Thermal Expansion Calculator
Calculate dimensional changes due to temperature change.
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Select the expansion type (linear, area, or volume). Enter the original dimension, the coefficient of expansion, and the temperature change. The calculator shows the dimensional change, final value, and percent change.
About Thermal Expansion
Most materials expand when heated because increased thermal energy causes atoms to vibrate more vigorously, increasing average separation. Linear expansion is described by delta L = alpha L0 delta T, where alpha is the coefficient of linear expansion. Area expansion uses 2 alpha, and volume expansion uses 3 alpha (approximately). Thermal expansion must be accounted for in construction (bridges, railways, pipelines), precision manufacturing, and any application involving temperature changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is thermal expansion?
Thermal expansion is the tendency of matter to change volume in response to temperature change. Most materials expand when heated and contract when cooled.
Why do bridges have expansion joints?
Steel and concrete expand and contract with temperature. Without joints, thermal stress could buckle or crack the structure. Expansion joints allow controlled movement.
What are typical coefficients of linear expansion?
Steel: 12 x 10^-6 /K, Aluminum: 23 x 10^-6 /K, Copper: 17 x 10^-6 /K, Concrete: 12 x 10^-6 /K, Glass: 8.5 x 10^-6 /K.