Bodymaker Overview
This video explains the role of Bodymakers in the can manufacturing process. Bodymakers are responsible for transforming shallow aluminum cups into tall, straight-walled cans through a series of metal-forming operations.
Feeding Cups into the Bodymaker
Cups are gravity-fed into the Bodymaker from above, entering the machine one by one to begin the transformation process. The design of the feeding system ensures a steady and consistent supply of cups to maintain production efficiency.
The Three Forming Processes Inside the Bodymaker
(1) Drawing:
The first stage reshapes the cup into the basic form of a can. This process, called redrawing, reduces the cup's diameter and gives it the initial can shape.
(2) Ironing:
Next, the can passes through a series of Ironing Dies. These dies thin the walls of the can while elongating it, achieving the required height and uniform wall thickness. Each die progressively reduces the wall thickness, ensuring precise dimensions.
(3) Bottom Forming:
In the final stage, the can strikes the Bottom Former, also known as the Domer. This process forms the concave dome at the bottom of the can, which adds strength and allows the can to withstand internal pressure during filling and storage.
The first stage reshapes the cup into the basic form of a can. This process, called redrawing, reduces the cup's diameter and gives it the initial can shape.
(2) Ironing:
Next, the can passes through a series of Ironing Dies. These dies thin the walls of the can while elongating it, achieving the required height and uniform wall thickness. Each die progressively reduces the wall thickness, ensuring precise dimensions.
(3) Bottom Forming:
In the final stage, the can strikes the Bottom Former, also known as the Domer. This process forms the concave dome at the bottom of the can, which adds strength and allows the can to withstand internal pressure during filling and storage.
From the Bodymaker to the Trimmer
Cans leave the Bodymaker with a jagged top edge, a result of the metal-forming process. The next step is the Trimmer, where this jagged edge is precisely cut to create a smooth, uniform top edge.