Custom steel countertops fall towards the higher end of the spectrum (around $140 to $235 per square foot ). Most homeowners end up spending an average of $750 per square foot , and prefab options are typically more affordable. Stainless Steel Countertops Cost Breakdown Size and material are the largest factors impacting the cost of your countertop installation. Steel countertops are on the pricier side compared to other materials like laminate. Many homeowners find the cost worth it, but it depends on your needs and preferences.

The modular training for "Composite Engineer" bundles the competencies of Fraunhofer Lightweight Construction Alliance in FVW. Participants in this course will be trained by experts working in current research in the various topics relevant to FVW. This ensures a direct transfer of knowledge and technology. The module Sustainable Production Systems takes place at Fraunhofer IGCV in Augsburg.

Industrial customers can profit from the expertise of Fraunhofer IGCV in the field of recycling composites through direct cooperation. Here, for example, the following topics can be covered:

Sound deadening compound sprayed under stainless steel countertops is a great way to ensure a quieter and more pleasant working environment. The compound helps to absorb sound vibrations and echoes, making it easier to work without distraction. It also reduces the sound of clanging pots and pans, and helps to maintain a professional atmosphere. The compound is quick and easy to apply, and will last for years, ensuring your kitchen remains as quiet and efficient as possible. Sound deadening is applied to all standard countertops as our factory standard.

The stainless steel undercounter support options available are stainless steel hat channels or a plywood sub core which is available upon request. Hat channels are made of 304 stainless steel and are typically used if your facility, lab or kitchen has material requirements and specifications. This is the standard to be flexible for all situations. The hat channels enable that the cabinets or table legs have somewhere for the installer to screw into. Stainless steel self tapping screws will be sufficient for the install team. Plywood sub core is the other option, this is an additional cost but for some situations the correct choice! Either option, the sealing process makes for a closed off bottom surface. Both options provide strong support and ensure the countertop can be fastened properly for years to come.

The researchers are investigating and developing the entire recycling chain, starting with fiber-matrix separation, characterizing the recovered carbon fibers, and finally reusing the carbon fibers in rCF semifinished products that are finally used again in a component. They are also looking at the life cycle assessment of materials made from rCF and the use of alternative, more sustainable matrix systems. In the development of rCF-based semifinished products, they are advancing nonwoven, tape and yarn production with various partners, research institutes and industrial companies. The production of wetlaid nonwovens and their optimization is the focus of Fraunhofer IGCV, which operates its own wetlaid nonwoven plant on a pilot plant scale at the Augsburg site.

For more than 10 years we are focussing on composite recycling – in particular carbon fiber reinforced and glass fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP / GFRP). The recycling team at Fraunhofer IGCV emphasizes on application-oriented research with the aim to reuse recycled carbon and glass fibers.

Standard steel specialty coparts

Our focus in recycling composites is separating the individual materials of the fiber-reinforced plastic. This is a great challenge due to the structure of composite materials, in which carbon or glass fibers are firmly anchored in a plastic matrix (thermoset or thermoplastic).

Standard steel specialty cogear racks

Standard stainless steel countertops come with 304, #4 brushed finished. If fingerprints or smudges are a concern, choose a brushed finish for its smooth, soft look which more easily hides evidence of sticky fingers. This is applicable for most applications but with specialized countertop materials there are always exceptions. Material 316 on the other hand is used in many specialized medical and healthcare environments. This alloy type gives additional strength and durability because is includes up to 3% molybdenum. Some industries where this is common are outdoor stainless countertops/cabinet, medical devices, and marine environments.

Our aim is to deliver long-lasting, high-quality stainless steel countertops and tables that serve your facilities for years. Standard models are crafted from 16-gauge steel, featuring a 304, #4 brushed finish. Custom modifications can also be accommodated upon request.

The cost is higher than other countertop materials, but the durability and longevity of stainless steel countertops make them an excellent investment. Steel countertops are easy to clean and maintain, and they do not require resealing like other materials. In addition, they have a long life span and do not chip, crack, or burn easily.

Source: Fraunhofer-GesellschaftFraunhofer Institute for Casting, Composite and Processing Technology IGCV - Composite Recycling

Take a virtual tour through Fraunhofer IGCV on the topic of composites with Fraunhofer IGCVirtuell and learn more about how we translate our research in the production environment into industrial applications and state-of-the-art plant technology!

Standard steel specialty costdsteel

The focus of the numerous research projects of Fraunhofer IGCV in the field of recycling of composite materials is on the recycling of carbon fibers.

Today, fiber-reinforced composites are used in numerous applications. Thanks to their potential for lightweight construction, they have become indispensable in many areas, for example, in aviation or the construction of wind turbines. And due to their outstanding properties, they are increasingly used in automotive and sports equipment manufacturing.

This pilot machine is used for the production of new and innovative wetlaid nonwovens. It is designed to be very flexible and can process natural, chemical and technical fibers (e.g. recycled carbon fibers).

Standard steel specialty coreview

A backsplash or rear curb help contain the surrounding elements from water and chemical spills or daily use of operations. Options for backsplashes include rear, left hand, right hand, or a combination of any configuration. Usually, the construction walls of the facility predetermine which sides of the countertop require this splash, if needed for vertical protection. Typical height is set at 4”H but custom modifications are available if 6”, 8” or larger if needed.

A sensible and efficient further processing of the recycled fibers or matrix base materials is also a current research topic. For this reason, Fraunhofer IGCV is working on the recycling of fiber composites, in particular carbon fiber plastics, to ultimately make an essential contribution toward a resource-saving and climate-neutral world.

This video provides an example of our research on the recycling process for a motorcycle side cladding made out of CFRP: from end of life product to a new ready to use and well tested rCF cladding!