The Gauge To Inches Calculator helps you convert metal sheet gauge numbers into their corresponding thickness in inches. This conversion is critical in metal fabrication, construction, plumbing, and automotive industries where material thickness needs to be precise.
This calculator belongs to the material thickness and metalworking calculator category.
Unlike other unit conversions, gauge numbers don’t increase linearly. A lower gauge means thicker metal, and the values differ based on material types like steel, aluminum, or galvanized steel. That’s why the calculator uses standardized reference tables to ensure accuracy. It saves time and prevents costly mistakes in cutting, shaping, or fitting metal parts.
formula
The gauge-to-inch conversion is not calculated with a simple formula. It is based on standard reference tables that vary depending on the type of material being measured.
There is no universal formula; instead, gauge systems are defined by industry standards such as ASTM for steel.
For calculator implementation, either use lookup tables or interpolation between standard values.
Here is a commonly used reference for US Standard Sheet Steel (ASTM):
| Gauge | Thickness (inches) |
|---|---|
| 10 | 0.1345 |
| 11 | 0.1196 |
| 12 | 0.1046 |
| 13 | 0.0897 |
| 14 | 0.0747 |
| 16 | 0.0598 |
| 18 | 0.0478 |
| 20 | 0.0359 |
| 22 | 0.0299 |
| 24 | 0.0239 |
| 26 | 0.0179 |
These values are industry-verified and widely used in manufacturing and technical design.
Common Reference Table for Multiple Materials
Here is a helpful chart showing how the same gauge can mean different thicknesses for different metals.
| Gauge | Steel (inches) | Galvanized Steel (inches) | Aluminum (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 0.1345 | 0.1382 | 0.1019 |
| 12 | 0.1046 | 0.1084 | 0.0808 |
| 14 | 0.0747 | 0.0785 | 0.0641 |
| 16 | 0.0598 | 0.0635 | 0.0508 |
| 18 | 0.0478 | 0.0516 | 0.0403 |
| 20 | 0.0359 | 0.0396 | 0.0320 |
| 22 | 0.0299 | 0.0336 | 0.0253 |
| 24 | 0.0239 | 0.0276 | 0.0201 |
Always choose the correct reference depending on the metal you are working with. Using the wrong gauge conversion could lead to structural or fitting issues.
Example
Let’s go through an example using the Gauge To Inches Calculator.
You are working with sheet steel and need to know the thickness for a 16-gauge metal.
Step 1: Look up the value for 16 gauge in the steel table
Thickness = 0.0598 inches
Now, suppose the project requires aluminum of the same gauge:
Step 2: Look up the 16 gauge value for aluminum
Thickness = 0.0508 inches
So even though the gauge number is the same, the thickness is different depending on the material.
Final Answer:
16 gauge steel = 0.0598 inches
16 gauge aluminum = 0.0508 inches
Most Common FAQs
Different metals have different densities and mechanical properties. Industry standards assign specific thicknesses to gauge numbers based on the material type, which is why a gauge 16 steel sheet is not the same as a gauge 16 aluminum sheet.
No, there isn’t a single formula for all materials. Gauge values are based on standardized tables, and each material has its own thickness reference. For accurate results, you must use the correct chart for your material.
No, this calculator is specifically for sheet metal gauges. Wire gauge conversions follow a different system called the American Wire Gauge (AWG) and require separate tools.