How to Calculate Channel Weight Easily:
In structural steel fabrication and construction, C channels (also called ISMC – Indian Standard Medium Channel) are among the most commonly used steel profiles. But to estimate material costs, transportation loads, and fabrication feasibility, it’s crucial to calculate the weight of C channels accurately.
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In this guide, we’ll explore:
- What is a C channel?
- C channel weight calculator formula
- C channel weight chart (in kg/m)
- Factors affecting channel weight
- How to use the chart for MS, SS, and GI channels
Let’s begin by understanding what a C channel actually is.
What is a C Channel?
A C channel, or Channel Section, is a steel profile with a cross-sectional shape that looks like the letter “C.” These channels are widely used in:
- Structural frames
- Industrial sheds
- Machinery supports
- Vehicle chassis
- Construction projects
They’re manufactured in different sizes, thicknesses, and materials like mild steel (MS), stainless steel (SS), and galvanized iron (GI).
C Channel Weight Calculator Formula
To calculate the weight of a C channel manually, you can use the steel weight formula:
Weight (kg/m) = Sectional Area (mm²) × Density of Steel (7.85 g/cm³) / 1,000
But for simplicity, most use the formula below, which factors in the dimensions:
✅ Simplified C Channel Weight Formula:
Weight (kg/m) = Width × Height × Thickness × 0.00785
Where:
- Width, Height, and Thickness are in mm
- 0.00785 is the density of steel in g/mm³
C Channel Weight Chart (in kg/m)
Here’s a standard ISMC C channel weight chart based on Indian Standards. This helps you avoid manual calculations.
C Channel Weight Chart (ISMC)
ISMC Size | Depth (mm) | Width (mm) | Thickness (mm) | Weight (kg/m) |
---|---|---|---|---|
ISMC 75 | 75 | 40 | 4.8 | 7.1 |
ISMC 100 | 100 | 50 | 5.0 | 9.6 |
ISMC 125 | 125 | 65 | 5.3 | 13.1 |
ISMC 150 | 150 | 75 | 5.7 | 16.8 |
ISMC 175 | 175 | 75 | 6.0 | 19.6 |
ISMC 200 | 200 | 75 | 6.2 | 22.4 |
ISMC 225 | 225 | 80 | 6.5 | 25.5 |
ISMC 250 | 250 | 82 | 7.0 | 29.5 |
ISMC 300 | 300 | 90 | 7.8 | 36.3 |
ISMC 400 | 400 | 100 | 8.8 | 50.1 |
🔗 Explore more on ISMC weight chart here (Internal link placeholder)
C Channel Weight Calculator Online
For quick results without manual math, you can use a C channel weight calculator tool. These tools calculate weight based on:
- Channel size
- Material (MS, SS, GI)
- Length
Here’s how to use it:
Steps to Use a Channel Weight Calculator:
- Select material type (e.g., MS – Mild Steel)
- Enter the C channel size (e.g., 150x75x5.7 mm)
- Enter the total length (e.g., 6 meters)
- Click Calculate
- Get weight in kg or tons
C Channel Weight Calculator
C Channel Weight per Meter
Below is a quick table of c channel weight per meter for popular sizes:
Channel Size | Weight (kg/m) |
---|---|
75×40 | 7.1 |
100×50 | 9.6 |
150×75 | 16.8 |
200×75 | 22.4 |
250×82 | 29.5 |
For lengths in feet, multiply the weight per meter by 0.3048 to get per foot weight.
C Channel Weight in Stainless Steel vs Mild Steel vs GI
Material | Density (g/cm³) | Weight (kg/m) | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Mild Steel | 7.85 | Base reference | Most commonly used |
Stainless Steel | 8.0 | Slightly heavier | Used in pharma/food industry |
Galvanized Iron (GI) | 7.85 | Same as MS | Coated for rust resistance |
Why Accurate Channel Weight Matters
- Helps in material cost estimation
- Aids in transportation planning
- Ensures structural safety
- Required for steel fabrication and welding
Use Cases of C Channels in Industries
- Construction: Framing, trusses, and columns
- Fabrication: Machinery base frames and racks
- Automotive: Chassis and support frames
- Railways: Bridge platforms and wagons
Conclusion
Whether you’re working with mild steel, stainless steel, or galvanized C channels, knowing how to calculate weight accurately using a C channel weight calculator or chart is essential. It simplifies procurement, helps reduce waste, and boosts overall project efficiency.
Bookmark this guide and use the c channel weight chart whenever you need a quick reference.
FAQs
Q1. What is the unit weight of ISMC 150?
ISMC 150 has a unit weight of 16.8 kg/m.
Q2. How do you calculate the weight of a steel channel?
Weight = Width × Height × Thickness × 0.00785
Q3. Which is heavier – stainless steel or mild steel channel?
Stainless steel is slightly heavier than mild steel due to higher density (8.0 g/cm³ vs. 7.85 g/cm³).
Q4. Where can I get a free c channel weight calculator?
You can use our free C Channel Weight Calculator tool online.
Q5. What sizes are available in standard C channels?
Standard sizes range from ISMC 75 to ISMC 400 based on IS standards.