Torque Conversion Calculator

The Ultimate Guide to Torque Conversions

Torque is a fundamental concept in mechanics and engineering, representing the rotational equivalent of linear force. It's the "twisting force" that causes an object to rotate around an axis. From tightening a bolt with a wrench to the power output of a car engine, torque is at work all around us. Understanding the different units used to measure torque—and how to convert between them—is crucial for engineers, mechanics, and physicists. Our Torque Conversion Calculator is designed to make these conversions between Newton-meters (Nm), foot-pounds (ft·lb), and inch-pounds (in·lb) simple and immediate.

How to Use the Torque Converter

Our tool is built for maximum efficiency. All calculations are performed in real-time as you enter a value.

1. Select an Input Unit: Choose the field corresponding to the unit you are starting with (e.g., if a car's specification is in ft·lb, use that box).
2. Enter Your Value: Type the number into the selected field.
3. View Instant Conversions: As you type, the other input fields will immediately update to show the precise equivalent torque in the other units.
4. Clear to Reset: To perform a new conversion, simply delete the number in an input box. All other fields will clear automatically.

Understanding the Units of Torque

To master torque conversions, it's essential to understand the definition and primary application of each unit.

The Metric System (SI Unit)

• Newton-meter (Nm): The Newton-meter is the standard unit of torque in the International System of Units (SI). It represents the torque produced by a force of one Newton applied perpendicularly to a lever arm that is one meter long. The Nm is the universal standard for scientific and engineering applications worldwide and is the default torque specification for most vehicles manufactured outside the United States.

The Imperial System

This system is primarily used in the United States, especially in the automotive and aerospace industries.

• Foot-pound (ft·lb): The most common unit of torque in the US customary system. It represents the torque created by a one-pound force acting at a perpendicular distance of one foot from a pivot point. It is widely used for specifying the torque settings for lug nuts, engine bolts, and other automotive components.
• Inch-pound (in·lb): A smaller unit of imperial torque. As there are 12 inches in a foot, one foot-pound is equal to 12 inch-pounds. Inch-pounds are used for applications requiring less torque, such as fastening smaller bolts on components like valve covers or water pumps, and in fields like electronics and cycling.

Torque vs. Work/Energy: A Critical Distinction

One of the most common points of confusion is the similarity between the units for torque and work (or energy). Both can be expressed as force multiplied by distance (e.g., Nm or ft·lb). However, they represent entirely different physical concepts:

• Torque is a measure of a *turning* or *twisting* force. It is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude and a direction of rotation (clockwise or counter-clockwise). When you use a wrench to tighten a bolt, you are applying torque, but the bolt itself may not move a linear distance.
• Work (Energy) is the result of a force being applied over a linear distance (Work = Force × Distance). It is a scalar quantity, meaning it has magnitude but no direction. When you lift a box from the floor to a shelf, you are doing work.

So, while the units look similar, torque is about rotational effort, and work is about linear displacement and energy transfer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between ft·lb and lb·ft?

Technically, the convention for torque is to list the unit of force first, followed by the unit of distance, as in pound-foot (lb·ft). For work and energy, the convention is foot-pound (ft·lb). However, in common practice, especially in the automotive industry, the terms are used interchangeably, and "ft·lb" is most frequently seen for torque specifications. Our calculator uses this common convention.

Which is a larger unit of torque, a Newton-meter or a foot-pound?

A Newton-meter is the smaller of the two units. One foot-pound is equal to approximately 1.356 Newton-meters.

Why is torque so important for cars?

Torque is the rotational force an engine produces, and it's what gets the car moving from a standstill. An engine with high torque at low RPMs will feel powerful and responsive when accelerating from a stop or pulling a heavy load. While horsepower (a measure of power, or work over time) determines a car's top speed, torque is what gives you that "pushed back in your seat" feeling.