Choosing the correct stainless steel grade is one of the most important decisions when planning or upgrading a commercial kitchen. A wrong decision can lead to rusting, equipment failure, and unexpected replacement costs. In the UAE, humidity and salty climate make material selection even more critical, especially for restaurants, hotels, industrial kitchens, bakeries, and catering facilities.
Most professionals prefer using SS 304 for standard kitchen fabrication and SS 316 for washing and moisture-heavy zones. This helps maintain hygiene, durability, and long-term reliability.
What is Stainless Steel 304?
Stainless Steel 304 is a widely used food-grade steel that contains 18 percent chromium and 8 percent nickel. It is strong, hygienic, easy to clean, and suitable for everyday kitchen usage. SS 304 is used in most restaurant and commercial kitchen fabrication work.
Best Uses of SS 304 in Commercial Kitchens
SS 304 is recommended for:
- Work preparation tables
- Storage racks and shelving
- Service counters and food display counters
- Cabinets and wall shelves
- Hood and duct systems
- General fabrication structures
What is Stainless Steel 316?
Stainless Steel 316 contains molybdenum, which increases corrosion resistance and makes it ideal for high-moisture environments. This steel grade performs extremely well in areas exposed to chemicals, saltwater, steam, and continuous washing.
Best Uses of SS 316 in Commercial Kitchens
SS 316 is recommended for:
- Sink units and dishwashing areas
- Pot wash units and drainage systems
- Steam cooking zones and boiling sections
- Cold rooms, seafood processing, and ice cream sections
- Coastal hotels, ships, and marine kitchens
SS 304 vs SS 316: Key Differences
Both grades are food safe and suitable for commercial kitchens, but they perform differently depending on the environment. SS 316 provides superior corrosion resistance whereas SS 304 offers more cost efficiency. SS 316 is preferred in areas where water, salt, and chemicals are used frequently.
Which Stainless Steel is Best for Commercial Kitchens in UAE?
For most commercial kitchens in the UAE, the recommended choice is to use a combination of both grades:
- SS 304 for dry preparation, storage, and food handling surfaces
- SS 316 for wet and high-moisture areas such as dishwashing and seafood sections
This solution ensures long-term durability, safety, and budget control.
SS 304 vs SS 316 Comparison
| Feature | SS 304 | SS 316 |
|---|---|---|
| Corrosion Resistance | Good | Excellent |
| Moisture & Salt Resistance | Medium | Very High |
| Durability | Strong | Stronger |
| Cost | More Affordable | Higher |
| Chemical Resistance | Moderate | Excellent |
| Contains Molybdenum | No | Yes |
| Recommended Use Areas | General kitchen fabrication | Wet, salty, coastal and chemical exposure |
| Food Safety | Food grade | Food grade (higher standard) |
Recommended Usage Based on Kitchen Zone
| Commercial Kitchen Area | Recommended Steel Grade |
|---|---|
| Food Preparation Area | SS 304 |
| Work Tables & Storage Shelves | SS 304 |
| Hot Line / Cooking Line | SS 304 or SS 316 |
| Sink Units / Dishwash Section | SS 316 |
| Pot Wash & Drainage | SS 316 |
| Seafood & Meat Processing | SS 316 |
| Cold Room & Ice Cream Section | SS 316 |
| Marine & Coastal Restaurants | SS 316 |
| Bakery & Pastry Section | SS 304 |
| Exhaust Hood & Ducting | SS 304 |
Why Choose Dar Al Kanz Fabrication & Welding LLC
Dar Al Kanz Fabrication & Welding LLC manufactures and installs premium stainless steel commercial kitchen equipment across the UAE. Our fabrication uses only SS 304 and SS 316 materials. No lower-grade or mixed metals. We design based on HACCP food safety standards.
We Manufacture and Supply
- Work tables, sinks, wall shelves, and cabinets
- Hood and duct systems
- Bain marie and service counters
- Shawarma, tandoor, and grill counters
- Refrigeration counter bodies
- Bakery and pastry fabrication
- Custom stainless steel fabrication for any kitchen requirement
Locations We Serve
Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah, Umm al Quwain, Fujairah, Al Ain
Contact: +971 55 601 0012
Dar Al Kanz Fabrication & Welding LLC
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SS 316 worth the higher price?
Yes. In wet areas and coastal conditions, SS 316 prevents rusting and increases the life of equipment.
Can SS 304 and SS 316 be used together?
Yes, it is common and recommended. Many HACCP-certified kitchens use both grades for better performance and controlled cost.
Which grade is food safe?
Both SS 304 and SS 316 are certified food-grade stainless steel and suitable for commercial kitchens.
What causes stainless steel to rust?
Low-quality steel, chemical exposure, and poor maintenance can cause corrosion. Using SS 316 prevents this in wet conditions.
Final Words
Selecting the correct stainless steel grade is essential for long-term kitchen performance and hygiene. For most commercial kitchens, SS 304 works perfectly for general use, while SS 316 is the best choice for areas constantly exposed to water, steam, and cleaning chemicals. Choosing the right combination ensures durability, food safety, and cost savings.
If you need custom-designed stainless steel commercial kitchen equipment built to last, Dar Al Kanz Fabrication & Welding LLC is ready to support with professional fabrication services across the UAE.
Contact Today: +971 55 601 0012