Materials

Material Weight Calculator

Calculate the weight of metal stock by dimensions and material density.

Input Parameters

Units:

Material

Shape

Length

Width

Height / Thickness

Results

Enter dimensions and click Calculate

What is Material Weight Calculation?

Material weight calculation determines the mass of stock material based on its dimensions and density. This is essential for ordering materials, estimating shipping costs, and engineering calculations.

The formula is straightforward: Weight = Volume × Density. The challenge lies in correctly calculating volume for different shapes and using accurate density values for your specific material.

How to Use

Select your unit system (Imperial or Metric)
Choose your material from the dropdown
Select the shape of your stock material
Enter the required dimensions for your shape
Click Calculate to get the weight

FAQs

The density values are typical industry standards for each material. Actual density can vary by 1-3% based on specific alloy composition, heat treatment, and manufacturing process. For critical applications, verify with your material supplier.

Common reasons include: measurement tolerances, material density variations, surface conditions (scale, coatings), and stock that's cut over or under nominal size. Mill tolerances for bar stock can be +/- 0.005" to 0.010" depending on material.

6061-T6 is the most common general-purpose aluminum with good weldability and corrosion resistance. 7075-T6 is stronger (comparable to some steels) but harder to weld and slightly denser. 7075 is often used in aerospace applications.

Break the shape into simple geometric forms (rectangles, cylinders, etc.), calculate each separately, then add or subtract as needed. For complex parts, CAD software or water displacement testing provides more accurate results.

Use nominal wall thickness for estimates. Actual wall thickness varies - standard pipe has larger tolerances than precision tubing. For accurate weights of existing material, measure the actual wall at several points.

Limitations

• Density values are typical industry standards and may vary by supplier
• Does not account for mill tolerances on stock dimensions
• Assumes uniform material density throughout the piece
• Cannot calculate irregular or complex shapes
• For critical applications, weigh the actual material