What is stainless steel? Stainless steel is a common name for chromium-iron alloys containing at least 12% chromium. Such alloys develop a chromium rich oxide film which give the steel its anti-corrosive properties. The type of stainless steel used in kitchens and bathrooms is 'Austenitic', which also contains at least 8% nickel. Where higher corrosion resistance is required (for example in laboratories), molybdenum is also added. Does stainless steel scratch? Stainless steel is suceptible to scratching. Over time the stainless steel surface will superficially scratch and mark to form a 'patina' which becomes a feature of the surface. These marks are purely superficial. Because we use stainless steel that is of a satin finish superficial marks will 'blend-in' and become less noticable over time. Is stainless steel durable? Stainless steel offers the ultimate in durability. It is resistant to heat and cold and will normally last for 'a lifetime' - meaning literally, decades. This means that, over the lifetime of the product, its cost is very low. Also, due to this durability, it is possible for the stainless steel surface to remain totally hygienic over its lifetime. Is stainless steel hygienic? Stainless steel offers a totally hygienic surface which is the reason why it is standard to commercial kitchens and other environments where hygiene is paramount. This is no bad thing when stainless steel products are selected for other reasons (versitility, durability, good looks), in less sensitive areas. Is stainless steel expensive? Stainless steel is not expensive when the lifetime cost of the product is examined. Typically, the stainless steel product will outlast the alternative many times over. Low maintenance costs (either in the form of cost of repair or cost or replacement) mean that stainless steel is very economical over time. How do I clean stainless steel? A number of 'specialist' stainless steel cleaners are now available but Bespoke Caterquip recommend the use of 'Jif' cleaner or baby oil. Which stainless steel finishes are available? Bespoke Caterquip offers two finishes: Bespoke Caterquip Satin Finish is plain, 'brushed' finish that, nevertheless retains an beautiful 'lustre'. Bespoke Caterquip Textured Finish is optionally available. This is a useful and attractive alternative which is resistant to scratches and marks, yet still totally hygienic. Is polished stainless steel available? Bespoke Caterquip do not use polished stainless steel due to the impracticality of the polished finish. Polished stainless steel is very hard to keep clean and marks and scratches very easily. This is why Bespoke Caterquip use their Satin Finish stainless steel as standard. Which grade of stainless steel? Bespoke Caterquip offers two basic grades of stainless steel: Domestic Grade: SIS 2333 (otherwise known as AISI 304 or 18/8 grade). Acid Resisting Grade: SIS 2343 (otherwise known as AISI 316 / 319 or 18/12 grade). The grade of stainless steel refers to its composition. Domestic Grade is normally used for sinks and worktops, individual bowls, cabinets and shelving. Acid Resisting Grade is normally used for sanitary appliances. What gauge of stainless steel? Gauge (thickness) depends on product. Normally selection of guage is left to our factory and is dependent upon size and nature of the product. Bespoke Caterquip uses three main thicknesses: 1.00 mm approximates to 19 s.w.g. (standard wire guage) 1.25 mm approximates to 18 s.w.g. 1.50 mm approximates to 16 s.w.g. 2.00 mm approximates to 14 s.w.g. How are worktops joined? Normally, when joins between tops are required, a 'butt-joint' is recommended. Tops are simply butted together and sealed with a clear mastic joint. What is the minimum space required between bowls? Minimum recommended distance between individual bowls placed within stainless steel sinktop surface is 200 mm. (The theoretical minimum is 20 mm but this is not recommended as the quality of welding around sink bowls is compromised). How are stainless steel splashbacks fixed? Stainless steel splashbacks are normally screw-fixed or bonded using a contact adhesive such as Evostick or with an alternative such as 'Gripfix'. How do I obtain a quotation from Bespoke Caterquip? Send a sketch / drawing marked for the attention of 'Sales' showing size, shape, edge details and bowl / cut-out requirements. Contact Bespoke Caterquip. How do I order from Bespoke Caterquip? Normally, a quotation would be prepared against your specific requirements. Upon your written instructions to proceed, Bespoke Caterquip will place your order into production. The order will be acknowledged shortly afterwards. Do Bespoke Caterquip deliver? Bespoke Caterquip will deliver direct to site, anywhere, Nation wide. What is the normal delivery time? Specials: 1-2 working weeks from receipt of all relevant dimesions and details. Standard Products 10 days or less. We can also work to tight deadlines if required.
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