Aluminum tubes are used in many projects, from home repairs to construction and fabrication. If you are buying aluminum tubing, planning a project, or calculating shipping cost, one common question is:
How much does an aluminum tube weigh per foot?
The answer depends on the tube size, wall thickness, and type of aluminum. This guide explains everything in simple terms and includes a clear aluminum tube weight per foot chart.
Aluminum Tube Weight Per Foot Chart (Round Tubing)
Below is a general reference chart for common round aluminum tubing used in the USA.
| Outside Diameter (in) | Wall Thickness (in) | Weight per Foot (lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| 1/2" | 0.065 | 0.11 |
| 3/4" | 0.065 | 0.17 |
| 1" | 0.065 | 0.23 |
| 1" | 0.125 | 0.41 |
| 1-1/4" | 0.065 | 0.29 |
| 1-1/2" | 0.065 | 0.35 |
| 1-1/2" | 0.125 | 0.63 |
| 2" | 0.065 | 0.47 |
| 2" | 0.125 | 0.87 |
| 3" | 0.125 | 1.34 |
👉 Values are approximate and may vary slightly by manufacturer.
Why Aluminum Tube Weight Matters
Knowing the weight per foot helps you:
- Estimate total material weight
- Calculate shipping and handling costs
- Choose the right tube for your project
- Avoid overloading frames or supports
- Price aluminum for resale or scrap
Even small changes in tube size can change the weight a lot over long lengths.
What Is an Aluminum Tube?
An aluminum tube is a hollow, round aluminum shape.
It is different from a solid rod because the center is empty, which makes it lighter.
Aluminum tubes are commonly used for:
- Frames
- Railings
- Furniture
- Signs
- Automotive and marine parts
What Affects Aluminum Tube Weight Per Foot?
1. Outside Diameter (OD)
This is the outside width of the tube.
A larger diameter means more material and more weight.
2. Wall Thickness
This is how thick the tube wall is.
- Thin wall → lighter
- Thick wall → heavier and stronger
3. Aluminum Grade
Most aluminum tubes use common grades like 6061 or 6063.
- Weight difference between grades is small
- Strength and finish are the main differences
Example: How to Calculate Tube Weight
Let’s say you have:
- 10 feet of aluminum tube
- Weight per foot = 0.47 lbs
Calculation:
10 × 0.47 = 4.7 lbs
So the tube weighs about 4.7 pounds.
Aluminum Tube vs Aluminum Pipe
Many people confuse tube and pipe.
| Tube | Pipe |
|---|---|
| Measured by OD and wall thickness | Measured by nominal size |
| Used in structural and design work | Used for fluid flow |
| Lighter and more precise | Usually heavier |
Aluminum Tube Weight Compared to Steel
Aluminum is much lighter than steel.
- Aluminum weighs about one-third of steel
- Easier to lift and handle
- Great for weight-sensitive projects
Common Uses by Tube Size
- Small tubes (1/2” – 1”) → furniture, signs
- Medium tubes (1-1/4” – 2”) → frames, railings
- Large tubes (2”+) → structural projects
Aluminum Tube Weight for Shipping
Shipping costs are often based on weight.
Tips:
- Measure total length
- Multiply by weight per foot
- Add packaging weight
This helps avoid surprise shipping charges.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a 1-inch aluminum tube weigh per foot?
- With 0.065" wall thickness: about 0.23 lbs per foot
- With 0.125" wall thickness: about 0.41 lbs per foot
Does aluminum grade change the weight?
Not much. Most grades have similar density.
Is aluminum tube lighter than aluminum pipe?
Yes. Tubes are usually lighter because of thinner walls.
Can aluminum tubing support weight?
Yes, but strength depends on diameter, wall thickness, and design.
Final Thoughts
An aluminum tube weight per foot chart makes planning easier and saves time. By knowing the tube size and wall thickness, you can quickly estimate total weight and choose the right material for your project.
Always check supplier specs for exact numbers if your project needs precise weight.