This would usually weigh around 14 to 15 grams, depending on the size and design of the can. Standard 12-ounce beverage cans, widely used in the cola and beer industries, fall within this range. Advances in lightweighting have managed to cut down the usage of aluminum in the making of the cans, with some weighing as low as 13 grams to reduce the cost of the material used and also help the environment.
The primary constituent in the making of aluminum cans is aluminum alloy 3104-H19, which is a very tough yet lightweight material to ensure the structural integrity and strength that is needed, yet thin enough for economic viability. The average wall thickness for an aluminum can is about 0.097 mm, thinner than human hair, but strong enough to resist internal pressures up to 90 psi in carbonated beverages.
Another important influencer in the weight trends of aluminum cans is recycling. Modern methods of production are more environmentally friendly; 75% of the metal used by each company producing these cans is recycled aluminum. The entire process, in turn, saves up to 95% of the energy that would have been spent to produce new aluminum. This ultimately saves money and reduces carbon emissions. A nearly 30% material weight reduction per can is claimed by the U.S. aluminum industry over the past three decades due to such efforts.
Cans are also designed to balance weight and functionality. For example, an energy drink can, taller and more slender, would be a bit heavier because of the shape and use of more material for rigidity. On the other hand, beer cans have designs aimed at easy stacking and carrying; the weight remains the same to minimize manufacturing and transportation costs.
One great benefit of the aluminum can is its recyclability. According to the Aluminum Association, the average aluminum can is recycled and returned to store shelves as a new product in just 60 days. That is quite a reason why over 105 billion such cans are recycled each year around the world, saving further extraction and waste that goes to landfills.
As Henry Ford once said, "Efficiency is doing better what is already being done." This is where ongoing innovations in aluminum can weight are likely to be exemplified-to achieve lightweight, sustainable design without compromising performance.
For more detailed information about aluminum can specifications and sustainability practices, log onto aluminium can weight.