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?
In engineering, torque and moment are often used interchangeably. Torque typically refers to rotational force around an axis, while moment is a more general term for any force causing rotation about a point.
Why is torque measured in different units?
Different unit systems (imperial vs metric) use different torque units. N·m is the SI unit, lb-ft is commonly used in the imperial system, and kgf·m is used in some technical applications.
What is a typical torque value for car lug nuts?
Car lug nuts typically require 80-120 lb-ft (110-160 N·m) of torque for safe installation. Always check your vehicles specific requirements in the owners manual.
How does a torque wrench work?
A torque wrench clicks or disengages when the preset torque value is reached, preventing over-tightening. It should be calibrated regularly and stored with the setting released to maintain accuracy.
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.