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This blog, focussing on the bulb, is the last of three-part series; in Part 1 we looked at the Pipette Tube, and Part 2 discussed the Collar. The bulb is possibly the most critical part of the product, as it is essential to get the specification correct to ensure the correct dosage, compatibility with the product and to provide a leak-proof seal between the bottle and the cap.
Put simply, the component known as the bulb, or the teat, is the squeezy part at the top of the pipette. It inserts into the top of the collar and fits tightly onto the top of the tube, holding all three components together.
Like most cosmetic primary packaging, a pipette bulb is not so simple as it might first seem. Here are some of the key variables - we'll run through each of them in more detail below:
Read on, we'll dive into each of these in some more detail to help you specify your perfect pipette...
One of the most popular finishes - the thin metal shell on these gives an ultimately smooth, high-quality finish for a cosmetic product.
See them!The material used in the manufacturing of the bulb is probably the single most important aspect to get right when choosing a pipette. The bulb must be flexible by definition - and remain so throughout its life. In the event of liquid coming into contact with the bulb, it is essential the liquid doesn't have a detrimental effect on the bulb, and vice versa. Pipette bulbs are made from a whole range of materials - and so far, there's no winner-takes-all solution on this front. Here are some of the most common options you'll find, with a brief explanation of why they're used:
Material | Advantages | Disadvantages |
TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) |
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Silicone |
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Natural rubber |
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Butyl rubber |
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Nitrile rubber (NBR) |
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Size matters! - in some uses, more than others. Two of the most common sizes (capacities) for a pipette bulb in the skincare market are 0.7ml and 1ml. This means that, in a perfect world, you put the tip of the pipette into the liquid, squeeze the bulb, and it draws up exactly that amount of liquid. In reality, this may not be the case, it depends on the size of your fingers, if the bulb is completely squeezed and the liquid being dispensed (liquids may behave differently depending on how viscous they are).
This is particularly important when recommending that the consumer use a specific volume of product, such as '1ml dosage' rather than, '3 or 4 drops', as in this case, the bulb then needs to have the capacity to draw up the right amount of product into the stem and then evacuate (empty) the full stem with one further squeeze.
While every brand loves a colour-matched product, brand-owners may need to be ready to compromise when it comes to colour-matching the bulb. Some materials, particularly rubber materials are only available in black, while other materials such as TPE give more scope for coloration. Richmond is working on solutions that will allow a far greater degree of colour-matching, subject to production minimums, obviously.
Matt and textured or smooth and glossy? The option depends on the material choice - but since the bulb is a very tactile part of the user experience, it can become a consideration for brands. Silicone tends to be smooth and glossy, while TPE and rubber tend to provide a matt finish.
It's easier when you can chat to an expert - especially one who is happy to discuss your brand's packaging for hours! Get in touch
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