A continuous casting method and apparatus are described that generate alpha-phase Al(Fe,Mn)Si intermetallic particles on the surface of an aluminum alloy strip to facilitate the manufacture of beverage cans. The alpha phase particle size is generated so that subsequent rolling will ensure the particles will provide galling-free operation in the ironing stages of the can body making process. The control of alpha-particle size upon the surface layers of the strip ensures galling-free operation.

A continuous casting method and apparatus are described that generate alpha-phase Al(Fe,Mn)Si intermetallic particles on the surface of an aluminum alloy strip to facilitate the manufacture of beverage cans. The alpha phase particle size is generated so that subsequent rolling will ensure the particles will provide galling-free operation in the ironing stages of the can body making process. The control of alpha-particle size upon the surface layers of the strip ensures galling-free operation.