CASTA LQ/CUG8BB.3P3M2G Professional Gas Hob Worktop

A gas hob built for the demands of a professional kitchen, where heat must be instant, precise and relentless. Gas burners deliver their energy directly to the pan, without the lag of an electric element. The flame is visible, adjustable in seconds and can be extinguished just as quickly, giving the chef control over searing, simmering and flash-frying. The hob's surface stays cooler than the pan itself, so spills do not burn on and cleaning is simpler than with a solid-top range.

The sequence begins with the manual pilot: a small flame that must be lit first and stays alight while the hob is in use. Each burner is turned on with a mechanical valve that opens the gas supply; the pilot ignites the main flame instantly. The valve's position sets the size of the flame, from a gentle simmer to a full rolling boil. A thermocouple safety system cuts the gas if the flame goes out, preventing unburned gas from accumulating. When service is over, the valve is turned off and the flame dies; the pilot can then be extinguished separately.

The hob is constructed from 2 mm AISI 304 stainless steel, pressed and formed into a single sheet that runs the full 1600 mm width. The edges are rounded and the surface has a raised pattern that keeps spills from spreading; any liquid is channelled to the front, where two removable drip trays collect it. The trays are 95 mm deep, made from the same stainless steel and designed to slide out for emptying and washing. The hob's underside is sealed to prevent grease and moisture from entering the cabinet below.

Eight cast-iron burners sit on top of the steel plate, each with its own valve and control knob. The burners are coated in a glossy, acid-resistant porcelain enamel that resists both high heat and cleaning chemicals. The grates that support the pans are also cast iron, finished in black enamel for durability and a uniform appearance. All control knobs are made from a heat-resistant material that stays cool to the touch, even when the burners are at full power.

The hob is powered by natural gas, with three burners at 3.5 kW, three at 5.5 kW and two at 7.4 kW. This range of outputs allows a single hob to handle everything from a delicate sauce to a large stockpot. The footprint of 1600 mm by 900 mm fits a standard worktop, while the 275 mm height leaves room for under-counter storage or a shelf. The unit is supported by adjustable legs that level it on uneven floors.

Cleaning is straightforward: the grates and drip trays lift off, the stainless steel surface can be wiped down with a damp cloth and the sealed underside prevents grease from collecting inside. The porcelain-coated burners resist staining and can be scrubbed without damaging the finish. The hob's Scotch Brite brushed finish hides minor scratches and fingerprints, keeping it looking professional even after heavy use.

The hob is designed for installation into a worktop and is supplied with all necessary fittings for a gas connection. No electrical supply is required, making it suitable for kitchens where power is limited or where a gas-only appliance is preferred.