Stainless Steel Work Tables: Here’s What You Need To Know

“Stainless steel.” Just reading those words fills our minds with images of quality and durability. But not all stainless steel is created equal. Stainless steel serves many purposes throughout many industries and varies in gauges and chemical compositions. Whether you’re looking for a work table, workbench, or any other surface, you need to select the stainless steel that best suits your needs. But how do you know what you need? It starts with a basic question:

 

Why Stainless Steel?

 

Stainless steel combines a few key qualities that make it ideal for many environments:  it is strong, durable, and non-porous. Those qualities alone make a stainless steel surface ideal for high-capacity commercial kitchens, bars, medical settings, garages, laundromats, factories, and many many more. Depending on your need, there is likely a stainless steel option for you.

 

Stainless steel workbenches are best suited for commercial kitchens, medical settings, and more. They are corrosion and rust-resistant for long term durability. 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,  and antibacterial properties making it easy to clean and maintain. Built with durability in mind,stainless steel work tables feature superior craftsmanship and quality that can be relied on for years.

 

Types of Stainless Steel

 

Although you can’t go wrong with stainless steel, there are different types that are available:

 

300 Series

300 Series:

The most widely used model, these tables require no surface treatment to maintain. They feature high tensile strength, rust resistance, and machining capabilities. Their ability to resist bending as well as versatility and cost effectiveness makes them a very popular option for most applications where durable support and corrosion resistance are required. Check out the grade of Type 304 - it is ultra-resistant to corrosion and oxidation.

400 Series

400 Series:

When you need a surface to withstand high temperatures, the 400 Series may be your best bet. These surfaces are preferred for their resistance to stress corrosion cracking. The best-known grade is Type 430 - a ferritic stainless steel which is magnetic and features high strength and wear resistance. While the 400 Series isn’t as corrosion resistant as the 300 Series, it does offer a high level of thermal conductivity.

 

Stainless Steel Gauges

 

When talking about stainless steel, the gauge refers to the thickness and durability of the steel. The lower the gauge, the thicker the steel. Each gauge brings it different strengths and limitations:

 

  • 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?

 

 

What are the benefits of using stainless steel?

 

Stainless steel is your top option when looking for a corrosion-, wear-, and temperature-resistant surface for your industrial, construction, or service needs. The high tensile strength and conductivity make it an ideal material for building, welding, and other heavy duty work. Stainless steel is incredibly hygienic and low maintenance for food and medical purposes. If you’re looking for a long-lasting and efficient option, stainless steel is as good as it gets.

 

DO I 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. Model your space to your particular application.

 

HOW LONG WILL A STAINLESS STEEL TABLE LAST?

 

While results vary due to wear and tear, the durability usually comes down to the type of stainless steel you choose. It comes down to the amount of chromium. The higher percentage of chromium, the more corrosion-resistant the steel. For instance, the 304 stainless steel is higher quality than the 430 due to higher chromium content. A quick way to test what kind of steel you have is with a simple magnet. The magnet will stick to a lower-chromium 430 steel but not to the higher quality 304.

 

WHAT KIND OF MODIFICATIONS DO I NEED?

 

Stainless steel tables are incredibly versatile in their potential configurations. Many of our options offer standard modifications, including a backsplash, drop-in sink, single or double overshelves, or casters. When thinking of making modifications, it is prudent to weigh the cost of the initial investment against the amount of labor time a well-designed work area can save you during prep and service.

 

WHAT ABOUT STORAGE AND SHELVING?

 

Stainless steel isn’t just great for tables and workbenches. You can add a level of durability to your environment  with stainless steel storage and shelving accessories like stainless steel wire shelf trucks. When you think of setting up your space, consider stainless steel as a flexible and cost-effective long term option.

 

GLOBAL INDUSTRIAL IS THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR YOUR STAINLESS STEEL TABLE NEEDS

 

Global Industrial has the 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.

 

The information contained in this article is for informational, educational, and promotional purposes only and is based on information available as of the initial date of publication. It is the reader’s responsibility to ensure compliance with all applicable laws, rules, codes and regulations. If there is any question or doubt in regard to any element contained in this article, please consult a licensed professional.  Under no circumstances will Global Industrial® be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on this article.