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Weight per Foot of Steel Pipe

Weight per Foot Formula:

\[ W = \frac{\rho \times \pi \times (OD^2 - ID^2) \times L}{4 \times 0.3048} \]

kg/m³
m
m
m
kg/ft

1. What is Weight per Foot of Steel Pipe?

Definition: This calculator estimates the weight per linear foot of a steel pipe based on its dimensions and material density.

Purpose: It helps engineers, construction professionals, and fabricators determine pipe weight for structural calculations, transportation, and material estimation.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ W = \frac{\rho \times \pi \times (OD^2 - ID^2) \times L}{4 \times 0.3048} \]

Where:

  • \( W \) — Weight per foot (kg/ft)
  • \( \rho \) — Steel density (kg/m³, typically 7850 for carbon steel)
  • \( OD \) — Outer diameter (meters)
  • \( ID \) — Inner diameter (meters)
  • \( L \) — Length (meters)
  • \( 0.3048 \) — Conversion factor (meters to feet)

Explanation: The formula calculates the cross-sectional area of the pipe wall, multiplies by length and density, then converts to weight per foot.

3. Importance of Pipe Weight Calculation

Details: Accurate weight calculations are crucial for structural support design, transportation planning, and material cost estimation in piping systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips:

  • Enter steel density (default 7850 kg/m³ for carbon steel)
  • Enter outer and inner diameters in meters
  • Enter length in meters (default 1)
  • For solid rod, set inner diameter to 0

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the typical density for steel pipes?
A: Carbon steel is typically 7850 kg/m³. Stainless steel ranges from 7480-8000 kg/m³ depending on grade.

Q2: Why calculate weight per foot?
A: Many piping standards and structural calculations use weight per linear foot as a standard measurement.

Q3: How do I convert to pounds per foot?
A: Multiply kg/ft by 2.20462 to get lb/ft.

Q4: What if my pipe dimensions are in inches?
A: Convert inches to meters by dividing by 39.37 before entering values.

Q5: Does this account for pipe fittings?
A: No, this calculates straight pipe only. Fittings typically add 20-30% to total weight.

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