Opening cans in your commercial kitchen should never be a struggle. The commercial manual can opener is quite a simple machine. Electric can openers perform the same function with effortless operation. The basic principle is the same: the knife punctures the metal, the gear then rotates the can, creating an even opening.

The knife on your industrial can opener is intentionally dull and rounded. The knife’s function is to fold the metal, not slice it, thereby providing a smooth rim edge. Regular use sharpens the knife and eventually creates a point. A sharp knife can result in metal shavings being deposited into your food. Avoid this by regularly replacing crucial parts. As a rule of thumb, can opener knives should be replaced every six months and can opener gears should be replaced annually. Serv-U carries replacement parts for many popular models.

The standard manual can opener for the foodservice industry is Edlund’s #1 model. The Edlund #1 commercial can opener has been improved with a new smoother action base design, long wearing spool and rust resistant arbor. Most importantly, the knife is tempered steel and reversible, reducing the need for frequent replacements. The Edlund #1 commercial can opener opens most can shapes and sizes.

If you are looking to save time and labor, consider investing and an Edlund electric can opener. The convenient countertop model slides cans into position for easy opening without lifting. A spring-loaded mechanism will even open dented cans. For convenience without giving up precious counter space, consider the portable electric can opener.

Remember to take into account calculations of opening rate per minute, recommended daily use and can size. Some models are also NSF rated. Save yourself time and energy by having a can opener that can get the job done!