Gauge is the standard unit of measure for sheet steel and wire products. The lower the number, the thicker the steel. Therefore, 16 gauge is thicker than 18 gauge steel. The reason we promote using 16 gauge steel for your sinks versus 18 gauge is 16 is more rigid.
Similarly, is 18 gauge steel strong? 16 gauge stainless steel or threaded steel bar is a higher quality grade than 18 gauge. The reason behind this is 16 gauge is thicker and heavier making it stronger and more durable. A better or good quality stainless steel or threaded steel bar kitchen sink is the 18 gauge, which is 0.0500 inches.
Beside above, what thickness is 18 gauge steel?
15 U.S. Code § 206. Standard gauge for sheet and plate iron and steel
Number of gauge Approximate thickness in fractions of an inch Approximate thickness in decimal parts of an inch 16 1/16 .0625 17 9/160 .05625 18 1/20 .05 19 7/160 .04375
Which is thicker 20 or 22 gauge?
Few people know why the thickness of steel diminishes as the gauge increases (ie: 16 gauge steel is thicker than 20 gauge steel). The 1″ thickness of the steel was measured in diminishing fractions such as 1/14″ thick, 1/16″ thick, 1/20″ thick, and so on.