The diagram illustrates the process of recycling aluminum cans. Overall, the process involves seven stages and several facilities, beginning with the collection of used cans and ending with the production of new cans for reuse.
Initially, individuals use cans and dispose of them in recycling bins. A collection truck then gathers the bins of used cans and transports them to a factory. At the factory, the cans are cleaned to remove non-metal materials and sorted into different types. Following this, the cans are shredded into small pieces and compressed.
Subsequently, the compressed cans are heated and melted to soften and reshape the aluminum. The melted aluminum is then rolled and flattened to a thickness of between 2.5 mm and 6 mm. This rolled aluminum is used to manufacture new cans. Finally, the new cans are distributed for retail. Notably, in the UK, 74% of used cans are recycled.
