Metal Weight Calculator
Knowing the weight of metal is essential for structural engineering, shipping estimates, crane capacity planning, and material cost calculations. This calculator determines the weight of plates, round bars, and tubes in six common metals using precise density values and simple geometry.
Metal weight is calculated as Weight = Volume × Density. The volume depends on the shape: plates use length × width × thickness, round bars use πr² × length, and tubes use the difference between the outer and inner cylinder volumes. Density values used are industry-standard values at room temperature.
Standard densities (lbs/in³): Carbon Steel 0.284, Stainless 304 0.289, Aluminum 6061 0.098, Copper 0.323, Brass 0.307, Titanium 0.163. Aluminum weighs about one-third of steel, making it popular for weight-sensitive applications. Copper and brass are significantly heavier than steel.
For ordering purposes, metal stock is typically priced by weight (per pound) or by the piece at standard lengths. Knowing the weight helps you estimate shipping costs, verify deliveries, and ensure your structure or vehicle can support the load. Always add 5-10% to your quantity for cutting waste and machining tolerances.