Usage patterns
〈物〉の缶を開けるto open a can of something
缶入りの〈物〉canned (something), packaged in a can
缶を潰すto crush a can (e.g. for recycling)
I crushed the empty can with my foot.
缶を集めるto collect cans (for recycling)
I'm collecting cans as a volunteer activity.