Linear Thermal Expansion Calculator
Calculate how much a length expands with temperature.
m
×10⁻⁶/°C
°C
Result
6 mm
Elongation: 6 mm
Result in all units
Step-by-step solution
ΔL = L₀ × α × ΔT
What Is Thermal Expansion?
Thermal expansion is the increase in a material's size as temperature rises. It is taken into account in bridge and rail design.
How is it calculated?
How Is It Calculated?
ΔL = L₀ × α × ΔT
α: expansion coefficient, L₀: initial length.
- Enter the initial length, coefficient and temperature difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are gaps left between rails?
A gap is left to prevent rails that expand in the heat from pressing against each other and buckling.