Steel Beam Weight Calculator Formula
Understand the math behind the steel beam weight calculator. Each variable explained with a worked example.
Formulas Used
Weight per Beam
single_weight = weight_per_foot * beam_lengthTotal Weight
total_weight = weight_per_foot * beam_length * quantityTotal Weight
total_tons = weight_per_foot * beam_length * quantity / 2000Variables
| Variable | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|
weight_per_foot | Beam Weight(lb/ft) | 31 |
beam_length | Beam Length(ft) | 20 |
quantity | Number of Beams | 1 |
How It Works
Steel Beam Weight
Weight = Weight per Foot x Length
Steel beams are designated by their weight per linear foot (e.g., W8x31 weighs 31 lbs/ft). Multiply by the cut length to get the total weight for ordering, shipping, and crane planning.
Worked Example
One W8x31 beam, 20 feet long.
- 01Weight = 31 x 20 = 620 lbs
- 02Total = 620 lbs = 0.31 tons
Frequently Asked Questions
What does W8x31 mean?
W means wide flange, 8 is the approximate depth in inches, and 31 is the weight in pounds per foot. The actual depth may vary slightly from the nominal designation.
How much does structural steel cost?
Fabricated structural steel typically costs $0.75 to $2.00 per pound installed, depending on complexity, coatings, and market conditions. Raw material alone is roughly $0.40-0.80 per pound.
Ready to run the numbers?
Open Steel Beam Weight Calculator