How Aluminum Weight is Calculated
The weight of any object is its volume multiplied by its density. For aluminum, the key is to first accurately calculate the volume of the specific shape (plate, bar, or tube).
This calculator uses the standard density for most common aluminum alloys, which is approximately 0.098 pounds per cubic inch (lb/in³) or 2700 kilograms per cubic meter (kg/m³). Once the volume is determined, it is multiplied by this density to find the total weight.
Common Aluminum Alloys
| Alloy | Key Properties | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|
| 6061 | Good strength, weldability, and corrosion resistance. | Structural components, machine parts, bicycle frames. |
| 7075 | Very high strength, good fatigue resistance. | Aerospace applications, high-performance equipment. |
| 5052 | Excellent corrosion resistance, good workability. | Sheet metal work, marine components, fuel tanks. |
| 3003 | Good workability and corrosion resistance, low strength. | Cooking utensils, sheet metal work, chemical equipment. |
How to Use the Calculator
- Select the shape of your aluminum piece (e.g., Plate, Round Bar).
- Enter the required dimensions in inches. The input fields will change based on the selected shape.
- Click "Calculate Weight" to see the estimated weight in pounds (lbs).
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it important to know the weight of aluminum?
Knowing the weight is critical for several reasons: estimating shipping and material costs, calculating structural loads for engineering projects, and ensuring safe handling and lifting procedures.
Does the alloy type significantly change the weight?
While different aluminum alloys have slightly different densities, the variation is usually very small (less than 2-3%). For most estimation purposes, the standard density of 0.098 lb/in³ is sufficiently accurate.