Material weight = volume x density: steel weighs 0.283 lb per cubic inch, aluminum 0.098, brass 0.307 and oak about 0.028. So a 48 x 24 inch steel plate 1/4 inch thick weighs about 81.5 lb, and a full 4 x 8 foot sheet about 326 lb. Enter any shape and size below for pounds and kilograms.Updated 2026
Calculate the weight of steel, aluminum, wood, and other materials. Essential for material handling, shipping estimates, and structural planning.
81.5 pounds (37 kg) is the weight of a 48 by 24 inch mild steel plate 1/4 inch thick, based on carbon steel density. That is already a two person lift, so plan hoists or helpers before ordering bigger stock. Use the calculator below for your exact numbers.
| Material | lb per cubic inch | lb per cubic foot |
|---|---|---|
| Steel (mild) | 0.283 | 489 |
| Stainless steel | 0.289 | 499 |
| Aluminum | 0.098 | 169 |
| Brass | 0.307 | 530 |
| Copper | 0.323 | 558 |
| Oak | 0.028 | 48 |
| Pine | 0.020 | 35 |
Wood density varies with species and moisture content; metals vary by alloy by about 1 to 2 percent.
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Researched from published specifications and standards, not hands-on testing. Not professional advice.
Multiply the volume by the metal's density. For a plate or bar: length x width x thickness (in inches) x density (lb per cubic inch). Example: a 12 x 12 x 1/2 inch steel plate is 72 cubic inches x 0.283 = about 20.4 lb.
About 326 lb: 48 x 96 x 0.25 inches = 1,152 cubic inches x 0.283 lb per cubic inch. The same sheet in aluminum weighs about 113 lb.
For metals, accuracy is typically within 1-2% using standard density values. Actual weight can vary slightly due to alloy composition and manufacturing tolerances. For wood, actual weight varies more due to moisture content and natural variation.
Wood density depends on species, growing conditions, and moisture content. Green (freshly cut) wood can weigh 50-100% more than kiln-dried wood. Air-dried lumber (around 12% moisture) is used for these calculations. Actual weights can vary ±15% from calculated values.
Standard softwood plywood: 3/4" sheet weighs about 60-70 lbs. 1/2" sheet weighs about 40-48 lbs. 1/4" sheet weighs about 22-25 lbs. Baltic birch and hardwood plywood are denser and heavier. MDF is heavier still at about 96 lbs for a 3/4" 4x8 sheet.
Aluminum is approximately 1/3 the weight of steel (about 35% as dense). A steel part weighing 10 lbs would weigh about 3.5 lbs in aluminum of the same dimensions. This is why aluminum is popular for weight-sensitive applications. If you machine these metals, our feeds and speeds reference and pulley speed calculator help you set the right cutting speeds.