How to Use
- 1 Enter your values
- 2 Click the Calculate button
- 3 Get your result instantly
- 4 Reset to calculate again
Torque Converter
What Is a Torque Converter?
A torque converter is a free online tool that transforms values between different torque units. Torque is a rotational force — the tendency of a force to rotate an object around an axis. It is measured in Newton-meters (N·m) in the SI system and pound-feet (lb-ft) in the imperial system. This tool handles four widely-used torque units: Newton-meter (N·m), Pound-foot (lb-ft), Kilogram-meter (kg·m), and Ounce-inch (oz-in). It is essential for automotive engineers, mechanics, machinery designers, and anyone working with rotating equipment.
Torque Unit Reference
| Unit | Equivalent in N·m |
|---|---|
| 1 lb-ft | 1.35582 N·m |
| 1 kg·m | 9.80665 N·m |
| 1 oz-in | 0.00706155 N·m |
| 1 N·m | 0.73756 lb-ft |
| 1 N·m | 141.612 oz-in |
| 100 lb-ft (car torque) | 135.58 N·m |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you convert lb-ft to N·m?
1 lb-ft (pound-foot) equals 1.35582 N·m. So 100 lb-ft equals approximately 135.58 N·m. Conversely, 1 N·m equals 0.73756 lb-ft.
What is the difference between torque and moment?
Torque and moment are essentially the same concept. Torque typically refers to rotational force around an axis, while moment is a more general term for any force causing rotation. In engineering, they are often used interchangeably.
How is torque related to horsepower?
Torque (N·m or lb-ft) and horsepower are related by angular velocity. Horsepower = (Torque × RPM) / 5,252 in imperial units. An engine with high torque at low RPM provides strong acceleration, while high horsepower enables higher top speeds.
What is 1 kg·m in N·m?
1 kg·m (kilogram-meter) equals 9.80665 N·m, because 1 kg of force (kgf) × 1 meter = 9.80665 Newton-meters. In practice, many use 9.81 or even 10 as an approximation.
Is lb-ft the same as foot-pound of energy?
No. Foot-pound (ft·lbf) as a unit of energy equals the same numerical value as lb-ft of torque only when the force is applied perpendicular to the lever arm at a 1-foot radius. They have the same dimensions (force × distance) but represent different physical quantities.
What torque specification do car lug nuts use?
Car lug nuts are typically torqued to 80–140 lb-ft (110–190 N·m) depending on the vehicle size. Always consult your owner's manual — over-tightening lug nuts can strip threads, while under-tightening can cause them to loosen.