ΔL = α × L₀ × ΔT
Thermal expansion calculator for aerospace-grade alloys. In the vacuum, a 0.002-inch misalignment isn't art—it's a breach.
⚙️ Material Selection
23.6
📐 Initial Dimensions
500 mm
+300 K
🎯 Results
Expansion
3.54
mm
Microns
3540
μm
Tolerance Check
PASS
@ ±0.05mm
⚠️ EXPANSION EXCEEDS TOLERANCE BAND
Current: 0μm | Limit: 50μm
Current: 0μm | Limit: 50μm
✓ Within Spec
Marginal clearance: 0μm
Marginal clearance: 0μm
KSC-98pc620 • Kennedy Space Center • Public Domain
Every micron counts when the atmosphere drops away.
Every micron counts when the atmosphere drops away.
ΔL = α × L₀ × ΔT
Where:
• ΔL = Change in length (mm)
• α = Coefficient of thermal expansion (×10⁻⁶/K)
• L₀ = Initial length (mm)
• ΔT = Temperature difference (K)
Citation: Wikidata Q45760 — coefficient of thermal expansion
🔬 Constants Database
| Alloy | α (×10⁻⁶/K) | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Aluminium 6061-T6 | 23.6 | Q447725 |
| Titanium Ti-6Al-4V | 8.6 | Q3300719 |
| Stainless Steel 316L | 16.0 | Q447725 |
| Inconel 718 | 13.0 | ASM Handbook Vol 1 |
| Carbon Fiber (0°) | -1.5 | Hexcel Design Data |