Opening Turbine Oil Cans Properly?
Jon, There's more to opening a can of oil than is mentioned here. First and foremost, you must remember that modern aviation oils, both mineral and synthetic, have a number of additives in them that settle to the bottom during storage (just like a can of paint). Therefore, before attempting to open the can it's very important to turn it upside-down and shake it a few times to properly mix these additives. Then wipe the bottom of the can to ensure it's clean and take your opener and open the bottom end. Pour into the oil tank and the outgoing flow from the can will carry any remaining additives with the oil.
Metal slivers from improperly opened oil cans are regularly found in oil systems during strip-down and have some have been known to be the 'cause-for-removal'.
So what is the best way to open a can? Everyone has their own method but the best is to get hold of an old beer can opener, the lever type with a triangular head having a very sharp point. One of these was included in every case of canned beer before the advent of rip-tops and, with the beer logo on them, were collectors items. I still have a couple of 'Tiger' openers in my tool box. These are very effective, after all who wants metal slivers in their beer?
Whatever method you use, please ensure that the initial puncture is made with a single sharp point to minimise the possibility of slivers. An interesting hobby you have there!