Precision Torque Conversion at Your Fingertips
Instantly convert torque units like N·m, lbf·ft, and kgf·m. A fast, free, and accurate tool for engineers, mechanics, and students.
Convert Torque NowMechanical Torque Converter
Enter your value, select your units, and get the precise conversion instantly.
Torque Unit Conversion
Why Use Our Torque Converter?
Our tool provides a precise and user-friendly way to convert mechanical torque units.
Essential Units
Convert between all the key metric and imperial torque units used in industry and academia.
Instant & Accurate
Calculations are performed in real-time with high precision, giving you immediate, reliable answers.
Private & Secure
All conversions are done in your browser. No data is sent to a server, ensuring your privacy.
How It Works
Getting your torque conversion is a simple three-step process.
Enter Value
Type the numerical value of the torque you wish to convert into the 'Value' field.
Select Units
Choose your starting unit ('From') and the target unit ('To') using the dropdown menus.
View Result
The converted value appears instantly in the 'Result' box. No need to click a button!
A Mechanic's Guide to Torque: N·m vs. lbf·ft and Why it Matters
Get a grip on rotational force. Learn the difference between Newton-meters and Pound-feet and when to use each for automotive, industrial, and engineering tasks.
What Exactly is Torque?
In simple terms, torque is a measure of the rotational or twisting force applied to an object. It's not about how hard you push, but how effectively that push causes something to rotate. Imagine tightening a bolt with a wrench. The force you apply to the handle, multiplied by the distance from the handle to the bolt, equals the torque. This concept is fundamental in mechanics, engineering, and physics, governing everything from the power of a car engine to the tightness of a screw.
The Equation: Force × Distance
The basic formula for torque (τ) is:
τ = F × r
- τ (tau) is the torque.
- F is the linear force applied.
- r is the lever arm distance (the distance from the axis of rotation to the point where the force is applied).
This simple relationship is why a longer wrench makes it easier to loosen a tight bolt—you increase the distance (r), which means you need less force (F) to achieve the same torque (τ).
Newton-meter (N·m): The Metric Standard
The Newton-meter (N·m) is the standard (SI) unit of torque. It is the unit used most commonly in scientific contexts and by automotive manufacturers outside of North America.
- Definition: One Newton-meter is the torque resulting from a force of one Newton applied perpendicularly to the end of a lever arm that is one meter long.
- Application: It is the preferred unit in engineering specifications, scientific research, and international standards. If you're working on European or Asian vehicles, you'll almost always see torque specs listed in N·m.
Pound-foot (lbf·ft): The Imperial Workhorse
The Pound-foot (lbf·ft or ft·lbf) is the primary unit of torque in the Imperial and U.S. customary systems. It is deeply ingrained in the North American automotive and industrial sectors.
- Definition: One pound-foot is the torque created by a one-pound force acting at a perpendicular distance of one foot from a pivot point.
- Application: It is the standard for torque wrenches, engine power ratings, and repair manuals in the United States and other regions that use the imperial system. When an American auto mechanic talks about engine torque, they're almost certainly talking about pound-feet.
A Note on Pound-inch (lbf·in)
For smaller, more delicate applications where precision is key, the Pound-inch (lbf·in) is used. As the name implies, it's the torque from a one-pound force on a one-inch lever. Since there are 12 inches in a foot, 1 lbf·ft = 12 lbf·in. This unit is common for small fasteners, electronics assembly, and internal engine components.
Why Do You Need to Convert?
In our globalized world, working across both metric and imperial systems is a daily reality for many professionals. You might have:
- A European car with torque specs in N·m, but your torque wrench is calibrated in lbf·ft.
- An engineering project that requires converting international component specifications into local standards.
- Scientific data in N·m that needs to be communicated to a team more familiar with imperial units.
Being able to convert torque units accurately is not just a convenience—it's critical for safety and proper equipment function. Over-torquing can strip threads or break bolts, while under-torquing can lead to loose components and catastrophic failures. Our Torque Converter provides a quick, reliable, and error-free way to bridge the gap between these different measurement systems, ensuring your work is always accurate and to spec.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about our Torque Converter tool.
This tool allows you to convert values between different units of torque, such as Newton-meters (N·m), Pound-feet (lbf·ft), Kilogram-force meters (kgf·m), and Pound-inches (lbf·in).
Yes, our Torque Converter is completely free to use for all your engineering and mechanical calculations.
No, all calculations are performed locally in your browser. No data is ever sent to a server, ensuring your privacy and providing instant results.
Currently, we support conversions between Newton-meter (N·m), Pound-foot (lbf·ft), Kilogram-force meter (kgf·m), and Pound-inch (lbf·in).
Simply enter a value in the 'Value' field, then select the unit you are converting 'From' and the unit you are converting 'To'. The result is calculated and displayed automatically in the 'Result' box.
They are both imperial units of torque. One Pound-foot is equal to 12 Pound-inches. Pound-feet are commonly used for larger applications like engine torque specifications, while Pound-inches are used for smaller, more precise applications.
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