Copper Wire Weight Calculator
Calculate the weight of copper wire based on dimensions and length.
Wire Specifications
Optional: Cost Calculation
Results
Wire Reference Table
How to Use This Copper Wire Weight Calculator
Select Wire Specifications
Choose between solid or stranded copper wire. Stranded wire has a slightly lower effective density due to the air gaps between strands.
Specify Wire Dimensions
Enter wire size using one of three methods:
- Wire Gauge (AWG): Standard American Wire Gauge from 30 AWG (very thin) to 0000 AWG (very thick)
- Diameter: Direct measurement in millimeters or inches
- Cross-Section: Area in square millimeters or circular mils
Enter Length
Specify how long the wire is in your preferred unit of measurement (meters, feet, yards, kilometers, or miles).
Optional: Calculate Cost
Enable cost calculation and enter the current copper price in your preferred currency and unit.
Why Wire Weight Matters
Shipping & Logistics
Accurate weight calculations are essential for shipping costs, vehicle load planning, and logistics management. For large wire orders, even small errors in weight estimation can significantly impact shipping costs.
Material Requirements
Contractors and electrical engineers need precise material estimates for project planning. This calculator helps determine exact copper requirements, reducing waste and ensuring adequate supplies.
Cost Estimation
Copper prices fluctuate based on market conditions. Accurate weight calculations allow for precise budgeting and cost estimation for electrical projects, especially when working with large quantities.
How Copper Wire Weight Is Calculated
The weight of copper wire is calculated using these steps:
-
Calculate the cross-sectional area
- If using AWG: Reference standardized tables
- If using diameter: Area = π × (diameter/2)²
-
Calculate volume
- Volume = Cross-sectional area × Length
-
Apply copper density
- Solid copper wire: 8.96 g/cm³
- Stranded copper wire: Approximately 8.51 g/cm³ (95% of solid density)
-
Calculate weight
- Weight = Volume × Density
Simplified Formula
For solid copper wire with diameter in millimeters and length in meters:
AWG Wire Gauge System
The American Wire Gauge (AWG) is a standardized system for denoting wire diameter. The gauge number runs opposite to the wire diameter – as the gauge number increases, the wire diameter decreases.
Common Applications by AWG Size
- 0-4 AWG: Main power feeds, heavy equipment, service entrances
- 6-10 AWG: Household appliances, electric motors, water heaters
- 12-14 AWG: Household wiring, lighting circuits, outlets
- 16-18 AWG: Light-duty extension cords, low-voltage lighting
- 20-26 AWG: Electronics, control circuits, communications
- 28-30 AWG: Computer cables, small electronics, miniature components
Key AWG Sizing Facts
- Each 3-gauge decrease doubles the wire’s cross-sectional area
- Each 6-gauge decrease doubles the wire’s diameter
- AWG 0 is approximately 8.25mm in diameter
- Lower gauge numbers can carry more current with less resistance
Copper Wire Types and Industry Applications
Solid Copper Wire
Common Uses
- Building wiring (in-wall installation)
- Power distribution
- Grounding systems
- Telecommunications (for shorter runs)
Properties
- Better conductivity per diameter
- Lower resistance for the same gauge
- Less flexible
- Better heat dissipation
Stranded Copper Wire
Common Uses
- Portable power cords
- Audio cables
- Automotive wiring
- Applications requiring flexibility
Properties
- Greater flexibility
- Better vibration resistance
- Easier to route in tight spaces
- Slightly higher resistance
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is this copper wire weight calculator?
This calculator provides highly accurate results based on industry-standard formulas and copper density values. For solid wire, accuracy is typically within 1-2%. For stranded wire, results may vary by 2-5% depending on the specific stranding pattern, compaction level, and manufacturing tolerances.
What is the difference between circular mils and square millimeters?
Circular mils (cmil) and square millimeters (mm²) are both units of area, but they’re calculated differently:
- Circular mil: A unit used primarily in North America, defined as the area of a circle with a diameter of 1 mil (1/1000 inch)
- Square millimeter: The standard metric unit for wire cross-sectional area
The conversion factor is: 1 mm² = 1,973.5 circular mils
Why does stranded wire weigh less than solid wire of the same gauge?
Stranded wire consists of multiple smaller wires twisted together, which creates small air gaps between the strands. These air gaps reduce the overall density of the wire compared to a solid wire of the same outer diameter. The calculator accounts for this with a density factor of approximately 95% of solid copper wire.
How does insulation affect wire weight?
This calculator provides the weight of copper only, not including insulation. Insulation can add significant weight, especially for smaller gauge wires where the insulation may comprise a larger percentage of the total diameter. For insulated wire weight, you would need to add the weight of the insulation material based on its thickness and density.
How do I determine the right wire size for my electrical project?
Wire size selection depends primarily on:
- Current-carrying capacity required
- Voltage drop considerations over the wire length
- Installation environment (ambient temperature, conduit fill, etc.)
- Local electrical codes and regulations
For specific electrical installations, always consult relevant electrical codes (like NEC in the US) or a qualified electrician.