Sheet Metal Thickness Gauge Chart: mm and Inches Equivalents

Sheet metal is typically ordered by "gauge" rather than direct millimeter or inch measurements. Because gauge numbers are not linear, using a thickness gauge chart is essential to find the correct decimal values for calculations.

Gauge Systems and Material Variations

Sizing systems vary by material. A 16-gauge carbon steel sheet has a thickness of 0.0598 inches (1.52 mm), whereas a 16-gauge stainless steel sheet has a thickness of 0.0625 inches (1.59 mm). This variation occurs because gauge scales were historically based on the weight of the sheet metal per square foot.

Weight Calculations

To calculate the weight of a sheet metal plate, you must convert the gauge number to its decimal thickness in millimeters or inches, calculate the volume of the plate, and multiply by the material density.

Determine sheet metal weights using our length to weight steel calculator. For structural framing, read our guide on I-beam and H-beam weight calculation.