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The weight of electrically welded three-piece (3P) can bodies has been reduced dramatically over the past two decades thanks to the introduction of higher strength steels for packaging. Most commercial canmakers utilise steel with a thickness of 0.13 mm. New grades, with a thickness of 0.10 mm, are already in development.
Round 3P cans require: excellent axial resistance for safe transportation; panelling resistance to withstand retorting pressure constraints; and dent resistance. The best performance is achieved through a combination of steel thickness and hardness.
For efficient production, grades exhibiting high-speed welding and flanging performance should be selected.
To lighten cans, harder grades (Yield strength >480 MPa) are recommended. The selection of batch annealing (BA) or continuous annealing (CA) grades depends on the can diameter required and the flanging process.
Metallic coating: Tin coating only (ECCS not weldable).
Corrosion resistance: Tin coating must be selected based on the aggressiveness of the food.
