As the drinks can industry has such a high turn over (about 3.5 billion steel soft drinks and beer cans annually) the cost of the steel has to be kept at a minimum. This is achieved by the fact that the strip steel has a minimum number of alloying elements since relatively low strength levels are required. Processing is carried out in a highly controlled and automated system. These all contribute to a low product cost. Another cost saving activity is through the design of the can. Cans currently have a minimum wall thickness of around 60-70 µm and producers are continuing to look for further cost savings through weight savings.