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Engineering

Thermal Expansion Calculator

Length change with temperature.

Enter your values

Enter the original length in m.

Choose one of: Steel, Aluminium, Concrete, Copper, PVC.

Enter the temperature change in °C.

Results update instantly as you type — no submit needed. Your values are remembered on this device, and the shareable link reopens the calculator with exactly these numbers.

Results
Length change
5.04 mm
New length
12.00504 m
Strain
4.200e-4
Expansion gap advised
7.6 mm

Quick answer

Linear expansion equals the coefficient times original length times temperature change.

ΔL = α × L × ΔT

At a glance

What it doesLength change with temperature.
CategoryEngineering
Inputs neededOriginal length, Material, Temperature change
Main outputLength change
FormulaΔL = α × L × ΔT
CostFree — no sign-up, no download

How to use the Thermal Expansion Calculator

  1. 1Enter the original length.
  2. 2Pick the material.
  3. 3Enter the temperature swing it will experience.

Inputs explained

Original length(m)
Enter the original length in m.
Material
Choose one of: Steel, Aluminium, Concrete, Copper, PVC.
Temperature change(°C)
Enter the temperature change in °C.

Worked example

Using the values the calculator loads with:

Inputs

  • Original length12 m
  • MaterialSteel
  • Temperature change35 °C

Results

  • Length change5.04 mm
  • New length12.00504 m
  • Strain4.200e-4
  • Expansion gap advised7.6 mm

Frequently asked questions

Why leave an expansion gap?

Restrained expansion generates huge forces and cracks structures.

Does it work for cooling?

Yes — enter a negative temperature change.

What do I need to enter into the Thermal Expansion Calculator?

Just 3 values: original length, material, temperature change. Every field starts with a realistic example, so you can change one number at a time and watch the result update instantly.

How does the Thermal Expansion Calculator work out the answer?

Linear expansion equals the coefficient times original length times temperature change. It applies the formula ΔL = α × L × ΔT and shows the working so you can check each step by hand.

Is the Thermal Expansion Calculator free, and do I need an account?

It is completely free with no sign-up, no download and no usage limit. Everything is calculated in your browser, so the numbers you type never leave your device.

Results are estimates for general information. For medical, legal, structural or financial decisions, confirm with a qualified professional.