Introduction
Steel calculation is one of the most important tasks for a site engineer. Incorrect steel estimation can lead to material shortage, cost overrun, and project delay.
In this guide, you will learn:
- Steel weight calculation formula
- Step-by-step slab steel estimation
- Practical site example
- Bar weight table
- Common mistakes to avoid
Why Steel Weight Calculation is Important
Accurate steel calculation helps in:
- Preparing BOQ
- Ordering correct material
- Controlling construction cost
- Avoiding site wastage
- Planning bar bending schedule (BBS)
Steel Weight Formula
The standard formula used on site is:
Steel Weight (kg) = (D² / 162) × Length
Where:
D = Diameter of bar in mm
Length = Total length in meters
The constant 162 is derived from steel density (7850 kg/m³).
Steel Weight per Meter Table
|
Diameter (mm) |
Weight (kg/m) |
|
6 mm |
0.222 |
|
8 mm |
0.395 |
|
10 mm |
0.617 |
|
12 mm |
0.888 |
|
16 mm |
1.58 |
|
20 mm |
2.47 |
|
25 mm |
3.85 |
This table is very useful for quick site estimation.
Step-by-Step Slab Steel Calculation Example
Example:
Slab Size = 5m × 4m
Main Bar = 12mm @ 150mm c/c
Distribution Bar = 10mm @ 200mm c/c
Step 1: Calculate Number of Main Bars
Spacing = 150mm = 0.15m
Number of bars = Slab width / spacing + 1
= 4 / 0.15 + 1
= 26.66 + 1
≈ 28 bars
Length of each bar = 5m
Total length = 28 × 5 = 140m
Step 2: Calculate Weight of 12mm Bars
Using formula:
Weight = (12² / 162) × 140
= (144 / 162) × 140
= 0.888 × 140
= 124.32 kg
Step 3: Distribution Bars
Spacing = 200mm = 0.2m
Number of bars = 5 / 0.2 + 1
= 25 + 1
= 26 bars
Length of each = 4m
Total length = 26 × 4 = 104m
Weight = (10² / 162) × 104
= (100 / 162) × 104
= 0.617 × 104
= 64.17 kg
Step 4: Total Steel Required
Main Bars = 124.32 kg
Distribution Bars = 64.17 kg
Total = 188.49 kg
Add 5% wastage:
Final Steel Required ≈ 198 kg
Common Mistakes in Steel Calculation
- Not adding extra length for hooks
- Forgetting wastage percentage
- Ignoring development length
- Wrong spacing conversion (mm to meter)
- Not checking drawing properly
Pro Tip for Site Engineers
Always:
- Add 5–8% extra steel for wastage
- Cross-check with structural drawing
- Prepare BBS for large projects
Use Free Steel Weight Calculator
To save time and avoid manual errors, use our free tool:
👉 Steel Weight Calculator for TMT Bar
Click Here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the formula for steel weight calculation?
Steel weight = (D² / 162) × Length
2. Why 162 is used in steel formula?
162 is derived from steel density (7850 kg/m³).
3. How much steel is required for 1000 sq ft slab?
It depends on slab thickness and design, but typically 3–4 kg per sq ft is used as thumb rule.
4. How much wastage should be added?
Usually 5–8% wastage is added for cutting and bending.
Conclusion
Steel weight calculation is a basic but crucial skill for every civil engineer. By using the correct formula and understanding spacing calculation, you can accurately estimate slab reinforcement.
Always cross-check with structural drawings and use digital tools to minimize errors.
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