How this calculator works
Find cross-sectional metal area from the wire shape and multiply by length and density. Hexagon size is the side length, not across flats. The calculation excludes insulation, plating and stranded-wire voids. The C11000 value is based on the Copper Development Association specific gravity of 8.91; other alloys should use their own density.
Formula
m = rho A L; round A = pi d^2/4; square A = a^2; rectangle A = b h; regular hexagon A = 3 sqrt(3) a^2/2.
Worked example
A 1 mm diameter pure copper wire 10 m long contains 7.85398 x 10^-6 m3 of copper and has mass 0.0703717 kg. A square 1 mm wire of the same length has mass 0.0896 kg.
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Frequently asked questions
Does this include insulation?
No. Add insulation separately using its own geometry and density.
Can I use it for brass?
Select custom alloy density. Brass density depends on composition and should come from the alloy datasheet.
Which diameter applies to stranded cable?
Use the actual total metal area, or calculate each strand. An overall bundle diameter includes gaps and overestimates copper volume.