Earthwork Cross Section Volume

Volume between sections

The average end area method multiplies the mean of two cross section areas by the distance between them. This calculator covers one interval. For a longer alignment, calculate each interval separately and sum volumes of the same type. Keep cut and fill quantities separate.

Example and approximation

End areas of 10 and 20 m² spaced 30 m apart give a mean area of 15 m² and an estimated volume of 450 m³. This is exact when area varies linearly along the interval. Abrupt terrain changes require additional sections. A section tapering to zero can represent different shapes, and this approximation does not give the exact volume of a pyramid. No swell or compaction factors are applied.

Add consecutive intervals separately

Three sections of the same excavation type have areas 8, 14 and 10 m². With a first spacing of 15 m, volume is (8 + 14) / 2 × 15 = 165 m³. With a second spacing of 25 m, volume is (14 + 10) / 2 × 25 = 300 m³. Total estimated excavation is 465 m³.

A simple average of all areas multiplied by total length need not give the same result. Unequal intervals require each area pair to be weighted by its own spacing. Use actual distance along the alignment between stations, not the difference between section labels.

In situ, loose and compacted volumes can differ. This tool does not convert between them. Sharp changes or zero crossings between sections require additional measurements rather than assuming that the endpoints reveal the entire shape.

Frequently asked questions

How do you calculate volume with the average end area method?

For example, the average end area method gives 300 m³ between sections of 12 m² and 18 m² separated by 20 m. This preliminary estimate treats cut and fill separately, excludes swell and compaction, and requires extra sections where terrain changes abruptly.

Calculate with these values