Instantly calculate the weight per foot and total truckload weight for Hollow Structural Sections (HSS). This tool is built specifically for the geometry of Square and Rectangular structural steel tubing.
How to use this tool:
- Enter the Outside Width and Outside Height in inches (Use the same number for both if it's square tubing).
- Enter the Wall Thickness in inches (decimal format).
- (Optional) Enter total footage to get the full load weight.
Input Dimensions
The Math Behind HSS Tubing
Because structural tubing (HSS) is essentially a hollow box rather than a cylinder, it uses a different volume calculation than standard round pipe.
Square & Rectangular Tubing Formula:
Weight (lbs/ft) = (Width + Height - 2 × Wall Thickness) × Wall Thickness × 6.8
Understanding the Variables:
- Width & Height: The outside dimensions of the tubing. For square tubing, these two numbers will be identical.
- Wall Thickness: The thickness of the steel, measured in decimal inches.
- 6.8 Constant: This is the conversion factor derived from the specific density of steel, adapted for the four straight sides of the box geometry.
📐 Theoretical vs. Actual Weight (The Corner Radius)
This theoretical formula calculates the box as if it had perfectly sharp 90-degree corners. Real-world ASTM A500 HSS has rounded outside corners (radii) created during the rolling process. Because those sharp corners are "missing" steel, the actual weight of square tubing is usually about 3% to 4% lighter than the pure mathematical calculation shown above.
Always consult your supplier before buying
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