Types of Metal Cans

There are many types of metal cans. These include steel, aluminum, tin, and a combination of the two. Here we will look at the differences between each type of can. To start, let's look at the difference between a "soup tin" and a "tuna tin."

Steel cans

Recycling your Steel cans can be done by curbside pickup, drop-off sites, and multi-material buyback recycling centers. Steel cans are separated from other recyclable materials using magnetic separators and crushed into large cubes called bales. These bales are shipped to steel mills, where they are recycled with other steel scrap. Steel cans are the most recycled food and beverage container in the world. By following these guidelines, you can help reduce the amount of waste your household generates while recycling your Steel cans.

Aluminium cans

While the bottom of most aluminium cans are flat and smooth, the top is slightly wavy. These ripples in the metal are called "ears". They are an unavoidable effect of the crystalline structure of the aluminum sheet. However, the aluminum companies have studied this effect and now can control the height and placement of the ears. They do this by trimming about a quarter inch from the top of the can. This leaves the top of the cans wavy and smooth, but not too much so.

Steel-tin cans

The vast majority of food cans are now made of steel, with a thin layer of tin coated inside. Steel is recycled at an average of 25%, while aluminum does not. Today, Americans use approximately 100 million steel cans daily and 36.5 billion annually. Of this total, approximately 71% are recycled. Most steel cans contain at least 25% recycled steel, though some are made almost entirely of recycled steel. As with aluminum, steel is recyclable.

Tin-aluminum cans

While you might think that tin-aluminum cans are a new fad, there are a number of advantages to this alternative metal. These metals are considered common, not precious, and the mines that produce them are limited. Scientists warn that tin could run out in the future. Despite this disadvantage, they are still the preferred metal for many uses. In addition to being recyclable, tin-aluminum cans are an environmental friendly alternative to traditional plastic bottles.

Aluminum-steel cans

Steel and aluminum-steel cans have different constructions. A three-piece can has a rim, which is slightly larger than the outside diameter. Two-piece cans have a flat top and a deep-drawn cup-shaped piece. The wall and base are joined together at a gradual angle, with the top of the can having one rim and a separate cover. The rim is a protective layer that prevents food from entering the container.

Steel-aluminum cans

There are several important differences between steel-aluminum cans and their aluminum counterparts. First, the materials used for the cans differ in their chemical composition. While steel cans are made of three pieces of steel, aluminium is made of just one. This makes them much stronger than their steel counterparts. In addition, aluminium is less expensive than tin-plated steel. Besides, aluminium is more malleable than steel, making it easier to manufacture.