Torque Converter
Convert between newton-metres, foot-pounds and inch-pounds.
What the Torque Converter does
Torque is rotational force — a force applied at a distance from a pivot. It shares units with energy dimensionally but is a different quantity, which is why it is written N·m rather than joules.
Formula
Convert to newton metre, then divide by the target unit's factorResult = Value × (from factor ÷ to factor)
Inputs explained
| Input | Unit | Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Value | number | Yes | — |
| From | one of 5 options | Yes | — |
| To | one of 5 options | Yes | — |
How to use it
- Choose From and To.
- Enter Value.
- Select Calculate.
Worked example
A bolt spec calls for 90 N·m. What is that in ft·lb?
- Value
- 90
- From
- Newton metre
- To
- Foot-pound
90 ÷ 1.3558 = 66.4 ft·lb.
Reading the result
- Torque scales with distance from the pivot: 50 N·m is 50 N applied at 1 m, or 100 N applied at 0.5 m.
- For scale, car wheel nuts are usually torqued to 100–140 N·m.
Common mistakes
- Reading inch-pounds as foot-pounds. The factor of 12 is more than enough to strip a fastener.
- Treating newton-metres as joules. The two are dimensionally identical but describe different quantities, which is why torque is never written in joules.
Frequently asked questions
Why is torque not measured in joules?
Because the force and the distance are perpendicular rather than aligned. The units are dimensionally identical but the physical meaning differs.