What is Easy Open End (EOE)?
An Easy Open End (EOE) is the removable lid of an aluminum beverage can that opens with a pull tab or ring-pull mechanism. Modern EOEs are designed for single-hand operation and consumer convenience.
The EOE is seamed onto the can body during manufacturing using specialized seaming equipment. This 2-piece construction (can body + easy open end) revolutionized the beverage industry in the 1960s.
Stay-on-Tab (SOT)
Tab remains attached to the end after opening. Environmental standard globally.
Ring Pull Tab (RPT)
Full tab detaches when opened. Larger opening, traditional design.
Standard Diameters
200# (50mm), 202# (63mm), 206# (74mm) for different can sizes.
Food-Grade Coating
BPA-NI or epoxy internal coating for beverage contact safety.
SOT vs RPT: Key Differences
Understanding the difference between Stay-on-Tab (SOT) and Ring Pull Tab (RPT) helps you choose the right end type for your product and market requirements.
SOT (Stay-on-Tab)
Global Environmental Standard
- Tab after openingStays attached
- Environmental impactLower litter
- Market adoption95%+ globally
- Opening sizeStandard
- Best forBeer, Soda, All markets
RPT (Ring Pull Tab)
Traditional Design
- Tab after openingDetaches completely
- Environmental impactHigher litter risk
- Market adoptionDeclining (<5%)
- Opening sizeLarger aperture
- Best forNiche, thick beverages
Why SOT dominates: The stay-on-tab design was developed to address environmental concerns about detached tabs littering beaches and environments. Today, SOT is mandated or strongly preferred in most markets due to recycling benefits and environmental regulations.
EOE Size Comparison
Different can sizes require different end diameters. Here's a comprehensive comparison of all standard EOE sizes:
| End Type | Diameter | Can Body | Volumes | Global Standard |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 200 SOT | 50.5mm (2.0") | 200 diameter | 180ml, 250ml | β Energy drinks (Red Bull format) |
| 202 SOT | 63.5mm (2.5") | 211 / 202 diameter | 269ml - 500ml | β Beer, Soda worldwide |
| 202 RPT | 63.5mm (2.5") | 211 diameter | 330ml - 500ml | β οΈ Niche traditional |
| 206 RPT | 74.0mm (2.9") | 206 diameter (large) | 500ml+ | β οΈ Large format only |
EOE Coating Options
Internal coating protects the beverage from metal interaction and ensures food safety. Alucan offers multiple coating options to meet global market requirements:
BPA-NI Coating
Preferred for Global Markets
- Full nameBPA Non-Intent
- Market preferenceEU, USA, Global premium
- CertificationFDA, EU 1935/2004
- StatusRecommended
- Barrier propertiesExcellent
Epoxy Coating
Traditional Standard
- TypeWater-based modified epoxy
- Market preferenceAsia, Africa, general
- CertificationFDA, ISO 9001
- StatusWidely accepted
- Barrier propertiesExcellent
Why BPA-NI? BPA-NI (BPA non-intent) coating is manufactured without intentionally adding Bisphenol A. While still chemically similar to BPA coatings, it addresses consumer concerns about BPA exposure. Most major beverage brands now specify BPA-NI for new contracts.
Compatible Can Types
Each EOE size is designed for specific can body types and beverage applications:
| EOE Type | Can Body Type | Beverage Type | Example Products |
|---|---|---|---|
| 200 SOT | Slim (200 dia.) | Energy drinks, Shots | Red Bull, Monster (250ml), Energy shots |
| 202 SOT | Standard (211 dia.) | Beer, Soda, Sparkling | Heineken, Coca-Cola, all major brands |
| 202 SOT | Sleek (202 dia.) | Energy drinks, Premium | Monster (355ml), Celsius, Prime |
| 202 RPT | Standard (211 dia.) | Traditional, Niche | Some craft, specialty applications |
| 206 RPT | Large (206 dia.) | Large format, Food | Large juice cans, some beer |
Frequently Asked Questions
These numbers refer to the end diameter in imperial fractions: 200 = 2.00", 202 = 2.02", 206 = 2.06". The 202 end (63.5mm) is the global standard for most beverages. 200 ends (50.5mm) are used with slim cans (Red Bull format). 206 ends (74mm) are for large-format cans over 500ml.
No. Each end size is specifically engineered for its corresponding can body diameter. Using a 202 end on a slim can body (200 diameter) would result in an improper seam and potential leakage. Always match the end size to the can body specification.
Standard MOQ for blank (unprinted) EOE is 200,000 pieces per SKU (approximately 1 pallet). For custom printed ends with your brand logo, the MOQ is also 200,000 pieces per design. Sample orders are available for qualified new clients.
Yes. Alucan EOE products are manufactured to international standards (ISO 13485, ISO 9001) and are compatible with standard 2-piece aluminum cans from any manufacturer worldwide. The 202 SOT is the global standard with universal compatibility.
Forζ¬§ηΎ markets, BPA-NI coating is recommended/required by most major brands. For Asian, African, and general markets, both BPA-NI and epoxy coatings are widely accepted. If your product has specific regulatory requirements, please consult with our technical team.
Yes. Custom lithographic printing on EOE is available with MOQ of 200,000+ pieces per design. We offer full-color printing with protective varnish finish. Contact us for custom artwork specifications and pricing.
Need EOE Samples or Quotation?
Our technical team can help you select the right end type for your can and beverage requirements.
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