How do I calculate linear thermal expansion?

Multiply the original length by the coefficient of linear expansion and temperature change.

Why is volumetric expansion about three times linear expansion?

For isotropic solids, expansion occurs in three perpendicular directions.

Is the stress estimate a safety check?

No. It is a simplified reference calculation and does not replace engineering review.

Thermal Expansion Calculator

Calculate linear and volumetric thermal expansion, final length or volume, density change and simplified thermal stress for solids and liquids.

Linear and volume expansion, thermal stress

Material

Initial length, m

Initial temperature, °C

Final temperature, °C

Result - Structural steel

Temperature change: 60 K

Length change: 18 mm

Final length: 25.018 m

Relative elongation: 0.072 %

Estimated area change: 0.144 %

Estimated volume change: 0.216 %

Deformation is amplified by about 347x for readability.

For isotropic solids, area change is roughly twice the linear relative elongation, and volume change is roughly three times it. The displayed deformation is amplified for readability.

Linear and volumetric expansion

Δ L = α L_{0} Δ T

alpha is the linear expansion coefficient.

Δ V = β V_{0} Δ T

beta is the volumetric expansion coefficient.

Thermal stress boundary

Simplified stress model

Stress output assumes full restraint, linear elasticity and constant properties. It is not a design verification.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources and References

Calculations are based on the listed reference sources. Links open in a new tab.

Updated: June 2, 2026

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