DGLVR Materials Calculator

In order to assist Districts in developing and double-checking quantities for grant application workplans, the Center has develop a “DGLVR Materials Calculator”. This calculator uses the densities and compaction ratios of common materials available in PA to conveniently determine aggregate, stone, and fill estimates for project needs. By entering the length, width, and depth of stone or fill desired, the calculator will generate an estimate of the amount of loose (as shipped) material for your job such as shale fill for roads, DSA for road surface, or stone for a mattress or underdrain. You can specify a compacted/finished material depth or a loose/tailgated depth when entering the dimensions. However, the estimates generated will always appear as cubic yards of loose material and US tons as-shipped (loose). A cost estimate can be generated by providing a known price per ton in your region or from a particular supplier.

The calculator also has a “custom material” option that will let you specify the density and compaction ratio of material not in the list. This option can be used when estimates are desired for a material that is not found on the existing list and when the volume to weight conversion factor is known for the material, or for when the standard conversion factor for a listed material does not correspond to your particular source.

The volume to weight conversion factors used for the calculator are averages from across PA, based on observations by Center field staff. Actual conversion factors will vary by region and specific suppliers. Since the conversion factors for the common materials are not editable, use the “custom material” option where you have more accurate conversion factors for your area.