The first complete aluminium beverage can was introduced in 1964. These first aluminium cans were produced by impact extrusion, but very soon these process was abandoned and replaced by the ‘drawn and ironed’ can.
Aluminium beverage cans are made basically of two alloys AA3004 (1.05 Wt% Mg, 1.25 Wt% Mn) and AA5182 which forms the harder can end-pieces or lids.
Aluminum’s light weight, allied to it stability and strength, are among the reason for its successful penetration of the drinks packaging sector.
Its light weight means that it can be easily transported and stored, while consumers have found in aluminium a convenient, yet quality package with high scrap value.
Aluminium beverage can internal surface are protected by a coating of lacquer to avoid contamination of the food from possible dissolution of the aluminum and also to protect the aluminium from pitting or corrosion by the contents.
Aluminium beverage can
