the invention or providing an aluminium tube according to the second aspect of the invention, b) filling the tube body of the aluminium tube with a material via an open rear end of the tube body and c) closing or sealing the rear end of the tube body of the aluminium tube.

[0145] The material may be in particular selected from the group consisting of food stuff, personal care products such as cosmetics, pharmaceutical products, for example in the form of ointments, and technical products such as artist paints, adhesives, caulks, and the like.

[0146] Step c) may be carried out by crimping or folding the rear end of the tube body of the aluminium tube.

[0147] With respect to further features and advantages of the method, in particular the aluminium tube including its tube body, shoulder, neck and applicator, reference is made in its entirety to the embodiments of the invention disclosed under the first and second aspect of the invention. The features and advantages disclosed under the first and second aspect of the invention, in particular with respect to the aluminium tube including its tube body, shoulder, neck and applicator do apply, mutatis mutandis, with respect to the method according to the third aspect of the invention.

[0148] According to a fourth aspect, the invention refers to an aluminium tube, in particular a flexible aluminium tube, preferably a collapsible or squeezable aluminium tube, having a tube body, a shoulder, a neck and an applicator. The applicator is configured to apply a material exiting from an opening of the applicator. P 62283 - 20 -

[0149] The aluminium tube is filled with a material by a method according to the third aspect of the invention.

[0150] With respect to further features and advantages of the method, in particular the aluminium tube including its tube body, shoulder, neck and applicator, reference is made in its entirety to the embodiments of the invention disclosed under the first, second and third aspect of the invention. The features and advantages disclosed under the first, second and third aspect of the invention, in particular with respect to the aluminium tube including its tube body, shoulder, neck and applicator do apply, mutatis mutandis, with respect to the aluminium tube according to the fourth aspect of the invention.

[0151] Further features and advantages of the invention will become clear from the following description of preferred embodiments in the form of figures including respective figure descriptions in conjunction with the subject-matter of the dependent claims. The individual features can be realized either singularly or severally in combination in one embodiment of the invention. The preferred embodiments merely serve for illustration and better understanding of the invention and are not to be understood as in any way limiting the invention.

[0152] BRIEF FIGURE DESCRIPTION

[0153] The figures schematically show:

[0154] Fig. 1a-c: an embodiment of the method according to the present invention,

[0155] Fig. 2a: an embodiment of an aluminium tube according to the present invention,

[0156] Fig. 2b: an enlarged top view of the embodiment of the aluminium tube according to Fig.

[0157] 2a,

[0158] Fig. 3a-c: a further embodiment of the method according to the present invention,

[0159] Fig. 4a: a further embodiment of an aluminium tube according to the present invention,

[0160] Fig. 4b: an enlarged top view of the embodiment of the aluminium tube according to Fig.

[0161] 4a,

[0162] Fig. 5a-c: a further embodiment of the method according to the present invention, P 62283 - 21 -

[0163] Fig. 6a: a further embodiment of an aluminium tube according to the present invention,

[0164] Fig. 6b: an enlarged top view of the embodiment of the aluminium tube according to Fig.

[0165] 6a,

[0166] Fig. 7a-c: a further embodiment of the method according to the present invention,

[0167] Fig. 8a: a further embodiment of an aluminium tube according to the present invention,

[0168] Fig. 8b: an enlarged top view of the embodiment of the aluminium tube according to Fig.

[0169] 8a,

[0170] Fig. 9a-c: a further embodiment of the method according to the present invention,

[0171] Fig. 10a: a further embodiment of an aluminium tube according to the present invention and

[0172] Fig. 10b: an enlarged top view of the embodiment of the aluminium tube according to Fig.

[0173] 10a.

[0174] DETAILED FIGURE DESCRIPTION

[0175] Fig. 1a-c schematically show an embodiment of a method according to the present invention, i.e. an embodiment of a method for manufacturing or producing an aluminium tube 1 , in particular a flexible, preferably collapsible or squeezable, aluminium tube. The aluminium tube 1 has a tube body 2, a shoulder 3, a neck 4 and an applicator 5. The applicator 5 is configured to apply a material exiting from an opening 12 of the applicator 5.

[0176] The method comprises the following steps: a) providing a slug 6 comprising or consisting of aluminium or an aluminium alloy and b) forming the tube body 2, shoulder 3, neck 4 and applicator 5 by impact extrusion of the slug 6.

[0177] For carrying out the impact extrusion, the slug 6 is inserted into a die 7 (see Fig. 1a).

[0178] The die 7 has a negative form, i.e. a cavity, comprising a portion being negative in form to a positive form of an applicator 5 having an inclined front surface (end face) 8. In particular, the P 62283 - 22 - inclined front surface 8 and a longitudinal axis L of the aluminium tube 1 may form an angle from

[0179] 0° to 90°, preferably 30° to 60°, more preferably 30° to 45°.

[0180] Further, the inclined surface 8 may be particularly an elliptical or a circular surface. Furthermore, the applicator 5 may be in the form of a straight circular cylinder cut at an angle.

[0181] Preferably, the inclined front surface 8 surrounds the opening 12 of the applicator 5.

[0182] Further, the inclined front surface 8 may be or form an applying surface, i.e. a surface being configured to apply the material exiting from the opening 12 of the applicator 5 to a surface onto which the material is to be applied, for example skin such as palms or face of a user.

[0183] Further, an area AT of the inclined front surface 8 is preferably larger or greater than a cross- sectional area A2of the opening 12 of the applicator 5.

[0184] Further, the applicator 5 may have a ratio of the area AT of the inclined front surface 8 to the cross- sectional area A2of the opening 12 of the applicator s of > 4.25, in particular > 5, preferably > 7.5, more preferably > 10, even more preferably > 15, most preferably > 20. More specifically, the applicator 5 may have a ratio of the area AT of the inclined front surface 8 to the cross-sectional area A2of the opening 12 of the applicator 5 of 4.5 to 100, preferably 5 to 70, more preferably 10 to 50.

[0185] Upon the impact extrusion, a punch 9 is pressed against the slug 6 (see Fig. 1b). Due to the pressure exercised by the punch 9 onto the slug 6, the slug 6 softens and the aluminium and aluminium alloy, respectively, starts to flow forward and backward in the die 7 (see also Fig. 1 b).

[0186] The punch 9 has a symmetrical, in particular an axially symmetrical, a mirror-symmetrical or a rotationally symmetrical, form and is not complementary in form to the negative form of the die 7. The negative form of the die 7 has a non-symmetrical form. This advantageously allows formation of an applicator having a larger wall thickness, and thus of a more rigid applicator.

[0187] The slug 6 may have a hole, in particular borehole, or may be free of any hole, in particular borehole.

[0188] If the slug 6 has a hole, a tip 11 of a punch head 10 of the punch 9 may be inserted into the hole, before the impact extrusion is started. Thus, the slug 6 and a shaft of the punch 9 may be centered, thereby avoiding any damage of the die 7. Further, it may be accomplished that shaping of the aluminium tube does also work due to a one-sided load. The die 7 may not be axially P 62283 - 23 - symmetrical. Therefore, the slug 6 could tilt in the die 7 if it is not held by the tip 11 of the punch head 10 or centered by the tip 11 of the punch head 10.

[0189] During step b), the tube body 2 is formed by backward extrusion, while the shoulder 3, neck 4 and the applicator 5 are formed by forward extrusion. Preferably, the shoulder 3, neck 4 and the applicator 5 are formed one immediately after the other during the forward extrusion (see Fig. 1c).

[0190] Thus, formation of the complete aluminium tube 1 , i.e. including its tube body 2, shoulder 3, neck

[0191] 4 and applicator 5, may be accomplished in one step from one slug. Additional steps for equipping the aluminium tube with an applicator are advantageously not necessary. This allows for a significant simplification of manufacturing an aluminium tube having an applicator. Further advantages of the method relate to better handling and easier disposal / recycling of the aluminium tube.

[0192] Fig. 2a, b show an embodiment of an aluminium tube 1 according to the present invention, in particular manufactured or produced by a method as shown in Fig. 1a-c.

[0193] The aluminium tube 1 is in particular a flexible aluminium tube, preferably a collapsible or squeezable aluminium tube.

[0194] The aluminium tubel has a tube body 2, a shoulder 3, a neck 4 and an applicator 5. The applicator

[0195] 5 is configured to apply a material exiting from an opening 12 of the applicator 5. The tube body 2 is in the form of a circular cylinder. In other words, the tube body 2 has a circular cross-section and / or diameter, in particular outer diameter and / or inner diameter.

[0196] The shoulder 3 is directly or immediately arranged between the tube body 2 and the neck 4. The shoulder 3 may taper, in particular conically taper, towards the neck 4.

[0197] The neck 4 is directly or immediately arranged between the shoulder 3 and applicator 5. The neck 4 may also be in the form of a circular cylinder or may comprise a circular cylinder. In other words, the neck 4 may also have a circular cross-section and / or diameter, in particular outer diameter and / or inner diameter. As shown in fig. 2, the cross-section and / or diameter, in particular outer diameter and / or inner diameter, of the neck 4 may be smaller than the cross-section and / or diameter, in particular outer diameter and / or inner diameter, of the tube body 2.

[0198] The applicator s is arranged or located directly or immediately adjacent to the neck 4. In particular, the applicator 5 is not part of an end portion of the neck 4. Preferably, the applicator 5 defines a front end of the aluminium tube 1. P 62283 - 24 -

[0199] Further preferably, the applicator 5 has a different form than the tube body 2, shoulder 3 and neck 4. The applicator has an inclined front surface 8. In particular, the inclined front surface 8 and a longitudinal axis L of the aluminium tube 1 may form an angle from 0° to 90°, preferably 30° to 60°, more preferably 30° to 45°. Further, the inclined surface 8 may be particularly an elliptical or a circular surface. Furthermore, the applicator 5 may be in the form of a straight circular cylinder cut at an angle.

[0200] The opening 12 is surrounded by the front surface 8. The opening 12 is fluidly connected to the tube body 2 via the shoulder 3 and the neck 4 of the aluminium tube 1. The front surface 8 is adapted to apply the material exiting from the opening 12 of the applicator 5 to a desired surface such as a skin, for example.

[0201] Further, the inclined front surface 8 may be or form an applying surface, i.e. a surface being configured to apply the material exiting from the opening 12 of the applicator 5 to a surface onto which the material is to be applied, for example skin such as palms or face of a user.

[0202] Preferably, an area AT of the inclined front surface 8 is larger or greater than a cross-sectional area A2of the opening 12 of the applicator 5 (see Fig. 2b).

[0203] More specifically, the applicator 5 may have a ratio of the area AT of the inclined front surface 8 to the cross-sectional area A2of the opening 12 of > 4.25, in particular > 5, preferably > 7.5, more preferably > 10, even more preferably > 15, most preferably > 20. More specifically, the applicator 5 may have a ratio of the area AT of the inclined front surface 8 to the cross-sectional area A2of the opening 12 of the applicator 5 of 4.5 to 100, preferably 5 to 70, more preferably 10 to 50.

[0204] Further, the aluminium tube 1 has an open or unclosed rear end 13. The open or unclosed rear end 13 allows filling of the aluminium tube 1 with the material. The material may be food stuff, personal care products such as cosmetics, pharmaceutical products, for example in the form of ointments, or technical products such as artist paints, adhesives, caulks, and the like.

[0205] The tube body 2, shoulder 3, neck 4 and applicator 5 each form a monolithic part of the aluminium tube 1. In other words, the complete aluminium tube 1 , i.e. including its tube body 2, shoulder 3, neck 4 and applicator 5, a formed from one piece, i.e. one slug, in particular in one step. Additional steps, particularly forming the applicator und fixing the applicator to an aluminium tube blank, are therefore advantageously not necessary.

[0206] Fig. 3a-c schematically show a further embodiment of a method according to the present invention, i.e. an embodiment of a method for manufacturing or producing an aluminium tube 1 , P 62283 - 25 - in particular a flexible, preferably collapsible or squeezable, aluminium tube. The aluminium tube 1 has a tube body 2, a shoulder 3, a neck 4 and an applicator 5. The applicator 5 is configured to apply a material exiting from an opening 12 of the applicator 5.

[0207] The method comprises the following steps: a) providing a slug 6 comprising or consisting of aluminium or an aluminium alloy and b) forming the tube body 2, shoulder 3, neck 4 and applicator 5 by impact extrusion of the slug 6.

[0208] For carrying out the impact extrusion, the slug 6 is inserted into a die 7 (see Fig. 3a).

[0209] The die 7 has a negative form, i.e. a cavity, comprising a portion being negative in form to a positive form of an applicator 5 having a curved, rounded, domed or convex front surface (end face) 8.

[0210] Further, the curved, rounded, domed or convex front surface 8 may be or form an applying surface, i.e. a surface being configured to apply the material exiting from the opening 12 of the applicator 5 to a surface onto which the material is to be applied, for example skin such as palms or face of a user.

[0211] Further, an area AT of the curved, rounded, domed or convex front surface 8 is preferably larger or greater than a cross-sectional area A2of the opening 12 of the applicator 5.

[0212] Further, the applicator 5 may have a ratio of the area AT of the curved, rounded, domed or convex front surface 8 to the cross-sectional area A2of the opening 12 of the applicator 5 of > 4.25, in particular > 5, preferably > 7.5, more preferably > 10, even more preferably > 15, most preferably > 20. More specifically, the applicator 5 may have a ratio of the area AT of the curved, rounded, domed or convex front surface 8 to the cross-sectional area A2of the opening 12 of the applicator 5 of 4.5 to 100, preferably 5 to 70, more preferably 10 to 50.

[0213] Upon the impact extrusion, a punch 9 is pressed against the slug 6 (see Fig. 3b). Due to the pressure exercised by the punch 9 onto the slug 6, the slug 6 softens and the aluminium and aluminium alloy, respectively, starts to flow forward and backward in the die 7 (see also Fig. 3b).

[0214] The punch 9 has a symmetrical, in particular an axially symmetrical, a mirror-symmetrical or a rotationally symmetrical, form and is complementary in form to the negative form of the die 7. The negative form of the die 7 has also a symmetrical form, in particular an axially symmetrical, a P 62283 - 26 - mirror-symmetrical or a rotationally symmetrical form. Furthermore, the punch 9 and the negative form of the die 7 may have the same symmetrical form, in particular the same axially symmetrical, same mirror-symmetrical or same rotationally symmetrical form.

[0215] During step b), the tube body 2 is formed by backward extrusion, while the shoulder 3, neck 4 and the applicator 5 are formed by forward extrusion. Preferably, the shoulder 3, neck 4 and the applicator 5 are formed one immediately after the other during the forward extrusion (see Fig. 3c). Thus, formation of the complete aluminium tube 1 , i.e. including its tube body 2, shoulder 3, neck

[0216] 4 and applicator 5, may be accomplished in one step from one slug.

[0217] With respect to further features and advantages of the method shown in Fig. 3a-c, reference is made in its entirety to the features and advantages mentioned in the description of the method according to Fig. 1a-c. In that regard, the numerals of Fig. 3a-c have the same meaning as the numerals of Fig. 1a-c.

[0218] Fig. 4a, b schematically show a further embodiment of an aluminium tube 1 according to the present invention, in particular manufactured or produced by a method as shown in Fig. 3a-c.

[0219] The aluminium tube 1 is in particular a flexible aluminium tube, preferably a collapsible or squeezable aluminium tube.

[0220] The aluminium tubel has a tube body 2, a shoulder 3, a neck 4 and an applicator 5. The applicator

[0221] 5 is configured to apply a material exiting from an opening 12 of the applicator 5. The tube body 2 is in the form of a circular cylinder. In other words, the tube body 2 has a circular cross-section and / or diameter, in particular outer diameter and / or inner diameter.

[0222] The shoulder 3 is directly or immediately arranged between the tube body 2 and the neck 4. The shoulder 3 may taper, in particular conically taper, towards the neck 4.

[0223] The neck 4 is directly or immediately arranged between the shoulder 3 and applicator 5. The neck 4 may also be in the form of a circular cylinder or may comprise a circular cylinder. In other words, the neck 4 may also have a circular cross-section and / or diameter, in particular outer diameter and / or inner diameter. As shown in fig. 4, the cross-section and / or diameter, in particular outer diameter and / or inner diameter, of the neck 4 may be smaller than the cross-section and / or diameter, in particular outer diameter and / or inner diameter, of the tube body 2. P 62283 - 27 -

[0224] The applicator s is arranged or located directly or immediately adjacent to the neck 4. In particular, the applicator 5 is not part of an end portion of the neck 4. Preferably, the applicator 5 defines a front end of the aluminium tube 1.

[0225] Further preferably, the applicator 5 has a different form than the tube body 2, shoulder 3 and neck 4.

[0226] The applicator 5 has a curved, rounded, domed or convex front surface (end face) 8. The opening 12 is surrounded by the curved, rounded, domed or convex front surface 8. The opening 12 is fluidly connected to the tube body 2 via the shoulder 3 and the neck 4 of the aluminium tube 1.

[0227] The curved, rounded, domed or convex front surface 8 may be or may form an applying surface, i.e. a surface being configured to apply the material exiting from the opening 12 of the applicator 5 to a surface onto which the material is to be applied, for example skin such as palms or face of a user.

[0228] Preferably, an area AT of the curved, rounded, domed or convex front surface 8 is larger or greater than a cross-sectional area A2of the opening 12 of the applicator 5 (see Fig. 4b).

[0229] More specifically, the applicator 5 may have a ratio of the area AT of the curved, rounded, domed or convex front surface 8 to the cross-sectional area A2of the opening 12 of > 4.25, in particular > 5, preferably > 7.5, more preferably > 10, even more preferably > 15, most preferably > 20. More specifically, the applicator 5 may have a ratio of the area AT of the curved, rounded, domed or convex front surface 8 to the cross-sectional area A2of the opening 12 of the applicator 5 of 4.5 to 100, preferably 5 to 70, more preferably 10 to 50.

[0230] With respect to further features and advantages of the aluminium tube 1 shown in Fig. 4a, b, reference is made in its entirety to the features and advantages mentioned in the description of the aluminium tube 1 according to Fig. 2a, b. In that regard, the numerals of Fig. 4a, b have the same meaning as the numerals of Fig. 2a, b.

[0231] Fig. 5a-c schematically show a further embodiment of a method according to the present invention, i.e. an embodiment of a method for manufacturing or producing an aluminium tube 1 , in particular a flexible, preferably collapsible or squeezable, aluminium tube. The aluminium tube 1 has a tube body 2, a shoulder 3, a neck 4 and an applicator 5. The applicator 5 is configured to apply a material exiting from an opening 12 of the applicator 5.

[0232] The method comprises the following steps: P 62283 - 28 - a) providing a slug 6 comprising or consisting of aluminium or an aluminium alloy and b) forming the tube body 2, shoulder 3, neck 4 and applicator 5 by impact extrusion of the slug 6.

[0233] For carrying out the impact extrusion, the slug 6 is inserted into a die 7 (see Fig. 5a).

[0234] The die 7 has a negative form, i.e. a cavity, comprising a portion being negative in form to a positive form of an applicator 5 having a front surface 8 and a side wall 14. The front surface 8 may be in particular a flat or inclined surface. The side wall 14 is preferably curved, rounded, domed or convex. Preferably, the side wall 14 surrounds the front surface 8. The opening 12 is surrounded by the front surface 8. Further, the opening 12 is fluidly connected to the tube body 2 via the shoulder 3 and the neck 4 of the aluminium tube 1 . Further, the front surface 8 and the side wall 14 together may be or form an applying surface, i.e. a surface being configured to apply the material exiting from the opening 12 of the applicator 5 to a surface onto which the material is to be applied, for example skin such as palms or face of a user.

[0235] A total area AT consisting of the front surface 8 and the side wall 14 is preferably larger or greater than a cross-sectional area A2of the opening 12 of the applicator 5.

[0236] Further, the applicator 5 may have a ratio of the total area AT consisting of the front surface 8 and the side wall 14 to the cross-sectional area A2of the opening 12 of the applicator 5 of > 4.25, in particular > 5, preferably > 7.5, more preferably > 10, even more preferably > 15, most preferably > 20. More specifically, the applicator 5 may have a ratio of the total area AT consisting of the front surface 8 and the side wall 14 to the cross-sectional area A2of the opening 12 of the applicator 5 of 4.5 to 100, preferably 5 to 70, more preferably 10 to 50.

[0237] Upon the impact extrusion, a punch 9 is pressed against the slug 6 (see Fig. 5b). Due to the pressure exercised by the punch 9 onto the slug 6, the slug 6 softens and the aluminium and aluminium alloy, respectively, starts to flow forward and backward in the die 7 (see also Fig. 5b).

[0238] The punch 9 has a symmetrical, in particular an axially symmetrical, a mirror-symmetrical or a rotationally symmetrical, form and is not complementary in form to the negative form of the die 7. P 62283 - 29 -

[0239] The negative form of the die 7 has a non-symmetrical form. This advantageously allows formation of an applicator having a larger wall thickness, and thus of a more rigid applicator.

[0240] During step b), the tube body 2 is formed by backward extrusion, while the shoulder 3, neck 4 and the applicator 5 are formed by forward extrusion. Preferably, the shoulder 3, neck 4 and the applicator 5 are formed one immediately after the other during the forward extrusion (see Fig. 5c). Thus, formation of the complete aluminium tube 1 , i.e. including its tube body 2, shoulder 3, neck

[0241] 4 and applicator 5, may be accomplished in one step from one slug.

[0242] With respect to further features and advantages of the method shown in Fig. 5a-c, reference is made in its entirety to the features and advantages mentioned in the description of the method according to Fig. 1a-c. In that regard, the numerals of Fig. 5a-c have the same meaning as the numerals of Fig. 1a-c.

[0243] Fig. 6a, b schematically show a further embodiment of an aluminium tube 1 according to the present invention, in particular manufactured or produced by a method as shown in Fig. 5a-c.

[0244] The aluminium tube 1 is in particular a flexible aluminium tube, preferably a collapsible or squeezable aluminium tube.

[0245] The aluminium tubel has a tube body 2, a shoulder 3, a neck 4 and an applicator 5. The applicator

[0246] 5 is configured to apply a material exiting from an opening 12 of the applicator 5. The tube body 2 is in the form of a circular cylinder. In other words, the tube body 2 has a circular cross-section and / or diameter, in particular outer diameter and / or inner diameter.

[0247] The shoulder 3 is directly or immediately arranged between the tube body 2 and the neck 4. The shoulder 3 may taper, in particular conically taper, towards the neck 4.

[0248] The neck 4 is directly or immediately arranged between the shoulder 3 and applicator 5. The neck 4 may also be in the form of a circular cylinder or may comprise a circular cylinder. In other words, the neck 4 may also have a circular cross-section and / or diameter, in particular outer diameter and / or inner diameter. As shown in fig. 6, the cross-section and / or diameter, in particular outer diameter and / or inner diameter, of the neck 4 may be smaller than the cross-section and / or diameter, in particular outer diameter and / or inner diameter, of the tube body 2.

[0249] The applicator s is arranged or located directly or immediately adjacent to the neck 4. In particular, the applicator 5 is not part of an end portion of the neck 4. Preferably, the applicator 5 defines a front end of the aluminium tube 1. P 62283 - 30 -

[0250] Further preferably, the applicator 5 has a different form than the tube body 2, shoulder 3 and neck 4.

[0251] The applicator 5 has a front surface 8 and a side wall 14. The front surface 8 may be in particular a flat or inclined surface. The side wall 14 is preferably curved, rounded, domed or convex. Preferably, the side wall 14 surrounds the front surface 8. The opening 12 is surrounded by the front surface 8. Further, the opening 12 is fluidly connected to the tube body 2 via the shoulder 3 and the neck 4 of the aluminium tube 1.

[0252] Further, the front surface 8 and the side wall 14 together may be or form an applying surface, i.e. a surface being configured to apply the material exiting from the opening 12 of the applicator 5 to a surface onto which the material is to be applied, for example skin such as palms or face of a user.

[0253] Preferably, a total area AT consisting of the front surface 8 and the side wall 14 is larger or greater than a cross-sectional area A2of the opening 12 of the applicator 5 (see Fig. 6b).

[0254] More specifically, the applicator 5 may have a ratio of the total area AT consisting of the front surface 8 and the side wall 14 to the cross-sectional area A2of the opening 12 of > 4.25, in particular > 5, preferably > 7.5, more preferably > 10, even more preferably > 15, most preferably > 20. More specifically, the applicator 5 may have a ratio of the total area AT consisting of the front surface 8 and the side wall 14 to the cross-sectional area A2of the opening 12 of the applicator 5 of 4.5 to 100, preferably 5 to 70, more preferably 10 to 50.

[0255] With respect to further features and advantages of the aluminium tube 1 shown in Fig. 6a, b, reference is made in its entirety to the features and advantages mentioned in the description of the aluminium tube 1 according to fig. 2a, b. In that regard, the numerals of Fig. 6a, b have the same meaning as the numerals of Fig. 2a, b.

[0256] Fig. 7a-c schematically show a further embodiment of a method according to the present invention, i.e. an embodiment of a method for manufacturing or producing an aluminium tube 1 , in particular a flexible, preferably collapsible or squeezable, aluminium tube. The aluminium tube 1 has a tube body 2, a shoulder 3, a neck 4 and an applicator 5. The applicator 5 is configured to apply a material exiting from an opening 12 of the applicator 5.

[0257] The method comprises the following steps: a) providing a slug 6 comprising or consisting of aluminium or an aluminium alloy and P 62283 - 31 - b) forming the tube body 2, shoulder 3, neck 4 and applicator 5 by impact extrusion of the slug 6.

[0258] For carrying out the impact extrusion, the slug 6 is inserted into a die 7 (see Fig. 7a).

[0259] The die 7 has a negative form, i.e. a cavity, comprising a portion being negative in form to a positive form of an applicator 5 having a front surface 8 and a side wall 14. The front surface 8 may be in particular a flat or inclined surface. The side wall 14 is preferably curved, rounded, domed or convex. Preferably, the side wall 14 surrounds the front surface 8. The opening 12 is surrounded by the front surface 8. Further, the opening 12 is fluidly connected to the tube body 2 via the shoulder 3 and the neck 4 of the aluminium tube 1 .

[0260] Further, the front surface 8 and the side wall 14 together may be or form an applying surface, i.e. a surface being configured to apply the material exiting from the opening 12 of the applicator 5 to a surface onto which the material is to be applied, for example skin such as palms or face of a user.

[0261] A total area AT consisting of the front surface 8 and the side wall 14 is preferably larger or greater than a cross-sectional area A2of the opening 12 of the applicator 5.

[0262] Further, the applicator 5 may have a ratio of the total area AT consisting of the front surface 8 and the side wall 14 to the cross-sectional area A2of the opening 12 of the applicator 5 of > 4.25, in particular > 5, preferably > 7.5, more preferably > 10, even more preferably > 15, most preferably > 20. More specifically, the applicator 5 may have a ratio of the total area AT consisting of the front surface 8 and the side wall 14 to the cross-sectional area A2of the opening 12 of the applicator 5 of 4.5 to 100, preferably 5 to 70, more preferably 10 to 50.

[0263] Upon the impact extrusion, a punch 9 is pressed against the slug 6 (see Fig. 7b). Due to the pressure exercised by the punch 9 onto the slug 6, the slug 6 softens and the aluminium and aluminium alloy, respectively, starts to flow forward and backward in the die 7 (see also Fig. 7b).

[0264] The punch 9 and the negative form of the die 7 each have a non-symmetrical, in particular a same non-symmetrical, form, wherein the punch 9 is complementary in form to the negative form of the die 7. This advantageously allows formation of an applicator having a smaller wall thickness, and thus saving of material.

[0265] During step b), the tube body 2 is formed by backward extrusion, while the shoulder 3, neck 4 and the applicator 5 are formed by forward extrusion. Preferably, the shoulder 3, neck 4 and the applicator 5 are formed one immediately after the other during the forward extrusion (see Fig. 7c). P 62283 - 32 -

[0266] Thus, formation of the complete aluminium tube 1 , i.e. including its tube body 2, shoulder 3, neck

[0267] 4 and applicator 5, may be accomplished in one step from one slug.

[0268] With respect to further features and advantages of the method shown in Fig. 7a-c, reference is made in its entirety to the features and advantages mentioned in the description of the method according to Fig. 1a-c and Fig. 5a-c.

[0269] Fig. 8a, b schematically show a further embodiment of an aluminium tube 1 according to the present invention, in particular manufactured or produced by a method as shown in Fig. 7a-c.

[0270] The aluminium tube 1 is in particular a flexible aluminium tube, preferably a collapsible or squeezable aluminium tube.

[0271] The aluminium tubel has a tube body 2, a shoulder 3, a neck 4 and an applicator 5. The applicator

[0272] 5 is configured to apply a material exiting from an opening 12 of the applicator 5. The tube body 2 is in the form of a circular cylinder. In other words, the tube body 2 has a circular cross-section and / or diameter, in particular outer diameter and / or inner diameter.

[0273] The shoulder 3 is directly or immediately arranged between the tube body 2 and the neck 4. The shoulder 3 may taper, in particular conically taper, towards the neck 4.

[0274] The neck 4 is directly or immediately arranged between the shoulder 3 and applicator 5. The neck 4 may also be in the form of a circular cylinder or may comprise a circular cylinder. In other words, the neck 4 may also have a circular cross-section and / or diameter, in particular outer diameter and / or inner diameter. As shown in fig. 8, the cross-section and / or diameter, in particular outer diameter and / or inner diameter, of the neck 4 may be smaller than the cross-section and / or diameter, in particular outer diameter and / or inner diameter, of the tube body 2.

[0275] The applicator s is arranged or located directly or immediately adjacent to the neck 4. In particular, the applicator 5 is not part of an end portion of the neck 4. Preferably, the applicator 5 defines a front end of the aluminium tube 1.

[0276] Further preferably, the applicator 5 has a different form than the tube body 2, shoulder 3 and neck 4.

[0277] The applicator 5 has a front surface 8 and a side wall 14. The front surface 8 may be in particular a flat or inclined surface. The side wall 14 is preferably curved, rounded, domed or convex. Preferably, the side wall 14 surrounds the front surface 8. The opening 12 is surrounded by the P 62283 - 33 - front surface 8. Further, the opening 12 is fluidly connected to the tube body 2 via the shoulder 3 and the neck 4 of the aluminium tube 1.

[0278] Further, the front surface 8 and the side wall 14 together may be or form an applying surface, i.e. a surface being configured to apply the material exiting from the opening 12 of the applicator 5 to a surface onto which the material is to be applied, for example skin such as palms or face of a user.

[0279] Preferably, a total area AT consisting of the front surface 8 and the side wall 14 is larger or greater than a cross-sectional area A2of the opening 12 of the applicator 5 (see Fig. 8b).

[0280] More specifically, the applicator 5 may have a ratio of the total area AT consisting of the front surface 8 and the side wall 14 to the cross-sectional area A2of the opening 12 of > 4.25, in particular > 5, preferably > 7.5, more preferably > 10, even more preferably > 15, most preferably > 20. More specifically, the applicator 5 may have a ratio of the total area AT consisting of the front surface 8 and the side wall 14 to the cross-sectional area A2of the opening 12 of the applicator 5 of 4.5 to 100, preferably 5 to 70, more preferably 10 to 50.

[0281] In contrast to the embodiment of an aluminium tube shown in Fig. 6, the applicator 5 of the aluminium tube 1 shown in Fig. 8 has a smaller wall thickness than the applicator 5 of the aluminium tube 1 shown in Fig. 6.

[0282] With respect to further features and advantages of the aluminium tube 1 shown in Fig. 8a, b, reference is made in its entirety to the features and advantages mentioned in the description of the aluminium tube 1 according to Fig. 2a, b. In that regard, the numerals of Fig. 8a, b have the same meaning as the numerals of Fig. 2a, b.

[0283] Fig. 9a-c schematically show a further embodiment of a method according to the present invention, i.e. an embodiment of a method for manufacturing or producing an aluminium tube 1 , in particular a flexible, preferably collapsible or squeezable, aluminium tube. The aluminium tube 1 has a tube body 2, a shoulder 3, a neck 4 and an applicator 5. The applicator 5 is configured to apply a material exiting from an opening 12 of the applicator 5.

[0284] The method comprises the following steps: a) providing a slug 6 comprising or consisting of aluminium or an aluminium alloy and b) forming the tube body 2, shoulder 3, neck 4 and applicator 5 by impact extrusion of the slug 6. P 62283 - 34 -

[0285] For carrying out the impact extrusion, the slug 6 is inserted into a die 7 (see Fig. 9a).

[0286] The die 7 has a negative form, i.e. a cavity, comprising a portion being negative in form to a positive form of an applicator 5 having a front surface 8 and a side wall 16. The front surface 8 is in the form of an inclined or slanted surface. The side wall 16 may be curved, rounded, domed or convex. Further, the front surface 8 surrounds the opening 12 and the opening 12 is fluidly connected to the tube body 2 via the shoulder 3 and the neck 4 of the aluminium tube 1 .

[0287] Further, the side wall 16, in particular only the side wall 16, may be or form an applying surface, i.e. a surface being configured to apply the material exiting from the opening 12 of the applicator 5 to a surface onto which the material is to be applied, for example skin such as palms or face of a user.

[0288] An area AT of the side wall 16 is preferably larger or greater than a cross-sectional area A2of the opening 12 of the applicator 5.

[0289] Further, the applicator 5 may have a ratio of the area AT of the side wall 16 to the cross-sectional area A2of the opening 12 of the applicator 5 of > 4.25, in particular > 5, preferably > 7.5, more preferably > 10, even more preferably > 15, most preferably > 20. More specifically, the applicator 5 may have a ratio of the area AT of the side wall 16 to the cross-sectional area A2of the opening 12 of the applicator 5 of 4.5 to 100, preferably 5 to 70, more preferably 10 to 50.

[0290] Preferably, the sidewall 16 is adapted to apply the material exiting from the opening 12 of the applicator 5.

[0291] Upon the impact extrusion, a punch 9 is pressed against the slug 6 (see Fig. 9b). Due to the pressure exercised by the punch 9 onto the slug 6, the slug 6 softens and the aluminium and aluminium alloy, respectively, starts to flow forward and backward in the die 7 (see also Fig. 9b).

[0292] The punch 9 has a symmetrical, in particular an axially symmetrical, a mirror-symmetrical or a rotationally symmetrical, form and is not complementary in form to the negative form of the die 7. The negative form of the die 7 has a non-symmetrical form. This advantageously allows formation of an applicator having a larger wall thickness, and thus of a more rigid applicator.

[0293] During step b), the tube body 2 is formed by backward extrusion, while the shoulder 3, neck 4 and the applicator 5 are formed by forward extrusion. Preferably, the shoulder 3, neck 4 and the applicator 5 are formed one immediately after the other during the forward extrusion (see Fig. 5c). P 62283 - 35 -

[0294] Thus, formation of the complete aluminium tube 1 , i.e. including its tube body 2, shoulder 3, neck

[0295] 4 and applicator 5, may be accomplished in one step from one slug.

[0296] With respect to further features and advantages of the method shown in Fig. 9a-c, reference is made in its entirety to the features and advantages mentioned in the description of the method according to Fig. 1a-c. In that regard, the numerals of Fig. 9a-c have the same meaning as the numerals of Fig. 1a-c.

[0297] Fig. 10a, b schematically show a further embodiment of an aluminium tube 1 according to the present invention, in particular manufactured or produced by a method as shown in Fig. 9a-c.

[0298] The aluminium tube 1 is in particular a flexible aluminium tube, preferably a collapsible or squeezable aluminium tube.

[0299] The aluminium tubel has a tube body 2, a shoulder 3, a neck 4 and an applicator 5. The applicator

[0300] 5 is configured to apply a material exiting from an opening 12 of the applicator 5. The tube body 2 is in the form of a circular cylinder. In other words, the tube body 2 has a circular cross-section and / or diameter, in particular outer diameter and / or inner diameter.

[0301] The shoulder 3 is directly or immediately arranged between the tube body 2 and the neck 4. The shoulder 3 may taper, in particular conically taper, towards the neck 4.

[0302] The neck 4 is directly or immediately arranged between the shoulder 3 and applicator 5. The neck 4 may also be in the form of a circular cylinder or may comprise a circular cylinder. In other words, the neck 4 may also have a circular cross-section and / or diameter, in particular outer diameter and / or inner diameter. As shown in fig. 8, the cross-section and / or diameter, in particular outer diameter and / or inner diameter, of the neck 4 may be smaller than the cross-section and / or diameter, in particular outer diameter and / or inner diameter, of the tube body 2.

[0303] The applicator s is arranged or located directly or immediately adjacent to the neck 4. In particular, the applicator 5 is not part of an end portion of the neck 4. Preferably, the applicator 5 defines a front end of the aluminium tube 1.

[0304] Further preferably, the applicator 5 has a different form than the tube body 2, shoulder 3 and neck 4.

[0305] The applicator 5 has a front surface 8 and a side wall 16. The front surface 8 is in the form of an inclined or slanted surface. The side wall 16 may be curved, rounded, domed or convex. Further, P 62283 - 36 - the front surface 8 surrounds the opening 12 and the opening 12 is fluidly connected to the tube body 2 via the shoulder 3 and the neck 4 of the aluminium tube 1 .

[0306] The side wall 16, in particular only the side wall 16, may be or form an applying surface, i.e. a surface being configured to apply the material exiting from the opening 12 of the applicator 5 to a surface onto which the material is to be applied, for example skin such as palms or face of a user.

[0307] Preferably, an area AT of the side wall 16 is larger or greater than a cross-sectional area A2of the opening 12 of the applicator s (see Fig. 10b).

[0308] More specifically, the applicator 5 may have a ratio of the area AT of the side wall 16 to the cross- sectional area A2of the opening 12 of > 4.25, in particular > 5, preferably > 7.5, more preferably > 10, even more preferably > 15, most preferably > 20. More specifically, the applicator 5 may have a ratio of the area AT of the side wall 16 to the cross-sectional area A2of the opening 12 of the applicator 5 of 4.5 to 100, preferably 5 to 70, more preferably 10 to 50.

[0309] With respect to further features and advantages of the aluminium tube 1 shown in Fig. 10a, b, reference is made in its entirety to the features and advantages mentioned in the description of the aluminium tube 1 according to Fig. 2a, b. In that regard, the numerals of Fig. 10a, b have the same meaning as the numerals of Fig. 2a, b.

Claims

P 62283 - 37 -Claims1. A method for manufacturing an aluminium tube (1), in particular a collapsible or squeezable aluminium tube, having a tube body (2), a shoulder (3), a neck (4) and an applicator (5) being configured to apply a material exiting from an opening (12) of the applicator (5), wherein the method comprises the following steps: a) providing a slug comprising or consisting of aluminium or an aluminium alloy and b) forming the tube body (2), shoulder (3), neck (4) and applicator (5) of the aluminium tube (1) by impact extrusion of the slug.

2. The method according to claim 1 , characterized in that the tube body (2) of the aluminium tube (1) is formed by backward extrusion during step b).

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the shoulder (3), neck (4) and applicator (5) of the aluminium tube (1) are formed by forward extrusion during step b).

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that the neck (4) is immediately formed after formation of the shoulder (3) and the applicator (5) is immediately formed after formation of the neck (4) during the forward extrusion.

5. The method according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the slug provided in step a) has a hole, in particular a centrally arranged hole, and in step b) a tip of a punch head of a punch is inserted in the hole of the slug first, before the tube body (2), shoulder (3), neck (4) and applicator (5) of the aluminium tube (1) are formed by impact extrusion of the slug.

6. The method according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that step b) is carried out by using a punch and a die, wherein the punch is complementary in form to a negative form of the die, wherein the punch and the negative form of the die each have a non-symmetrical form.

7. The method according to any of the claims 1 to 5, characterized in that step b) is carried out by using a punch and a die, wherein the punch has a symmetrical form and is not complementary in form to a negative form of the die, wherein the negative form of the die has a non-symmetrical form.P 62283 - 38 -8. The method according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that step b) is carried out by using a die having a negative form, wherein the negative form comprises a portion being negative in form to a positive form of an applicator (5) having a different form than the tube body (2), shoulder (3) and neck (4) of the aluminium tube (1).

9. The method according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that step b) is carried out by using a die having a negative form, wherein the negative form comprises a portion being negative in form to a positive form of an applicator (5) having an applying surface being configured to apply the material exiting from the opening (12) of the applicator (5), wherein an area AT of the applying surface is larger than a cross-sectional area A2of the opening (12) of the applicator (5).

10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that the applicator (5) has a ratio of the area AT of the applying surface to the cross-sectional area A2of the opening (12) of the applicator (5) of > 4.25, in particular > 5, preferably > 7.5, more preferably > 10, even more preferably > 15, most preferably > 20.11 . The method according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the applying surface is a front surface (8) and / or a surface of a side wall (14, 16) of the applicator (5).

12. The method according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that step b) is carried out by using a die having a negative form, wherein the negative form comprises a portion being negative in form to a positive form of an applicator (5) having an inclined front surface (8), a curved front surface (8), a domed side wall (14, 16) or a front surface (8) and a side wall (16), wherein the front surface (8) surrounds the opening (12) and the side wall (16) is adapted to apply the material exiting from the opening (12) of the applicator (5).

13. An aluminium tube (1), in particular a collapsible or squeezable aluminium tube, having a tube body (2), a shoulder (3), a neck (4) and an applicator (5) being configured to apply a material exiting from an opening (12) of the applicator (5), characterized in that the aluminium tube (1) is manufactured by a method according to any of the preceding claimsP 62283 - 39 - and / or the applicator (5) forms a monolithic part of the aluminium tube (1).

14. The aluminium tube (1) according to claim 13, characterized in that further the tube body (2), shoulder (3) and neck (4) each form a monolithic part of the aluminium tube (1).

15. The aluminium tube (1) according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that the applicator (5) defines a front end of the aluminium tube (1).

16. The aluminium tube (1) according to any of the claims 13 to 15, characterized in that the applicator (5) has a different form than the tube body (2), shoulder (3) and neck (4) of the aluminium tube (1).

17. The aluminium tube (1) according to any of the claims 13 to 16, characterized in that the applicator (5) has an applying surface being configured to apply the material exiting from the opening (12) of the applicator (5), wherein an area AT of the applying surface is larger than a cross-sectional area A2of the opening (12) of the applicator (5).

18. The aluminium tube (1) according to claim 17, characterized in that the applicator (5) has a ratio of the area AT of the applying surface to the cross-sectional area A2of the opening (12) of the applicator (5) of > 4.25, in particular > 5, preferably > 7.5, more preferably > 10, even more preferably > 15, most preferably > 20.

19. The aluminium tube (1) according to claim 17 or 18, characterized in that the applying surface is a front surface (8) and / or a surface of a side wall (14, 16) of the applicator (5).

20. The aluminium tube (1) according to any of the claims 13 to 19, characterized in that the applicator (5) has an inclined front surface (8), in particular wherein the inclined front surface (8) and a longitudinal axis L of the aluminium tube (1) form an angle from 0° to 90°, preferably 30° to 60°, more preferably 30° to 45°.

21. The aluminium tube (1) according to any of the claims 13 to 20, characterized in that the applicator (5) has a curved front surface (8) or a domed side wall (14, 16).

22. The aluminium tube (1) according to any of the claims 13 to 21 , characterized in that the applicator (5) has a front surface (8) and a side wall (16), wherein the front surface (8) surrounds the opening (12) and the side wall (16) is adapted to apply the material exiting from the opening (12) of the applicator (5).P 62283 - 40 -23. The aluminium tube (1) according to any of the claims 13 to 22, characterized in that the tube body (2) has an open rear end.

Images