Can sizes simplified
A quick glance at any drink aisle in the supermarket or liquor store will demonstrate the wide variety of can sizes that are utilised in the market. In Australia, there are three standard types of cans; classic, slim or sleek. We simplify the various can sizes and explain the difference between the various can sizes and formats.
What is the difference between a classic, slim and sleek can?
The thing that differentiates these cans is the diameter of the can. Each can size is available in various volume options, but those with the same classification (classic, slim, sleek) all have the same diameter, and hence can lid size regardless of volume
Classic
A classic can size is your traditional can format. It is the most common on the market. Think your traditional coca cola can – this is a classic format. All classic cans have a diameter of 66mm. Classic format cans come in 250ml, 330ml, 355ml and 375ml can formats. A 250ml classic format can is commonly referred to as a squat can. Classic can sizes utilise a 202 can end, which refers to the diameter of the lid that is applied to the can during packaging
Slim
A slim can is a taller, thinner can compared to the classic format style. A number of RTD’s – particularly seltzers – are packaged in slim can formats. All slim cans have a diameter of 53mm. Slim cans come in a variety of volumes including 150ml, 200ml, 250ml, 275ml and 300ml. Slim cans utilise a 200 lid end size.
Sleek
A sleek can sits between a classic and a slim can, but leans more towards a slim can. They are slightly wider than a slim can, but not as a wide as a classic can. The diameter of a sleek can is 58mm. There is fewer volume sizes available in sleek cans, with the largest can supplier in Australia only producing 330ml and 355ml variations. A sleek can is able to utilise either a 200 or 202 lid end size
The can size that is best for each beverage product depends on the type of beverage product you’re packaging as well as the preferences of your target market. When selecting a can size, you must also consider the ideal way to package the cans in slab format for distribution and stocking on floor shelves. Will the product be cluster wrapped in 4,6 or 10 packs. Will slab formats be 16, 24 or 30 cans? All elements of packaging will contribute to the choices made on which can size to choose. It should also be noted that packaging lines need to be varied depending on the can style and volume chosen. Different change parts (guide rails, filler heads etc) are required to be purchased to enable the packaging of various can sizes and formats.
IDL operates two canning lines capable of packaging a wide variety of can sizes, styles and beverage products. Contact us today to learn more.
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