How aluminium is recycled
![](http://recycling-guide.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2010/11/12.gif)
The consumer throws aluminium cans and foil into a recycle bin.
![](http://recycling-guide.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2010/11/22.gif)
The aluminium is then collected and taken to a treatment plant.
![](http://recycling-guide.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2010/11/32.gif)
In the treatment plant the aluminium is sorted and cleaned ready for reprocessing.
![](http://recycling-guide.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2010/11/42.gif)
It then goes through a re-melt process and turns into molten aluminium, this removes the coatings and inks that may be present on the aluminium.
![](http://recycling-guide.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2010/11/52.gif)
The aluminium is then made into large blocks called ingots. Each ingot contains about 1.6 million drinks cans.
![](http://recycling-guide.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2010/11/62.gif)
The ingots are sent to mills where they are rolled out, this gives the aluminium greater flexibility and strength.
![](http://recycling-guide.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2010/11/7.gif)
This is then made into aluminium products such as cans, chocolate wrapping and ready meal packaging.
![](http://recycling-guide.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2010/11/8.gif)
In as little as 6 weeks, the recycled aluminium products are then sent back to the shops ready to be used again.