Log Volume Calculator

For a more accurate result, it is recommended to measure the log diameter at both ends and use the average value:

dv=(d1 + d2) / 2

You can use the "+" and "×" buttons to add or remove rows for calculating multiple log sizes.

Calculation results:
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About Log Volume Calculation

The results are approximate. Before use, verify the calculations against the applicable standards and consult a specialist. The developer is not responsible for the consequences of use without project verification.

This calculator determines the volume of round timber from the geometric dimensions of each log and then adds up the total cubic volume for the whole batch. It is used for buying and selling timber, preliminary estimation of wood stock, warehouse records, and quick cost calculation based on the price per 1 m3.

The calculation is based on a simple and verifiable geometric model. For each log, the volume is determined from its length, average diameter, and quantity, after which the individual results are added into one total.

Reference Points and Recommendations

Geometric Calculation Model

Volume of one log. The calculation is based on the cylinder model. First, the diameter is converted from centimeters to meters, then the cross-sectional area is determined, and after that this area is multiplied by the log length in meters.

V = π × (dv / 100)2 / 4 × L

Meaning of the formula. Here V is the volume of one log in m3, dv is the average diameter in cm, and L is the length in m. The number π ≈ 3.1416 is used to calculate the area of a circle, and division by 100 converts centimeters into meters.

How the Average Diameter Is Used

Diameter averaging. If the diameter at one end of the log differs from the diameter at the other end, the average value is used for the calculation. This reduces the error caused by the natural taper of the stem and provides one calculated diameter value for the full length.

dv = (d1 + d2) / 2

Practical meaning. This approach is convenient for everyday round timber volume calculation when a clear and repeatable estimate is needed without using a printed log volume table. A common method is to measure the diameter at the two ends of the same log and use the average value.

How a Batch of Multiple Logs Is Calculated

Quantity. For identical logs, the volume of one piece is multiplied by the number of pieces. If the batch contains several groups with different dimensions, each group is calculated separately and then all volumes are added together.

Vgroup = V × n

Vtotal = V1 + V2 + V3 + ...

Final value. The total volume is shown as the sum of all calculation rows. On the page, the result is rounded to 0.001 m3, which makes the total convenient for accounting, comparison, and price calculation.

How the Cost Is Determined

Batch price. If the price per 1 m3 is known, the total volume is multiplied by that price. This gives the estimated total cost of the entire timber batch.

C = Vtotal × P

Calculation units. Here C is the total price, Vtotal is the total volume in m3, and P is the price per 1 m3. The total cost on the page is rounded to 0.01 of the currency unit.

What Affects Volume Accuracy

Main assumption. The calculator treats the log as a cylinder with one conventional diameter over the full length. In reality, round timber may have taper, ovality, curvature, swellings, and local defects, so the actual cubic volume may differ slightly.

Sensitivity to diameter. The diameter enters the formula as a squared value, so an error in diameter affects the result more strongly than the same relative error in length. That is why, in practice, it is more common to use an average diameter than a single random measurement.

Normative References

Measurement of round timber. The logic of this calculation follows the general geometric approach used for measuring round timber. In European practice, useful references include EN 1309-2 Round and sawn timber. Method of measurement of dimensions. Part 2. Round timber. Requirements for measurement rules and volume calculation and EN 1310 Round and sawn timber. Method of measurement of features.

Scope limit. This calculator determines only timber volume, not strength, grade, moisture content, or suitability for load-bearing structures. For structural use of timber, additional reference is made to EN 1995-1-1 Eurocode 5. Design of timber structures and related standards for grading and material assessment.

FAQs

Why is the cylinder formula used to calculate log volume?

It is the most direct and understandable way to convert log length and diameter into round timber cubic volume. For timber purchasing, selling, and accounting, this method is usually sufficient when the dimensions are measured carefully.

Why should I use the average diameter if the two ends of the log are different?

A log often has natural taper, so the dimensions at the two ends are not the same. The average value gives a more stable result and reduces the risk of the calculation being biased toward one end only.

Why does a small diameter error noticeably change the volume?

Because the diameter is squared in the formula. As a result, even a small difference in centimeters can noticeably change the final timber cubic volume.

Can this calculator be used instead of a printed log volume table?

Yes, for most ordinary tasks an online round timber volume calculation fully replaces searching in tables. It is especially convenient when the batch contains logs with different lengths, diameters, and quantities.

Is this calculation suitable for designing timber structures?

No, it shows only the volume and related values connected with the cubic volume of the batch. Design work requires separate data on strength, moisture content, timber grade, and the requirements of the applicable European standards.