Process for Recycling Aluminum Cans

Aluminum cans are one of the most easily and efficiently recycled consumer products. In 2009, almost 5.5 billion cans were recycled in the United States, according to The Aluminum Association. There are two main processes for recycling aluminum cans.

Closed Loop Process

The closed loop process has four stages. The cans are shredded before hot air is blown around the shred to burn off the outer decoration and branding. The de-coated metal shreds are then melted in a furnace before being cast into ingots. The new ingots can be used to create more cans, starting the process again.

Open Loop Process

The open loop process is much less specific and uses a variety of alloy types to create aluminum for a wide range of uses. The metal is not sorted into different types, but is simply melted in a furnace before being cast into ingots.

Significance

The efficiency of the aluminum recycling process is such that beverage cans can be back on the shelves of supermarkets within 60 days of being purchased. As of May 2010, The Aluminum Association estimates that aluminum cans contain an average of 68 per cent recycled material.

References

• The Aluminum Association: U.S. Aluminum Can Recycling Rate Reached 57.4 Per Cent in 2009
• Alupro: Closed Loop Aluminum Drinks Can Recycling
• Alupro: Recycling Process
• The Aluminum Association: Life-Cycle Study Reveals That Infinitely Recyclable Aluminum Can More Sustainable Than Ever