THE TYPES OF STAINLESS STEEL

20 gauge, 18-8 stainless steel, Type 302

A good quality steel with 18% chromium and 8% nickel content. This type of stainless steel is typically
used for sinks that are 8" deep or less. Type 302 is stronger than Type 304 and has superior deep
draw features. It is common on 20 gauge (thinner material) products because of these features. Both
types have similar corrosion resistance properties.
18 gauge, 18-10 stainless steel, Type 304
A heavier weight stainless with 18% chromium, and 10% nickel. This type of stainless steel results in
the ability to draw a deeper sink bowl. Type 304 stainless steel has similar corrosion resistance
properties to Type 302.
14 and 16 gauge stainless steel
Most often used in fabrication of institutional sinks such as kitchen sculleries, wallmount washup sinks,
mop and service sinks. Franke Commercial Systems Vandal-Resistant Securityware products are
fabricated from heavy duty 14 gauge stainless steel for the utmost in durability.
Type 316 stainless steel
A corrosion resistant steel, and is intended for applications such as labs where acids and other
corrosive materials are present.
BOWL FINISHES
Bowl finishes on Franke Commercial Systems product range from brush to satin. A brush finish,
typically found on vanity basin bowls is easy to clean and has a soft luster. A satin finish is somewhat
more aggressive, with a definite grain line. This type of finish is practical, particularly in a heavy use
application, as any scratches may be blended into the grain line.
DECK FINISHES
Franke Commercial Systems products have two distinct finishes by product type.
Our vanity basins have a mirror deck finish, which is very bright and shiny. This finish is the most
common on faucets and soap dispensers used in public washrooms.
All of our other commercial products have a satin finish deck, which will stand up to the rigors of time
and repeated use, and the natural grain of the steel will disguise any scratches acquired from use.

Franke Kindred Canada Ltd., 1000 Franke Kindred Road, Midland, ON L4R 4K9 Canada
1-855-446-5663
www.franke-commercial.com