Abstract: A method of die-necking the open end of a can body to form a reduced diameter neck having a smooth profile comprising forming a reduced neck at the open end of the cylindrical sidewall of the can body by engaging the open end of the sidewall with a die having a multi-radius forming profile, with each successive radius from the entrance to the exit of the die being smaller than the previous radius and with the angle through which each successive radius extends being equal to or smaller than the angle of the previous radius. Then at subsequent die-forming stations, forming progressively smaller reduced diameter necks by a series of dies, all of which preferably have the same multi-radiused forming surface profile which virtually eliminates the undesirable formation of pleats in the final neck configuration.

Abstract: A can is formed including a body having a bottom wall with an electromagnetically formed contoured sidewall extending therefrom and a necked end. The open end of the sidewall is first pre-necking to form a reduced diameter section. Thereupon, the sidewall is electromagnetically formed to form an outwardly expanding contoured sidewall. The can is then subjected to a necking process proximate the reduced diameter section to achieve a further reduced diameter conical necked end. The necking process may be performed by radially inwardly advancing an external forming member into contact with the sidewall against counterpressure provided by a pair of relatively axially displaceable inner members disposed within the can interior. Alternatively, the necking process may be spin flow necking.

Abstract: A freezer having its walls constructed of spaced inner and outer stainless steel skins connected together by non-metallic, thermally non-conductive structural members having a configuration which greatly reduces the transfer of temperature extremes and thermal stresses between the skins. The structural members are preferably constructed of glass fibre and possess structural, thermal conduction, and thermal expansion properties which substantially reduce the transfer of heat and thermal stresses between the inner and outer skins as the freezer is subjected to temperature variations between normal processing temperatures of about -50.degree. F. and heat sterilization temperatures up to 170.degree. F. In addition, a novel expansion joint assembly includes a flexible resilient cover strip covering the joint areas of adjacent skins.

Abstract: An umbrella type resealable closure device is described. A metal container includes an end wall with a flanged region substantially surrounding a scored portion defining an openable panel. A resealable closure device incorporates a non-hooking closure structure on one side and a structure for separating the openable panel from the end wall on the opposite side.

Abstract: A resealable closure device for use on metallic cans includes a metallic end wall having an opening surrounded by an upwardly extending and outwardly flaring beaded flange. The flexible closure element includes a central panel, a lever portion and a connecting portion connecting the lever portion to the central panel; the closure device is molded in an inverted umbrella position which is capable of being inverted to engage the flange of the opening; a skirt portion is provided on the interior side of the central panel of the flexible closure element to provide a degree of resistance to removal of the closure device from the opening by user.

Abstract: A method is described for cooling or heating hot filled containers, such as metallic cans. The apparatus employs countercurrent flow between the containers and a water trough and uses axial shaking and the physics of the containers to promote cooling or heating.