Engineering tool · linear expansion
ΔL = αLΔTThermal Expansion Calculator
Estimate the dimensional growth or contraction of shafts, housings and other parts caused by a temperature change.
Dimensional change
Calculate linear thermal movement
Use a material coefficient appropriate to the actual alloy and temperature range. The listed values are typical room-temperature references.
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Dimensional change
Uniform-temperature linear expansion model
Total change ΔL—expansion / contraction
Change in millimetres—signed dimensional change
Final dimension—initial dimension + ΔL
Per-side radial change—half the diametral change
Thermal strain—microstrain
ΔL = α · L · ΔT
Calculation method
Temperature changes bearing fits
Differential growth between a shaft, inner ring, outer ring and housing can alter operating clearance and preload.
01 / CHANGEΔL = αLΔT
Linear expansion coefficient multiplied by original dimension and temperature change.
02 / FINAL SIZEL2 = L1 + ΔL
A negative temperature change produces contraction and a smaller final dimension.
03 / LIMITUniform temperature assumed
Thermal gradients, restraint, anisotropy and changing material properties require a more detailed analysis.