How to Calculate Material Weight
Weight equals volume times density. First, find the volume of your shape. Then multiply by the material density in pounds per cubic inch. This calculator does both steps for you.
Round Bar
Volume = pi times radius squared times length. A 2-inch diameter, 12-inch long aluminum round bar weighs about 3.69 pounds. Steel weighs about 10.70 pounds for the same size.
Square Bar
Volume = side times side times length. Square bar is easy to calculate. A 1-inch square steel bar at 12 inches long weighs 3.41 pounds.
Tube
Volume = pi times the difference of outer and inner radius squared, times length. Subtract the hollow center. A tube weighs less than a solid bar of the same outer size.
Pro tip: Always order stock slightly longer than your finished part. You need extra length for saw cuts, facing, and fixture gripping. Add at least 0.5 inches per end.
Material Cost
This calculator estimates raw material cost based on weight and typical per-pound prices. Actual prices change with market conditions, order size, and supplier. Use the estimate for budgeting, not for final quotes.