Choose the exact grade
304L, 316L, ferritic and duplex grades do not all use the same density.
Technical guide
Stainless Steel Density Chart
Stainless density varies by composition. Use the grade-specific value and consistent units for theoretical weight, then apply dimensional tolerances and actual weighing where the contract requires it.
Common rangeAbout 7.7 to 8.0 g/cm³
Unit identity1 kg/dm³ = 1 g/cm³
Weight basisDensity × net material volume
Decision summary
Use density as an engineering input, not a shipping guarantee
Published density values support estimates. Actual shipment weight also reflects dimensional tolerances, cutouts, weld metal, scale, packaging and certified weighing practice.
Match units before multiplying
For volume in cubic metres use kg/m³; for litres use kg/dm³; for cubic inches use lb/in³.
Use net material volume
Subtract holes, cutouts and internal voids and add separate components.
Respect tolerances
Nominal thickness, OD and wall can vary within the product standard.
Separate theoretical and actual weight
State which basis governs quoting, invoicing and freight.
Check temperature basis
Reference tables commonly state density at 20 °C; high-precision work may require temperature control.
Reference table
Selected stainless steel density values at 20 °C
Values are from the cited worldstainless and Outokumpu physical-property tables. Metric and imperial values are source values rounded as shown.
| Grade / EN number | Family | kg/dm³ and g/cm³ | kg/m³ | lb/in³ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 430 / 1.4016 | Ferritic | 7.7 | 7,700 | 0.278 approx. |
| 304L / 1.4307 | Austenitic | 7.9 | 7,900 | 0.285 |
| 316L / 1.4404 | Austenitic | 8.0 | 8,000 | 0.289 |
| 321 / 1.4541 | Austenitic | 7.9 | 7,900 | 0.285 |
| 2205 / 1.4462 | Duplex | 7.8 | 7,800 | 0.282 |
| 2507 / 1.4410 | Super duplex | 7.8 | 7,800 | 0.282 |
| 17-4PH / S17400 | Precipitation hardening | 7.8 | 7,800 | 0.282 |
Values are planning properties at 20 °C. Use the grade datasheet and agreed calculation convention for contractual mass.
Working method
Calculate theoretical mass consistently
The core equation is mass equals density multiplied by net volume. Most errors come from geometry or unit conversion rather than arithmetic.
Select density
Use a traceable value for the exact grade and temperature basis.
Calculate net volume
Use the actual geometric form and subtract openings or voids.
Convert units once
Keep density and volume in one compatible unit system before multiplying.
Document assumptions
Record nominal dimensions, tolerances, rounding, scrap exclusion and the commercial weight basis.
Limits and escalation
Control the difference between calculated and shipped weight
Nominal dimensions vary
Thickness and wall tolerances can create a larger difference than the density rounding.
Fabrications are assemblies
Weld metal, fasteners, fittings and attached parts may use different grades and densities.
Processing changes net volume
Cutting, machining and edge preparation remove material; forming normally does not change mass.
Packaging is separate
Freight weight can include pallets, crates, protective film and moisture protection.
Interactive planning aid
Calculate mass from volume and grade
Enter net volume in litres. Because one litre equals one cubic decimetre, mass in kilograms equals litres multiplied by density in kg/dm³.
Frequently asked questions
Stainless steel density FAQ
The cited tables use 7.9 kg/dm³, equal to 7.9 g/cm³ or 7,900 kg/m³, for 304 and 304L at 20 °C.
The cited Outokumpu table lists 8.0 kg/dm³, equal to 8.0 g/cm³ or 8,000 kg/m³, and 0.289 lb/in³.
Nominal dimensional tolerances, cutouts, welds, attached parts, surface condition, rounding and packaging can all change the result.
It may be acceptable for a rough estimate, but grade-specific values improve accuracy and should be used for controlled calculations.
Method, sources and review
Traceable sources and review status
Industry-hosted density and physical-property data at 20 °C.
Producer physical properties for common austenitic and ferritic grades.
Producer physical properties for duplex grades.
Producer density values for 304L, 316L and 17-4PH.
Density values are traceable planning inputs. Contractual weight should follow the agreed grade data, dimensions, tolerances, rounding and actual-weighing requirements.
Density calculation context
Use density with the exact alloy, form and calculation basis.
A density chart supports estimation, but mass and weight calculations should use the relevant material condition, dimensions, units and tolerance basis for the supplied product.
- Alloy basis
- Dimensional input
- Unit control
Visual process context
Show the physical form and the calculation context together.
Reserve one image for the measured product form and another for the weighing, dimensional or verification context.
Engineering and sourcing support
Request stainless with theoretical weight defined
Send grade, product form, dimensions, tolerances, cutouts, quantity, weight basis, packaging and destination.