Steel Workbenches
Steel workbenches only organize but also protect equipment, creating safe and secure housing structures. Known for its durability and high tensile strength, steel is a popular option for industrial workstations as it provides a sturdy and stable structure. The use of steel and stainless steel is particularly pertinent to harsh industrial environments as it increases product longevity as a result of high wear and corrosion resistance. Additionally, high grade steel and stainless steel is very hygienic and easily sanitized making it ideal for food processing workbenches. Chemical processing, woodworking, metalworking and industries also use variable forms of metal workbenches in manufacturing plants, warehouses, assembly lines and clean rooms. While some workbenches have a metal frame with wood or plastic surfaces and components, others are made entirely of metal. The selection depends upon the intended use for a given unit.
Steel is comprised mostly of iron with variable carbon contents as well as additional metallic elements such as manganese, chromium, nickel, copper, tungsten and cobalt. Differeing alloys have differing properties and should be carefully considered with regards to the weight bearing and wear resistance of a specific metal workbench. Once an alloy has been blended, several processes such as die-cutting, extrusion, injection molding, stamping, metal spinning, hot and cold rolling and powder metallurgy are used to produce the steel plates, sheets, tubes, rods and other stock shapes used to construct workbenches. Bolts, screws and welding are used to assemble these stock forms into a functional workstation. Workbench suppliers often offer standard or custom benches that can be delivered pre-assembled or with some assembly still required. Modular workstations come partially assembled but are easily reconfigured to suit changing spatial and storage needs. These steel workbenches are designed to balance ergonomics, organization and productivity creating the safest and most efficient workstation possible. The thickness, or gauge, of steel components is an important consideration concerning spatial restraints as well as necessary weight bearing capabilities when selecting the proper steel workbench as it must be able to conform to a work area and support valuable equipment. Additionally, finishes such as galvanization, powder coating and painting can significantly impact the strength, surface texture and corrosion resistance of a steel workbench.
