Stainless Steel Guide

• Higher shine.
• Heavier duty steel than 430.
• Less likely to rust.
• Can withstand corrosive elements found in cleaning products, and acidic foods (found in fruits, meats and dairy and such).
• Often used in standard and premium sinks, tables.

Note: The gauge of the stainless steel and the type of edge the table has will vary the price point.

• Gray in color.
• Less expensive due to the smaller amount of nickel used to produce it.
• Prone to rust and discoloration, however shine will return when product is cleaned properly.
• Often used in super saver model sinks and tables.

Note: Price points are more economical.

• The gauge measurement refers to the thickness of the sheet metal used to make that unit.
• Measured numerically.

Note: As the number increases, the thickness decreases. For example: a 14 gauge table is thicker than a 16 gauge table.

• Looks darker and rougher than stainless steel, and won't have the same polished or brushed finish look as stainless steel.
• A zinc coating seals and protects the steel.
• It is fairly rust-resistant, but will corrode and show wear and tear over time.
• Cost of units are less than stainless steel.

Note: Health codes vary, please check with your local department for regulations regarding the use of galvanized vs. stainless steel.

• First number = amount of chromium contained in the stainless, so 18 is 18% chromium.
• Second number = amount of nickel, so, 8 stands for 8% nickel.
• 18/8 stainless steel is 18% chromium and 8% nickel.
• 18/10 is 18% chromium and 10% nickel.

Note: Higher the number, the more corrosion resistant the material.

• When there is zero (0) nickel, the stainless grade family is of the “400 series”. (The material will be magnetic, but not as corrosion resistant as the 300 series.)
• When there is nickel in the make-up of the stainless steel, it is part of the “300 series” stainless. (It will not be magnetic, but is more corrosion resistant.)

Note: Stainless flatware made of 18/8 will not catch in a magnetic flatware catcher. The less durable 18/0 will catch since it is magnetic.