Which Aluminum Type Is Best for Cans?

The question “Which type of aluminum is best for cans?” is answered by looking into the material properties that make this material a preferred choice for beverage and food packaging. The answer lies in the specific types of aluminum for cans used in production, mainly 3004 alloy for the body and 5182 alloy for the lid. These materials are optimized for durability, formability, and recyclability, making them ideal for the demanding requirements of modern packaging.
The 3004 aluminum alloy finds wide application for the can body due to its good formability and moderate strength. Manganese and magnesium are added at 1% each in the composition, enhancing drawability and ironability into thin walls of a can without any crack. It enables the production of lightweight cans by manufacturers, which are as thin as 0.1mm while not compromising on the structural integrity of the can. In 2022, over 75% of the world’s aluminum cans were made from 3004 alloy, which is indicative of its dominance within the sector.

In the case of can lids, 5182 aluminum alloy is ideal. This alloy contains the addition of 4.5% magnesium and 0.3% manganese to provide further strength and corrosion resistance, which becomes necessary for bearing pressure due to carbonation in beverages. The pull-tab mechanism works on the strength of this alloy smoothly, plus it is easy to handle. One study in 2021 highlighted that 5182 alloy lids have the edge over their alternatives concerning seal integrity, even under pressure levels higher than 90 psi common in carbonated drinks.

Adding to this, the sustainability of these alloys is unparalleled. Aluminum is infinitely recyclable, and both 3004 and 5182 alloys retain their properties during recycling. In 2021, aluminum can recycling rates surpassed 70% globally, saving more than 3 billion tons of CO₂ emissions compared to using virgin materials. This high recyclability goes hand in hand with the growing consumer demand for sustainable packaging solutions.

The versatility of the alloys also allowed innovative designs like sleek cans and embossed branding to increase appeal for consumers. The industry leaders have made a strong assertion at the 2023 Global Packaging Summit on how alloy selection should be a core factor in the design of packaging with aesthetic and functional requirements. As Elon Musk once said, “The best materials solve problems for the present and the future,” which certainly holds true for these alloys.

Those who have asked, “Which type of aluminum is best for cans?”, probably already knew that the 3004 and 5182-series alloys are well-suited due to their combination of strength, formability, and sustainability. Such materials make sure that aluminum cans will also be effective and green packaging. Here one can learn more about the uses of visiting types of aluminum for cans.

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