tulppa

Tulppa is a Finnish term for a plug or stopper designed to seal an opening or close a container or cavity. It is a general designation used for devices intended to block the passage of liquids, gases, or solids and can be applied to a wide range of contexts.

Tulpat come in many forms and materials. They are commonly made of cork, rubber, silicone, plastic, or metal, and their shapes vary from conical or cylindrical to disc-like. Many tulpat include features to improve sealing, such as tapered profiles, ridges, flanges, or threading for a secure fit.

Common uses include sealing bottles or jars in the beverage and food industries, where cork stoppers are a traditional choice and synthetic corks or other closures are now common. In laboratories, rubber or cork stoppers seal flasks and test tubes to contain reagents or maintain specific atmospheres. In plumbing and maintenance, rubber or plastic plugs are used to seal drains or pipes during cleaning or repairs. Tulppa can also refer to various closures used in packaging or equipment where a temporary or permanent seal is required.

The term emphasizes the function of blocking an opening rather than prescribing a specific design. While cork-based stoppers have historically been associated with wine, modern applications employ a wide range of materials to meet requirements for elasticity, chemical resistance, and compatibility with contents or systems.

See also: stopper, cork, bottle closure.