Metal Cans and Foil

What are they made from?

Two different metals are used to make cans these are  Steel and Aluminium. We also make foil from aluminium. Aluminium and steel are made from rock that is found naturally in the ground this rock is called an ore. Aluminium is found in a rock called Bauxite.To make aluminium and steel we have to mine and process the ore. This can cost a lot of money, use a lot of energy, damage the environment and cause pollution. When we recycle aluminium and steel we can save energy and produce less pollution.

Why should we recycle cans and foil?

• To make the virgin material last longer.

• To save fuel, less energy is needed to melt down scrap metal than to get metal from ores.

• Pollution is reduced

• Other raw materials are saved.

What can be recycled?

Cans of either type can be recycled, along with aluminium foil. However, aluminium cans are worth money and you can often get paid for a bag of aluminium cans. There are several ways to tell the difference between an aluminium can and a steel can.

• Cans have a symbol on them to show what type of metal they are made from.

• Aluminium cans do not rust.

• Aluminium cans are light.

• Steel cans are magnetic.

How is it recycled?

Cans are collected and then separated by a magnet into the two different types. These are then squashed into small cubes. They are then melted down and made into blocks of metal, ready to be made into something else.

What is made from recycled cans and foil?

Lots of products can be made from these recycled metals, often the metal goes back to produce more cans. One of the good qualities of aluminium is that it can be recycled again and again.

But first...Think before you throw.

As with everything that you throw away think about what else you could use it for first. A can could be used to store things in or even made into a musical instrument.

When you recycle metal cans and foil please remember.

Before taking your cans and foil to be recycled please remember to wash out the can and ensure that the foil is clean. Also try to flatten the can so that it takes up less room in the recycling bank.