Rolling Offset Calculator

Plan accurate two‑plane changes with true offset, travel, and advance in seconds for installers. Choose fitting angle, set takeoff, and get cut lengths instantly for any material layout. Flexible units, shareable links, and validation guard against common layout mistakes on busy jobsites. Includes example data table. Fast, practical, field‑tested and shop‑ready for everyday offsets.

Inputs

Common long-radius elbow angles shown; you can enter any.
Optional. Subtracted twice from center‑to‑center travel to get cut length.
Optional marking distance from pipe end to first bend.

Results

units: —
Numbers update when you press Calculate.
True Offset (√rise² + lateral²)
Travel (center‑to‑center)
Advance between bends
Cut Length (subtracting takeoffs)
Roll Angle φ = atan(rise/lateral)
Mark 1 from pipe end
Mark 2 from pipe end

Example Data

Click load example to populate inputs, then press Calculate.

#UnitsRiseLateralAngle θTakeoffLead‑InExpected True Offset
1in1218451.5621.633
2mm3004503000538.516
3ft23600.2513.606

Formulas Used

  1. True Offset, TO = √(rise² + lateral²)
  2. Travel (center‑to‑center), T = TO / sin(θ)
  3. Advance between bends, A = TO · cot(θ) = TO · cos(θ) / sin(θ)
  4. Cut Length between pipe ends, CL = T − 2 · takeoff
  5. Roll Angle, φ = atan(rise / lateral)
  6. Marks from pipe end: Mark1 = lead‑in; Mark2 = lead‑in + T

Assumes two identical fittings at angle θ. Takeoff is center‑to‑end per fitting.

How to Use This Calculator

  1. Select your preferred units.
  2. Enter the vertical rise and lateral offset.
  3. Choose the fitting angle, or type a custom value.
  4. Optionally provide takeoff per elbow and any lead‑in allowance.
  5. Press Calculate to compute results.
  6. Use Download CSV or Download PDF for records.
  7. Click Copy Shareable Link to capture current inputs.

Frequently Asked Questions

A rolling offset shifts a line in two planes at once, typically moving both vertically and laterally using two identical angle fittings to reconnect parallel runs.

Common choices are 22.5°, 30°, 45°, or 60°. Smaller angles increase travel; larger angles reduce travel. Select what matches available fittings and space constraints.

It is the center‑to‑end distance of an elbow. Subtracting twice the takeoff from center‑to‑center travel yields the cut length between pipe ends.

Yes. The geometry is the same. Just ensure your takeoff values match the fittings for your material and schedule or thickness.

If cut length is negative, your takeoff per elbow is too large for the selected offset and angle. Reduce takeoff, increase the angle, or increase the offset.

Results are geometric and idealized. Real fittings have tolerances. Always verify against manufacturers’ dimensions and on‑site measurements before cutting.

Yes. Use the Copy Shareable Link button to copy a URL with your inputs encoded as query parameters for quick reloading.

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Important Note: All the Calculators listed in this site are for educational purpose only and we do not guarentee the accuracy of results. Please do consult with other sources as well.