Abstract: A method of inspecting metallic container components (10) provides indexing a container component (10) produced from a metallic material into axial alignment with a probe (110). The probe (110) has a coil (176) produced from an electrical conductor. An alternating current (183) is applied to the coil (176) wherein a first magnetic field (184) is generated. An eddy current (188) develops in the container component (10) in response to the first magnetic field (184). A second magnetic field (192) is generated in response to the eddy current (188). Changes in an impedance amplitude and phase angle in the coil (176) are measured. A determination of the fitness for use of the container component (10) is made based on the measured changes in the impedance amplitude and phase angle in the coil (176).

Abstract: An apparatus and methods of decorating exterior surfaces of metallic containers are provided. More specifically, the present disclosure provides a novel metering roller for an inking assembly of a decorator. An adjustment mechanism is operable to move the metering roller to a first ink transfer position during a decoration run. In the first ink transfer position, the metering roller receives ink from an ink roller without contacting the ink roller. In one embodiment, during the production run, the metering roller is in contact with and transfers ink to a transfer roller. When the decoration run stops, the adjustment mechanism can move the metering roller to a second dwell position such that the metering roller does not receive ink from the ink roller.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods of heating metallic containers in an oven which includes electric heating elements are provided. The electric heating elements include one or more of an electric induction element and an electric infrared heating element. The electric heating elements heat the metallic containers to a predetermined temperature to dry moisture on the metallic containers or to cure inks and coatings. Air within the oven may be at a temperature that is less than the predetermined temperature.

Abstract: An apparatus and methods of decorating exterior surfaces of metallic containers are provided. More specifically, the present disclosure provides a novel metering roller for an inking assembly of a decorator. An adjustment mechanism is operable to move the metering roller to a first ink transfer position during a decoration run. In the first ink transfer position, the metering roller receives ink from an ink roller without contacting the ink roller. In one embodiment, during the production run, the metering roller is in contact with and transfers ink to a transfer roller. When the decoration run stops, the adjustment mechanism can move the metering roller to a second dwell position such that the metering roller does not receive ink from the ink roller.