Channel Weight Calculator
Use this free channel weight calculator to work out the weight of an MS channel, also called a C channel, from its depth, flange width, thickness and length. You get the weight per meter and the total weight in seconds, without looking up a weight chart.
It is handy for fabrication work, steel ordering, transport planning and cost estimates. Enter the channel size you plan to use and the length you need, and the calculator gives you a practical, fabrication-ready estimate.
Table of Contents
What is a Channel Weight Calculator?
A channel weight calculator estimates how much a length of MS channel, or C channel, weighs. It works from the channel’s cross-section: the web depth, the flange width and the thickness of the steel, together with the length you need.
Area (approx) = t x (D + 2 x (B − t)). Weight per meter = area x 0.00785, using the standard steel density of 7,850 kg/m3. Total weight = per-meter weight x length. Rolled sections have tapered flanges, so this is an engineering estimate rather than an exact mill weight.
How to Use the Channel Weight Calculator (Step by Step)
- Enter channel depth in mm.
- Enter flange width + thickness in mm.
- Enter length in meters.
- Press Calculate.
Example Calculation
For a 125 x 65 x 6 mm channel, 6 m long: cross-section area = 1,458 mm2, weight per meter = 11.45 kg/m, total weight = 68.67 kg.
Features
- Per-meter + total weight
- Standard density
- Fabrication-ready estimate
- Free, instant
Benefits
- Material ordering
- Transport/load planning
- Cost estimates
- No weight-chart lookup
Final Thoughts
Knowing the weight of a channel before you order it saves time, money and guesswork on site. Use this calculator to plan your material, check supplier quotes and arrange transport with confidence. For related tools, try the TDEE Calculator and the MS Plate Weight Calculator.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What density is used for MS channel?
7,850 kg per cubic meter, the standard density of mild steel. That is why 1 mm2 of section over 1 meter weighs 0.00785 kg.
Is this the exact weight of an ISMC channel?
It is a close estimate. Rolled ISMC sections have tapered flanges and fillets, so the mill weight can differ slightly. For standard sizes, the IS weight table is the final reference.
Can I use this for a C channel gate or frame estimate?
Yes – it is ideal for fabrication estimates, loading and transport planning. Weigh one sample piece if you need billing-level accuracy.
How do I get weight per foot?
Divide the per-meter weight by 3.281 to get the approximate weight per foot.