Modern cans of drinks are made nearly wholly of aluminum alloys, specifically 3004 and 3104, since they possess the ideal combination of light weight, corrosion resistance, and retention of shape. They are roughly 95% to 98% aluminum and have very small percentages of manganese (1.0% to 1.5%) and magnesium (0.8% to 1.3%) for extra strength and ductility at low manufacturing costs.
The use of aluminum alloys in can making for beverage cans is because they are easy to form through deep drawing and ironing (D&I) operations. The 3004 aluminum alloy that is widely used in the body of the can enjoys good elongation characteristics that shield it from cracking while undergoing can-making. 3104 alloy, however, is more durable and strong and is largely used in the ends and tabs of cans since it requires a higher tensile strength due to the pressure of carbonated beverages. A standard aluminum can holds 12 fluid ounces and has around 13.5 grams of weight, with a material-efficient thickness between 0.097 mm and 0.115 mm, which is strong structurally but material-efficient.
Aluminum cans boast a recycling efficiency rate of more than 70% worldwide, which makes them the most sustainable form of packaging. Recycling aluminum uses 95% less energy than making primary aluminum from bauxite ore. In the United States alone, about 105 billion aluminum cans are manufactured each year, worth more than $12 billion in market value. Recyclability of aluminum can to a similar one within 60 days indicates how the economic and environmental advantages of using aluminum in the soft drink industry.
The most significant innovation in can manufacturing is the use of BPA-free coatings to prevent direct contact between acidic beverages and the aluminum surface. In the past, epoxy resin coatings containing bisphenol A (BPA) were used, but health issues and regulatory constraint led manufacturers to develop alternatives such as polyester-based linings. The inner lining of an aluminum drink can is typically 1 to 2 microns thick to prevent metal leaching and product safety.
The global market for aluminum cans keeps expanding with increasing demand for carbonated drinks, energy drinks, and craft beverages. Large aluminum manufacturers such as Novelis, Ball Corporation, and Ardagh Group produce billions of cans annually, and developments in high-strength alloys and lightweighting are aimed at reducing material consumption. Since 1972, the average weight of an aluminum can has reduced by over 30%, allowing manufacturers to produce more cans from the same quantity of raw material.
With over 75% of all aluminum produced that is still in use today, the use of 3004 and 3104 aluminum alloys in cans for beverages is an illustration of cost-efficiency, sustainability, and product protection. Companies continue to pour money into research to develop even thinner, yet stronger, and more recyclable alloys to combat growing consumer and regulatory demands. More information on what type of aluminum is used in beverage cans of drink can be found at what type of aluminum is utilized in cans of drink.