Calculate asphalt tonnage from square feet or length and width and compacted thickness, using a typical 145 lb/ft³ density or your own mix value.

Uses a typical hot-mix density of 145 lb/ft³ unless you enter your mix value.

145 lb/ft³ (about 2,323 kg/m³) is a typical compacted hot-mix value. Use your supplier’s figure if you have it; blank uses 145 lb/ft³.

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Asphalt Tonnage Formula

The following formula is used to calculate the asphalt tonnage (U.S. short tons) from dimensions and specific gravity.

T = (L × W × (D / 12) × (G × 62.4)) / 2000

Variables:

  • T is the asphalt tonnage (short tons)
  • L is the length of the area in feet
  • W is the width of the area in feet
  • D is the depth (thickness) of the asphalt in inches
  • G is the bulk specific gravity of the compacted asphalt mix (dimensionless). Use a project-specific value, not binder specific gravity or maximum theoretical Gmm.

To calculate the asphalt tonnage, first convert thickness from inches to feet by dividing D by 12, then compute volume (L × W × D/12) in cubic feet. Convert specific gravity to unit weight (lb/ft³) by multiplying G by 62.4 (the conventional approximate unit weight of water). Multiply volume by unit weight to get pounds, then divide by 2000 to convert pounds to short tons.

What is an Asphalt Tonnage?

Asphalt tonnage refers to the total weight of asphalt needed for a particular paving project. It is typically calculated based on the area to be paved and the desired thickness of the asphalt layer. This measurement is crucial in project planning and budgeting as it directly impacts the cost and amount of materials needed. The tonnage can also influence the time required for the project, as more asphalt means more time for placement, compaction, and cooling.

How to Calculate Asphalt Tonnage?

The following steps outline how to calculate the Asphalt Tonnage.

  1. First, determine the length of the area in feet (L).
  2. Next, determine the width of the area in feet (W).
  3. Next, determine the depth (thickness) of the asphalt in inches (D).
  4. Next, determine the specific gravity of the asphalt mix (G).
  5. Finally, select Tonnage from specific gravity, enter the four quantities and select Calculate. The formula T = (L * W * (D / 12) * (G * 62.4)) / 2000 gives US short tons.

Example Problem:

Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.

Length of the area in feet (L) = 50

Width of the area in feet (W) = 30

Depth of the asphalt in inches (D) = 4

Specific gravity of the asphalt (G) = 2.5. This example gives 39 US short tons before waste allowance.