Metal Gauge Thickness Calculator
Here’s a comprehensive table summarizing key information about metal gauge thickness:
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Definition | A standardized system for measuring sheet metal thickness |
| Relationship | As gauge number increases, material thickness decreases |
| Range | Typically 3 (thickest) to 38 (thinnest) for sheet steel |
| Measurement Units | Inches or millimeters |
| Common Metals | Steel, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, brass |
| Gauge Systems | – Manufacturer’s Standard Gauge (steel, stainless steel) – Brown & Sharpe/American Wire Gauge (aluminum, copper, brass) |
| Thickness Example | 14 gauge steel ≈ 0.0747 inches (1.9 mm) |
| Thickness Variation | Slight variations can occur within the same gauge |
| Application Considerations | – Lower gauge (thicker): More strength, less flexibility – Higher gauge (thinner): More flexibility, less strength |
| Industry Usage | Sheet metal, wiring, tubing |
| Advantages | Standardized sizing across manufacturers |
| Limitations | Different gauge systems for ferrous and non-ferrous metals |
| Alternatives | Direct measurement in inches or millimeters |
| Conversion | Gauge charts available for converting to inches/mm |
| Selection Factors | – Required strength – Flexibility needs – Weight considerations – Cost |
This table provides a concise overview of metal gauge thickness, covering its definition, relationship to material thickness, common applications, and key considerations for selection and use.