Can Ends

By Alucan Editorial Team | Updated: August 2026 | ISO 9001 / FSSC 22000 certified

Understand end codes, buckle ratings, tab types and which end pairs with each beverage application.

Aluminum Can Ends Explained

The easy open end (EOE) is the removable top of a beverage can. It must seal perfectly under pressure, open cleanly and meet food-safety standards. Selecting the right end depends on carbonation, can diameter and consumer preference.

End Codes Explained

CodeDiameterProfileTabUse Case
20050.0 mmCDLSOT/RPTSlim/sleek cans
20252.5 mmB64 / CDLSOT/RPT/FullStandard and sleek cans
20963.5 mmB64SOT1L sharing cans

Profile Types

Tab Types

Request End Specifications
SOT End CDL End RPT End Full Aperture End

Frequently Asked Questions About Can Ends

SOT stands for Stay-on-Tab. The tab remains attached to the end after opening, which reduces litter and is the modern standard for most beverage cans.

B64 is a heavier, more robust end profile designed for high-carbonation beverages such as beer and CSD. CDL is a lightweight optimized profile that reduces aluminum usage while maintaining seal integrity for many beer and sparkling water applications.

A full aperture end removes the entire lid panel when opened, creating a wide-mouth opening. It is used for ready-to-eat foods, fruit cups and applications where a large pour or spoon access is needed.

Slim cans with a 53.0 mm diameter typically use a 200 end with a 50.0 mm opening. This smaller end matches the narrower neck and lighter-weight positioning of the format.

Buckle pressure is the internal pressure at which the end dome begins to deform. B64 ends typically rate 95–108 PSI, while CDL ends rate 85–95 PSI depending on diameter and alloy. Higher buckle ratings are required for carbonated products.

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Matching Can Ends to Beverage Applications

Selecting the right end is about more than diameter. Carbonation level, pasteurization, opening preference and retail market all influence the choice. B64 SOT ends dominate beer and carbonated soft drinks. CDL SOT ends support lightweighting goals in craft beer and sparkling water. RPT ends suit traditional markets and premium juices. Full aperture ends enable food and wide-pour applications.

Custom End Options

Beyond profile and tab type, Alucan can supply colored shells, colored tabs, laser-etched hollow-tab logos and under-tab QR codes for anti-counterfeit and consumer engagement. These customizations are available on SOT, CDL and RPT ends across 200 and 202 diameters.