Korolev Samara National Research University, Samara, Russia:

J. Hirsch, Senior Researcher
E. V. Aryshensky, Associate Professor at the Department of Metals Technology and Aviation Materials Engineering

Arkonik SMZ, Samara, Russia:

A. F. Grechnikova, Lead Process Engineer

A. M. Drits, Director for Business and New Technology Development, e-mail: Alexander.Drits@arconic.com

This paper offers a systemized overview of the results of over 20 years of research by RWTH Aachen University, Samara University and MISiS in the area of thermomechanical processing of the АА 3104 aluminium sheets and strips used in food containers manufacturing. Part 1 of the overview describes the can body strip production process. It also looks at the evolution of coarse intermetallic particles of the second phase. The paper specifies the mechanical properties that aluminium sheets and strips for food containers are required to have. The authors also give a brief overview of the key stages involved in the production of aluminium food containers. The main properties that are required from can body strips include high ductility, which is essential for an efficient cold stamping process. High strength is another important characteristic, which is crucial in the transportation and storage of beverages. One of the ways to enhance both of the above properties includes the introduction of manganese, which slows down recovery and recrystallisation, on the one hand, and supports the tool self-cleaning performance during cold stamping operations. The paper describes the key stages involved in the production of can body strips, and namely – homogenization and hot and cold rolling, and demonstrates how the microstructure is formed at each stage. The authors examine the formation and evolution of coarse second phase particles and how the latter are related to fracture in cans during cold stamping. It is shown that, in order to reduce fracture risks, the ingot casting process should be corrected so that the primary intermetallic particles were no bigger than 100 microns. In this case the combined effect of further homogenization and hot and cold rolling will reduce them to 20 μm or smaller thus ensuring an efficient strip stamping process.

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