What is the density of ASTM A500 grade C round structural pipe?

When selecting structural steel pipes for construction or industrial applications, density is an important factor that directly impacts performance, strength, and weight calculations. One of the most widely used specifications is ASTM A500 Grade C, which applies to cold-formed, welded, and seamless carbon steel structural tubing in round, square, and rectangular shapes.

Standard Density of ASTM A500 Grade C

The typical density of ASTM A500 Grade C carbon steel pipe is 7.80 g/cm³ (0.282 lb/in³). This standard value is commonly used in engineering calculations to determine the weight of a pipe per unit length and to ensure accurate load-bearing capacity assessments.

Why Density May Vary

Although 7.80 g/cm³ is the reference value, the actual density of an A500 Grade C pipe can fluctuate due to several factors:

Alloy composition: The proportions of carbon, manganese, and other alloying elements can slightly change the material’s density.

Temperature effects: As temperature increases, density tends to decrease because the material expands.

Pressure or tension effects: Under higher pressure, the density of steel typically increases due to reduced atomic spacing.

Microstructural changes: Alterations in the molten steel’s structure during processing may influence the final density.

Impact of Density on Pipe Weight

Since the density determines how much mass exists per unit volume, any variation will affect the overall pipe weight. Heavier pipes may provide greater strength and durability, but they also influence transportation costs and structural load design. Engineers often consider these density-related factors when calculating the weight per foot or weight per meter of A500 Grade C pipes.

Pipe Weight Calculator – A Practical Tool

For buyers, engineers, and contractors, knowing the exact pipe weight is crucial for project planning, shipping, and installation. Most steel suppliers, including those offering ASTM A500 Grade C round structural pipe, provide a pipe weight calculator on their websites.

By entering parameters such as:

Pipe shape (round, square, or rectangular)

Outside diameter (OD)

Wall thickness

Length

…the calculator quickly provides the total weight based on the standard density of 7.80 g/cm³. This eliminates guesswork, ensures accurate quotations, and helps manage logistics more efficiently.

Conclusion

ASTM A500 Grade C round structural pipe has a nominal density of 7.80 g/cm³, making it a reliable choice for structural applications. However, engineers and buyers should keep in mind that actual density can shift depending on material composition, temperature, and processing conditions. Pairing this knowledge with a pipe weight calculator allows for smarter planning and better decision-making in construction and industrial projects.

FAQ – ASTM A500 Grade C Pipe Density

Q1: What is the density of ASTM A500 Grade C pipe in kg/m³?
A: The density is about 7,850 kg/m³, which is equivalent to 7.80 g/cm³.

Q2: Does pipe size affect its density?
A: No, the density of steel is a material property and does not depend on pipe size. However, pipe weight per meter does change with diameter and wall thickness.

Q3: How does temperature affect steel density?
A: As temperature increases, steel expands, and its density decreases slightly. At lower temperatures, density is marginally higher.

Q4: Why is pipe density important in projects?
A: Density determines the weight of pipes, which impacts structural load design, transportation costs, and installation requirements.

Q5: Can I use density to calculate pipe weight manually?
A: Yes. The basic formula is:

Weight per meter=π×(OD−t)×t×Density×0.001

where OD = outside diameter (mm), t = wall thickness (mm), Density = 7,850 kg/m³.

For more:Advantages and disadvantages of ASTM A500 grade C pipe