The diagram illustrates the process through which aluminum cans are recycled.
It is clear that there are a total of seven steps in this linear process, which can further be grouped into three main stages: collecting, processing, and reforming cans. Of particular note is that the first stage is carried out manually, while the remaining ones are predominantly mechanized, requiring a diverse range of procedures.
The recycling process begins when people bring used cans to a landfill, where they are required to separate waste by placing cans into a designated bin. Then, a truck arrives to collect the waste from the bins.
Used cans are delivered to a processing facility, where several procedures take place. The steps include cleaning, sorting, shredding, and compressing the cans. Following this, compressed cans are subjected to extreme heat so that they melt. This process yields aluminum liquid, which is then cooled and rolled, with a thickness ranging from 2.5 mm to 6 mm.
In the final stage, aluminum sheets are used to form cans again. Seventy-four percent of cans are recycled in the UK, and they are refilled with beverages under certain brands such as Coca-Cola and Pepsi-Cola.