Copper Cable Weight Calculator
Calculate the approximate weight of copper in electrical cables based on cross-section and length.
Estimated Copper Weight:
(Approx. 0.00 lbs)
*Note: This calculation accounts for pure copper conductor weight only and does not include insulation or shielding.
Understanding Copper Cable Weight Calculation
Calculating the weight of copper in a cable is essential for electrical contractors, scrap metal recycling, and logistics planning. Copper is a dense metal, and its weight adds up quickly in large-scale electrical installations.
The Formula for Copper Weight
The weight of the copper conductor is determined by the volume of the material and the density of copper. Pure copper has a density of approximately 8,960 kg/m³ (or 8.96 g/cm³).
The calculation used by this tool is:
Weight (kg) = [Cross-section (mm²) × Cores × Length (m) × 8.96] / 1000
Standard Cable Size Reference
| Cross-Section (mm²) | Weight per km (1 Core) | Typical Application |
|---|---|---|
| 1.5 mm² | 13.44 kg | Lighting circuits |
| 2.5 mm² | 22.40 kg | Power sockets |
| 6.0 mm² | 53.76 kg | Cookers/Showers |
| 16.0 mm² | 143.36 kg | Main service feeders |
Practical Example
If you have 50 meters of a 3-core cable, where each core has a 10 mm² cross-section:
- Cross-section: 10 mm²
- Cores: 3
- Length: 50 meters
- Calculation: (10 * 3 * 50 * 8.96) / 1000 = 13.44 kg
Factors That Affect Total Cable Weight
While this calculator provides the weight of the copper itself, remember that the total weight of a cable assembly includes:
- Insulation: PVC, XLPE, or rubber coatings.
- Sheathing: The outer protective layer.
- Armouring: Steel wire braid (SWA) or aluminum tapes found in industrial cables.
- Fillers: Materials used to keep the cable round.
For accurate shipping weight, usually add 20-40% to the copper weight for standard PVC cables, or significantly more for armored cables.