1. What is Grams Per Square Meter (GSM)?

GSM (Grams per Square Meter) is a metric measurement of the weight per unit area of paper, fabric, or other sheet materials. It represents how many grams a square meter of the material weighs.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the GSM formula:

Where:

• \( Weight \) — Mass of the material in grams
• \( Area \) — Surface area in square meters

Explanation: The calculation divides the weight of the material by its area to determine the weight density.

3. Importance of GSM Calculation

Details: GSM is crucial in industries like paper manufacturing, textiles, and packaging as it indicates material thickness and quality. Higher GSM generally means thicker, heavier material.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in grams and area in square meters. Both values must be positive numbers. For irregular shapes, calculate the total area first.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between GSM and basis weight?
A: GSM is metric (g/m²), while basis weight is typically measured in pounds per ream (paper industry) and varies by paper type.

Q2: What are typical GSM values for paper?
A: Copy paper: 80 gsm, business cards: 250-300 gsm, magazine covers: 170-200 gsm.

Q3: How do I measure area for GSM calculation?
A: For rectangular pieces: length × width. For irregular shapes, use grid methods or specialized area measurement tools.

Q4: Can I use other weight units?
A: The calculator requires grams. Convert from ounces: 1 oz = 28.35 g, from pounds: 1 lb = 453.592 g.

Q5: What's the importance of GSM in textiles?
A: GSM determines fabric thickness and durability. T-shirts: 150-200 gsm, jeans: 400-600 gsm, towels: 400-800 gsm.