Convert between various torque units instantly. From Newton-meters to foot-pounds, inch-pounds to kilogram-meters - essential for automotive, mechanical engineering, and fastener applications.
Formula: ft-lb = Nm × 0.737562
Formula: Nm = ft-lb × 1.35582
Formula: in-lb = Nm × 8.85075
Formula: Nm = in-lb × 0.112985
Formula: kg-m = Nm × 0.101972
Formula: Nm = kg-m × 9.80665
Formula: in-lb = ft-lb × 12
Formula: ft-lb = in-lb ÷ 12
Torque, also known as moment of force, is a measure of the rotational force applied to an object. It is one of the most important concepts in mechanical engineering, automotive repair, and physics. Whether you are tightening bolts to specification, calculating engine power, or designing rotating machinery, understanding torque units and their conversions is essential. This professional torque converter provides instant, accurate conversions between all commonly used torque measurement units.
The Newton-meter (Nm) is the SI unit of torque and represents the moment produced by a force of one Newton acting at a perpendicular distance of one meter from the pivot point. Newton-meters are the international standard for torque specifications and are used worldwide in scientific, engineering, and automotive contexts. Most modern vehicle service manuals specify torque values in Newton-meters, and precision torque wrenches are commonly calibrated in Nm. A typical car wheel nut might require 100-130 Nm, while a spark plug needs only 12-20 Nm of torque.
Foot-pounds (ft-lb or lb-ft) is the standard torque unit in the United States and other countries using Imperial measurements. One foot-pound represents the torque created by one pound of force applied at a distance of one foot from the pivot. American automotive specifications, construction equipment, and industrial machinery commonly use foot-pounds. When reading American service manuals or using American tools, foot-pound values are essential. An average car engine might produce 200-400 ft-lb of torque, while heavy-duty truck engines can exceed 1,000 ft-lb.
Inch-pounds (in-lb) provide a smaller scale torque measurement, ideal for precision applications where foot-pounds would be too coarse. One foot-pound equals exactly 12 inch-pounds. Inch-pounds are commonly used for small fasteners, electronics assembly, and delicate mechanical components. Carburetor screws, electronic device cases, and precision instruments often have torque specifications in inch-pounds. Working with small fasteners using inch-pound specifications helps prevent over-tightening and component damage.
Kilogram-meters (kg-m or kgf-m) represent torque in terms of gravitational force, making them intuitive for many applications. One kilogram-meter equals the torque produced by one kilogram of mass acting at one meter from the pivot under standard gravity. While not part of the SI system, kilogram-meters remain common in older equipment documentation and in regions transitioning from metric gravitational units to pure SI. Converting between kg-m and Nm requires multiplying by the standard gravitational acceleration (9.80665).