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I read that the alloy used in the tops of aluminum cans is different from the alloy used in the body [1], and as a result when they're melted down they create a

by 13of40 10y ago

I read that the alloy used in the tops of aluminum cans is different from the alloy used in the body [1], and as a result when they're melted down they create a third alloy. That seems like it's at odds with the claim that it's infinitely recyclable and "can be recycled and back on the store shelf as a new beverage can in less than 60 days" [2]. Anyone know the answer to that? [1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beverage_can#Fabrication_process https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beverage_can#Fabrication_proce... [2] http://www.alcoa.com/recycling/en/info_page/why_recycle.asp http://www.alcoa.com/recycling/en/info_page/why_recycle.asp

DanBC 10y ago
(I didn't downvote) Your wikipedia article says: > When recycled without other metals being mixed in, the can–lid combination is perfect for producing new stock for the main part of the can—the loss of magnesium during melting is made up for by the high magnesium content of the lid.
- 13of40 10y ago
  If you look at Alcoa's specs, the difference in the alloys isn't just magnesium content. [1] See chromium, for example, which is in the alloy for the top but not the body. Besides, even if you can make the body out of the resulting alloy, you can't make the top. [1] https://www.alcoa.com/mill_products/catalog/pdf/China_Specs/Can_Sheet_Specs.pdf https://www.alcoa.com/mill_products/catalog/pdf/China_Specs/...