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Radius of Gyration Calculator

r = √(I/A) — the column designer's favourite section property.

0
Radius of gyration (mm)

r asks: how far from the axis does the area EFFECTIVELY sit? Tubes maximize it; that's why they make the best columns. Always check the WEAK axis r.

Formula

r = √(I/A)
References: Column theory — any steel design text

Radius of Gyration Calculator is a free radius of gyration for structural engineers, fabricators and site engineers — instant, accurate and 100% client-side, with the governing formula and reference shown next to the result so the number can be defended, not just quoted.

About Radius of Gyration Calculator

r = √(I/A) — the column designer's favourite section property. The calculation implements r = √(I/A) (Column theory — any steel design text). r asks: how far from the axis does the area EFFECTIVELY sit? Tubes maximize it; that's why they make the best columns. Always check the WEAK axis r.

How to use Radius of Gyration Calculator

  1. 1Enter Moment of inertia I in cm⁴.
  2. 2Enter Area A in cm².
  3. 3Read Radius of gyration instantly — no submit button needed.
  4. 4Need US units? Flip the SI/Imperial toggle and every field converts.

Why use Radius of Gyration Calculator?

  • Implements the standard formula — r = √(I/A)
  • Reference cited on-page: Column theory — any steel design text
  • One-click SI ⇄ Imperial toggle — values convert in place, physics stays in SI
  • Live worked example: the substitution recomputes from your numbers
  • Runs entirely in your browser — nothing uploaded, free forever

Frequently asked questions

What formula does the Radius of Gyration Calculator use?+

It computes r = √(I/A), per Column theory — any steel design text. The formula is displayed under the result along with a worked example substituted with your own inputs.

What should I keep in mind when using this calculator?+

r asks: how far from the axis does the area EFFECTIVELY sit? Tubes maximize it; that's why they make the best columns. Always check the WEAK axis r.

Can I use this for real structural design?+

It implements the exact textbook/code formula cited below the result and is ideal for sizing, checking and learning. Final designs should be verified by a qualified engineer against the full code with all load cases.

Is the Radius of Gyration Calculator free to use?+

Yes — completely free, no sign-up, no limits. It runs client-side in your browser, so inputs stay private and results are instant even on slow connections.

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