Types of Stainless Steel Work Tables: Grades, Gauges, and Configurations
A stainless steel work tables is a type of tables typically used in commercial kitchens, laboratories, and other industrial settings. They are made from stainless steel, a durable and easy-to-clean material that is resistant to corrosion and staining. Steel kitchen tables often have an adjustable undershelf for storing equipment and supplies, and may also feature a backsplash to protect walls from spills. They are a great choice for any food service establishment, laboratory, or other industrial settings that requires a sturdy and easy-to-clean work surface.
A commercial prep table is often preferred in commercial kitchens and industrial settings because it is durable, easy to clean, and resistant to corrosion and staining. Stainless steel is a type of steel that contains chromium, which provides the material with its corrosion-resistant properties.
Stainless steel work tables are available in a variety of sizes, styles, and configurations. They can have flat or riser tops, with or without a backsplash, and can come with or without an adjustable undershelf. Some tables are also equipped with drawers or cabinets, making them ideal for storing tools and supplies.
The undershelf can be adjusted or removed as per the requirement, it allows for extra storage space for supplies, equipment, and tools.
The backsplash on some models can help protect walls from spills, splashes and stains.
Many stainless steel work tables come with adjustable legs, so you can level the table on uneven surfaces. They also have a heavy-duty construction, which makes them suitable for heavy use and able to withstand the weight of heavy equipment.
Overall, metal work tables are an ideal choice for any food service establishment, laboratory, or other industrial settings that requires a sturdy, easy-to-clean work surface. They are durable, corrosion-resistant, and easy to clean, making them ideal for any environment where sanitation is a priority.
Understanding Stainless Steel Types
Type 304: This is the most commonly used stainless steel grades for commercial kitchen equipment. It is austenite stainless steel that contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel. It is also known as “18/8” stainless steel. Type 304 is highly durable and resistant to corrosion and rust.
Type 316: This is a higher-grade stainless steel that contains 16% chromium, 10% nickel, and 2% molybdenum. It is known for its increased resistance to corrosion and pitting, making it a good choice for use in environments where the table may be exposed to harsh chemicals or saltwater.
Type 430: This is a ferritic stainless steel that contains 16-18% chromium and 0.12% carbon. It is a less expensive alternative to Type 304 and is often used in budget-conscious projects. However, it is not as durable or corrosion-resistant as the other types.
Type 201: This is a type of Austenitic stainless steel that contains 16-18% chromium, 3.5-5.5% nickel, and a small amount of manganese. This type of steel is less expensive than type 304 and is often used in applications where cost is a major consideration.
It is important to note that the type of steel used in a stainless steel work table can affect the table’s overall durability, resistance to corrosion and rust, and cost. When selecting a steel work table, it is important to consider the specific requirements of your application and choose the type of steel that best meets those needs.
Understanding Metal Gauge
The gauge of metal used in a stainless steel table refers to the thickness of the steel. The lower the gauge number, the thicker the steel. Common gauges used for steel tables include:
16 gauge: This is a common gauge used for commercial-grade stainless steel prep tables. It is a good balance of strength and cost and is suitable for most applications.
18 gauge: This gauge is slightly thinner than 16 gauge and is often used in budget-conscious projects. It is still suitable for most applications, but may not be as durable as 16 gauge.
14 gauge: This is thicker than 16 gauge and is often used in heavy-duty applications where the table will be exposed to heavy use or heavy equipment.
20 gauge: This gauge is thinner than 18 gauge and is best suited for light-duty applications.
It is important to note that thicker gauges of steel will generally be more durable and resistant to warping and dents, but they are also more expensive. Therefore, it’s important to take into consideration the specific requirements of your application and choose the gauge that best meets those needs.
When purchasing a stainless steel prep table, it’s also important to check that the table is made from a single sheet of steel for added strength and durability.
Also, it is important to consider the overall weight capacity of the table, which can vary depending on the gauge of steel used in the construction. It’s always best to choose a table with a weight capacity that exceeds your needs to ensure that the table can withstand heavy use.
Types of steel prep tables
Flat Top: This type of table features a flat top surface and is often used in commercial kitchens for food preparation. They are typically made from durable stainless steel and are designed to be easy to clean and maintain. They can come with or without an adjustable undershelf for storing equipment and supplies.
Stainless steel table with backsplash: Ideal for wet environments, this table includes a rear backsplash to protect walls from spills and splashes in commercial kitchens. This type of table features a backsplash that helps protect walls from spills and splashes. It is ideal for use in commercial kitchens and other industrial settings where the table may be exposed to liquids. They are typically made from durable stainless steel and are designed to be easy to clean and maintain. They can come with or without an adjustable undershelf for storing equipment and supplies.
Stainless steel open base table: Designed for easy cleaning and open access below, this type is lightweight and perfect for kitchens with frequent sanitation routines. This type of stainless steel tables features open legs or supports instead of a full cabinet base. The open base design allows for easy cleaning and improved access to the area underneath the table, making it a great option for commercial kitchens and other industrial settings where sanitation is important. They also provide more space for storing supplies and equipment. The open base tables are typically made from durable stainless steel and are designed to be easy to clean and maintain. They can come with or without an adjustable undershelf for storing equipment and supplies. The open base design allows for a more visually open and airy space, giving the room a more spacious feel. They are also more lightweight than the enclosed base work tables, making them easier to move around.
Mobile stainless steel table: This table comes with durable casters for easy movement. Great for dynamic workspaces where flexibility is key.A mobile stainless steel table with casters is a type of work table that features wheels or casters, which allow it to be easily moved around a room or facility. This makes it a great option for commercial kitchens and other industrial settings where flexibility and mobility are important. The casters are typically made of durable materials such as rubber or polyurethane which provide smooth rolling and can handle heavy loads. These tables are typically made from durable stainless steel and are designed to be easy to clean and maintain. They can come with or without an adjustable undershelf for storing equipment and supplies. Some models also come with brakes on the casters to keep the table securely in place when it is not in motion. They are great for kitchens, laboratories, and other industrial settings, allowing users to easily move the table to different areas of the facility as needed. They are also useful for facilities where space is limited, as they can be easily stored when not in use.
Drawers or Cabinets: This type of table features built-in drawers or cabinets that provide extra storage space for tools and supplies. This makes it ideal for use in commercial kitchens and other industrial settings where space is limited. They are typically made from durable stainless steel and are designed to be easy to clean and maintain. They can come with or without an adjustable undershelf for storing equipment and supplies.