What is the formula for the volume of a cylinder?

The volume of a cylinder is pi times the radius squared, times the height. In symbols, V = pi r squared h. If you know the diameter, the radius is half the diameter.

How do I convert cubic metres to litres?

One cubic metre is 1,000 litres. So multiply cubic metres by 1,000 to get litres. A cylinder of 0.5 cubic metres holds 500 litres.

How do I find the volume of a tank or pipe?

A tank or pipe is a cylinder, so use the same formula. Measure the internal radius and the length or height, then multiply pi by the radius squared by the length. Use the internal measurements for capacity.

Cylinder Volume Calculator

Work out the volume of a cylinder, tank, pipe, or post hole. Enter the radius (or switch to diameter) and the height, choose your unit, and the calculator returns the volume in cubic metres, litres, and cubic centimetres. The formula is pi times the radius squared, times the height.

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Measurement

Radius / diameter

Height

Units

1.571 m³

Litres1,570.8

Cubic centimetres1,570,796

The formula

The volume of a cylinder is pi times the radius squared, times the height (V = pi r squared h). If you have the diameter, halve it to get the radius. All measurements must be in the same unit before you multiply, and the calculator converts your input to metres first.

Worked example

A water tank has a radius of 0.5 m and a height of 2 m. The volume is pi times 0.5 squared times 2, which is about 1.571 cubic metres, or 1,571 litres.

Frequently asked questions

How many litres in a cubic metre?

1,000. Multiply cubic metres by 1,000 to get litres.

Radius or diameter?

Either works. Switch the dropdown to diameter if that is what you measured, and the calculator halves it for you.

Who this calculator is for

This calculator is for anyone working out the volume of a cylinder, such as a tank, pipe, tube or drum.

What this calculator assumes

The radius or diameter and the height you enter.
The formula volume equals pi times radius squared times height.
All dimensions are in consistent units.
Results are rounded for display.

Related calculators

Cubic Metre Calculator: volume of a box shape.
Volume Conversion Calculator: convert volume units.
Square Metre Calculator: area in square metres.
Concrete Calculator: concrete volume and bags.

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