What Are the Main Metal Cans Types and Applications

You encounter several metal cans types in your daily work or product packaging decisions. These include OTS, General Line, DWI, F-style, aerosol, tinplate, and aluminum cans. Each type serves a different purpose. Food and beverage industries rely on DWI and aluminum cans. Chemical and industrial products use F-style and General Line cans. Personal care items often need aerosol cans. Choosing the right can type ensures product safety and optimal performance.

Key Takeaways

• Understand the different types of metal cans: OTS, General Line, DWI, F-Style, aerosol, tinplate, and aluminum. Each type serves specific purposes.
• Choose OTS cans for single-use products that require a secure seal. They are ideal for canned seafood and baby food.
• General Line cans offer versatility and durability. They are suitable for food, chemicals, and industrial products.
• DWI cans are perfect for beverages. Their seamless design prevents leaks and maintains carbonation in drinks.
• F-Style cans are designed for chemicals and solvents. Their rectangular shape and handle make them easy to pour and transport.
• Aerosol cans provide controlled dispensing for personal care and household products. They are available in various sizes and materials.
• Tinplate cans are cost-effective and protect food from corrosion. They are commonly used for canned vegetables and paints.
• Aluminum cans are lightweight and recyclable. They maintain product freshness and are widely used for beverages and aerosols.

Metal Cans Types Overview

OTS (One Trip System) Cans

You often see OTS cans used for products that require a single-use, tamper-evident container. These cans usually feature a two-piece or three-piece structure. Manufacturers shape them from tinplate or steel, creating a cylinder with a separate lid and bottom. OTS cans offer strong protection for food and industrial goods. You can rely on their sturdy build to keep contents safe during transport and storage.

Tip: OTS cans work well for products that need a secure seal and will not be reused after opening.

Common OTS Can Features:

• Two-piece or three-piece construction
• Made from tinplate or steel
• Designed for one-time use

Typical Applications:

• Canned seafood
• Baby food
• Industrial grease barrels

General Line Cans

General Line cans represent one of the most versatile metal cans types. You find these cans in many industries, from food to chemicals. Manufacturers often use a three-piece structure, which includes a separate body, lid, and bottom. This design allows you to open the can at both ends if needed. General Line cans stand out for their resistance to plastic paints and their suitability for industrial use.

You can choose General Line cans for products that need durability and flexibility in packaging. Their robust build makes them ideal for storing ketchup, biscuits, and even industrial products.

Common Uses:

• Ketchup and tomato products
• Gift biscuit cans
• Industrial grease and chemicals

DWI (Drawn and Wall Ironed) Cans

DWI cans set themselves apart from other metal cans types through their advanced manufacturing process. You see these cans most often in the beverage industry. Manufacturers use wall ironing to create a seamless, tall can with uniform thickness. This process gives DWI cans several advantages.

• Seamless design reduces leakage risk to nearly zero.
• The can holds pressure up to 6atm, making it perfect for carbonated drinks.
• The structure extends bubble retention by up to 40%, improving beverage quality.

You benefit from DWI cans when you need reliable, high-performance packaging for drinks like beer and soda. Their lightweight yet strong build ensures your product stays fresh and safe.

Key Applications:

• Carbonated beverages
• Beer
• Other pressurized drinks

F-Style Cans

You encounter F-Style cans when you need packaging for chemicals, solvents, and oils. These cans feature a rectangular shape with a handle, which makes them easy to carry and pour. Manufacturers design F-Style cans with a sturdy metal body, usually tinplate or steel, to withstand harsh contents. You benefit from their leak-resistant seams and secure screw caps, which help prevent spills during transport.

Note: F-Style cans offer excellent protection for products that require safe handling and controlled dispensing.

Common uses for F-Style cans include:

• Paint thinners
• Motor oils
• Cleaning agents
• Adhesives

You choose F-Style cans for industrial and commercial products that demand durability and convenience. Their structure supports stacking and efficient storage, which improves logistics in warehouses and retail environments.

Aerosol Cans

Aerosol cans stand out among metal cans types for their versatility and specialized design. You see these cans in personal care, household, and automotive products. Manufacturers produce aerosol cans in various shapes and volumes to suit different applications. You find them made from tinplate or aluminum, depending on the product’s requirements.

• Aerosol cans come in multiple sizes and shapes.
• You select tinplate or aluminum based on compatibility with the product.
• Some cans include supports or handles for easier use.

You rely on aerosol cans for products that need controlled dispensing, such as sprays, foams, and mists. Safety standards play a crucial role in aerosol packaging, especially for personal care and household items. You benefit from features that ensure product integrity and safe handling.

You select aerosol cans when you need packaging that meets strict safety and performance standards. Their design supports a wide range of formulations, making them a preferred choice in many industries.

Tinplate Cans

Tinplate cans remain one of the most popular metal cans types for food and paint storage. You recognize tinplate for its affordability and lightweight structure. Manufacturers use tinplate to protect food from corrosion, which helps preserve freshness and flavor. You find tinplate cans suitable for products that do not require high mechanical strength.

• Tinplate offers reliable corrosion protection for food.
• Tin-coated tinplate provides enhanced resistance, ideal for acidic foods.
• Galvanized sheet metal delivers superior durability but adds weight.
• Aluminum cans protect against light, oxygen, and moisture, though tin-free steel offers better corrosion resistance.

You choose tinplate cans for canned vegetables, fruits, and paints. Their recyclable nature supports sustainability goals in packaging. You benefit from their cost-effectiveness and ease of handling, especially when packaging large volumes.

Tip: Select tinplate cans for products that need corrosion protection and lightweight packaging.

Aluminum Cans

You rely on aluminum cans when you need packaging that combines strength, lightness, and sustainability. Among metal cans types, aluminum stands out for its ability to protect products and maintain freshness. Manufacturers use aluminum cans for beverages, aerosols, and other products that demand high-quality preservation.

Aluminum cans offer several advantages for your packaging needs:

1. You get an extra layer of security during transport, which reduces the risk of damage.
2. The material helps maintain product quality and freshness, especially for drinks and sprays.
3. You benefit from lightweight packaging, which lowers transportation costs and makes handling easier.

You find aluminum cans especially useful for carbonated beverages and aerosol products. The material acts as a barrier against light, oxygen, and moisture, which keeps your products fresh and safe. You also support sustainability when you choose aluminum cans. The global recycling rate for aluminum beverage cans reached 73% in 2020, and 74.5% of all aluminum produced remains in use. Cans are the most recycled beverage containers worldwide, with a closed-loop recycling rate of 33%.

Tip: If you want packaging that protects your product and supports environmental goals, aluminum cans provide an ideal solution.

You can trust aluminum cans to deliver durability, freshness, and eco-friendly performance. Their popularity in the beverage and aerosol industries shows how effective they are among metal cans types.

OTS and General Line Cans

OTS Structure and Features

You encounter OTS (One Trip System) cans when you need packaging that prioritizes security and single-use convenience. Manufacturers design these cans with either a two-piece or three-piece construction. The body, lid, and bottom fit together tightly, creating a tamper-evident seal. You often see OTS cans made from tinplate or steel, which gives them excellent strength and resistance to corrosion.

You benefit from the robust build of OTS cans. The structure prevents leaks and protects contents from contamination. The can’s design supports automated filling and sealing processes, which improves efficiency in production lines. You also notice that OTS cans feature easy-open ends or pull tabs, which help consumers access the product quickly.

Tip: Choose OTS cans for products that require a secure seal and will not be reused after opening. This design helps maintain product integrity during shipping and storage.

Common Applications

You find OTS cans in industries that demand reliable, single-use packaging. The following list highlights typical uses:

• Canned seafood, such as tuna or sardines
• Baby food and infant formula
• Industrial grease and lubricants
• Paints and coatings
• Specialty chemicals

You select OTS cans when you need to guarantee freshness and prevent tampering. The secure closure and sturdy material make these cans ideal for sensitive or high-value products.

General Line Structure and Features

General Line cans offer you flexibility and durability for a wide range of products. Manufacturers use a three-piece design, which includes a separate body, top, and bottom. This structure allows you to open the can at both ends if necessary. You often see General Line cans made from tinplate or steel, which provides resistance to impact and corrosion.

You appreciate the versatility of General Line cans. The design supports various shapes and sizes, including round, square, and rectangular options. You can choose cans with plain or coated interiors, depending on the product’s requirements. The seams and joints withstand pressure and rough handling, which makes these cans suitable for industrial environments.

Note: General Line cans work well for products that need long-term storage and protection from external factors.

Typical Uses

You rely on General Line cans for packaging in food, chemical, and industrial sectors. Common applications include:

• Ketchup, tomato paste, and sauces
• Gift biscuit and confectionery cans
• Industrial grease and adhesives
• Paints, varnishes, and coatings
• Cleaning agents and solvents

You choose General Line cans when you need packaging that combines strength, adaptability, and cost-effectiveness. Their structure supports efficient stacking and transport, which helps you optimize logistics and storage.

DWI and F-Style Cans

DWI Can Design

You encounter DWI (Drawn and Wall Ironed) cans when you need high-performance packaging for beverages and select food products. Manufacturers create these cans using a process that draws and irons a single piece of metal, usually aluminum or tinplate. This method forms a seamless, cylindrical body with uniform wall thickness. You benefit from this design because it eliminates side seams, which reduces the risk of leaks and contamination.

DWI cans stand out for their lightweight structure and impressive strength. You can stack them efficiently, which saves space in storage and transport. The smooth interior surface helps preserve the taste and quality of your product. You also notice that DWI cans support high-speed filling lines, which increases productivity in large-scale operations.

Tip: Choose DWI cans if you need packaging that maintains product integrity under pressure and during long distribution cycles.

Key Features of DWI Cans:

• Seamless, single-piece construction
• Uniform wall thickness for consistent strength
• Lightweight yet durable
• Excellent barrier against oxygen and light

Beverage and Food Uses

You find DWI cans most often in the beverage industry. Their ability to withstand internal pressure makes them ideal for carbonated drinks. You also see them used for energy drinks, juices, and ready-to-drink coffees. Some food products, such as soups and broths, use DWI cans for their leak-proof and tamper-resistant qualities.

Common DWI Can Applications:

• Soft drinks and sodas 🥤
• Beer and alcoholic beverages 🍺
• Energy drinks
• Ready-to-drink teas and coffees
• Canned soups and broths

F-Style Can Features

You turn to F-Style cans when you need packaging for industrial and chemical products. These cans feature a rectangular or square shape with a built-in handle. The design allows you to pour contents easily and carry the can with one hand. Manufacturers use tinplate or steel to give F-Style cans the strength needed for harsh chemicals and solvents.

F-Style cans include a screw cap or spout, which helps you control dispensing and minimize spills. The flat sides make labeling simple and stacking efficient. You can choose from different sizes, ranging from small quart cans to large gallon containers. The robust seams and leak-resistant joints ensure safe storage and transport.

Note: F-Style cans offer you a practical solution for products that require secure, controlled dispensing and strong chemical resistance.

Key Features of F-Style Cans:

• Rectangular or square body with handle
• Made from tinplate or steel for durability
• Screw cap or spout for easy pouring
• Leak-resistant seams

Industrial and Chemical Uses

You rely on F-Style cans for packaging products that demand safety and convenience. These cans handle a wide range of chemicals, oils, and solvents. You also see them used for adhesives, cleaning agents, and automotive fluids. The sturdy design protects both the product and the user during handling.

Typical F-Style Can Applications:

• Paint thinners and solvents
• Motor oils and lubricants
• Cleaning chemicals
• Adhesives and resins
• Automotive fluids

You choose F-Style cans when you need reliable, user-friendly packaging for demanding industrial and chemical environments.

Aerosol, Tinplate, and Aluminum Cans

Aerosol Can Types

You see aerosol cans in many industries. Manufacturers design these cans to hold products under pressure. You find them made from tinplate, aluminum, or steel. The can usually has a cylindrical body, a valve, and a spray nozzle. This structure allows you to dispense the product as a fine mist, foam, or spray.

Aerosol cans come in different sizes and shapes. You can select the material based on your product’s needs. Tinplate aerosol cans offer strength and corrosion resistance. Aluminum aerosol cans provide a lightweight option and resist rust. Some cans use a monoblock design for extra safety.

Tip: Choose the can material that matches your product’s chemical properties and pressure requirements.

Personal Care and Household Uses

You rely on aerosol cans for products that need controlled, even application. In personal care, you see them used for deodorants, hair sprays, shaving creams, and body mists. In the household sector, you use aerosol cans for air fresheners, cleaning sprays, insecticides, and paint sprays.

• Personal Care: Deodorants, hair sprays, shaving foams
• Household: Air fresheners, disinfectants, insecticides, spray paints

Aerosol cans help you deliver products safely and efficiently. The sealed design keeps the contents fresh and prevents contamination.

Tinplate Can Properties

Tinplate cans use a thin layer of tin on a steel plate. This structure gives you strong resistance to acid and alkali corrosion. You find these cans in both two-piece and three-piece designs. The three-piece can has a body, bottom, and lid joined by welding. The two-piece can forms from a single sheet, which reduces leakage risk.

You choose tinplate cans for products that need protection from oxidation. The tin layer acts as a barrier, especially for foods with high acid or fat content. You see these cans used for tomato products, canned vegetables, and high-fat foods. Paints and industrial goods also use tinplate cans because of their durability.

Note: Tinplate cans give you a cost-effective solution for food and paint storage.

Food and Paint Storage

You use tinplate cans for ketchup, tomato paste, and gift biscuit packaging. Industrial grease barrels and paint containers also rely on tinplate for long-term storage. The welded seams and corrosion resistance keep your products safe.

Aluminum Can Benefits

Aluminum cans stand out for their light weight and strength. You benefit from easy handling and lower shipping costs. Aluminum resists rust and protects your product from light, oxygen, and moisture. You find these cans in both two-piece and monoblock designs. The seamless body reduces leaks and keeps your product fresh.

Aluminum cans support sustainability. You can recycle them indefinitely without losing quality. The recycling rate for aluminum cans reaches 52%, which helps you meet environmental goals.

♻️ Sustainability Alert: Aluminum cans are the most recycled beverage containers worldwide.

Beverage and Aerosol Applications

You use aluminum cans for carbonated drinks, energy drinks, and ready-to-drink coffees. The lightweight structure makes them ideal for beverages. You also see aluminum in aerosol cans for personal care and household sprays. The material’s barrier properties keep your product safe and fresh.

You choose aluminum cans when you want strong, lightweight, and eco-friendly packaging. Their popularity in the beverage and aerosol markets shows their reliability and performance.

Comparing Metal Cans Types

Key Differences

You need to understand the main differences among metal cans types before making a packaging decision. Each type offers unique advantages in structure, durability, cost, and recyclability. The table below summarizes these key features to help you compare options quickly:

Tip: Metal cans offer strong durability and a lower risk of breakage compared to glass. You also benefit from their ability to be recycled many times without losing quality.

When you compare metal cans to other materials, you see clear advantages. Metal cans have a lower carbon footprint and conserve resources better than plastic or glass. You get strong, safe packaging that protects your product and the environment.

Best-Use Scenarios

You should match the can type to your product’s needs for the best results. Consider these practical tips when choosing among metal cans types:

• Corrosion Resistance: Select cans with tinplate or special coatings for acidic foods or chemicals. This prevents rust and keeps your product safe.
• Mechanical Properties: Choose seamless DWI or aluminum cans for pressurized drinks. These cans handle internal pressure without leaking.
• Manufacturing Needs: Pick cans that fit your production line. DWI cans support high-speed filling, while General Line cans offer flexible shapes.
• Regulations and Hygiene: Use cans that meet industry standards, especially for food and pharmaceuticals. Easy-to-clean materials help maintain product safety.
• Cost and Lifecycle: Look beyond the initial price. Durable cans like General Line or F-Style reduce replacement costs over time.
• Aesthetics: For gift packaging or retail display, select cans with attractive finishes or custom shapes.
• Sustainability: Choose aluminum cans if you want the highest recycling rates and environmental benefits.

🛠️ Pro Tip: Always balance durability, cost, and recyclability with your product’s requirements. This approach ensures you get the best value and performance.

You can use the following checklist to guide your selection:

• What is the product’s chemical nature?
• Does the product need to withstand pressure?
• Are there industry regulations to follow?
• Is recyclability a priority for your brand?
• Will the can face rough handling or long transport?

By answering these questions, you make an informed choice that protects your product and supports your business goals.

Industry Recommendations

Food Packaging

You need packaging that keeps food safe and fresh. Metal cans offer strong protection against spoilage and contamination. Aluminum cans stand out in food packaging because they are lightweight and resist corrosion. You benefit from their excellent barrier properties, which block light, oxygen, and moisture. This helps you preserve the taste, color, and texture of your food products.

• Aluminum cans are lightweight and easy to handle.
• They resist corrosion, which keeps food safe.
• The barrier properties protect food from light, oxygen, and moisture.
• You can recycle aluminum cans completely, supporting sustainability.

Metal containers help you maintain the organoleptic properties of food. You keep flavors, aromas, and colors intact. The sealed structure prevents spoilage from external factors such as bacteria and air.

Tip: Choose cans from suppliers with BRCGS certification for Food Packaging Materials. This certification ensures high safety and quality standards throughout the production process.

You can trust metal cans to deliver reliable food preservation. They meet strict safety standards and help you maintain product quality from factory to shelf.

Beverage Industry

You face unique challenges when packaging beverages. Drinks need protection from light, air, and moisture. Aluminum cans provide an ideal solution for carbonated drinks, juices, and energy beverages. Their seamless design prevents leaks and keeps drinks fresh. You benefit from the lightweight structure, which lowers shipping costs and makes handling easier.

Aluminum cans also support high-speed filling lines. You can process large volumes quickly and efficiently. The recyclable nature of aluminum helps you meet sustainability goals. You reduce waste and support environmental initiatives.

🍹 Note: For carbonated beverages, select cans with strong barrier properties and pressure resistance. This ensures your drinks stay fizzy and flavorful.

You can customize beverage cans with attractive finishes and branding. This helps your products stand out on store shelves. Metal cans give you flexibility and reliability in beverage packaging.

Chemical and Industrial

You need packaging that withstands harsh environments and meets regulatory requirements. Metal cans for chemical and industrial products must resist corrosion and thermal variations. You can choose from stainless steel, bimetal, or duplex options for different applications. These materials maintain integrity under extreme conditions and protect your products from chemical reactions.

You can select cans made from specialized materials such as tungsten carbide, silicon carbide, graphite, ceramic, PTFE, Viton, Kalrez, and EPDM. These options give you high resistance to chemicals and temperature changes.

• Tungsten Carbide
• Silicon Carbide
• Graphite
• Ceramic
• Stainless Steel
• PTFE
• Viton
• Kalrez
• EPDM

⚠️ Tip: Always verify that your packaging meets international safety certifications. This protects your products and ensures compliance with industry regulations.

You secure your chemical and industrial products with metal cans designed for durability and safety. This helps you maintain performance and reliability in demanding environments.

Personal Care and Specialty

You face unique challenges when packaging personal care and specialty products. These items often require precise dispensing, strong protection, and compliance with safety standards. Metal cans types such as aerosol, aluminum, and tinplate cans give you reliable solutions for these needs.

Aerosol cans play a major role in personal care packaging. You use them for products like deodorants, hair sprays, shaving foams, and body mists. The pressurized design allows you to deliver a fine mist or foam with each use. You benefit from the controlled application, which improves user experience and reduces waste. Aluminum aerosol cans offer lightweight handling and resist corrosion, making them ideal for moisture-sensitive formulas.

Tip: Select aerosol cans with monoblock construction for maximum safety and product integrity. This design prevents leaks and supports high-pressure contents.

You also rely on tinplate cans for specialty creams, ointments, and balms. Tinplate provides a strong barrier against light and air, which helps preserve product quality. You can choose cans with easy-open lids or screw tops for convenience. These features make tinplate cans suitable for travel-size items and premium packaging.

Aluminum cans support specialty products that need extra protection. You use them for high-end cosmetics, serums, and essential oils. Aluminum blocks light, oxygen, and moisture, which keeps sensitive ingredients stable. You can customize the finish and shape to match your brand’s image.

Consider the following table to compare metal cans types for personal care and specialty products:

You must meet strict safety and hygiene standards in personal care packaging. Metal cans help you comply with regulations for product integrity and consumer safety. You can add protective coatings or liners to prevent chemical reactions between the product and the can.

• Choose cans with child-resistant closures for specialty pharmaceuticals.
• Use tamper-evident seals to build consumer trust.
• Select recyclable materials to support sustainability goals.

You improve your brand’s reputation by choosing metal cans types that combine safety, convenience, and visual appeal. Metal packaging gives you flexibility to create unique designs and finishes. You can stand out in a competitive market while protecting your product and your customers.

🧴 Note: Always test your product with the selected can type to ensure compatibility and performance. This step helps you avoid costly recalls and maintain high quality standards.

You gain a competitive edge by selecting the right metal can for your personal care and specialty products. The right choice supports product safety, enhances user experience, and strengthens your brand’s position in the market.

You have many options when choosing metal cans types for your products. Each type—OTS, General Line, DWI, F-Style, aerosol, tinplate, and aluminum—serves a specific purpose. You should match the can’s material and structure to your product’s needs for best results.

Tip: Always review your product’s requirements before selecting a can. This approach helps you protect quality, meet industry standards, and improve customer satisfaction.

FAQ

What is the difference between two-piece and three-piece metal cans?

You see two-piece cans made from a single sheet, which reduces leaks. Three-piece cans have a separate body, lid, and bottom. You choose two-piece for beverages and three-piece for food or industrial products.

Can you recycle all types of metal cans?

You can recycle most metal cans, including aluminum, tinplate, and steel. Aluminum cans offer the highest recycling rate. You help reduce waste and support sustainability when you recycle these containers.

Which metal can type works best for pressurized products?

You select DWI or aerosol cans for pressurized products. DWI cans handle carbonated drinks. Aerosol cans suit sprays and foams. Both types resist leaks and maintain product integrity under pressure.

How do you choose the right metal can for food packaging?

You consider corrosion resistance, barrier properties, and safety certifications. Aluminum and tinplate cans protect food from light, oxygen, and moisture. You check for BRCGS certification to ensure food safety.

Are metal cans safe for storing chemicals?

You use F-Style and General Line cans for chemicals. These cans resist corrosion and leaks. You verify that the can material matches your chemical’s properties for safe storage and transport.

What advantages do aluminum cans offer?

You benefit from aluminum cans’ light weight, strength, and recyclability. They protect products from light and moisture. You lower shipping costs and support environmental goals with aluminum packaging.

Can you customize metal cans for branding?

You can customize metal cans with colors, finishes, and shapes. You add logos or labels for brand recognition. Custom designs help your product stand out on store shelves.

Do metal cans affect product taste or quality?

You maintain product taste and quality with metal cans. Aluminum and tinplate cans provide strong barriers against contamination. You preserve freshness and flavor by choosing cans with proper coatings.