Tata Steel Nederland has introduced a new can-making machine at its research and development facility.
The new machine, called a bodymaker, is faster than previous models. It produces food cans similar to those found on store shelves. The machine uses a dry forming process.
This dry process is possible because Tata Steel uses Protact steel and advanced cooling technology in the machine’s tools. This eliminates the need for emulsified water. As a result, energy consumption is lower, and customers face reduced investment costs.
Protact steel is coated with a special polymer that reduces friction during can forming, Tata Steel explained.
Hans van der Weijde, director of R&D at Tata Steel Nederland, said, “The polymer layer helps the can meet future food safety standards. There is no need to apply lacquer to the steel anymore. Although lacquer is still allowed today, we see a clear move to phase out these chemical coatings. Lacquered cans often contain tin. Protact allows for a shorter and cleaner production line.”
The new production line can make up to 400 cans per minute. This is 25% faster than the industry standard of 320 cans per minute, the company stated.
Tata Steel uses this machine as a proof of concept. Customers can visit and watch the dry forming process using Protact steel at full industrial speed. Joris Essing, marketing manager for packaging steel at Tata Steel Nederland, said, “Working closely with customers is very important. We have the dry process expertise, but customers need to make it work on their own production lines. We collaborate closely to achieve this.”
This partnership approach has already shown results. Tata Steel worked with Grupo Calvo to create an innovative Protact-coated tuna can. The polymer layer on the steel reduces the need for oil to keep tuna fresh. It also makes the tuna easier to remove from the can. The packaging is lighter due to better material use. This helps reduce transport costs.
In the Netherlands, steel packaging such as cans for beans, corn, or fish is highly recycled. Over 95% of all steel packaging in the country is recycled into new steel. This makes steel the most recycled packaging material in the Netherlands.
