Is Copper a Suitable Metal for Making Cans?
Copper is not typically used for making cans due to several factors, including cost, weight, and manufacturing challenges. Although copper has certain advantages in specific applications, its high cost and impracticalities make it unsuitable for mass-produced cans, especially for beverages and food.
Why Copper Is Not Used for Cans
The primary reason for not using copper for can manufacturing is cost. Copper is significantly more expensive than other metals commonly used for can production, such as aluminum and steel. This high cost would make the cans less affordable for consumers, potentially reducing their market appeal.
Copper is also heavier than aluminum, which would make the cans less convenient for consumers and more costly to transport. In the shipping and logistics industries, every pound counts, and reducing the weight of cans can lead to substantial savings in transportation costs.
While copper is resistant to certain types of corrosion, it can react with acidic foods and beverages, potentially leading to undesirable flavors and health concerns. For instance, foods containing citric acid can leach copper from the metal, causing a metallic taste and posing health risks if consumed in large quantities.
The manufacturing processes required to work with copper can be more complex and less efficient compared to aluminum and steel. Copper demands more rigorous and time-consuming processing techniques, which can increase production costs and decrease overall efficiency.
Preferred Alternatives: Aluminum and Steel
Aluminum and steel are often the preferred metals for can manufacturing due to their lightweight properties, cost-effectiveness, and suitability for a wide range of products, including beverages and food.
Aluminum Cans are particularly popular due to their recyclability and energy efficiency in production. Aluminum is also lightweight, making it easy to transport and reducing shipping costs. It is also highly malleable and can be easily formed into cans, making it a practical choice from both a manufacturing and consumer standpoint.
Steel Cans are known for their durability and robustness. They are often used for cans that need to withstand more pressure, such as carbonated beverages or soups. Steel is also recyclable and can be coated with tin or zinc to improve corrosion resistance.
Advantages of Copper in Specific Applications
Technically, copper could be used for cans, especially for its antimicrobial properties. Copper has been shown to have strong antimicrobial effects, which can be beneficial in certain applications. However, these advantages come at a steep price, both in terms of cost and practicality.
Recycling copper is possible but less efficient compared to aluminum. Copper can be recycled, but the process is more complex and time-consuming, potentially making it less attractive from an economic standpoint. Copper is also not 100% recyclable, which adds to the challenges in waste management and recycling.
Conclusion: Why Copper Isn't Used in Soft Drink Cans
The high cost, impractical weight, and manufacturing challenges associated with copper make it unsuitable for soft drink cans. While aluminum is expensive too, it can be significantly more cost-effective with better recycling and logistical benefits. The empty weight of a steel can is 5 ounces, while a copper can of the same size would weigh about 8 ounces due to its denser nature and lack of strength.
According to spot prices, copper costs 4.30 per pound right now. This would translate to approximately $2 for a 1.89 can of soup, which is simply impractical. Thus, manufacturers would likely switch to other materials like glass, plastic, or aluminum long before such a scenario arises.