Metal Weight Calculator

About Metal Weight Calculation

The **Metal Weight Calculator** estimates the weight and cost of metal materials used in construction, such as beams, plates, or pipes. It accounts for metal type, shape, dimensions, quantity, and waste allowance, aiding in structural design, transportation planning, and budgeting.

The core principle is simple: **Weight (kg) = Volume (m³) × Density (kg/m³)**. The calculator determines the volume based on the selected shape and dimensions, converts all units to meters, and applies the density of the chosen metal.

Weight (kg) = Volume (m³) × Density (kg/m³)

Volume calculations vary by shape:

• **Plate:** Length × Width × Thickness
• **Round Bar:** $\pi \times (\text{Diameter}/2)^2 \times \text{Length}$
• **Pipe:** $\pi \times \text{Length} \times [(\text{Outer Radius})^2 – (\text{Inner Radius})^2]$

Key Considerations

• **Material Type:** Select the correct metal (e.g., **Steel: 7850 kg/m³**, **Aluminum: 2700 kg/m³**). Density is the most critical factor.
• **Dimensions:** All input dimensions (cm) are converted to meters for volume calculation, ensuring metric unit consistency.
• **Waste Allowance:** A typical **5-10% waste factor** accounts for cuts, welding, or defects during fabrication.
• **Cost Estimation:** Providing a price per kg allows for total cost calculation, essential for budgeting.
• **Structural Loads:** The final weight is vital for verifying structural engineering designs and safety standards.

Typical Densities of Common Metals