Linear and volumetric thermal expansion of an isotropic material. Linear: ΔL = α·L₀·ΔT, L₁ = L₀·(1+α·ΔT). Volumetric: ΔV = 3α·V₀·ΔT (β = 3α for isotropic solids). Built-in typical α for carbon/alloy steel, aluminum, copper, austenitic stainless, titanium and glass, plus custom. ΔT in K or °C, length in mm, volume in mm³.
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Key facts
Category
Math & Numbers
Input types
select, number
Output type
json
Sample coverage
4
API ready
Yes
Overview
Calculate linear or volumetric thermal expansion for an isotropic material using its original size, temperature change, and typical or custom linear expansion coefficient. Results include the amount of expansion or contraction and the final length or volume.
When to use
Estimate how much a metal rod or other component changes length when heated or cooled.
Calculate volume changes in isotropic solids such as aluminum blocks or glass components.
Check thermal movement during mechanical design using standard material coefficients or a custom α value.
How it works
1Choose Linear or Volumetric mode.
2Select a material preset or choose Custom and enter α in 1/K.
3Enter ΔT in K or °C, then provide the original length in mm or volume in mm³ for the selected mode.
4The calculator applies ΔL = α·L₀·ΔT or ΔV = 3α·V₀·ΔT and returns the change and final value as JSON.
Use cases
Mechanical design checks for rods, rails, shafts, and other components exposed to temperature changes.
Thermal clearance estimates for aluminum, steel, copper, stainless steel, titanium, glass, and custom materials.
Volume change calculations for isotropic solid parts during heating or cooling.
Examples
1. Carbon steel rod heated by 100 K
Mechanical engineer
Background
A 1000 mm carbon steel component will operate 100 K above its reference temperature.
Problem
Estimate its length change and final length before checking thermal clearances.
How to use
Select Linear mode and Carbon steel, then enter L₀ = 1000 mm and ΔT = 100 K.