Steel Section Weight Calculator
Enter the H-/I-beam section dimensions (overall height h, flange width b, web thickness tw, flange thickness tf) and the steel density to calculate the cross-sectional area and weight per metre (kg/m) for steel-structure material takeoff.
Input Data
Results
At a glance:Section area ≈ 2×flange area + web area = 2×(b×tf) + (h−2tf)×tw (mm², ignoring fillets and taper). Weight per metre = area (mm²) ÷ 1,000,000 × steel density (kg/m³) (kg/m). This is a theoretical approximation; actual sections are slightly heavier because of fillets and inner taper, so verify against catalogue nominal values.
Formula
Area = 2·b·tf + (h−2tf)·tw
Weight per metre = area / 1e6 × density
$$A = 2 b t_f + (h - 2 t_f) t_w$$$$w = \frac{A}{10^6}\rho$$How to Use
- Enter the overall height h and flange width b.
- Enter the web thickness tw and flange thickness tf (mm).
- Confirm the steel density.
- The tool outputs the cross-sectional area and weight per metre.
Case Studies
H200×200×8×12
h200 b200 tw8 tf12, density 7,850.
Area 6,352 mm²; about 49.9 kg/m (catalogue ~50.5 kg/m).
H300×150×6.5×9
h300 b150 tw6.5 tf9.
Area about 4,943 mm²; about 38.8 kg/m.
FAQ
Does it differ from catalogue weight?
The formula ignores fillets and inner taper, so the theoretical value is slightly lower than the catalogue nominal (usually 1–3%); use the catalogue for official procurement.
Why calculate weight per metre?
Steel structures are priced and lifted by weight, and self-weight drives connection and foundation design.
Related Tools
References
Content review: Calculatorism Construction Team. Results are for reference only; please refer to the relevant authorities for the official figures.