Tin vs Aluminum Packaging—Which is Better?

Choosing the right packaging for products could be confusing for new business owners. Multiple options make this selection extremely difficult.

The most common packaging options are Aluminum packaging and Tin packaging. Still, choosing one of them is a tough decision.

In this article, we’ll discuss Tin vs Aluminum packaging. We’ll explain what these packaging types are, point out the differences, and help you choose the right option for your business. Let’s start with the basics.

What is Tin Packaging?

Tin was the first metal in human history to be used for creating metal packaging. It is an ideal option for food items because of its non-corrosive properties. It keeps the item fresh and ensures airtightness to increase its life.

Note: The idea of preserving food in tin cans was patented in 1810.

It is a strong material that can withstand impact. Due to its low melting point and malleability, it is easy to convert it into the desired shape.

Back in the day, packaging was made completely from tin or tin coating over iron. However, modern tin cans you see for packaging are actually made of steel. They have a thin layer of tin coated to protect steel from corrosion.

What is Aluminum Packaging?

Difference Between Tin vs. Aluminum Packaging

Before diving into the differences between Aluminum and Tin packaging, it would be much better to understand the difference between the two metals first.

Tin is the 49th most abundant element in Earth’s crust with the chemical symbol “Sn,” a molar mass of about 118.71 g/mol, and atomic number 50. It is a soft, silvery-white metal with a melting point of 231.9⁰C. Other than hand, Aluminum is the 3rd most abundant element in Earth’s crust. Its chemical symbol is “Al,” and it has a molar mass of about 26.95 g/mol and atomic number 13. It is a soft, silvery-gray metal with a melting point of 660.3⁰C.

Availability

Tin is obtained from a compound of oxygen and tin called cassiterite, which is a mineral. It goes through a refining process to make it suitable for the manufacturing processes.

It is the 49th most abundant element in the Earth’s crust. However, its availability is the main issue, and it can’t fulfill the needs of the packaging industry.

In contrast, Aluminum is available in the form of compounds. It goes through a refining process, which is way more difficult than Tin. However, Aluminum is available in abundance, and it can fulfill the needs of the packaging industry.

Recycling

Recycling Tin is not encouraged because it is an energy-inefficient process. However, modern cans that are made of steel are recyclable with fewer negatives.

Aluminum recycling is pretty easy. It can be melted down and reused, and this process can be repeated infinite times without losing the quality.

Secondly, its recycling is energy-efficient, and it is cheaper than producing Aluminum. Only 5% of the Aluminum production energy is required to recycle it. On top of that, the process is environmentally friendly. Therefore, Aluminum is widely preferred for packaging.

Weight

Tin is heavier than Aluminum and more durable. It can bear pressure impact, which is ideal for some packaging needs. However, higher weight increases the transportation cost.

Aluminum is a lightweight material, which is why it can be transported at a low cost. Although it is light, it is strong, and its alloys can offer excellent strength.

Cost

Aluminum is the cost-effective option for packaging. It is way more than less expensive compared to tin cans/packaging. It is abundant and cheap.

However, in some cases, you need Tin packaging because of its strength, and you have to compromise on the cost.

Aluminum vs. Tin: Which One is Stronger?

Aluminum is lightweight, ductile, and malleable. It can even be turned into foil and offer enough strength for usage.

However, it is not as durable and strong as tin, which is heavy and impact-resistant.

Applications of Aluminum vs. Tin in the Packaging Industry

Both Aluminum packaging and Tin packaging are being used nowadays as they offer different properties and serve distinct purposes.

Uses of Aluminum Packaging

The common use of aluminum packaging is in the beverage industry. Soda cans, beers, and other drinks are usually packaged in aluminum cans and aluminum bottles.

It is a reliable option as these cans and bottles block oxygen, air, and light to protect the taste, carbonation, and other features of the liquid inside. Secondly, it is more economical than other metal packaging options.

Another common use of aluminum packaging is food containers. Restaurants offer takeaway food items in aluminum containers that keep everything fresh and warm.

Deodorants, air fresheners, and other aerosol sprays also have aluminum packaging. These can handle the pressure built inside the bottle.

We use aluminum foil for food packaging, wrapping, and other purposes. Tin can’t be turned into foils like aluminum ones.

It is also commonly using aluminum cups to replace plastic cups and paper cups nowadays. This is because aluminum cups are recyclable and drinking water or beer in aluminum cups feels much better than plastic or paper cups.

Other than these, aluminum packaging is used for cosmetics, snack packaging, water bottles, etc.

Uses of Tin Packaging

Tin packaging has its own perks. It is strong, durable, and versatile.

Food items that have a longer shelf-life are usually in tin cans. They are resistant to corrosion, which ensures the freshness and taste of the food for a long time.

It is also common in oil packaging, such as olive oil containers, vegetable oil containers, etc.

You will witness tin packaging for packing chocolates, candies, and snacks. Moreover, gift containers or boxes are usually made of tin.

Other than these, tin packaging is used for candles, tea, lunchboxes, soap, spices, etc.

Need Aluminum and Tin Packaging at Wholesale?

FLYTINBOTTLE is a reliable and one-stop solution to all your Aluminum and tin packaging needs. We belong to China’s leading metal container manufacturers group, KEGE, and have served for more than 20 years.

We offer complete door-to-door service in more than 100 countries. Irrespective of the quantity, we can offer the best prices and incredible quality to our customers. Our packaging is recyclable, BPA-free, food-safe, and green.

For more details and samples, feel free to contact us.

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