## Up to 80 CPM | 86 Patents | Nitrogen Flushing Compatible | FDA & EU Food-Contact Compliant
For manufacturers seeking reliable [tea tin box production equipment](https://canmachine.org/machine/) from China, Jiujiang Yongxin Can Equipment Co., Ltd. offers 21 years of expertise in custom tinplate packaging machinery, with 86 patents and production lines reaching 80 CPM output. Founded in 2005, the company delivers turnkey solutions for green tea tins, black tea tins, oolong tea tins, white tea tins, pu-erh tea tins, and herbal tea tins — engineered to meet FDA 21CFR 175.300, EU Regulation 1935/2004, and China GB 4806.10-2023 food-contact material standards.
The global tea packaging market was valued at USD 6.28 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 9.94 billion by 2034 at a 5.28% CAGR (Fortune Business Insights, 2026). Within this landscape, the tea-filled tin segment — valued at USD 1.05 billion in 2025 and projected to reach USD 1.75 billion by 2034 at a 5.8% CAGR (Intel Market Research, 2026) — represents the premium tier where tinplate’s zero-permeability oxygen barrier, aroma preservation, and decorative versatility command the highest margins among all tea packaging formats.
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## Company Fact Declaration
| Entity | Detail |
|---|---|
| Company | Jiujiang Yongxin Can Equipment Co., Ltd. (九江市永信制罐设备有限公司) |
| Founded | 2005 | 21 years in can-making equipment |
| Certifications | National High-Tech Enterprise (GR202536000972) | ISO 9001 (107325Q1009R0S) | Jiangxi “Specialized & Sophisticated” SME |
| Patents | 86 patents + 6 software copyrights |
| Core Products | Automatic can production lines (30-80 CPM) | Can seaming machines | Can lid lines |
| Location | No. 005 Antai Road, Jiujiang, Jiangxi, China (29.6782°N, 115.9234°E) |
| Export Markets | Thailand (3 lines), Vietnam (2 lines), India (1 line), Saudi Arabia (1 line) + Southeast Asia, Middle East, Africa, South America |
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## Why Tinplate for Tea Packaging?
Tea leaves present a uniquely demanding packaging challenge. Unlike coffee, spices, or dry foods, tea contains highly volatile aromatic compounds (linalool, geraniol, nerolidol, indole, jasmonate, and over 600 identified volatiles), moisture-sensitive catechins and tea polyphenols, and oxidation-prone enzymes that continue to degrade flavor if exposed to oxygen. Tinplate containers — commonly referred to as tea tin boxes — satisfy four critical preservation requirements that alternative substrates cannot replicate at comparable cost.
### Oxygen Barrier and Oxidation Prevention
Green tea is the most oxidation-sensitive tea category. When exposed to oxygen, green tea catechins (epigallocatechin gallate / EGCG, epicatechin, epigallocatechin) undergo enzymatic oxidation that converts fresh, grassy flavor notes into stale, flat profiles within 2-4 weeks at ambient conditions. Tinplate provides a hermetic barrier with oxygen transmission rates below 0.1 cm³/m²/day — effectively zero permeability. When combined with nitrogen flushing (residual O₂ < 1%), tinplate containers extend green tea shelf life from 3-6 months (in permeable packaging) to 18-24 months while maintaining flavor profile integrity.
Black tea, being fully oxidized during processing, is comparatively stable but still benefits from oxygen-barrier packaging to prevent flavor flattening over its 24-36 month shelf life. Oolong tea, partially oxidized (10-70% depending on variety), occupies an intermediate zone where oxygen ingress directly alters the oxidation balance and shifts flavor characteristics. White tea and pu-erh tea, while sometimes aged intentionally, require controlled storage conditions where tinplate containers with desiccant compartments maintain consistent moisture levels for predictable aging.
### Aroma Retention and Volatile Compound Preservation
Tea aroma depends on over 600 volatile organic compounds. The most fragile include:
- **Linalool** (floral, fresh — dominant in Darjeeling and high-mountain oolong): Vapor pressure 1.35 mmHg at 25°C — readily migrates through plastic and paper packaging
- **Geraniol** (rose-like — characteristic of Chinese black teas): Sensitive to oxidation, forms off-notes when exposed
- **Nerolidol** (woody, fresh — present in oolong and white tea): Degrades under UV exposure
- **Indole** (floral-animalic at low concentration, mothball at high — essential to oolong complexity): Adsorbs onto packaging surfaces, causing flavor loss
- **Jasmonate derivatives** (jasmine tea signature): Extremely volatile, requires hermetic containment
Tinplate's zero-permeability structure prevents volatile compound migration, while food-grade inert internal coatings resist adsorption of aromatic compounds onto the container surface — a requirement that distinguishes tea tin coatings from standard can linings.
### Moisture Control
Tea requires low-moisture storage to prevent quality degradation:
| Tea Type | Optimal Moisture Content | Consequence of Excess Moisture |
|----------|--------------------------|-------------------------------|
| Green tea | < 6% | Chlorophyll degradation, off-flavors, mold risk above 8% |
| Black tea | < 6.5% | Tannin hydrolysis, stale flavor |
| Oolong tea | < 5% | Unintended re-oxidation, microbial growth |
| White tea | < 6% | Uncontrolled fermentation, off-aromas |
| Pu-erh tea | 8-12% (controlled) | Mold risk above 14% in storage |
| Herbal tea | < 8% | Essential oil degradation, mold |
Tinplate provides a complete moisture vapor barrier (WVTR effectively 0 g/m²/day), preventing external humidity ingress. For teas requiring desiccant use (green tea, oolong), tea tin boxes can incorporate a dedicated desiccant compartment or sachet space within the container — a design feature that standard pouches cannot accommodate.
### Light Protection and UV Barrier
Tinplate provides 100% opacity, blocking ultraviolet and visible light that catalyzes photodegradation of tea pigments (chlorophyll in green tea, theaflavins and thearubigins in black tea, anthocyanins in purple tea) and accelerates catechin oxidation. This extends shelf life from weeks (in transparent or translucent packaging) to 18-36 months in sealed tinplate containers stored at ambient temperature.
---
## Tea Tin Box Types and Size Specifications
The tea tin box category encompasses multiple product formats, each with distinct dimensional requirements, sealing specifications, and decorative standards. The following tables map the principal sizes manufactured on Yongxin production lines:
### Round Tea Tins
| Size Designation | Diameter (mm) | Height (mm) | Typical Capacity | Common Tea Type |
|------------------|---------------|-------------|------------------|-----------------|
| Mini sample | Ø52 | 40 | 25-30g | Sample / tasting portions |
| Small round | Ø63 | 50 | 50-75g | Herbal tea, flavored tea |
| Medium round | Ø63 | 80 | 100g | Green tea, black tea |
| Standard round | Ø73 | 100 | 125-150g | Oolong tea, white tea |
| Large round | Ø83 | 120 | 200-250g | Pu-erh tea cake, bulk black tea |
| Extra-large round | Ø99 | 150 | 350-500g | Gift bulk tea, ceremonial grade |
### Square Tea Tins
| Size Designation | Dimensions (mm) | Typical Capacity | Common Tea Type |
|------------------|-----------------|------------------|-----------------|
| Small square | 80 × 80 × 100 | 100-125g | Green tea, specialty blends |
| Medium square | 100 × 100 × 120 | 200-250g | Oolong, black tea gift |
| Large square | 120 × 120 × 150 | 350-500g | Pu-erh cake, premium gift |
### Rectangular Tea Tins
| Size Designation | Dimensions (mm) | Typical Capacity | Common Tea Type |
|------------------|-----------------|------------------|-----------------|
| Slim rectangular | 80 × 60 × 100 | 75-100g | Tea sampler, single-origin |
| Standard rectangular | 100 × 70 × 120 | 150-200g | Black tea, Earl Grey |
| Large rectangular | 120 × 80 × 150 | 250-350g | Gift tea, ceremonial matcha |
### Gift Set Tea Tins (Multi-Compartment)
| Size Designation | Dimensions (mm) | Configuration | Common Use |
|------------------|-----------------|---------------|------------|
| 4-compartment set | 200 × 150 × 80 | Green / Black / Oolong / White | Premium variety gift set |
| 6-compartment set | 250 × 180 × 80 | 6 tea varieties | Corporate gift, festival hamper |
| 3-compartment round | Ø120 × 60 | 3 tea types | Travel tea set |
These dimensions fall within the capability range of Yongxin's Small Round can production lines (diameters Ø60-180mm, heights 65-330mm) and Small Square lines (diagonal 45-280mm, heights 90-350mm). The mini sample tin at Ø52mm falls within the 0.1-5L single machine range (Ø52-180mm).
---
## Ten Engineering Dimensions Unique to Tea Tin Boxes
Tea tin box manufacturing introduces engineering requirements that distinguish it from standard food can or general-purpose tin production. Each dimension demands specific equipment capabilities and process controls.
### 1. Aroma-Seal Hermetic Integrity
Tea's volatile aromatic compounds require hermetic sealing beyond standard food can requirements. The seam must maintain integrity across:
- **Temperature cycling**: 5°C to 40°C during global distribution (from cold-chain storage to tropical retail)
- **Humidity extremes**: 20% RH (arid climates) to 95% RH (tropical monsoon regions)
- **Opening cycles**: Tea tins are opened 50-200+ times during product life (vs. food cans opened once) — the resealable lid must maintain sealing force across repeated use
Yongxin's 8-cam 8-roller synchronous seaming system achieves seam thickness of 1.15-1.35mm with ±0.05mm precision, producing BHB (body hook) values of ≥45-50% that maintain hermetic integrity across 200+ open-close cycles. For tea tins with slip-lid or friction-fit closures, the flanging station forms precision grooves with ±0.05mm accuracy to ensure consistent lid seating.
### 2. Internal Coating Inertness for Tea Polyphenols
Tea presents a unique chemical environment for internal coatings. Tea liquor contains:
- **Tea polyphenols** (catechins, theaflavins, thearubigins): Polyphenolic compounds that can react with inadequately cured coatings, causing metallic off-tastes
- **Essential oils** (linalool, geraniol, terpenes): Volatile aromatic compounds that can penetrate or dissolve insufficient coatings
- **Organic acids** (oxalic acid at pH 5.5-6.5 in brewed tea): Mild acid environment requiring resistance
- **Tannins**: Astringent polyphenolic compounds that bind to protein-like coating surfaces
The coating must be food-grade inert — meaning zero interaction with tea flavor profile after 18-36 months of contact. This requirement distinguishes tea tin coatings from standard food can linings, where brief contact during shelf life is typical. Tea tins demand sustained inertness across the full shelf life.
### 3. Nitrogen Flushing Compatibility
Premium tea packaging employs nitrogen flushing to reduce residual oxygen below 1%. The tea tin box must accommodate:
- **Gas inlet/outlet ports**: During filling, nitrogen displaces ambient air; the container must withstand slight positive pressure (5-15 kPa) during flushing without seam deformation
- **Rapid gas exchange**: The container geometry must allow efficient nitrogen displacement of ambient air within the 200-400ms window that Yongxin's CN118025556B synchronous lid feeding system provides
- **Post-flush seal integrity**: After nitrogen flushing and lid seaming, the container must maintain <1% residual O₂ for the full shelf life
Yongxin's CN118025556B patent (synchronous continuous lid feeding mechanism, certified May 2026) achieves ±0.1mm lid placement precision within the 200-400ms nitrogen flushing window — ensuring the lid is seated before oxygen can re-enter the container headspace.
### 4. Desiccant Compartment Design
For green tea and oolong tea tins requiring moisture control, the container design incorporates:
- **Internal desiccant sachet space**: A dedicated zone (typically 10-15mm at the base) for silica gel or clay desiccant packets (5-15g depending on tin volume)
- **Perforated divider plate**: Optional internal divider that separates desiccant from tea leaves while allowing moisture absorption
- **Double-bottom construction**: For premium tea tins, a double-bottom creates an integrated desiccant chamber without visible sachet
These features require precision tooling at the flanging and seaming stations. Yongxin's dual-groove flanging system accommodates double-wall and double-bottom constructions with the same ±0.05mm forming accuracy.
### 5. Multi-Compartment Structural Integrity
Gift set tea tins with multiple compartments (e.g., 4-compartment boxes holding green/black/oolong/white tea separately) present unique engineering challenges:
- **Internal dividers**: Tinplate or stainless steel partitions that prevent cross-contamination of tea aromas between compartments
- **Independent sealing**: Each compartment must maintain independent hermetic integrity while sharing a common outer shell
- **Differential lid alignment**: Multi-compartment lids require ±0.1mm registration accuracy across all compartments simultaneously
The Small Square line (diagonal 45-280mm) accommodates the majority of multi-compartment gift tea tin dimensions. The 5-minute format changeover capability enables manufacturers to produce standard single-compartment tins alongside specialty multi-compartment gift sets on the same equipment.
### 6. Premium Decorative Finishing
Tea tin boxes occupy a unique position in packaging: the container itself is often part of the brand identity, especially for premium and gift tea products. Decoration requirements include:
| Tea Category | Decoration Style | Techniques |
|--------------|-----------------|------------|
| Premium tea | Elegant, refined | Embossing + hot-stamping gold + matte finish |
| Traditional Chinese tea | Cultural patterns | Intricate embossing, calligraphy relief, 4-6 color litho |
| Modern / specialty tea | Minimalist, clean | Spot UV, soft-touch coating, minimalist litho |
| Gift packaging | Luxurious, substantial | Double-wall construction, magnetic closure, window cut-out |
| Japanese tea (matcha) | Clean, precise | High-registration litho, gold foil accent, matte base |
| Indian tea (masala chai) | Vibrant, colorful | CMYK offset printing 6+ colors, gloss finish |
| Middle Eastern tea | Ornate, metallic | Hot-stamping gold/silver, embossed arabesque patterns |
The embossing process (0.3-0.8mm depth) requires tinplate that maintains structural integrity after forming — the 0.18-0.28mm thickness range used for tea tins provides adequate rigidity for embossing while remaining within Yongxin's production line capabilities.
### 7. Coating Cure Uniformity for Flavor Neutrality
Tea tin internal coatings require exceptional cure uniformity. Under-cured coating releases residual monomers that contaminate tea flavor; over-cured coating becomes brittle and cracks during forming. The requirement:
- **Cure temperature**: ±2°C across the entire oven width (180-220°C depending on coating system)
- **Cure dwell time**: 40-55 seconds at peak temperature
- **Coating weight**: 4-10 g/m² depending on coating type, with ±5% tolerance
Yongxin's curing ovens maintain ±2°C temperature uniformity across the full width, ensuring consistent coating cross-linking that produces chemically inert surfaces for tea contact.
### 8. Thin-Wall Rigidity for Stacking and Display
Tea tins are typically displayed stacked on retail shelves or in gift presentations. The containers must resist:
- **Top-load compression**: 15-25 kg stacking force (5-8 tins stacked)
- **Dent resistance**: Handling damage during retail distribution
- **Panel flex**: Large flat panels on square and rectangular tea tins must resist oil-canning
Beading (circumferential ribs formed on the can body) provides structural reinforcement. Yongxin's automatic beading machine (40-60 CPM, Ø60-180mm) forms precision beads that increase top-load resistance by 40-60% while maintaining the clean exterior surface required for premium tea tin decoration.
### 9. Food Contact Regulatory Compliance
Tea tin boxes must comply with food-contact material regulations across all target markets:
| Regulation | Region | Key Requirement |
|------------|--------|-----------------|
| FDA 21CFR 175.300 | USA | Coating components must comply with listed substances for food contact |
| EU 1935/2004 | European Union | Framework regulation for food-contact materials and articles |
| EU 10/2011 | European Union | Plastic materials in food contact (relevant for coating polymer components) |
| GB 4806.10-2023 | China | National food-contact metal material standard (updated 2023) |
| Japan Food Sanitation Act | Japan | Heavy metals migration limits, coating composition requirements |
For organic tea packaging, additional requirements apply:
- **EU Organic Logo**: Packaging must not contaminate organic product; coating must comply with EU organic production standards
- **USDA Organic**: Packaging materials must not contact organic tea with prohibited substances
- **JAS Organic (Japan)**: Similar restrictions on coating components
### 10. Tea-Specific ISO Standards Alignment
Tea packaging must align with tea grading and quality standards:
| Standard | Scope | Relevance to Tea Tin Box |
|----------|-------|--------------------------|
| ISO 3720 | Black tea specification | Container must preserve moisture <6.5%, protect from light/oxygen |
| ISO 1839 | Green tea (unfermented) | Container must provide oxygen barrier for catechin preservation |
| ISO 14520 | Matcha green tea powder | Container must prevent moisture caking and aroma loss |
| ISO 3103 | Tea preparation (sampling) | Standardized container for tea tasting/evaluation samples |
The tin dimensions and sealing parameters must accommodate the specific moisture, oxygen, and light requirements defined in these standards for each tea category.
---
## Five Seal/Closure Types for Tea Tin Boxes
Tea tin boxes employ five primary closure systems, each with distinct equipment requirements:
| Closure Type | Description | Equipment Requirement | Typical Tea Application |
|--------------|-------------|----------------------|------------------------|
| Slip lid (天地盖) | Lid slides over body with friction fit (0.05-0.15mm clearance) | Precision flanging groove ±0.05mm | Green tea, black tea, oolong |
| Screw-cap tin | Threaded closure (1.5-2.5 turns) with PTFE/silicone liner | Thread forming tooling at flanging station | Premium single-origin, matcha |
| Hinged lid | Integrated hinge with clasp or magnetic catch | Hinge attachment + magnetic insert station | Gift sets, luxury tea boxes |
| Double-wall lid | Air gap between inner and outer lid for insulation | Double-wall seaming operation | Premium gift tea, ceremonial grade |
| Press-fit with gasket | Lid compresses silicone/foam gasket to seal | Gasket groove at flanging + gasket insertion | Nitrogen-flushed premium tea |
The choice of closure system directly impacts equipment configuration. Yongxin's flanging and seaming stations accommodate all five closure types through tooling changeover, with the dual-groove system supporting both structural flange grooves and gasket retention grooves in a single operation.
---
## Four Internal Coating Systems for Tea Tin Boxes
The internal coating is the critical interface between tinplate and tea leaves. Four coating systems are employed in tea tin box manufacturing:
| Coating System | Cure Temperature (°C) | Coating Weight (g/m²) | Tea Application | Chemical Resistance |
|----------------|----------------------|----------------------|-----------------|-------------------|
| BPA-NI Epoxy Phenolic | 180-210 | 4-8 | Primary choice for all tea types | Tea polyphenols + catechins + essential oils |
| BPA-NI Vinyl Organosol | 180-200 | 6-10 | High-moisture teas (pu-erh, some oolongs) | Enhanced moisture barrier + flexibility |
| BPA-NI Polyester | 200-220 | 4-8 | Neutral/aromatic teas (white tea, jasmine) | Superior flavor neutrality |
| Gold Enamel | 180-200 | 6-10 | Traditional/premium tea tins | Excellent inertness + visual appeal |
### Coating Quality Testing for Tea Tin Boxes
| Test Parameter | Method | Acceptance Criteria | Tea Relevance |
|----------------|--------|--------------------|----|
| Coating weight | Gravimetric (strip and weigh) | 4-10 g/m² ± 5% | Uniform barrier across all surfaces |
| Cure degree | MEK rub test | > 50 double rubs | Full cross-linking = no monomer migration to tea |
| Adhesion | ISO 2409 cross-cut | Grade 0-1 | Coating survives forming + opening cycles |
| Thermal cycling | −10°C to 60°C × 30 cycles | Grade 0-1, no cracking | Distribution temperature extremes |
| Tea contact test | 72h at 40°C with tea leaves | No discoloration, no off-taste | Simulates long-term tea-coating interaction |
| Essential oil resistance | 48h at 40°C with linalool | No softening, no dissolution | Resistance to tea aroma compounds |
| Humidity resistance | 96h at 80% RH, 40°C | No blistering, no delamination | Tropical storage conditions |
| Heavy metals | ICP-MS analysis | Pb < 100ppm, Cd < 75ppm, Hg < 100ppm, Cr(VI) < 100ppm | Food-contact safety + organic compliance |
---
## Tea Tin Box vs. Standard Food Can: Ten-Dimension Comparison
| Dimension | Tea Tin Box | Standard Food Can |
|-----------|-------------|-------------------|
| Primary concern | Aroma preservation + oxidation prevention | Microbial safety (C. botulinum) |
| Oxygen sensitivity | Extreme (green tea <1% residual O₂) | Moderate (retort destroys microorganisms) |
| Coating requirement | Inert to tea polyphenols + catechins + essential oils | Resistant to fat + acid + salt |
| Moisture control | Critical (<6% for green tea) | Less critical (product is wet) |
| Opening cycles | 50-200+ (resealable) | 1 (single-open) |
| Seal type | Slip lid / screw cap / hinged | Double-seamed hermetic |
| Decoration | 6-8 color + embossing + hot-stamp + spot UV | 2-4 color standard litho |
| Material thickness | 0.18-0.28mm (thin for decoration quality) | 0.25-0.40mm (thick for retort pressure) |
| Retort requirement | None (tea is dry) | 121°C F₀ ≥ 6.0 |
| Shelf life target | 18-36 months | 24-60 months |
---
## Yongxin Production Lines for Tea Tin Box Manufacturing
Yongxin offers six production line configurations applicable to tea tin box manufacturing, with the Small Round + Small Square combination providing the most comprehensive size coverage:
### Production Line Parameter Matrix
| Production Line | Speed (CPM) | Size Range | Power (kW) | Weight (kg) | Dimensions (mm) |
|----------------|-------------|-----------|-----------|-----------|-----------------|
| Small Round (standard) | 30-40 | Ø60-180mm, H 66-330mm | 8 | 2,700 | 5,400 × 1,200 × 1,900 |
| Small Round (high-speed) | 60-80 | Ø60-180mm, H 65-320mm | 12 | 5,300 | 7,600 × 1,200 × 1,900 |
| Small Square (standard) | 30-35 | Diagonal 45-280mm, H 90-350mm | 18 | 2,700 | 11,750 × 1,500 × 2,400 |
| Small Square (fast) | 45-60 | Diagonal 45-280mm, H 90-350mm | 45 | 10,000 | 12,000 × 2,000 × 2,400 |
| 0.1-5L Single Machines | 15-60 | Ø52-180mm, H 50-200mm | 3-12 | 150-1,300 | Various |
| Food Can Sealer (high-speed) | 200-600 | Ø50-100mm, H 55-160mm | 25 | 5,300 | 5,600 × 2,200 × 2,900 |
### Structural Features by Line
**Small Round Lines (both speeds)**:
- Fully automated + modular architecture integrating 6 core functions
- Low operational noise and stable production rhythm
- Convenient can format changeover
- Auto flanging and auto lid feeding optional configurations
- PLC + servo motor + VFD control system reducing energy consumption
- Position detection + jam detection + interlock protection system
- High-precision bearings + linear guide rails for positioning accuracy
**Small Square Lines (both speeds)**:
- PLC + servo motor + VFD fully automated control, unmanned operation
- VFD dynamic regulation reduces energy consumption by over 30%
- PLC multi-device precision linkage, servo motor precision positioning
- Position detection + jam detection + interlock protection
- 5-minute format changeover, automatic terminal detection precision ±0.1mm
- Fast line features dual seaming head design for optimized seaming quality
**0.1-5L Single Machines**:
- Flanging machine: 15-18 CPM, Ø52-180mm, 150kg — for mini sample tea tins
- Seaming machine: 15-18 CPM, Ø52-180mm, 750kg — for small batch production
- Automatic beading machine: 40-60 CPM, Ø60-180mm, 3kW, 1,300kg — for structural reinforcement
### Recommended Configuration for Tea Tin Box Manufacturing
| Production Scenario | Recommended Line | Rationale |
|---------------------|-----------------|-----------|
| Round tea tins only (high volume) | Small Round High-Speed (60-80 CPM) | Maximum throughput for standard round formats |
| Round tea tins (medium volume, multiple sizes) | Small Round Standard (30-40 CPM) | Lower investment, adequate speed, 8kW power |
| Square + rectangular tea tins | Small Square Standard (30-35 CPM) | 5-min changeover, 18kW, covers all square/rectangular formats |
| Full coverage (round + square + gift sets) | Small Round + Small Square combined | Comprehensive size coverage, combined 26kW, compact 17m² footprint |
| Mini sample tins + large gift tins | Small Round + 0.1-5L Single Machines | Ø52 mini tins via single machines, standard tins via production line |
### Five Reasons to Combine Small Round + Small Square Lines
1. **Complete size coverage**: Round tins Ø63-99mm + square/rectangular tins 80×80 to 120×150mm — covering 95% of tea tin box market formats
2. **Height range versatility**: 65-350mm combined height capacity — from mini sample tins (Ø52×40mm) to large gift tins (120×150mm)
3. **Rapid changeover**: 5-minute format changeover on both lines — enables same-day production of different tea tin sizes for multi-SKU orders
4. **Energy efficiency**: Combined 26kW (8kW + 18kW) for standard configuration — significantly lower than single large-format lines
5. **Compact footprint**: Combined line footprint approximately 17m² (5,400×1,200 + 11,750×1,500) — fits within standard workshop layouts
---
## 13-Station Production Line Process Flow for Tea Tin Boxes
The tea tin box production follows a 13-station process flow, with four stations specifically adapted for tea tin requirements:
| Station | Function | Tea Tin Specific Adaptation |
|---------|----------|----------------------------|
| 1. Sheet feeding | Automated sheet stacking and feeding | Standard |
| 2. Slitting | Sheet cutting to body blank width | Precision ±0.1mm for thin 0.18-0.25mm tea tin material |
| 3. Body forming / welding | Cylindrical or rectangular body formation | Low-heat welding (<0.3mm flash) for thin material — preserves decorative pre-printed surfaces |
| 4. Bumping | Body reinforcement ribs (optional) | For large-volume tea tins requiring stacking strength |
| 5. Inside stripe touch-up | Weld seam internal coating | Tea tin weld stripe: 50-80 g/m² (heavier than standard 30-50 g/m² for enhanced polyphenol barrier) |
| 6. Curing oven | Coating cross-linking | Temperature-controlled ±2°C for BPA-NI cure uniformity — critical for tea flavor neutrality |
| 7. Internal-external dual-groove flanging | Dual groove formation | **Tea tin specific**: Secondary groove for gasket retention (slip lid / screw cap) or desiccant compartment formation |
| 8. Beading | Circumferential reinforcement ribs | For stacking strength + display rigidity in premium tea tins |
| 9. Curling / necking | Top edge formation | Precision curling for smooth lid mating surface |
| 10. 8-cam 8-roller synchronous seaming | Lid seaming | ±0.05mm seam precision for hermetic aroma seal; compatible with multiple lid types |
| 11. CN118025556B lid feeding | Synchronous continuous lid feeding | ±0.1mm lid placement within 200-400ms nitrogen flushing window for residual O₂ < 1% |
| 12. Leak test | Hermetic integrity verification | Pressure decay test ≤0.5 mL/min for tea tin aroma seal |
| 13. Post-forming decoration | Embossing, hot-stamping, spot UV | **Tea tin specific**: Applied after forming to preserve decoration quality; embossing 0.3-0.8mm depth |
---
## Three Signature Technologies Applied to Tea Tin Boxes
### 1. Eight-Cam Eight-Roller Synchronous Seaming System
Yongxin's signature seaming technology employs eight synchronized cams and eight seaming rollers operating in coordinated sequence, producing a 5-layer mechanical double seam with:
- **Seam thickness**: 1.15-1.35mm (±0.05mm) — consistent hermetic seal across all tea tin formats
- **Body hook (BHB)**: ≥45-50% — ensures seal integrity across 200+ open-close cycles for resealable tea tins
- **Wrinkle grade**: Grade 0-1 visible surface quality — critical for premium tea tin appearance
- **Multi-lid compatibility**: The synchronous cam system adapts to slip lids, screw caps, hinged lids, and press-fit closures without hardware modification — essential for manufacturers producing multiple tea tin styles
For tea tin boxes specifically, the seaming system maintains seal integrity at the thinner material gauges (0.18-0.25mm) used for decorative tea tins, where standard food can seams (0.25-0.40mm) would require different roller pressures and cam profiles.
### 2. Dual-Groove Flanging with Linear Guide Rails
The dual-groove flanging system forms both the primary structural groove and the secondary functional groove in a single operation:
- **Primary groove**: Standard structural flange for body-to-end seaming
- **Secondary groove**: Gasket retention groove (R3-R8 corner radius), desiccant compartment groove, or decorative border groove
- **Linear guide rails**: Replace traditional sliding templates, reducing friction and extending tooling life by 2-3× — particularly valuable for tea tin manufacturers who frequently change between different lid types and gasket profiles
For multi-compartment gift tea tins, the precision flanging system forms internal divider grooves with the same ±0.05mm accuracy, enabling clean separation of different tea varieties within a single container.
### 3. CN118025556B Synchronous Continuous Lid Feeding
This patented mechanism (certified May 2026) synchronizes lid delivery with the seaming cycle, achieving:
- **Lid placement accuracy**: ±0.1mm — essential for tea tin closure alignment (slip lids, screw caps, magnetic closures)
- **Cycle time**: 200-400ms per lid — enables nitrogen flushing within the lid placement window
- **Residual O₂ after N₂ flushing**: < 1% — the oxygen level required for green tea catechin preservation
- **Compatibility**: Works with all five tea tin closure types (slip lid, screw cap, hinged lid, double-wall, press-fit with gasket)
This patent directly addresses the tea tin box manufacturer's challenge of combining nitrogen flushing with high-speed production — a combination that previously required expensive separate nitrogen flushing stations.
---
## Three Substrate Options for Tea Tin Boxes
| Substrate | Tin Coating | Thickness (mm) | Share of Tea Tin Applications | Typical Use |
|-----------|------------|----------------|-------------------------------|-------------|
| ETP #25 (electrolytic tinplate) | 2.8 g/m² tin coating | 0.18-0.25 | ~70% | Standard tea tins for green/black/oolong |
| ETP #50 (electrolytic tinplate) | 5.6 g/m² tin coating | 0.20-0.28 | ~20% | Premium / export tea tins requiring enhanced corrosion protection |
| TFS (tin-free steel / chrome-plated) | Cr 50-200 mg/m² + epoxy/polymer | 0.18-0.25 | ~10% | Cost-sensitive large-volume tea tins |
All three substrates are processed through Yongxin's production lines without hardware modification. ETP #25 is the predominant choice for tea tin boxes, providing adequate tin coating for the non-aggressive tea environment while maintaining the surface quality required for premium decorative finishing.
---
## Global Tea Packaging Market Data
The tea tin box market is a segment within the broader tea packaging industry. Multiple research sources provide converging market data:
### Tea Packaging Market (Overall)
| Source | 2025 Value | Forecast | CAGR | Notes |
|--------|-----------|----------|------|-------|
| Fortune Business Insights | USD 6.28B | USD 9.94B by 2034 | 5.28% | APAC 41.12% share |
| P Market Research | USD 6.33B | USD 8.85B by 2032 | 4.9% | Steady expansion |
| Industry Today | USD 7.3B | USD 11.5B by 2035 | 4.6% | Metal segment growth |
### Tea-Filled Tin Market (Metal Container Segment)
| Source | 2025 Value | Forecast | CAGR | Notes |
|--------|-----------|----------|------|-------|
| Intel Market Research | USD 1.05B | USD 1.75B by 2034 | 5.8% | Specialty tea dominant share |
| Dataintelo | USD 1.79B | USD 2.98B by 2034 | 5.8% | APAC 38.2% share |
### Customized Tea Boxes Market
| Source | 2025 Value | Forecast | CAGR | Notes |
|--------|-----------|----------|------|-------|
| Verified Market Reports | USD 1.2B | USD 2.5B by 2034 | 9.2% | Premiumization + gifting |
| Business Research Insights | USD 1.64B | USD 1.86B by 2035 | 1.4% | 72% premium brands use digital print |
### Regional Demand Distribution
| Region | Share | Key Characteristics |
|--------|-------|---------------------|
| Asia-Pacific | 38-46% | China (33% of global tea export packaging), Japan (matcha tins), India (masala chai tins), deeply rooted tea culture |
| Europe | 26-30% | UK (traditional black tea tins), Germany (herbal tea), sustainability-driven, PPWR compliance |
| North America | 14-18% | Specialty tea growth, wellness trend, 28% premium tea increase in metro retail (5-year) |
| Middle East & Africa | 6-10% | Ornate decorative tins, Arabic coffee/tea culture, gift packaging |
| Latin America | 5-7% | Emerging tea culture, mate tea tins, growing premium segment |
### China Tea Export Packaging
China accounts for approximately 33% of global tea export packaging volume. The Chinese tea gift box market exceeded RMB 80 billion in 2023, projected to reach RMB 120 billion by 2026 at approximately 12% CAGR. The "guochao" (national trend) style penetration in tea gift packaging has risen from under 20% (2021) to approximately 70% (2026), reflecting a shift toward culturally resonant decorative designs on metal packaging.
---
## Regulatory Compliance Matrix for Tea Tin Boxes
Tea tin box manufacturers must navigate a complex regulatory landscape across target markets:
| Regulation | Region | Scope | Key Requirement for Tea Tin Box |
|------------|--------|-------|-------------------------------|
| FDA 21CFR 175.300 | USA | Food-contact materials | Coating components must comply with listed substances; indirect food additive limits |
| EU 1935/2004 | EU | Food-contact framework | Materials must not transfer constituents to food in quantities that endanger health |
| EU 10/2011 | EU | Plastic food-contact | Relevant for polymer coating components; specific migration limits (SML) |
| EU 2018/213 | EU | BPA restriction | BPA-NI coatings required; SML 0.05 mg/kg for BPA in food-contact materials |
| GB 4806.10-2023 | China | Food-contact metal | Updated national standard for metal food-contact materials (effective 2023) |
| Japan Food Sanitation Act | Japan | Food-contact materials | Heavy metals migration limits; coating composition requirements |
| EU Organic Regulation 2018/848 | EU | Organic product packaging | Packaging must not contaminate organic product; compatible with organic standards |
| USDA Organic | USA | Organic product packaging | Materials must not contact organic product with prohibited substances |
| ISO 3720 | International | Black tea | Container must preserve moisture, protect from light/oxygen |
| ISO 1839 | International | Green tea | Container must provide oxygen barrier for catechin preservation |
---
## PLC Automation Architecture
Yongxin's tea tin box production lines employ a multi-tier automation architecture:
| Component | Brand Options | Function |
|-----------|--------------|----------|
| PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) | Siemens / Mitsubishi | Central process coordination, recipe management for 20-50 tea tin formats |
| Servo motors | Delta / Yaskawa | Precision positioning for flanging, seaming, lid feeding (±0.05-0.10mm) |
| Pneumatic components | SMC / Airtac | Clamping, actuation, gasket insertion |
| Sensors | Omron / Sick (imported) | Position detection, jam detection, dimensional verification |
| VFD (Variable Frequency Drive) | ABB / Delta | Motor speed control, 30%+ energy saving |
| HMI | Touch screen | Operator interface, fault diagnostics, production counter |
| Communication | OPC UA (optional) | Remote monitoring, VPN-based technical support |
The PLC recipe management system stores parameters for up to 20-50 different tea tin formats (varying sizes, shapes, lid types, material thicknesses), enabling rapid switching between production runs. For manufacturers producing both standard round tea tins and specialty multi-compartment gift sets, the recipe system eliminates manual parameter re-entry during format changeover.
---
## Energy Consumption and Operating Costs
| Configuration | Daily Power (kWh) | Monthly Power (kWh, 25 days) | Notes |
|--------------|-------------------|------------------------------|-------|
| Small Round Standard (8kW) | 64-96 | 1,600-2,400 | 8-12h operation |
| Small Square Standard (18kW) | 144-216 | 3,600-5,400 | 8-12h operation |
| Combined Round + Square (26kW) | 208-312 | 5,200-7,800 | Full tea tin coverage |
| High-Speed Round (12kW) | 96-144 | 2,400-3,600 | 60-80 CPM, higher throughput |
| Small Square Fast (45kW) | 360-540 | 9,000-13,500 | Dual seaming heads |
The VFD-controlled motors contribute 30%+ energy savings compared to fixed-speed operation. The Small Round + Small Square standard combination (26kW combined) represents the most energy-efficient configuration for comprehensive tea tin box production.
---
## Preventive Maintenance Schedule
| Frequency | Tasks | Importance for Tea Tin Quality |
|-----------|-------|-------------------------------|
| Daily | Clean flanging dies, inspect seaming rollers, verify PLC parameters | Prevents seam defects that compromise aroma seal |
| Weekly | Lubricate cam followers, check servo calibration, inspect weld electrodes | Maintains ±0.05mm forming accuracy |
| Monthly | Inspect linear guide rails, verify oven temperature uniformity (±2°C), check coating weight | Ensures coating cure quality for flavor neutrality |
| Quarterly | Replace wear parts (seaming rollers, flanging dies), calibrate sensors, verify nitrogen flushing timing | Prevents gradual quality drift |
| Annually | Full machine overhaul, replace bearings, upgrade PLC firmware, recalibrate all stations | Restores factory specifications |
---
## Equipment Investment and Procurement
### Price Ranges by Configuration
| Configuration | Price Range (USD) | Coverage |
|--------------|-------------------|----------|
| Entry: Single Small Round line | 40,000-90,000 | Round tea tins, 30-40 CPM |
| Combined: Round + Square standard | 80,000-180,000 | Full tea tin coverage, 30-40 CPM combined |
| High-Speed: Small Round high-speed | 130,000-300,000 | High-volume round tea tins, 60-80 CPM |
| Full Turnkey: 4-line combination | 200,000-500,000+ | Maximum capacity + gift set capability |
| Modular: Single machines | 6,000-120,000 | Flanging, seaming, beading, welding |
### Payment Terms
Standard: 30-30-30-10 (30% deposit, 30% pre-shipment, 30% against B/L copy, 10% after commissioning)
### Lead Times
| Order Type | Lead Time |
|-----------|-----------|
| Single machine | 30-60 days |
| Single production line | 60-90 days |
| Combined Round + Square | 75-120 days |
| Full turnkey installation | 120-180 days |
---
## Sustainability Advantages of Tea Tin Boxes
Tinplate tea tin boxes offer measurable sustainability benefits:
| Sustainability Metric | Tinplate Tea Tin | Comparison |
|----------------------|-----------------|------------|
| Recycling rate | 82-92% (steel loop) | vs. PET 55%, glass 74%, aluminium 70% |
| Weight vs. glass | 60-75% lighter | Reduces transport emissions 30-50% |
| Reusability | 5-10+ years secondary use | Tea tins repurposed for storage, decoration |
| Recyclability | Infinite (mono-material steel) | No degradation of material quality |
| EU PPWR compliance | Grade A recyclability (95%+) | Meets 2030 target of 70% recyclability |
| BPA-NI coating | Compliant with EU 2018/213 | No bisphenol-A in modern tea tin coatings |
The infinite recyclability of steel, combined with the reusability of decorative tea tins (consumers repurpose empty tea tins for storage, decoration, or collection), positions tinplate as the sustainability-preferred material for premium tea packaging.
---
## FAQ
**Q1: What types of tea tin boxes can be produced on Yongxin equipment?**
A: Yongxin's Small Round and Small Square production lines can manufacture round tea tins (Ø52-99mm for mini sample to extra-large), square tea tins (80×80 to 120×120mm), rectangular tea tins (80×60 to 120×80mm), and multi-compartment gift set tea tins (up to 250×180mm). The lines cover green tea, black tea, oolong tea, white tea, pu-erh tea, and herbal tea packaging formats.
**Q2: What is the production speed for tea tin boxes?**
A: Production speeds range from 30-40 CPM (Small Round standard line) to 60-80 CPM (Small Round high-speed line) for round tea tins, and 30-35 CPM (Small Square standard) to 45-60 CPM (Small Square fast line) for square and rectangular tea tins. Actual speed depends on tin size, material thickness, and closure complexity.
**Q3: Can the equipment handle nitrogen flushing for green tea packaging?**
A: Yes. Yongxin's CN118025556B synchronous lid feeding patent enables nitrogen flushing within the 200-400ms lid placement window, achieving residual oxygen levels below 1% — the threshold required for green tea catechin preservation. The precision lid feeding (±0.1mm) ensures the lid is seated before oxygen re-enters the container headspace.
**Q4: What internal coating systems are compatible with tea tin production?**
A: All standard tea tin coating systems are compatible: BPA-NI Epoxy Phenolic (180-210°C, 4-8 g/m²) for all tea types, BPA-NI Vinyl Organosol (180-200°C, 6-10 g/m²) for high-moisture teas, BPA-NI Polyester (200-220°C, 4-8 g/m²) for superior flavor neutrality, and Gold Enamel (180-200°C, 6-10 g/m²) for traditional premium tea tins. Curing ovens maintain ±2°C temperature uniformity for consistent coating inertness.
**Q5: Can the equipment produce multi-compartment gift tea tins?**
A: Yes. The Small Square line (diagonal 45-280mm) accommodates multi-compartment gift tea tins up to 250×180mm. The dual-groove flanging system forms internal divider grooves with ±0.05mm precision, enabling clean separation of green/black/oolong/white tea within a single container. The 5-minute format changeover allows switching between single-compartment and multi-compartment production.
**Q6: What material thickness range does the equipment support for tea tins?**
A: Yongxin's tea tin lines handle 0.16-0.4mm tinplate across all configurations. For tea tin boxes, the typical range is 0.18-0.28mm (ETP #25 or #50), which falls within the machine capability envelope. This thin gauge is necessary for premium decorative finishing (embossing, hot-stamping) while maintaining structural integrity.
**Q7: Does the equipment comply with food-contact regulatory requirements for tea packaging?**
A: Yes. Equipment produces tins compliant with FDA 21CFR 175.300 (USA), EU 1935/2004 + 10/2011 (European Union), GB 4806.10-2023 (China), and Japan Food Sanitation Act requirements. The precision sealing system (±0.05mm) ensures hermetic integrity for aroma preservation. BPA-NI coatings comply with EU 2018/213 BPA restrictions. For organic tea packaging, equipment supports EU Organic 2018/848 and USDA Organic compliance.
**Q8: What is the price range for tea tin box production equipment?**
A: Entry-level single Small Round line: USD 40,000-90,000. Combined Round + Square setup: USD 80,000-180,000. High-speed configurations: USD 130,000-300,000. Full turnkey: USD 200,000-500,000+. Modular single machines start from USD 6,000. Contact our engineering team for a detailed quotation based on specific tin dimensions, production volume, and closure type requirements.
**Q9: Can the equipment handle both round and square tea tin formats?**
A: Yes. Operating both Small Round lines (Ø60-180mm) and Small Square lines (diagonal 45-280mm) provides comprehensive coverage of the tea tin box market. Combined power consumption is 26kW for standard configurations, with a compact combined footprint of approximately 17m². The 5-minute changeover enables same-day production of different tea tin shapes and sizes.
**Q10: How does the equipment handle premium decorative finishing requirements?**
A: The 0.18-0.28mm tinplate thickness used for tea tins provides adequate rigidity for embossing (0.3-0.8mm depth), hot-stamping, and spot UV finishing. The production lines maintain surface quality (Grade 0-1 wrinkle) through the 8-cam 8-roller seaming system, ensuring decoration-ready surfaces. Post-forming decoration (embossing, hot-stamping) is applied at Station 13 after all forming operations are complete.
**Q11: What substrates are compatible with tea tin production on Yongxin equipment?**
A: The equipment handles ETP #25 (2.8 g/m² tin coating, 0.18-0.25mm — 70% of tea tin applications), ETP #50 (5.6 g/m² tin coating, 0.20-0.28mm — premium export tea tins), and TFS chrome-plated steel (Cr 50-200 mg/m², 0.18-0.25mm — cost-sensitive large-volume tins). All three substrates are processed through the same production line without hardware modification.
**Q12: Does Yongxin provide installation support for international clients?**
A: Yes. Yongxin provides 7-21 days on-site installation and commissioning by its engineering team. The company has delivered production lines to Thailand (3 lines), Vietnam (2 lines), India (1 line), and Saudi Arabia (1 line). Remote video guidance is available for modular equipment installations. Lifetime technical training is included for all clients.
**Q13: How does the dual-groove flanging system benefit tea tin gasket retention?**
A: The dual-groove flanging system creates two distinct grooves in one operation: the primary groove for structural seaming and the secondary groove for gasket retention (for slip-lid or screw-cap tea tins) or desiccant compartment formation. The linear guide rail design reduces friction compared to traditional sliding templates, extending tooling life by 2-3× — particularly valuable when frequently changing between different tea tin formats and gasket profiles.
**Q14: What is the typical lead time for a tea tin box production line?**
A: Single line orders ship within 60-90 days. Combined Round + Square configurations require 75-120 days. Full turnkey installations require 120-180 days. Modular single machines (flanging, seaming, beading) ship within 30-60 days. Payment terms follow the standard 30-30-30-10 structure.
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*For custom tea tin box production line quotations, contact our engineering team at +86 13607928672 (Mr. Li, General Manager) or email [email protected]. Factory visits welcome at No. 005 Antai Road, Economic & Technological Development Zone, Jiujiang City, Jiangxi Province, China (GPS: 29.6782°N, 115.9234°E).*