Summary: Analysis of indenting, buckling and piercing of aluminum beverage cans using both physical testing and computer simulation was performed in order to develop a better understanding of the sidewall structural strength of the cans. This understanding can be used to help design better cans and/or improve manufacturing processes. Simulation of the sidewall indentation was done with an impacting sphere. Parameters investigated included the sphere size and velocity, and the impact height along the sidewall. Buckling simulation of the dented can was then performed. Results from the deformed can buckling model compared well with physical testing based on buckled geometry, buckling load, and external work to buckle. Severe damage to a can that might occur during the manufacturing process was investigated by studying piercing of the can sidewall. Impacts of 5 and 10 m/s were performed with both blunt (flat) and sharp \((45^\circ\) tip) steel rods. It was found that separated elements with tied nodal constraints more accurately represent the failure behavior of the can subjected to a piercing load than merged element nodes. It was also found that the more crushing a can undergoes before piercing occurs, the more energy the can material absorbs. However, there is an upper limit to the crushing based on the speed and shape of the impactor.