You may need a little time to get used to using a can opener. If you've never used a can opener before, this might seem confusing. But, with practice a few times and learning how, you'll be able to master it in no time.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Using a Manual Can Opener
Step 1. Understand the parts of a can opener
Although it looks like a simple tool, a can opener is actually made up of three different machine tools. The two long “arms” that clamp the sides of the can are the levers. The handle used to turn the can consists of an axle and a wheel. The last part, an iron gear wheel that functions as a can cutter and is called a peg.
Tin cans were invented in the early 1800s by the British. It takes special abilities to open them, and people usually use stones, chisels or knives to open them. Finally, the can opener was invented in 1858, and opening cans was much easier
Step 2. Extend the can opener lever
Place the iron teeth (pegs) on the lip of the can. The cleats will automatically align to their proper position. Press the levers firmly, in the same direction as when they were valved. With practice, you will be able to tell if the position is right.
Before you get used to it, you may have to do this a few times
Step 3. Start turning the handle when it's in a secure and snug position
Otherwise, the can opener may come off the can. The can opener is a sharp object, so you need to be careful. The correct movement will start to make the serrations turn at the bottom and then cut through the can.
Step 4. Try to press the can opener against the edges of the can as you turn the handle
This tool will penetrate the can lid, and cut the can as the serrations rotate around the lid. When it is fully turned, the lid will lift from the can opener by itself. Carefully remove the tin lid that has been cut off. Enjoy the contents of the can.
Method 2 of 3: Using an Electronic Can Opener
Step 1. Lift the cutter head to face up
Place the can onto the top of its back. Position the lip of the can between the wheel and the cutting tool.
Step 2. Press the cutter head down when the can is in the correct position
That way, the can opener is ready to use. This tool will start rotating the can. Hold the can as it rotates so it doesn't tilt.
Step 3. Allow the can opener magnet to pull on the can lid as you cut it
This will lift the lid of the can slightly. When the entire can cover has been cut off, lift the top off the cutter head. Carefully remove the can from the can opener.
Step 4. Remove the can cover from the can opener magnet
Do this using two fingers and press the cutting part with your other fingers. Remove the cover. Enjoy the contents of the can.
Method 3 of 3: Using a Classic Can Opener
Step 1. Carefully place the "knife" part of the can opener in an upright position near the top edge of the can
Then with controlled pressure, press the knife part of the can opener down. With a little practice, the knife will work its way through the lid of the can.
This type of can opener is usually called a "stabbing knife" and some people still prefer to use it, even over modern can openers
Step 2. Be careful when you do this method
If you don't hold it firmly, or if the can opener's knife isn't sharp enough, the can opener may bounce. If it is not positioned at the correct angle, you could result in a cut yourself. Before you've managed to do it a few times, it might be better to ask someone to help you out
Step 3. Hold the can opener with the knife side down
Now, insert the knife through the hole you just made. This time position the knife as close as possible and parallel to the edge of the can. Press the knife down again, this time more gently, to open the other hole.
Step 4. Adjust one of the bends on the can opener's stem to the now slightly raised edge of the can
Move the knife up and down like a saw, constantly as you open the can. The edges of the can will look rough and very sharp. Make sure that your fingers don't touch it. Now, enjoy the contents of the can.
Warning
- Make sure that you use a non-movable base.
- You can use any type of can opener, but be sure not to shake your hands, as the can opener knife or the lip of the can can cut your fingers. If you're not sure when to do it, do it with a companion.
