SMALL DIAMETER CAN END WITH LARGE OPENING

1 . An easy open can end having improved flow characteristics, the easy open can end comprising:

a circular center panel having a rupturable score line that defines a non-removable tear panel, the center panel having a diameter that is less than 1.835 inches (46.6 mm); and

a non-detachable tab coupled to the center panel, the tab having a nose portion and a rear portion such that in use, the rear portion of the tab is lifted to cause the nose portion of the tab to press down on the tear panel, thereby rupturing the score line and swinging the tear panel out of the plane of the center panel to create an elliptical opening, the opening having a major axis and a minor axis, the minor axis located on a diameter of the center panel and the major axis located perpendicular to said diameter,

wherein dimensions of the tear panel along the major axis and the minor axis are such that the can end exhibits a higher first peak of flow rate compared with a first peak of flow rate of an end having an aspect ratio of 1.1 and an opening area of 0.450 square inches.

2 . An easy open can end according to claim 1 , further comprising a side wall that is inclined at an angle of between 20° and 60° to the plane of the center panel.

3 . An easy open can end according to claim 1 , wherein the tear panel further comprises a bead which substantially follows the periphery of the score and the nose portion of the tab.

4 . An easy open end according to claim 3 , wherein the bead on the tear panel is closed.

5 . An easy open end according to claim 1 , wherein the dimensions of the tear panel along the major axis and the minor axis are such that the can end exhibits a higher first peak of flow rate compared with a first peak of flow rate of an end having an aspect ratio of 1.47 and an opening area of 0.596 square inches.