Torque Unit Converter (Nm - lbf-ft)
Convert between Newton-meters (Nm) and pound-feet (lbf-ft) of torque
How to convert between Newton-meters and pound-feet of torque
1 Newton-meter (Nm) is approximately equal to 0.7376 pound-feet (lbf-ft). To convert from Nm to lbf-ft, multiply the Nm value by 0.7376, and to convert from lbf-ft to Nm, divide the lbf-ft value by 0.7376.
For the torque a motor produces from a standstill, see our starting torque guide. Unfamiliar with a term? Check the electric motor glossary.
| Newton-meters (Nm) | Pound-feet (lbf-ft) |
|---|---|
| 10 | 7.38 |
| 20 | 14.77 |
| 30 | 22.15 |
| 40 | 29.53 |
| 50 | 36.92 |
| 60 | 44.30 |
| 70 | 51.69 |
| 80 | 59.07 |
| 90 | 66.45 |
| 100 | 73.84 |
Torque Conversion Chart
The Story Behind Newton-meters and Pound-force
The units Nm (Newton-meter) and lbf (pound-force) are used to measure torque, which is a measure of rotational force. Here's the story behind these units:
- Origin: The Newton-meter (Nm) is the standard SI (International System of Units) unit for torque. It is named after Sir Isaac Newton, the English mathematician, physicist, and astronomer who made significant contributions to our understanding of mechanics and motion. Newton formulated the laws of motion, which are fundamental principles in physics. The Newton-meter represents the amount of torque required to cause a one-meter-long lever arm to rotate when a force of one Newton (1 N) is applied perpendicular to the lever arm. In simple terms, 1 Nm of torque is produced when a force of 1 Newton is applied at a distance of 1 meter from the axis of rotation.
- Symbol: Nm
- Usage: Nm is used in the scientific and engineering communities, as it is part of the internationally accepted system of measurement.
- Origin: The lbf is derived from the force of gravity on one pound of mass. It is equivalent to the gravitational force experienced by a one-pound mass. To calculate torque in lbf, you multiply the force (in lbf) by the distance (in feet) from the axis of rotation.
- Symbol: Lbf-ft
- Usage: The pound-force (lbf) is a unit of force commonly used in the United States and some other countries that have not fully adopted the SI system. It is not an SI unit, and using it for torque is somewhat unconventional. However, it is sometimes used in industries where traditional units are still prevalent.
In summary, while the Newton-meter (Nm) is the standard SI unit for torque, the pound-force (lbf) is a non-SI unit often used in the United States and other regions where traditional units are still common. The use of SI units, such as Nm, is more prevalent in the scientific and engineering communities, as they are part of the internationally accepted system of measurement.