Cylinder Volume Calculator By Circumference
Cylinder volume from circumference uses the formula V = C squared h divided by 4 pi. For a cylinder with circumference 31.42 cm and height 10 cm, calculating 987.22 times 10 divided by 12.57 gives 785.40 cm3. This method works directly from a tape measure reading. Enter circumference and height below.
Calculator
Circumference determines the radius
Measuring around pipes and columns
This tool calculates volume from outer circumference and height. Wrap a tape measure around the cylinder to get the distance around. It works on tanks, pipes, and tree trunks.
To learn how to calculate radius directly from tape wrap readings, see our tutorial on how to find the radius of a cylinder.
Converting outer perimeter into total capacity
The formula is V = (C squared times h) divided by (4 times pi). Here C is the circumference and h is the height. Square the circumference, multiply by height, and divide by 4 pi.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I measure the circumference of a cylinder?
Wrap a flexible tape measure around the outer curved edge of the cylinder at a right angle to its height.
What is the formula for volume from circumference?
The formula is V = (C² × h) / (4 × π), where C is circumference, h is height, and π is approximately 3.14159.
Why use circumference instead of diameter?
Circumference is easier to measure on large tanks, columns, and trees where you cannot reach through the center.
Does wall thickness affect this calculation?
Yes. For fluid storage inside a thick tank, subtract wall thickness from the outer radius to get internal capacity.
Can I convert circumference to diameter directly?
Yes. Divide the circumference by Pi (3.14159) to find the diameter.
How do you find the volume of a cylinder using circumference?
To find the volume of a cylinder using circumference, first derive the radius from the circumference: r = C / (2π), where C is the circumference. Then apply the standard formula: V = π × r² × h. For example, if a cylinder has a circumference of 31.42 cm and a height of 10 cm: r = 31.42 / (2 × 3.14159) = 5 cm. Then V = π × 25 × 10 = 785.40 cm³. You can also use the circumference directly in the formula: V = (C² × h) / (4π), which eliminates the intermediate step of finding the radius.