Metal Gauge to Thickness

Q: Why does the same gauge differ by material?

Gauge systems are conventions developed separately for different metals, often based on historical weight-per-area practices. Thickness therefore differs by material.

Q: What if my required thickness is between two gauges?

Use thickness in mm with tolerance in the PO. For quick reference, the tool returns the nearest gauge and marks it as Nearest.

Q: Does gauge affect shipping cost?

Yes, indirectly. Thickness drives weight. Convert to mm and estimate weight per sheet/coil for freight planning.

Q: How do I get an accurate quotation from LYH Steel?

Provide grade, surface, thickness (mm), width/length, and quantity. LYH Steel can quote and confirm capability with QC and documentation.

Metal Gauge to Thickness Converter (mm & inch) — LYH Steel

Gauge is a lookup convention, not a universal formula. Select the correct material table to avoid quoting and procurement errors.

1) Input

Mode

Gauge → Thickness Thickness → Gauge

Material

Gauge (GA)

Tip: If you purchase in North America, suppliers often quote gauge, while drawings and specs are typically in mm.

2) Result

Gauge (GA)

—

Thickness (mm)

—

Thickness (inch)

—

Match

—

After conversion, you can estimate shipping weight using your Steel Resource Hub tools and guides, then confirm final tolerance by drawing and MTC.

Gauge Table (Selected Material)

Gauge	Thickness (mm)	Thickness (inch)

Mobile tip: swipe left/right to view the full table.

Why Converting Metal Gauge to Thickness Matters

In international steel trade, thickness is typically specified in millimeters (mm), while many North American quotations still use gauge (GA). Converting gauge to true thickness helps you align RFQs, drawings, and mill capabilities—reducing rework, claims, and delivery risk.

Procurement: Compare offers fairly when suppliers quote “16 GA” but your project spec is “1.5 mm”.
Fabrication: Cutting, bending radius, and welding parameters depend on real thickness—not the gauge label.
Logistics: Thickness affects weight per sheet/coil and container loading plans.

Gauge Is Not a Universal Formula

Gauge numbers are a convention developed by industry practice (often tied to weight per area), so the same gauge can mean different thickness across stainless steel, carbon steel, and aluminum. For critical projects, always confirm thickness tolerance by the applicable standard and mill certificate.

Common Gauge-to-Thickness Examples

Example	Material	Gauge	Thickness (mm)	Thickness (inch)	Typical Use
A	Stainless Steel	16 GA	1.59	0.0625	Enclosures, kitchen equipment, light structures
B	Sheet Steel	18 GA	1.21	0.0478	General sheet metal fabrication
C	Aluminum	16 GA	1.29	0.0508	Lightweight panels and covers

Full Gauge Chart (Stainless / Sheet Steel / Aluminum)

Use the combined chart below for quick cross-checking. The calculator at the top will also display the selected material’s table automatically.

Gauge	Stainless (inch)	Stainless (mm)	Sheet Steel (inch)	Sheet Steel (mm)	Aluminum (inch)	Aluminum (mm)

Note: Gauge tables can vary slightly by convention and market. Always confirm with purchase specs and drawings.

How LYH Steel Supports Your Thickness-Control Requirements

LYH Steel supplies export-ready stainless steel and steel products with strict QC and documentation. If you need consistent thickness and tight tolerance control, we can coordinate mill selection, processing, and inspection before shipment.

Product links: Stainless Steel Sheet & Plate, Stainless Steel Strip & Coil, Stainless Steel Pipe & Tube.
Processing: Slitting, Shearing, Quality Inspection.
Resource Hub: Knowledge Center and Export News.

FAQ

1) Why does the same gauge differ by material?

Because gauge systems are conventions developed separately for different metals, often based on historical weight-per-area practices.

2) Can I convert gauge to mm using a single formula?

No. Gauge should be treated as a lookup table. Always select the correct material chart.

3) What if my required thickness is between two gauges?

The tool will return the nearest gauge and show “Nearest”. For contracts, specify thickness in mm and tolerance in the PO.

4) Does gauge affect shipping cost?

Indirectly, yes—because thickness drives weight. Convert to mm and then estimate weight per sheet/coil for freight planning.

5) How do I get an accurate quotation from LYH Steel?

Send your grade, surface, thickness (mm), width/length, and quantity. Contact us here: Contact LYH Steel.