Cylinder Inputs
Formula Used
Hollow cylinder: V = πh(R² − r²)
From diameter: V = π(d ÷ 2)²h
From circumference: r = C ÷ 2π
From base area: V = Ah
A cylinder volume equals its circular base times height. Radius controls area through a squared relationship. Small radius changes can strongly affect final capacity.
Horizontal tanks need a circular segment calculation first. The segment area depends on liquid depth. That area then multiplies by the tank length.
Reverse modes rearrange the standard volume equation. They find missing radius, diameter, or height. Use consistent units before comparing calculated engineering dimensions.
How to Use
- Select the required cylinder calculation mode.
- Choose radius, diameter, circumference, or base area.
- Enter dimensions and select their shared unit.
- Add hollow or partial-fill values when needed.
- Select output units, density, quantity, and precision.
- Add an optional price for cost estimation.
- Press the calculation button to view detailed results.
- Copy, print, or download the completed calculation.
Example Data
| Example | Mode | Radius | Height | Expected volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small tank | Solid | 0.5 m | 2 m | 1.571 m³ |
| Steel tube | Hollow | 0.1 m | 3 m | Depends on inner radius |
| Half-full drum | Partial fill | 0.3 m | 0.9 m | Half of total capacity |
| Reverse sizing | Find radius | Unknown | 2 m | Uses target volume |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cylinder volume formula?
The standard formula is V equals πr²h. Radius must be squared before multiplying. Height then scales the circular base into volume.
Can I enter diameter instead of radius?
Yes, choose diameter as the input basis. The calculator divides diameter by two automatically. It then applies the standard cylinder volume formula.
How is hollow cylinder volume calculated?
Outer and inner circular areas are compared. Their difference creates the material ring area. Multiplying that area by height gives material volume.
Does the calculator handle horizontal tanks?
Yes, choose the partial-fill calculation mode. Enter radius, tank length, and liquid depth. The calculator applies a circular segment volume formula.
Can it calculate liquid weight?
Yes, select a listed liquid or material. Volume multiplies by density to estimate mass. Custom density supports uncommon substances and project materials.
Which gallon units are supported?
The calculator includes US and UK gallons. These gallon definitions use different conversion factors. Always select the version required by your project.
Can it find a missing dimension?
Yes, reverse modes find radius, diameter, or height. Enter the target volume and known dimension. The calculator rearranges the volume formula automatically.
How does quantity affect results?
Quantity multiplies one cylinder’s calculated volume. It also updates total mass and estimated cost. Individual cylinder geometry remains displayed for clear checking.
Are results suitable for engineering work?
Results support planning and preliminary sizing work. Real containers may include fittings and irregularities. Verify critical designs using applicable professional standards first.