Enter the inner radius and the thickness of the hollow tube into the calculator to determine the outer radius.

Outer Radius of a Hollow Tube Formula

The following equation is used to calculate the Outer Radius of a Hollow Tube.

R = r + t
  • Where R is the outer radius
  • r is the inner radius
  • t is the thickness of the tube wall

To calculate the outer radius of a hollow tube, add together the inner radius and the wall thickness.

What is the Outer Radius of a Hollow Tube?

Definition:

The outer radius of a hollow tube is defined as the distance from the axial center of the tube to the outer surface area.

How to Calculate Outer Radius of a Hollow Tube?

Example Problem:

The following example outlines the steps and information needed to calculate the Outer Radius of a Hollow Tube.

First, determine the inner radius. In this example, the inner radius is measured to be 4 inches.

Next, measure the wall thickness. This hollow tube has a wall thickness of .5 inches.

Finally, calculate the outer radius using the formula above:

R = r + t

R = 4+.5

R = 4.5 inches

FAQ

What materials are commonly used to make hollow tubes?

Hollow tubes can be made from a variety of materials, including steel, aluminum, plastic, and composite materials. The choice of material depends on the application, required strength, weight, and environmental conditions.

How does the thickness of the tube wall affect its strength?

The thickness of the tube wall plays a crucial role in determining the tube’s strength and rigidity. Generally, a thicker wall increases the strength and the ability to withstand internal and external pressures, but it also increases the weight of the tube.

Can the formula for calculating the outer radius of a hollow tube be used for any shape of tube?

The formula R = r + t, where R is the outer radius, r is the inner radius, and t is the thickness of the tube wall, is primarily used for circular tubes. For tubes of other shapes, such as rectangular or square, the concept remains similar, but the calculation might involve different dimensions depending on the specific geometry of the shape.