Corrosion on metals is everywhere. We recognize it quickly on iron and steel as unsightly yellow/orange rust. Such metals are called “active” because they actively corrode in the natural environment. Stainless steels are passive metals because they contain other metals, like chromium and nickel. 400 series stainless steels contain chromium while 300 sereis contain both chromium and nickel. Metals are crystalline solids made up in atom arrangements like tinker toys. With 20-30% chromium, an invisible passive film covers the steel’s surface, acting as a shield against corrosion. The metal becomes “passive towards corrosion. Click here to view our Stainlesss Steel Care Guide!

Galvanized is a mild steel with a zinc coating to prevent corrosion. It's cheaper but it doesn't look as pretty, which is an issue for consultants, and it's also not as durable in the longterm as stainless. Think about an old fence. It does a great job preventing rust as long as the coating does not get rubbed off and expose the steel underneath. End users typically like to use it for storage areas like undershelves as well as legs, where the coating is less likely to be rubbed off. In the end, it's a trade-off. The price point is attractive but many people want the look and durability of stainless steel.

Corrosion:
430 grade stainless steel provides resistance to corrosion but not as resistant as 304 series steel.
304 grade stainless steel provides more corrosion resistance due to the addition of nickel to the alloy.

Magnetic:
430 grade stainless steel is magnetic. Grade 304 stainless steel is not. It is common to manufature enclosed base cabinets from 430 steel to allow magnetic door latching.

Food Service Industry Grade Steel:
304 grade stainless steel is also known as food-grade stainless steel because it is often used to create the hygienic surfaces needed in the food and beverage industry.

430 and 304 grades of stainless steel are the most common grades of stainless steel. Both offer a durable iron alloy that can resist rust and corrosion. Typically, however, grade 304 provides more corrosion resistance and provides a greater longevity than grade 430.

Sheet metal gauge indicates the standard thickness of sheet metal for a specific material. As the gauge number increases, the material thickness decreases. 14 gauge is more "heavy duty" versus 18 gauge, which is more "economical".

Deep Drawn Sink Bowls are seamless. They are die formed from a single sheet of steel. Bowls have 3-1/2" radius corners and no welded seams, which offers a less chance of leaking over time. Fabricated Sink Bowls can be customized to different sizes. Bowls have 3/4" radius corners and welded seams.

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