Steel Beam Weight Calculator — ft, lbs
How to use this calculator
Select a section type (W-shape, S-shape, C-channel, HSS rectangular, HSS round, or angle), pick a common AISC size from the dropdown, enter the beam length in feet and inches, and the number of beams. Results update instantly with weight per foot, total weight per beam, and total weight for all beams.
Cost — enter price per pound, per linear foot, or per beam to get total material cost.
Connections — optionally add end plate and bolt weight for a more accurate total.
Steel Grade — A36 (36 ksi yield) for general use, A992 (50 ksi yield) for wide flanges.
Saved Calculations
| Time | Section | Length | Qty | lb/ft | Total lbs | Cost |
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How to Calculate Steel Beam Weight
This calculator estimates the weight of structural steel beams based on AISC standard section properties. Select from W-shapes (wide flange), S-shapes (American Standard), C-channels, HSS (Hollow Structural Sections) rectangular and round, or angles. Each section has a nominal weight per linear foot published in the AISC Steel Construction Manual. Total weight = weight per foot x beam length x number of beams.
Common Steel Grades
ASTM A992 (Fy = 50 ksi) is the standard for W-shapes. ASTM A36 (Fy = 36 ksi) is used for angles, plates, and general structural steel. ASTM A500 Grade B/C is specified for HSS sections. Steel density is 490 lb/ft3 (0.2836 lb/in3).
Connection Weight
For accurate shipping and crane calculations, add connection hardware weight: end plates (typically 10-25 lbs each), high-strength bolts (A325/A490, 0.5-1.5 lbs each), stiffeners, and shear tabs. This calculator provides optional connection weight estimates.
Cost Estimation
Structural steel pricing varies by market, section availability, and quantity. Common pricing methods include per-pound (typical $0.50-$1.50/lb), per linear foot, or per fabricated beam. Always confirm pricing with your steel supplier or fabricator.
