Sheet Metal Gauge Chart — Steel & Aluminium Thickness

Gauge to thickness conversion for steel and aluminium sheet metal in mm and inches.

About this calculator

A sheet metal gauge chart converts standard gauge numbers to actual thickness in millimetres and inches. Three different gauge systems are in common use: Manufacturers' Standard Gauge (steel), Brown & Sharpe Gauge (aluminium, copper, brass), and US Standard Gauge (galvanised steel). The same gauge number means different thicknesses in different systems.

For steel: 16 gauge = 1.52 mm; 20 gauge = 0.91 mm; 24 gauge = 0.61 mm. For aluminium (B&S): 16 gauge = 1.29 mm; 20 gauge = 0.81 mm. Always confirm which gauge system applies to your material before ordering.

Worked example

Inputs: Specifying 18-gauge steel for a kitchen sink

  1. Manufacturers Standard Gauge for steel: 18 ga = 1.21 mm
  2. Compare to 20 ga (0.91 mm) — visibly thinner, dents more easily
  3. Compare to 16 ga (1.52 mm) — premium grade, much stiffer, costs ≈ 30% more
  4. 18 ga is the residential sink standard; 16 ga is commercial / restaurant grade

Frequently asked questions

Does sheet metal gauge work for stainless steel?

Yes, the same Manufacturers' Standard Gauge applies to carbon steel, stainless steel, and most ferrous sheet metals. For non-ferrous (aluminium, copper, brass), use B&S gauge. Many modern suppliers list materials directly by thickness in mm or inches, avoiding gauge ambiguity altogether — always confirm the actual thickness when in doubt.

What gauge for ductwork and roofing?

HVAC ductwork: 26–22 gauge galvanised steel for residential, 22–20 gauge for commercial. Metal roofing: 26–24 gauge for residential, 22–20 gauge for industrial. Auto body panels: 18–16 gauge. Heavy gauge appliance bodies: 16–14 gauge. Furniture and decorative sheet: 18–22 gauge.

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