What is the raw material of tin plate?
This document details the stages involved in manufacturing tinplate, from sourcing the base steel and its variations to the processes of tin coating.
Understanding Tinplate
Tinplate is a versatile material that has evolved significantly over the years, especially during the industrial boom in the last century. The U.S. was primarily responsible for the tinplate industry's growth, peaking in the 1960s. However, the rise of aluminum and other packaging alternatives, along with the decline of the American steel sector, impacted this market. In contrast, Europe modernized its steel production processes and managed to stay competitive. Similarly, regions like South America and Asia have maintained a stable position in the tinplate and coated product markets. Today, understanding the manufacturing of tinplate is crucial.
1. Manufacturing the Base Steel
Tinplate is predominantly a steel product, with over 99% of its weight comprising steel. The manufacturing process ideally begins in the blast furnace and tin smelter. Hence, the primary raw materials for producing tinplate are refined tin and steel.
1.1 Steel Manufacturing Methods
Steel can generally be obtained via two processes: from iron ore through smelting or from scrap metal.
A. From Iron Ore: The industrial smelting process involves extracting iron from iron oxides found in ores. During this process, impurities are removed to yield a product high in iron content.
B. From Scrap: Scrap metal can also be melted in electric furnaces. This method involves refining the iron-carbon alloy to remove unwanted elements, resulting in the production of quality steel.
2. Tinning Process
2.1 Tin Specifications
For tinplate manufacture, the tin used must contain a minimum purity level of 99.80%. This standard is crucial, as the primary application of tinplate involves contact with food products. The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) has ratings for tin based on its purity, with grade A being the minimum required for tinplate.
2.2 Electrolytic Tinning
This process, an important advancement in the tinning industry, allows for precise control of tin application. Initially developing in Germany, it expanded significantly during World War II primarily in the U.S., focusing on efficiency and consistency.
3. Alternatives to Tinplate - TFS
In recent years, TFS (Tin Free Steel) has emerged as an alternative to tinplate, primarily because of the rising prices of tin. This chrome-plated option is a cost-effective solution for manufacturing various products, including container lids and deep-drawn items. TFS is created from steel, coated with a blend of chromium and chromium oxide for protection.
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