It's just a work table, right? Sure, but there are several factors to consider when buying stainless steel tables.
How much use will the table get?
The usage will help to determine the gauge of steel to purchase. Standard options are 14, 16 and 18 gauge with 14 being the thickest and 18 being the thinnest. Of course, 14 gauge is the most expensive as well. If you're planning to dump heavy items on it consistently, 14 gauge is probably the way to go. If you'll only be doing light prep, 18 gauge might 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, you would obviously 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 the table to last?
This is where the type of stainless steel comes into play and there are two main options. 304 stainless steel is a higher quality and contains approximately 18% chromium and 0.08% carbon. 430 stainless steel is lower quality, generally more difficult to bend and has approximately 17% chromium and 0.12% carbon. 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.
Do you need any modifications or upgrades?
Stainless steel tables are extremely versatile in their potential configurations. Vendors like Advance Tabco offer standard modifications include a backsplash, drop-in sink, single or double overshelves, casters, stainless steel legs or undershelf versus galvanized and drawers. All are available and all have cost-implications of course but can also save significant labor costs during prep and service.
The best, and most expensive, stainless steel table you can get is 14 gauge, type 304 stainless steel since it is the thickest and most resistant to corrosion. On the flip side, 18 gauge, type 430 stainless steel, is the least expensive but most susceptible to dents and corrosion. Next time you're in the market for new table, think about what will work best for your operation and know the possibilities are endless.
Thanks for all the great feedback! The plate is on order for pickup on Friday.
The rest of the story is that my Dad (turning 80 in two weeks) tore apart a wood cabinet while cleaning out his barn about three weeks ago and found a very substantial (~ 100 pounds) steel frame inside. He thought it would a great base for a welding table and gave it to me. The frame needs to be reconfigured quite a bit, but I took it thinking that this would be about 17 projects down the list as I'm still trying to finish the inside of the garage two years after construction. (The last thing I did in there was spread some drywall mud back in February. I'm hoping to sand it off by Christmas.) Two days later Dad calls up an old friend at a steel fabrication company and scoped out the table top. Countersinking screws into the top was his idea as he was a carpenter by trade. I'm going to blame you guys for shooting down his idea! He is all excited about this project and given his age and the fact that I haven't done any projects with him since last winter, I'm getting fired up too and am going to make this happen soon!! Wish us luck as it's been 35 years since I last welded and he never has!!
For more Pp Chair Manufacturers, Design Master Dining Chairs, White Plastic Lawn Chairsinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.