Food Service

In the food service industry, the most commonly used stainless steel grades are:

1. 304 (also known as 18/8): This is the most common grade and is used for many applications in the food service industry. It is corrosion-resistant and has good strength properties.
2. 316 (also known as 18/10): This grade contains higher levels of nickel and molybdenum, making it more resistant to corrosion and staining. It is often used in marine environments and in high-end kitchens.
3. 430: This grade is often used for decorative applications and is less expensive than the other grades. It is not as corrosion-resistant as 304 or 316, but it still has good durability and strength.

It’s important to note that food-grade stainless steel should also comply with relevant food safety regulations, such as those set by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and European Union (EU).

Stainless steel is a versatile material that is widely used in the food service industry, in a variety of products including:

1. Kitchen equipment: ovens, ranges, fryers, refrigerators, freezers, dishwashers, etc.
2. Preparation equipment: sinks, countertops, work tables, cutting boards, etc.
3. Serving equipment: trays, platters, chafing dishes, etc.
4. Cooking utensils: pots, pans, skillets, spatulas, tongs, etc.
5. Storage containers: canisters, food pans, food bins, etc.
6. Food processing equipment: mixers, grinders, slicers, etc.
7. Drink dispensers: coffee urns, juice dispensers, etc.
8. Tableware: flatware, serving utensils, plates, etc.

These products are made from stainless steel because of its durability, resistance to corrosion and staining, and ease of cleaning, which makes it ideal for use in food service.

In the food service industry, the following fabrication services are commonly done to stainless steel to prepare the metal:

1. Cutting: This involves using a saw, laser, or water jet to cut the metal into the desired shape and size.
2. Bending: This involves using a press brake or a manual bender to form the metal into curves or angles.
3. Forming: This involves using a hydraulic press or a metal spinning lathe to shape the metal into a specific form, such as a sink basin or a tray.
4. Punching and Piercing: This involves using a punch press to create holes, slots, or other shapes in the metal.
5. Welding: This involves joining two pieces of metal by heating them to the melting point and fusing them together.
6. Polishing: This involves smoothing the surface of the metal to create a high-quality finish.

These services are performed by skilled metal fabricators, who use specialized equipment and techniques to create products that meet the specific requirements of the food service industry. The resulting products are durable, hygienic, and functional, making them ideal for use in kitchens and food service environments.