Steam Table Pan Gauges: Which One?

Steam table pans, also known as hotel pans, are used in the catering and restaurant industries to store, hold, transport and serve food. They come in a variety of sizes, depths and materials, but the standard size is 20 3/4 x 12 3/4. The gauge of a steam table pan refers to the thickness of the pan, with a lower number indicating a thicker pan. The standard gauge for foodservice is 22, but thinner and thicker gauges are available. Thicker gauges are more suitable for heavy-duty use, while thinner gauges are more economical and suitable for lower-volume kitchens.

Steam table pans are available in various sizes, from full-size to ninth-size

Steam table pans, also known as hotel pans, are used for serving and warming food. They are available in various sizes, from full-size to ninth-size, and are commonly used in steam tables (hot food tables) and buffet stations. The size of the pan is important as it determines how much food can be served and warmed at once.

A full-size pan, typically measuring 12 inches by 20 inches, is often used for cooking large batches and serving popular items such as fried chicken, burgers, and salad greens. It takes up an entire section in a steam table, either vertically or horizontally. Smaller pans, such as the two-thirds, half, third, quarter, sixth, and ninth pans, can be used in combination to fill the same space as a full-size pan, allowing for a variety of food options.

The two-thirds pan, measuring roughly 12 inches by 13 and a third inches, can be paired with a third-size pan or other smaller pans. The half pan, measuring about 12 inches by 10 inches, is commonly used for side dishes, salad toppings, and smaller entrées. The third pan, measuring 12 inches by 6 and two-thirds inches, is suitable for serving side dishes on hot food bars, with three of them fitting in a full-size cutout.

The quarter pan, with dimensions of 6 inches by 10 inches, is often used for holding side dishes and salad toppings, with four of them fitting in the space of a full-size pan. The sixth pan, measuring 6 inches by 6 and two-thirds inches, is commonly used for soups, dressings, and salad toppings, and is a popular choice for salad and sandwich prep tables. The smallest of the standard steam table pan sizes is the ninth pan, measuring 4 inches by 6 and two-thirds inches, which is used for holding small quantities of seasonings, spices, garnishes, toppings, and condiments.

In addition to the standard sizes, steam table pans also come in different depths, typically ranging from 1 inch to 8 inches, which further affects their capacity and suitability for different foods.

The standard gauge for foodservice is 22, but thicker and thinner options are available

When it comes to steam table pans, the gauge of the stainless steel used to craft the pan is an important consideration. The gauge indicates the thickness of the pan, with a lower number indicating a thicker pan. The standard gauge for foodservice is 22, but thicker and thinner options are available.

A thicker gauge, ranging from 20 to 22, is ideal for commercial kitchens that require durable and long-lasting equipment. These pans are less susceptible to denting, warping, and dinging, making them perfect for daily use. They are also suitable for those seeking a more even heat distribution. However, they come at a higher price point and take longer to heat up due to their thickness.

On the other hand, a thinner gauge, ranging from 23 to 25, is more suitable for lower volume kitchens that don't require heavy-duty use. These pans are more economical and lightweight, resulting in faster heating times. However, the trade-off is that they are more prone to damage and may not retain heat for extended periods.

The choice between a thicker or thinner gauge depends on the specific needs of your kitchen and the intended use of the pans. Thicker gauges are ideal for high-volume and commercial settings, while thinner gauges can be sufficient for lower volume and non-commercial uses. It's important to consider the balance between durability, performance, and cost when selecting the appropriate gauge for your steam table pans.

Additionally, it's worth noting that the gauge of a steam table pan can impact its compatibility with certain equipment. For example, a thicker pan may not fit properly in a standard oven or storage space, while a thinner pan might not provide the desired heat retention for specific dishes. Therefore, it's crucial to take into account the specific dimensions and requirements of your kitchen setup when making a decision.

Thicker gauges are ideal for daily use in commercial kitchens

Thicker gauges are made from lower-gauge steel, which is heavier and sturdier than higher-gauge steel. This makes them ideal for commercial kitchens that require durability and longevity from their equipment. Additionally, thicker gauges are less likely to have bent edges and mangled corners, which can detract from food presentation.

Thicker-gauge steam table pans are designed for heavy-duty use and can withstand the demands of a commercial kitchen. They are perfect for high-volume foodservice establishments, providing superior performance and a cost-saving design. For example, Vollrath offers a range of hotel pans made from 22-gauge to 20-gauge steel, with a lifetime warranty included.

The thicker steel of these pans also means they are less likely to deform, which can impact energy costs and the lifespan of kitchen equipment. Thicker gauges are a worthwhile investment for any commercial kitchen seeking efficiency, durability, and high-quality food presentation.

Thinner gauges are more suitable for lower-volume kitchens and have a lower price point

When it comes to choosing the right steam table pans, also known as hotel pans, for your kitchen, there are several factors to consider, including size, material, and gauge. While the standard gauge for food service is 22, thinner gauges ranging from 23 to 25 are also available and offer their own set of advantages.

Thinner gauges are ideal for lower-volume kitchens that don't require heavy-duty use of their steam pans. These pans are perfect for occasional use and can be a more economical option for those looking to save on costs without compromising on functionality. Thinner pans are also a good choice for caterers who need to transport pans from an offsite kitchen to a serving location, as they are lighter and easier to carry.

While thinner gauges may not have the same longevity as their thicker counterparts, they can still be a durable and reliable option for kitchens with lower production demands. Additionally, their lower price point makes them a cost-effective solution for those working with limited budgets. Thinner pans also allow for more flexibility in terms of configuration, as they are often available in a variety of sizes and shapes, allowing you to mix and match to create the perfect setup for your kitchen.

It's important to note that thinner gauges may not be suitable for daily use in a commercial kitchen, as they may not offer the same level of durability as thicker gauges when it comes to withstanding dents, warping, and dinging. However, for kitchens with lower volume operations, thinner gauges can be a practical and affordable choice.

Steam table pans are made from a variety of materials, including stainless steel and plastic

Steam table pans, also known as hotel pans, are used for serving and warming food. They are popular in the catering and restaurant industries as they can go from refrigerator to prep line to holding cabinet and finally to the serving line. They are available in a variety of materials, the most common being stainless steel and plastic.

Stainless Steel Steam Table Pans

Stainless steel steam table pans are ideal for keeping food warm. They are commonly used in steam tables, both with and without water, making them a popular choice for commercial kitchens. They come in various gauges, with the standard gauge for foodservice being 22. Thicker gauges (20-22) are suitable for heavy-duty use and daily use in a commercial kitchen, while thinner gauges (23-25) work well in lower-volume kitchens.

Plastic Steam Table Pans

Plastic steam table pans are versatile and can handle a wide range of temperatures. They are often made of materials like polycarbonate, polypropylene, or high-heat plastic. There are two main types of plastic food pans: hot food pans and cold food pans. High-heat plastic pans can be heated in microwaves and used in steam tables, while polycarbonate pans are ideal for cold food storage and refrigerated buffet displays.

Other Materials

While stainless steel and plastic are the most common materials, steam table pans can also be made from melamine and aluminum. Melamine pans are perfect for display in buffets and family-style dining as they are resistant to staining, chipping, and cracking. Aluminum pans are similar to stainless steel pans but with the added benefit of a non-stick coating.

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