Double-pass workbench kitchen operating tables are widely used in catering, food processing, and laboratories due to their corrosion resistance and easy cleaning properties. The core of their surface rust prevention process lies in the synergy of material selection, surface treatment, and daily maintenance to create a multi-layered protection system to withstand the challenges of moisture, acidic and alkaline substances, and mechanical wear in the kitchen environment.
Material selection is the foundation of rust prevention. Double-pass workbench kitchen operating tables are typically made of 304 or 316 stainless steel. 304 stainless steel contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel, forming a dense oxide film that effectively protects against air, water vapor, and weak corrosive media. 316 stainless steel, with an additional 2% molybdenum, significantly improves its resistance to chloride ion corrosion, making it more suitable for coastal areas or high-salt spray environments. Regarding material thickness, workbench tops are generally kept between 1.2mm and 2.0mm to ensure structural strength while avoiding localized stress concentrations that can cause rust due to excessive thinness.
Surface treatment directly impacts rust prevention effectiveness. Mechanical polishing uses a grinding wheel or polishing paste to remove surface oxide layers and impurities, creating a smooth, mirror-like surface and reducing dirt adhesion. However, polishing pressure must be controlled to avoid excessive damage to the metal's crystal structure. Chemical passivation uses nitric acid or citric acid solutions to promote the growth of a thicker chromium oxide layer on the surface, improving corrosion resistance and making it particularly suitable for food industry equipment. Electrolytic polishing utilizes electrochemical principles to selectively dissolve microscopic protrusions, resulting in an ultra-smooth surface while enhancing the density of the passivation film. It is suitable for precision instruments and applications requiring high hygiene standards. For outdoor or humid environments, epoxy resin or zinc coating can also be applied to create a physical barrier. However, the coating's integrity must be regularly inspected to prevent mechanical wear and tear that could lead to protection failure.
Welding and polishing are key steps in rust prevention. Double-pass workbench kitchen operating tables require welding using low-temperature techniques such as argon arc welding to control heat input and avoid intergranular corrosion caused by high temperatures. Weld seams should be polished to remove weld scale and microcracks, which can become corrosion starting points. The welds around the bottom bracket and reinforcement brace must also ensure smoothness to prevent water accumulation and localized rust. After polishing, some worktops are brushed or matte-finished to enhance aesthetics, reduce fingerprints and scratches, and make cleaning easier.
Edge treatment is also crucial. Worktop edges typically feature a folded or hemmed design, creating a smooth transition to avoid sharp corners and reduce metal peeling caused by impact during use. The hem height is typically between 38mm and 50mm, ensuring structural strength and facilitating cleaning. Hemming, with stainless steel strips, covers the edges, creating a continuous protective layer to prevent moisture from penetrating the joints between the countertop and bracket.
Daily maintenance is crucial to extending the rust-proofing period. After use, wipe the countertop promptly with a neutral detergent and a soft cloth to avoid pitting caused by chlorine residue. For stubborn stains, a professional stainless steel cleaner can be used, but it must be rinsed thoroughly. It is recommended to use a cutting board when cutting vegetables to avoid direct scratches from knives. When placing hot pots, use a heat-insulating pad to prevent the high temperature from damaging the passivation film. The storage environment should be dry and well-ventilated, and different metal utensils should be stored separately to prevent electrochemical corrosion.
If rust spots are discovered during long-term use, they should be promptly treated. For mild rust, use Branno Corrofluid Rust Remover, which selectively reacts only with rust, sparing uncorroded areas. After treatment, rinse thoroughly with clean water and repassivate. For severely rusted areas, it is recommended to contact a professional repair technician for mechanical polishing or localized repair welding to restore protective properties.
Through the synergistic effects of material selection, surface treatment, weld polishing, edge design, and routine maintenance, a double-pass workbench kitchen operating table provides a comprehensive rust-proof system. This system not only protects against moisture, acid and alkali, and mechanical wear in the kitchen environment, but also maintains long-term aesthetics and functionality through regular maintenance, providing a reliable operating platform for the catering and food processing industries.
