How to Calculate the Metal Needed from a Metal Supplier

How to calculate the metal needed using Three D Metals’ calculator.

How do I know the output of metals needed for my project to request an accurate quote?

We often hear this question, which is why we placed our convenient Metal Calculator on our website. 

Based on what you input, the calculator can help you easily determine the weight per piece of metal and the total metal weight needed or the outer diameter and Pounds Per Inch Wide (PIW) to request an accurate quote for copper, aluminum, brass, and bronze.

All you need to get started are some simple measurements to input.

What Metal Shape Can Be Input in the Metal Calculator?

The first step will be inputting the shape of the metal needed, with the options being sheet/plate, pipe/tube, coil, bar, and round rod.

The calculator will show you sheet/plate and bar like this: 

Sheet plate shape in Three D Metals’ calculator.

The calculator will show you pipe/tube, coil, and round rod like this:

Coil shape in Three D Metals’ calculator.

What Measurements Will I Need for the Metals Calculator?

The measurements you will need to input into the metals calculator will be based on the shape of the metal chosen.

For sheet/plate and bar, you will need

  • Alloy
  • Number of pieces
  • Gauge
  • Width
  • Length

For pipe/tube, you will need:

  • Alloy
  • Number of pieces
  • Outer diameter
  • Either inner diameter or wall
  • Length

For coil, you will need:

  • Alloy
  • Gauge
  • Width
  • Inner diameter
  • Either weight or length

For round rod, you will need:

  • Alloy
  • Number of pieces
  • Diameter
  • Length

What Happens After I Hit Calculate?

The calculator will calculate the weight per piece of metal and the total metal weight needed or the outer diameter and Pounds Per Inch Wide (PIW) based on your selected shape and material of copper, aluminum, or brass/bronze.

 

It will also provide a sketch of your material, such as this:

Final sketch after using Three D Metals’ calculator.

Lastly, and for your convenience, when you hit “Get My Quote,” it will submit the information to our automated form for you to easily submit your request for a quote to our sales team.

 

Use the Metal Calculator

 

If you need any assistance with calculating your metal needs or would rather talk with our experts first here at Three D Metals, feel free to give us a call at 1-800-362-9905, and our team will be happy to assist you.