The kerosene tin has long been a familiar feature of life in rural India. This 1941 film chronicles the life cycle of the kerosene tin, from its production in the factory to its utilisation in a variety of everyday tasks. After fulfilling their primary function, kerosene tins have traditionally been applied to many different uses in India. In homes, markets and bazaars throughout the country, they are recycled as water carriers and containers for rice, sugar and salt, or made into lamps and roof tiles. The film illustrates how thin sheets of tin plate are turned into kerosene tins in India's factories. First machines trim and hem the metal sheet to form seams. It is then lettered and embossed, and bent into a right angle. Next, the two halves are joined and pressed to form the body of the tin. The top and bottom are cut and stamped, and joined to the body by a squeezer. A rolling machine tightens the end seams, and all the seams are soldered. Finally, wire handles are fixed onto the tin by hand in the only manual part of the process. The finished four gallon tins perform a vital function in supplying oil to all levels of Indian society. Even after the kerosene has been used, they continue to provide a valuable service to the community in their recycled form.
Tins for India
The manufacture of kerosene tins in an Indian factory.
