Can End Deep Dive: B64 vs CDL - A Comparative Look

alna-packaging-b64-cdl-can-ends-difference-comparison

While the can body gets the branding, the can end does the heavy lifting of keeping your product carbonated and shelf-stable. In North America, you will primarily encounter two formats: B64 and CDL.

Your choice typically depends on whether your seamer is already dialed in for a specific profile or if you are looking to reduce the weight of your finished product.

At a glance

Feature/Aspect	B64 Can End	CDL Can End
Material Thickness	Thicker (~2.74 grams per lid*), more material	Lighter (~2.49 grams per lid*), less material
Environmental Impact	Higher due to more material used	Lower, more sustainable
Industry Usage	Traditional standard, widely used	Innovative, growing in popularity
Primary Pros	Durable, universal fit, easy to soruce	Lightweight, lower material costs, design allows for higher PSI
Primary Cons	Heavier shipping weight	Multiple types (e.g. CDL-E, CDL+, CDL-W) may need different setups and extra testing when switching suppliers

*Measurements based on our manufacturer's data. Variations may exist across manufacturers.

In summary - The B64 is the traditional go-to for many Canadian breweries, known for its universal fit, tested reliability, and durability, albeit being a heavier option. On the flip side, the CDL is a newer, lighter alternative, and becoming the preferred choice for high-volume producers who want to save on material costs. That said, there are multiple types of CDL (e.g. CDL-E, CDL+, and CDL-W,) which might need adjustments to your seamers or production lines. This is something to consider if you're switching suppliers, as it could mean extra testing and tweaking. And ultimately, the choice depends on balancing these factors with your specific packaging needs.

Essential steps before switching between B64 and CDL

Switching from B64 to CDL can ends (or vice versa) is strategic move that requires some prep work. Because the geometry of the lid is different, your seamer requires a specific Chuck and Roll profile to create a safe double seam, just like you wouldn’t use a Phillips screwdriver on a flathead screw. If the chuck and roller don’t fit the can end perfectly, you could end up with dents, bulges, or even leaks.

Here's a general game plan, broken down into some digestible steps, to ensure that the transition is as smooth as your favourite brew.

Seamer Adjustment
• Chuck and Roll Profile: Match seamer components to the can end type. Incorrect matches can lead to poor seams or can damage.
• Seaming Operation: Calibrate seamer pressure and motion for the specific end type to ensure an airtight and damage-free seal.

Quality Control Checks
‍• Conduct thorough inspections for seam integrity and consistency. Ensure no leaks and recalibrate seam inspection equipment as needed.

Staff Training
• Educate operators on equipment adjustments or new machinery handling to maintain production quality and efficiency.

Trial Runs:
• Perform test batches to adjust the process and address potential issues before full-scale transition.

Cheers to your next successful venture in canning🍻.

Glossary

Glossary	Image	What does that mean
Chuck		The tool that seats inside the can end to hold it firmly against the lifter plate. It acts as a base for the rollers to work against during the seaming process.
Roller		These are the forming wheels. The first one curls the metal together, and the second one squishes it flat to make the seal permanent.
Can End Curl		This is the pre-bent edge of the lid. It’s designed to hook onto the top of the can so they can be folded together.
Neck Flange		This is the rim of the can and has to be straight, If it’s bent before it hits the seamer, the lid won't hook onto it properly and you'll get a leaker.
Countersink		This is the inner groove of the lid. A deeper groove (like in CDL ends) makes the lid act like a spring, helping it hold more pressure without "doming" or popping.
Double Seaming		Double seaming is a two-step mechanical fold. It interlocks the lid's edge with the can's rim, then flattens them together to create an airtight seal. This requires two distinct step: the first operation to form the hook and the second to lock it tight.