We all know that having clean surfaces is essential in food production environments but why choose stainless steel production equipment over, say, plastic??
There are many areas to consider as it is not simply the contact surfaces, but also different parts, from bearings to drive elements that should be manufactured utilizing excessive grade stainless steel meaning any concerns pertaining to inside corrosion or contamination can be laid to rest. And you can be assured of complete sanitation.
Although there are several metals available, the food industry utilises Stainless Steel for the construction of almost all food processing and storage equipment. Various grades of stainless steel such as 304, 316, 409, and 439 are used for manufacturing, bulk storage, transportation, preparation, and presentation applications.
Why Stainless Steel?
High strength, easy of welding and forming alongside excellent heat resistant properties are some among the several advantages of stainless steel. It also prevents contamination and maintains freshness of food items while allowing for easy cleaning, thus preventing any growth of dirt, grime, or bacteria. Stainless steel is also suitable for handling food items containing spicy ingredients and strong colouring agents as it is neutral to food items; hence the smell, taste and colour of the item handled remain unchanged. It provides chemical and bacteriological neutrality with regard to food products.
Including these benefits stainless steel can also withstand denting, nicking, and scratching even in aggressive operating conditions, it can withstand shock and abrasion and is durable so provides resistance to corrosion and aging. Stainless steel can withstand heavy wash-downs using chemicals or other detergents, possess excellent cryogenic properties, is fire resistant and does not crack, break or pit easily. Finally it can blend perfectly with other fixtures and finishes.
Stainless Steel Applications
These food grade metals are extensively used in the fabrication of:
- Professional Knives and Spatulas
- Evaporator tubes
- Gastronome Trays
- Flour Silos
- Syrup tanks
- Butchers Blocks (frames and splashbacks)
- Conveyor Systems
- Bar Mans Outside Table
- Double wall food transport container
- Smoking & Cooking Trolleys
- Tanks for low-fat milk
- Gastronome trolleys
- Food mixers
- Mobile barbecue tables
- Peeling machine
- Food pulveriser
- Catering Tables
- Confectionery equipment
- Industrial ovens
While plastics and wood also have their uses in many of these applications the versatility and ease of use of stainless steel means that you will get far more longevity from your stainless steel production equipment and will help to ensure a bacteria free environment for years to come.