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Calculate the weight and cost of angle iron (L-shaped steel) for structural applications. Supports equal leg and unequal leg angles in mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminum.
Angle iron, also known as L-shaped steel or angle bar, is one of the most versatile structural steel shapes used in construction, manufacturing, and fabrication. It consists of two legs meeting at a 90-degree angle, forming an L-profile that provides excellent strength-to-weight ratio and load-bearing capacity in multiple directions.
This angle iron weight calculator helps you determine the weight and cost of angle iron based on leg dimensions, thickness, length, and material type. Whether you're working with equal leg angles (both legs same width) or unequal leg angles (different leg widths), this calculator provides accurate weight estimates for material ordering, structural analysis, and cost estimation.
Angle iron is available in various materials including mild steel (most common), stainless steel (for corrosion resistance), and aluminum (for lightweight applications). Understanding the weight is crucial for structural engineering calculations, shipping logistics, load-bearing capacity assessments, and project budgeting.
For equal leg angles where both legs have the same width:
Cross-Sectional Area = (2 × W × T) - T²
Where W = leg width (inches), T = thickness (inches)
For unequal leg angles with different leg widths:
Cross-Sectional Area = (W1 × T) + (W2 × T) - T²
Where W1 = first leg width, W2 = second leg width, T = thickness (all in inches)
Volume = Cross-Sectional Area × Length
Weight = Volume × Density × Quantity
Weight per Foot = Cross-Sectional Area × 12 × Density
Common angle iron sizes with approximate weights per foot (mild steel):
| Size (Leg × Leg × Thickness) | Weight per Foot | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|
| 1" × 1" × 1/8" | 0.80 lbs/ft | Light frames, trim, edging |
| 1.5" × 1.5" × 1/8" | 1.23 lbs/ft | Shelving, light supports |
| 2" × 2" × 1/8" | 1.65 lbs/ft | General framing, bracing |
| 2" × 2" × 1/4" | 3.19 lbs/ft | Heavy-duty frames, structural |
| 3" × 3" × 1/4" | 4.90 lbs/ft | Structural supports, columns |
| 3" × 3" × 3/8" | 7.20 lbs/ft | Heavy structural, trusses |
| 4" × 4" × 1/4" | 6.60 lbs/ft | Building frames, towers |
| 4" × 4" × 3/8" | 9.80 lbs/ft | Heavy structural members |
| 4" × 4" × 1/2" | 12.80 lbs/ft | Industrial structures |
| 6" × 6" × 3/8" | 14.90 lbs/ft | Large structures, bridges |
| 6" × 6" × 1/2" | 19.60 lbs/ft | Heavy-duty construction |
Angle iron is an L-shaped structural steel section formed by bending steel at a 90-degree angle. Unlike I-beams, C-channels, or flat bars, angle iron provides strength in two perpendicular directions simultaneously, making it ideal for corner reinforcement, frames, and brackets where multi-directional load support is needed.
Equal leg angle iron has both legs the same width (e.g., 2" × 2"), while unequal leg angle iron has different leg widths (e.g., 3" × 2"). Equal leg is more common and used for general structural applications, while unequal leg is used when different support or clearance is needed in each direction, such as shelf brackets or specialized framing.
The most common sizes are 2" × 2" × 1/8", 2" × 2" × 1/4", 3" × 3" × 1/4", and 4" × 4" × 1/4". These sizes provide a good balance of strength and versatility for typical construction and fabrication projects. Smaller sizes (1" × 1") are used for light-duty applications, while larger sizes (6" × 6" and above) are reserved for heavy structural work.
Yes, mild steel angle iron welds very easily using common welding processes like MIG, TIG, or stick welding. The L-shape provides good accessibility for welding at corners and joints. Stainless steel angle requires more skill and proper technique to prevent warping, while aluminum angle iron requires specialized equipment and experience for successful welding.
Mild steel angle iron will rust when exposed to moisture. Prevent rust by applying primer and paint, using galvanized angle iron (hot-dip or electro-galvanized), or choosing stainless steel or aluminum for corrosive environments. For outdoor or marine applications, hot-dip galvanized or stainless steel angle iron is recommended.
Load capacity depends on size, thickness, span length, support conditions, and steel grade. For example, a 3" × 3" × 1/4" mild steel angle iron can support approximately 1,500-2,000 lbs as a simply supported beam over a 4-foot span. Always consult structural engineering tables or a licensed engineer for critical load-bearing applications.
Yes, galvanized angle iron is widely available and recommended for outdoor applications or humid environments. Hot-dip galvanized angle iron has a thick zinc coating that provides excellent rust protection. The galvanizing process adds minimal weight (typically 1-3% increase) but significantly extends the service life in corrosive conditions.
Angle iron is specified as: Leg 1 width × Leg 2 width × Thickness. For equal leg angles, the leg width is listed once (e.g., 2" × 2" × 1/4" means both legs are 2 inches wide with 1/4" thickness). For unequal leg angles, both leg widths are specified (e.g., 3" × 2" × 1/4"). All measurements refer to the outside dimensions of the legs.
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