Tinplate Raw Materials
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Tinplate Raw Materials for Metal Packaging
We supply high-quality tinplate raw materials used in the production of metal cans and packaging containers. Our product range includes electrolytic tinplate (ETP) and tin free steel (TFS / ECCS), widely used in food cans, aerosol cans, edible oil containers, and other metal packaging applications.
We offer two main types of packaging steel materials used in metal can manufacturing: Electrolytic Tinplate (ETP) and Tin Free Steel (TFS / ECCS). Each material is designed to meet different performance requirements and production processes.

Tinplate (ETP)
Electrolytic tinplate (ETP) is steel coated with a thin layer of tin, offering excellent corrosion resistance and food safety compatibility. It is widely used for food cans, beverage cans, aerosol cans, and various packaging containers.

Tin Free Steel (TFS / ECCS)
Tin free steel (TFS), also known as electrolytic chromium coated steel, provides strong coating adhesion and good formability. It is commonly used for can ends, lids, caps, and industrial packaging applications.
Product Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Tinplate Sheet |
| Thickness | 0.14–0.60 mm (customizable) |
| Width | 700–985 mm (customizable) |
| Temper | T1, T2, T2.5, T3, T4, T5 |
| Tin Coating Weight | 2.8/2.8, 1.1/1.1, 1.1/2.8, 2.8/5.6, 5.6/5.6 |
| Manufacturing Process | Cold Rolled |
| Processing Service | Bending, Welding, Decoiling, Cutting, Punching |
| Packaging | Standard export sea-worthy packing |
| Production Capacity | 3000 tons/month |
The diameter, height, and coating of all products can be fully customized. Inquiries are welcome.
Applications of Tinplate Raw Materials
Tinplate raw materials, including Electrolytic Tinplate (ETP) and Tin Free Steel (TFS), are widely used across various metal packaging applications. They are commonly applied in food cans, beverage cans, aerosol containers, and edible oil packaging, as well as in can ends, lids, and industrial containers. ETP is typically used for can bodies due to its excellent corrosion resistance and food safety performance, while TFS is preferred for lids and ends because of its strong coating adhesion and formability.
Tinplate (ETP) vs Tin Free Steel (TFS / ECCS)
| Item | Tinplate (ETP) | Tin Free Steel (TFS / ECCS) |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | Electrolytic Tinplate | Tin Free Steel / Electrolytic Chromium Coated Steel |
| Surface Coating | Tin coating applied by electrolytic plating | Chromium and chromium oxide coating |
| Appearance | Bright, metallic silver finish | Matte or slightly gray finish |
| Corrosion Resistance | Excellent corrosion resistance due to tin layer | Moderate corrosion resistance |
| Food Safety | Highly suitable for direct food contact | Usually requires coating or lacquer for food contact |
| Solderability | Excellent solderability | Poor solderability |
| Weldability | Good weldability | Limited weldability |
| Formability | Excellent forming and deep drawing performance | Good formability but slightly less ductile |
| Printing Performance | Very good printing after coating | Excellent lacquer adhesion and printing performance |
| Typical Applications | Food cans, beverage cans, edible oil cans, milk powder tins, aerosol cans | Bottle caps, crown caps, paint cans, chemical containers |
| Cost | Higher cost due to tin coating | Lower cost compared to tinplate |
| Environmental Considerations | Tin layer is recyclable and safe | Chromium coating may require additional treatment |
| Common Thickness Range | 0.14 – 0.49 mm | 0.14 – 0.40 mm |
Why Tinplate Materials Are Used in Can Manufacturing
Tinplate materials such as Electrolytic Tinplate (ETP) and Tin Free Steel (TFS) are widely used in can manufacturing because they offer a well-balanced combination of strength, corrosion resistance, and processability. The steel base provides excellent mechanical strength, allowing cans to maintain their shape and withstand external pressure during transportation and storage. At the same time, the tin or chromium coating protects the metal surface from corrosion and prevents interaction between the packaging material and the contents, which is especially critical for food and beverage applications.
In addition to protection, tinplate materials provide a smooth and uniform surface that supports high-quality printing and coating. This is essential for modern packaging, where appearance and brand presentation play an important role in market competitiveness. Furthermore, tinplate offers excellent formability, making it easy to shape into various can structures, while maintaining stability during processes such as forming, welding, and seaming.
Another key advantage is its compatibility with high-speed automated production lines. Tinplate materials are designed to meet the efficiency requirements of large-scale manufacturing, ensuring consistent quality and reducing production costs. Because of these combined benefits, tinplate remains the preferred material for producing food cans, beverage cans, aerosol containers, and a wide range of industrial packaging products.
Order Process

Inquiry
Send your drilling requirements to get a quick quote.
01

Quotation
Receive detailed specs, pricing, and delivery time.
02

Contract & Payment
Confirm order and arrange payment
03

Production
Rig manufacturing under strict quality control.
04

Delivery
Secure packing and fast worldwide shipment.
05

After-Sales Service
Technical support and spare parts available anytime.
06
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main types of tinplate raw materials?
The main types are Electrolytic Tinplate (ETP) and Tin Free Steel (TFS / ECCS). ETP is coated with tin and is widely used for can bodies, while TFS uses chromium coating and is commonly applied for can ends and lids.
What is the difference between ETP and TFS?
ETP offers better corrosion resistance and food safety performance, making it ideal for food cans and beverage cans. TFS provides stronger coating adhesion and is more suitable for lids, ends, and components that require painting or coating.
Which material should I choose for my application?
It depends on your product and production process. ETP is typically used for can bodies, while TFS is preferred for lids and ends. Our team can recommend the most suitable material based on your application.
Are your tinplate materials suitable for food packaging?
Yes, our materials meet food-grade requirements and can be used for various food packaging applications. BPA-free coating options are also available upon request.
What forms do you supply?
We supply tinplate materials in both coil and sheet forms. Sizes, thickness, and specifications can be customized according to your production needs.
Can you provide customized specifications?
Yes, we offer customized thickness, width, temper, coating type, and surface finish to match different manufacturing processes and applications.
What industries use tinplate raw materials?
Tinplate materials are widely used in food packaging, beverage cans, aerosol containers, edible oil packaging, and industrial metal containers.
What is your minimum order quantity (MOQ)?
MOQ depends on the material type and specifications. Please contact us with your requirements, and we will provide a suitable solution.
Do you provide samples for testing?
Yes, samples can be provided for quality evaluation and compatibility testing before bulk production.
How can I get a quotation?
You can send us your required material type (ETP or TFS), thickness, size, and application. Our team will provide a customized quotation based on your needs.
Submit a Quick Quote
Why S.H PACKING is Trusted by 1000+ Clients
With over 20 years of experience in metal packaging manufacturing, S.H PACKING has built long-term partnerships with clients worldwide. We deliver stable quality, reliable production, and customized solutions to meet diverse packaging needs.
Stable Quality & International Standards
Our products meet international quality and food safety requirements, ensuring reliable performance for global markets.
Large-Scale Production Capacity
With advanced production lines and high output capability, we ensure fast delivery and consistent supply for bulk orders.
Flexible Custom Solutions
From can size and structure to printing and coating, we provide tailored solutions to match your specific packaging requirements.
