1. What is a Metal Weight Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the weight of metal based on its cross-sectional area, length, and density.

Purpose: It helps engineers, fabricators, and metal workers determine material weight for design, transportation, and cost estimation.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( W \) — Weight (kg)
• \( A \) — Cross-sectional area (m²)
• \( L \) — Length (m)
• \( \rho \) — Metal density (kg/m³)

Explanation: The cross-sectional area multiplied by length gives volume, which is then multiplied by density to get weight.

3. Importance of Metal Weight Calculation

Details: Accurate weight calculations are essential for structural integrity, load capacity, material ordering, and cost control in metal fabrication.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the cross-sectional area in m², length in meters, and density in kg/m³ (default 7850 for steel). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical density for common metals?
A: Steel: 7850 kg/m³, Aluminum: 2700 kg/m³, Copper: 8960 kg/m³, Brass: 8520 kg/m³.

Q2: How do I calculate cross-sectional area?
A: For standard shapes: Square/Rectangle = width × height, Circle = π × radius², I-beam = web × flange dimensions.

Q3: Can I use different units?
A: The calculator uses metric units. For imperial, convert inputs: 1 in² = 0.00064516 m², 1 ft = 0.3048 m, 1 lb/ft³ = 16.0185 kg/m³.

Q4: Does this account for different metal alloys?
A: No, use the specific density for your alloy. Most steel is ~7850 kg/m³ but stainless steel is ~8000 kg/m³.

Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides theoretical weight. Actual weight may vary slightly due to manufacturing tolerances and surface conditions.