Metals

Metals can be divided into two groups:

Ferrous-mainly ferrite or iron (steels) -almost all of which are magnetic-also things like carbon steels.

Non-Ferrous-No iron content (aluminium and tin). These are non magnetic

Steel- when steel is rolled into thin sheets, it is a lightweight material that can be easily formed into a range of shapes. Steel is used to make a range of food cans and most aerosol cans.

Aluminium- is strong but lightweight, easily formed into a variety of shapes. Non ferrous so it does not rust, which makes it perfect for a range of containers.

Tin- Tin is usually used in commercial packaging in the form of tinplate which consists of cold rolled steel sheet coated with thin layers of tin to prevent corrosion. This is why cans are often called 'tin cans'.