What types of sleeves are there? – an overview
Sleeves are practical aids for shipping and production. They are available in many shapes and serve a wide variety of purposes. There are several different types of sleeves. Therefore, before you decide to purchase sleeves, it's important to know your intended use. This article will explain what types there are and which type of sleeve is best suited for your project.
The different types of sleeves
There are different types of cores. Each type has its own purpose. For example, some cores provide good protection during shipping. Others serve as stable winding cores. We would now like to introduce you to the most important core types in more detail:
Shipping tubes
Shipping tubes are usually made of cardboard. Solid cardboard is a very popular choice. Shipping tubes are round and have a solid wall. This makes them ideal for long and delicate products. Drawings, plans, or posters remain undamaged. Strips or pipes can also be shipped safely in them. The sleeve protects against kinks, moisture, and dirt. Shipping tubes are available in a wide variety of sizes.
The advantages of shipping tubes at a glance:
very stable and dimensionally stable
good protection against creases
light and easy to handle
lockable with matching lids
available in many lengths and diameters
reusable if treated well
environmentally friendly because it is recyclable
Typical areas of application:
Shipping of plans and posters
Packaging of strips, tubes or bars
Protection of sensitive printed matter
Sending advertising materials
Storage of long goods
E-commerce and advertising agencies
technical drawing
Hard paper tubes
Paper cores are very sturdy. They consist of several layers of cardboard. They serve as winding cores for many materials. For example, they are often used for paper, foil, or textiles. Even heavy webs can be wound on them. The core remains dimensionally stable and can withstand even high loads. They are used primarily in industry.
The advantages of hard paper cores at a glance:
very high stability
dimensionally stable even under heavy loads
versatile
durable and robust
recyclable and environmentally friendly
available in many thicknesses and diameters
low weight with high strength
Typische Einsatzbereiche:
Wickelkern für Papier- und Folienrollen
Aufwicklung von Textilien oder Etiketten
Trägermaterial in industriellen Produktionsprozessen
Stützhülse in Systemverpackungen
Verpackung von schweren, bahnförmigen Materialien
Displaybau (z. B. als konstruktives Element)
Maschinenbau und Druckindustrie
Quarter and half scarf sleeves
These sleeves are open and specifically protect edges. They are often used for containers and bagged goods. IBC containers benefit from this in particular. The sleeve can be used with tensioning straps to prevent pressure marks. They are also helpful for pallets with textile bales. Quarter-shell and half-shell sleeves adapt perfectly to a wide variety of shapes. This not only ensures improved grip but also effectively prevents damage. If these sleeves remain clean, they can be reused without any problems.
The advantages of quarter-scarf and half-scarf sleeves at a glance:
Protection against pressure and chafing
flexible shape, adapts to the product
ideal for angular or non-stable goods
stable and durable
easy to handle
cost-effective solution
can be used multiple times upon return
Typical areas of application:
Edge protection for IBC containers
Protection of packaging bubbles from tensioning straps
Pallet securing of bagged goods
Packaging of textile bales
Protective textiles during transport and storage
Fixation of sensitive load securing equipment
Complement to stretch film or strapping
Sleeve rings
Core rings are small, round pieces of cardboard. They are created when cutting paper cores. They are particularly useful for narrow winding rolls. They are frequently used for labels or adhesive tapes. The winding retains its perfect shape thanks to the use of core rings. They are also widely used in film production. The edges are clean and even, ensuring a clean winding process. Even the smallest rings can be custom-made.
The advantages of sleeve rings at a glance:
manufactured with great precision
clean, smooth edges
ideal for narrow tracks
space-saving
light and stable
can be made to measure
support an exact winding process
Typical areas of application:
Label production
Adhesive tape production
film industry
Textile ribbon manufacturer
printing companies
Packaging industry for narrow rolls
Special applications with narrow winding cores
How do the sleeves differ in structure and function?
Tubes come in various shapes, each with its own unique design. For example, shipping tubes are closed and round. They protect products during transport. Paper cores are very sturdy. They consist of several layers of cardboard. These cores usually serve as winding cores. Quarter-sleeve tubes are open. They specifically protect edges and corners. Tube rings are small and round. They hold narrow rolls in shape. Each tube fulfills a different function. Therefore, choosing the right tube is very important. This is the only way to optimally protect your products.
What should you pay attention to when choosing the right sleeve?
The intended use plays a very important role in choosing the right sleeve. Before purchasing, you should consider whether you want to ship or wrap something. Then you can select the right sleeve individually. It is also important to consider the weight of the product. Heavy materials require a sturdy sleeve. The dimensions must fit precisely. If the sleeves are too large, they cannot provide the necessary protection. The humidity in the warehouse also plays a role. Solid sleeves are better suited for humid environments. You should also consider reuse. Some sleeves can be used multiple times. This saves you costs and protects the environment.
What advantages do sleeves offer in daily use?
Sleeves are practical and versatile. They protect your products from damage. Many sleeves are very sturdy. They are easy to store and transport. They are also useful for wrapping materials. Sleeves facilitate the handling of goods. They simplify packaging. Many versions are reusable. They are also suitable for special applications. With the right sleeve, you can optimize your processes. You increase safety and save time.
In which industries are cores particularly in demand?
Tubes are used in many industries. They are standard in the packaging industry. They are also frequently used in printing. The textile industry uses them for wrapping fabrics. In logistics, they provide protection during shipping. Mechanical engineering also relies on strong tubes. Food companies use them for clean packaging. Shipping tubes are also very popular in e-commerce. Generally speaking, tubes can be used safely in almost all areas.
How sustainable are cardboard tubes really?
Cardboard tubes are an environmentally friendly solution. They are usually made from recycled materials such as solid cardboard. They are also easily recycled after use. Production requires little energy. Furthermore, they produce hardly any waste. Many cardboard tubes are reusable. You can simply dispose of them or reuse them.