Container and closure with in-turned seam

Abstract

Closing of a metal container and the like using a special end closure. The open end portion of a container is outwardly folded to define a supporting ledge and a seaming or curling flange for the end closure. Such flange is folded or rolled inwardly to capture an end closure including a plastic frame that defines a dispensing opening and has bonded thereto an end panel to be peeled back to allow dispensing of product. A seaming flange is folded about a peripheral portion of an outer boundary of the frame member and then the two are enfolded generally flat above the supporting ledge of the container to form an inwardly directed seam. A modified end closure comprises a molded plastic frame member which matches the configuration of a ledge portion of the container so the seaming flange and peripheral border portion of the frame member can be rolled together in an inwardly directed curl. The closing operations can be performed without axial pressure on the container wall so they can be thinner than normal. Inwardly directed seams and curls protect the plastic end closure from damage caused by closing tools because dies and/or chucks contact the flange portion of the container rather than the end closure. A seal between the inwardly turned seam or curl and the border portion of the frame member can be enhanced by applying heat during formation thereof or during retorting of the container and product.