Stainless Steel Work Tables: Here’s What You Need To Know
Everyone talks about stainless steel. Stainless steel is in all sorts of work surfaces and products, but not all stainless steel is created equal. There are different types of stainless steel with various chemical compositions and gauges. Whether you need a stainless steel work table or a workbench, you can select the stainless steel surface that best meets your needs and the industry you operate in. So, let’s look at the differences and find the one that’s right for your business.
Why Stainless Steel?
Because stainless steel tables and workbenches are ideal for high-capacity commercial kitchens, commercial settings, bars, medical settings, garages, laundromats, factories and more.
Stainless steel workbenches are best suited for commercial kitchens, medical settings, and more. A variety of stainless steel kitchen tables are specifically designed for every kind of kitchen. Commercial stainless steel table tops feature a high-temperature tolerance, antibacterial properties, and a non-porous surface, making it easy to clean and maintain. Stainless steel workbenches are corrosion and rust-resistant for long-lasting durability.
Stainless steel work tables feature superior craftsmanship and quality that can be relied on for years. They're built with durability in mind and include:
- Corrosion and rust-resistant construction
- Antibacterial properties
- A non-porous surface
- Tolerance to high temperatures
Stainless steel work tables are also easy to maintain and clean, making them ideal fixtures in the food service industry or medical settings or for schools, and performances.
Types of Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is also highly durable and is easy to fabricate. Cleaning the metal is also easy, and it is available in various appearances and finishes. The main categories of stainless steel are:
200 Series:
Designed with excellent corrosion resistance, making them suitable for indoor and outdoor applications. Enhanced resistance to atmospheric conditions, moisture, and certain chemicals, ensuring long-lasting performance and durability. It is not recommended for structural or heavy-use outdoor applications because of its susceptibility to pitting and crevice corrosion.
300 Series:
This series is the most widely used and is the largest group. These are easy and simple to maintain, as no surface treatment is necessary. They are ideal due to their high tensile strength, ease of roll forming or bending, rust resistance, and machining capabilities. They are also cost-effective and the most popular and economical of the stainless steels and are versatile for most applications where durable support and corrosion resistance are required. The best-known grade is Type 304 because of its ultra-resistance to corrosion and oxidation.
400 Series:
These stainless steels are considered best for high-temperature instead of high-strength applications. They are preferred for their resistance to stress corrosion cracking. Ferritic stainless steels are magnetic, and the best-known grade is Type 430 because of its high strength and wear resistance. This series isn’t as corrosion-resistant as the 200-300 series, but the 400 series does have good thermal conductivity.
Stainless Steel Gauges
The gauge of your stainless steel describes the thickness and durability of the steel. The lower the gauge, the thicker the steel!
- 18 Gauge. The lightest available gauge. This gauge is not ideal for chopping, pounding, or heavy-weight items as it dents
- 16 Gauge. As a traditional choice cutting the middle between affordability and durability, 16 gauge generally fits most needs
- 14 Gauge. Ideal for heavy use.
Key Questions to Ask Yourself:
Where is stainless steel an ideal fit?
- Architecture and construction
- Automobile technology and transport
- Chemical plant construction
- Offshore technology and shipbuilding
- Environmental technology and water industry
- Household and consumer goods
- Food processing
- Medicine and pharmaceuticals
What are the benefits of using stainless steel?
- Corrosion-resistant
- High-tensile, wear-resistant
- Weld-able
- Temperature-resistant
- Hygienic
- Conductive
- Low-maintenance
- Long-lasting
- Efficient
What kind of use will your work table get?
If you plan on dumping heavy items on your stainless table tops consistently, 14 gauge is the way to go. 14 gauge is the thickest. If you'll only be doing light prep, the thinner 18 gauge option may make more sense.
Will you need an undershelf?
Tables come standard with either an undershelf or rear cross braces for support. If you plan to store boxes or other materials underneath the table, choose an undershelf. If you plan to put other equipment or trash, rear cross braces might be best. Think about your particular application and what makes sense in that space.
How long do you want your stainless steel work tables to last?
304 stainless steel is of higher quality. 430 stainless steel is lower quality, and is generally more difficult to bend. The amount of chromium affects how corrosion-resistant the steel is, which is why 304 is more durable since it has a higher percentage. A quick and easy way to test what stainless steel you have is to use a magnet. 304 stainless is not magnetic, while a magnet will stick to 430 stainless.
Will you need any modifications or upgrades?
Stainless steel tables are incredibly versatile in their potential configurations. Many of our options offer standard modifications, including a backsplash, drop-in sink, freestanding sink, single or double overshelves, or casters. You can also upgrade to a stainless steel table with stainless steel legs, drawers, or an undershelf. All are available, and all stainless steel table prices vary, of course, but they can also save significant labor costs during prep and service.
Beyond Tables—Stainless Steel Storage and Shelving Accessories
Are you looking to create a more dynamic work environment? Stainless steel storage and shelving accessories like stainless steel wire shelf trucks are available to take your business to the next level.
Global Industrial Is the Right Choice for Your Stainless Steel Table Needs
Global Industrial has many solutions to help you find the best stainless steel work table for your business. Our workbench buying guide can help you narrow your choices and if you’re looking for customizable workbench options, look no further. Want to talk it through? Connect with one of our Global Industrial representatives at 888.978.7759 to discuss your business needs, and we’ll take care of the rest. You can also contact us here for quick self-service options.
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