Can Opener 2.0

[Texf1]

We all use rattle cans in our projects, but when they are empty, they are still considered hazardous waste unless you puncture the can. I have done this in the past in a 5 gal bucket with a hammer, but my hammer and hand are covered in paint. I decided to make something that can solve about 95% of that problem. Some paint will leak, but for the most part, it contains it pretty well and I don't have to worry that the can will explode and hurt me or one of my kids close by. I used 4" square tubing and cut it about 3" larger than the tall rattle cans. I welded one end closed. I made a strip out of scrap steel and put a 90 degree bend in it and welded an end cap to the short side and welded the other end to the hinge. I then used an old punch and sharpened it to a point and welded it to the strip in the middle of the tube. I drilled a hole in the tube for the punch. You will have to make the hole larger on the open side of the tube because as you close it, it will not be straight down. Let me know what you guys/gals think.

[rlm98253]

Nicely done.

[madokie]

i just use a old pick axe,and wear safety glasses,sometimes sticky goo comes out of these cans,your cutter would have to be cleaned out often,i do mine on a dirt spot in back yard.the gooey stuff will either harden or evaporate.my scrap yard wont take it with a small hole.i have a old neighbor that uses a 6 ft long 1x1 board with a large nail in it..never seen a can explode.

[12bolts]

Put them in the recycle bin and let them take care of the problem

[thehomeengineer]

I think my company would like one of these we also have to puncture the cans before recycling or we have to take them home for recycling and place in our household waste, I will make one to save the mess at work. I think once I have made one there will be requests from all buildings on site.
Glass is also another issue for recycling at work as people can cut themselves lol. Again easier to take home and recycle via household waste (madness)
Thank you for sharing

[Texf1]

Thank you sir.

[Texf1]

I have never seen a can explode, but I have had some where the tip will not spray no matter what I do. I tried to change tips and that didn't work either. When I go to puncture the can, there is a lot of pressure in it that has made a small hole about 3 times its size. I have heard stories, but don't know how true or not, but I want to make sure it doesn't happen.

[thehomeengineer]

Hi Texf1
As they say better safe than sorry. Just need to find some material suitable to make one of your can openers. Will post when finished.
Hope you haven't placed a copy right on it
The Home Engineer

[Texf1]

Hello The Home Engineer,
No copy right on anything I make. I think all of us here are for helping each other out. If I come up with something, which I may not be the first, I don't care who uses it if it will help them out. Would love to see what you come up with. I didn't get fancy on mine.
Texf1

[thehomeengineer]

Fancy? yours is painted looks like an ammo box (very nice). Mine will be painted from the inside out lol