Can Seam Scale The Can Seam Scale
with English units on one side and metric units on the other, has several uses.
Basically, it is a handy pocket ruler calibrated in
thirty-seconds of an inch from zero to six inches, and
in tenths of a centimeter (millimeters) from zero to
15.2 centimeters.

 

1. The tapered end of the scale may be used to
scrape compound from the channel and curl of the
end in order to determine film weighls.

 

2. The scale is also used as a gauge for measuring
the curl height of a can end. This is done by taking a
2 inch (50.8 mm.) stack of ends, which will just fit in
the 2 inch (50.8 mm.) long slot of the scale, and then
counting the number of ends in the stack. Most can
makers have specifications for the maximum and
minimum number of ends for a two inch stack, which is
a function of the curl height, the can end material and
its thickness. The specification varies between aluminum
and steel/tinplate, between beer/beverage ends and
sanitary ends, and to some degree between one
diameter and another.

 

3. The remaining slots or notches in the scale are
useful as ”go-no-go” gauges for estimating seam
thickness, length, and body and cover hook lengths,
The seam scale is in no way designed to replace the
can seam micrometer or the countersink gauge. The
seam scale is used oniy for estimating or approximating
some can dimension measurements. For the accuracy
required in quality control and trouble shooting
procedures, measurements made with the countersink
gauge, can seam micrometer or seam projector are
required.