What does 49 CFR 178.33a-6 (Manufacture) require?

Short answer

49 CFR 178.33a-6 requires that the manufacture of inner nonrefillable metal receptacles be done by appliances and methods that assure uniformity of completed containers, with dirt and scale removed as necessary, and no defects that could weaken the container.

1. Uniformity of completed containers must be assured.

2. Dirt and scale must be removed as necessary.

3. No defect is acceptable that is likely to weaken the finished container appreciably.

The rule says

"By appliances and methods that will assure uniformity of completed containers; dirt and scale to be removed as necessary; no defect acceptable that is likely to weaken the finished container appreciably; reasonably smooth and uniform surface finish required." (49 CFR 178.33a-6)

"Seams when used must be as follows: (1) Circumferential seams. By welding, swedging, brazing, soldering, or double seaming." (49 CFR 178.33a-6)

"The ends shall be of pressure design." (49 CFR 178.33a-6)

In plain English

This regulation is about how to make inner nonrefillable metal receptacles safely and reliably. It requires manufacturers to use methods that ensure all containers are made the same way, with no weak spots that could cause them to fail. This includes removing any dirt or scale that might be present and making sure the surface is smooth and even. The rule also specifies how seams and ends of the containers should be made to withstand pressure.

What to do

• Ensure manufacturing processes guarantee uniformity and quality of the containers.
• Remove dirt and scale as necessary during the manufacturing process.
• Implement quality control measures to detect and reject any containers with defects that could weaken them.
• Use approved methods for seams and ends, such as welding or double seaming for circumferential seams, and ensure ends are designed to withstand pressure.