Not all cans of aluminum are created equal in weight, as size, purpose, and manufacturing processes create different weights. A 12-ounce standard can of beverage commonly weighs about 13 to 15 grams. Other cans, such as 16-ounce cans for energy drinks, weigh as much as up to 18 grams. Specialty cans for craft beverages or non-carbonated drinks may feature unique designs that contribute to their weight slightly.
Material distribution and structural requirements are what mostly brings about these differences in weights for aluminium cans. Carbonated beverage cans must resist internal pressures of up to 90 psi; this calls for the finest engineering, blending strength with minimum material use. Non-carbonated drink cans, due to experiencing lower pressure inside the can, can be lighter in their design. A 2021 industry report suggested that lightweighting efforts have cut the average weight of a can 30% over the last three decades, which saves millions of tons of aluminum annually.
Customization also extends to can weight. Companies will create specific cans for branding purposes or functionality, like embossed logos or resealable tops. Most of these features range in additional weight from 1 to 2 grams. For example, a large craft beer company released limited-run cans with embossed designs; the added material required increased the weight of their can by 10%.
These weight differences are further accentuated by recycling processes. A standard compressed bale of aluminum cans weighs about 450 kilograms but can contain quite different numbers of individual cans, due to their size and weight. Global recycling facilities processed more than 105 billion aluminum cans in 2022 alone, so being able to manage these variations in weights is key to efficient operations.
Efficiency is the key to progress, thus said Elon Musk, which reflects the push of the industry in balancing lightweight designs with functionality and sustainability. The use of lightweight cans can also reduce shipping costs due to lower carbon emissions. Indeed, a beverage company using ultralight cans found it beneficial as it cut shipping costs by 15% and helped in both environmental and economic performance.
For more information about aluminium can weight and how much it can vary, see aluminium can weight.