How do can openers work?

August 04, 2023 5 min read

How do can openers work? - Maria's Condo

In the realm of kitchen tools, the humble can opener is often overlooked. Yet, it's a vital piece of equipment that makes our lives easier. Can openers may seem simple, but there's a science behind their operation, and using them effectively requires a certain amount of skill. This guide will delve into the intricacies of using a can opener, from handheld to electric models, and even some unconventional methods.

Understanding Can Openers: Basic Components and Mechanism

A can opener isn't just a simple tool; it's a combination of three different mechanical apparatuses. Although it might seem like a straightforward process, understanding these parts can make your can-opening experience smoother and more efficient.

Can Opener Handles

A can opener features two handles connected by a single bolt or rivet. This design allows the handles to be pulled apart and pushed together, pivoting on the point where they're joined. Many high-quality can openers have rubber grips on the handles, enhancing comfort and ease of use.

Crank Mechanism

Attached to one of the handles is a hand-turned crank. The axle of this crank extends through the handle, with a traction gear attached to the opposite side. When the can opener is in use, the traction gear and cutting wheel tightly grip the lip of the can, enabling the opener to cut through the lid as the crank is turned.

The Traction Gear

The traction gear is a small, notched metal wheel designed to grip the lip of the can. When the cutting wheel and traction gear are pressed tightly against the can's lip, turning the crank causes the traction gear to grip the metal can, propelling the cutting wheel around the can's rim.

The Cutting Wheel

Featuring a sharp edge around its circumference, the cutting wheel slices through the can's metal when the handles of the opener are pushed together. As the traction gear turns, the cutting wheel rotates, slicing through the metal as it advances around the can's lip.

Opening Cans: A Step-by-Step Guide

The following sections will guide you through the process of opening cans using different types of can openers, including manual, electric, and even some unconventional tools.

How to Open a Can with a Manual Can Opener

Manual can openers are common kitchen tools, known for their practicality and simplicity. However, using them efficiently may require a bit of practice.

Positioning the Can and the Can Opener

To start, place the can on a flat, stable surface. Open the arms of the can opener, separating the sharp cutting wheel from the notched feed wheel. Position the cutting wheel atop the can's lid, ensuring that the wheel and feed wheel align and remain perpendicular to the can's side.

Initiating the Cutting Process

Squeeze the can opener's arms together to puncture the can lid with the cutting wheel. You should hear a distinct sound when the can lid is punctured. Start turning the knob clockwise. This action will cause the feed wheel to grip the lip of the can, moving the opener and cutting through the lid. Continue turning the knob until the entire lid is cut or a small uncut portion remains.

Removing the Lid

Remove the lid carefully using a butter knife or a similar tool, ensuring not to cut yourself on the sharp edge of the can. Your can is now open and ready for use!

How to Use a Safety Can Opener

Also known as smooth-edge can openers, these tools operate similarly to traditional handheld can openers but cut through the side of the can rather than the top. The process of using a safety can opener is almost identical to the one described above, with the only difference being that the cutting wheel is lined up on the side of the can rather than the top.

How to Use an Electric Can Opener

Electric can openers offer more convenience and require less manual effort compared to their handheld counterparts. To use an electric can opener:

Plug in the can opener.
Position the can against the opener.
Raise the lever, line up the can with the opening, and ensure that the can lies flush against the back of the can opener.
Lower the lever to clamp the can in place.
Turn on the power and let the opener do its job.
After the can has finished rotating and cutting, lift the lever to release it from the can opener.
Remove the lid from the magnet.

Using an electric can opener is a breeze once you get the hang of it. However, it's worth noting that you may need to keep a light grasp on the can as it turns to reduce the risk of spillage.

How to Clean and Maintain Your Can Opener

Regardless of the type of can opener you use, regular cleaning is crucial to ensure its longevity and prevent potential contamination of your food.

Cleaning a Handheld Can Opener

For handheld can openers, clean them after every use using a sponge, dish soap, and hot water. A scrub brush or toothbrush can be used for deeper cleaning of the gears and blade. After washing, dry the can opener with a dish towel and let it air dry. To prevent rusting, avoid putting can openers in the dishwasher.

Cleaning an Electric Can Opener

Electric can openers should be wiped clean with a soft, damp cloth and dried thoroughly. If the model's piercing lever or cutting wheel is removable, follow the manufacturer's instructions for removal and cleaning.

Rust and Gunk Removal

For removing rust or gunk, soak the can opener in white vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a few hours. Scrub the gears with a toothbrush or small cleaning brush, rinse with warm water, and then dry thoroughly.

Can Opener Maintenance

To extend your can opener's performance, you can periodically apply a small amount of food-grade mineral oil to the gears using a dish cloth. This keeps the gears lubricated and helps prevent rust.

Opening a Can Without a Can Opener

In case you find yourself without a can opener, there are a few tricks you can try:

Using a Spoon

Grab a large, sturdy spoon and rub the tip of the spoon bowl firmly into the edge of the can, right inside the rim. Continue to rub a small area of the lid until it gives. Repeat until you have an opening large enough to peel back the lid. Be careful to avoid the jagged edges to prevent cutting yourself.

Using a Screwdriver and Hammer

If you need to open a can containing just liquid (like soup or coconut milk), use a flat-head screwdriver to punch a hole large enough to pour out the contents. Hold the screwdriver firmly in one hand, lined up along the rim of the can. With your other hand, use the hammer to gently tap the top of the screwdriver handle to puncture a hole in the metal.

Using a Pocketknife or Box Cutter

This method requires extra care! Use the pointy blade of a pocketknife or box cutter to pierce the top of the can, then continue around the edge until you're able to pry it open.

Conclusion

Using a can opener may seem like a simple task, but understanding the mechanics behind it and mastering the technique can make a significant difference. By following this comprehensive guide, you'll be able to open cans quickly, efficiently, and safely, regardless of the type of can opener you have at hand.

Remember, proper maintenance and cleaning not only extend the life of your can opener but also ensure that your food remains uncontaminated. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, mastering the art of can opening is a skill worth having.

References

Can Openers and Can Opening

How do can openers work?