Torque Conversion Calculator
Convert torque instantly between common SI, imperial, and engineering units.
What Is Torque?
Torque is a twisting force. In practical terms, it describes how strongly a force can rotate an object around an axis. If you tighten a bolt with a wrench, turn a bike crank, or set a lug nut torque wrench, you are dealing with torque.
Because industries use different measurement systems, torque values often need conversion. Automotive manuals might use ft·lb, engineering drawings often use N·m, and smaller fasteners may be specified in in·lb or N·cm.
How to Use This Torque Converter
- Enter a number in the Torque Value field.
- Select the original unit in From Unit.
- Select your target unit in To Unit.
- Click Convert to get the result instantly.
- Use Swap Units to reverse direction quickly.
Common Torque Units You’ll See
SI / Metric Units
- N·m (Newton-meter) – standard SI torque unit.
- N·cm – used for smaller torques in instruments and electronics.
- kgf·m and kgf·cm – legacy metric units still found in older tools and manuals.
Imperial Units
- ft·lb (foot-pound) – very common in automotive and mechanical service specs.
- in·lb (inch-pound) – used for lower torque ranges, such as small bolts and cover screws.
- ozf·in (ounce-force inch) – precision and low-force applications.
Key Torque Conversion Relationships
| From | Equivalent |
|---|---|
| 1 N·m | 0.737562 ft·lb |
| 1 ft·lb | 1.355818 N·m |
| 1 in·lb | 0.112985 N·m |
| 1 kgf·m | 9.80665 N·m |
| 1 kgf·cm | 0.0980665 N·m |
Tip: For quick checks, remember that 10 N·m ≈ 7.38 ft·lb and 100 ft·lb ≈ 135.58 N·m.
Practical Examples
1) Lug Nut Specification
Suppose your spec says 90 ft·lb and your torque wrench is in N·m: 90 ft·lb × 1.355818 ≈ 122.0 N·m.
2) Small Fastener on a Bike or Motorcycle
If the manual says 8 N·m and your tool is in in·lb: 8 N·m ÷ 0.112985 ≈ 70.8 in·lb.
3) Precision Instrument Work
For low-torque settings, such as 20 ozf·in, conversion to N·cm helps in SI workflows: 20 ozf·in ≈ 14.12 N·cm.
Common Conversion Mistakes to Avoid
- Confusing ft·lb and in·lb (12 in·lb = 1 ft·lb).
- Assuming kgf·m is the same as N·m (it is not).
- Rounding too early in safety-critical specs.
- Using torque values without checking if they are dry or lubricated fastener specs.
FAQ
Is lb-ft the same as ft·lb?
In most practical contexts, yes. They both represent pound-force foot torque.
Why are there so many torque units?
Different industries adopted different standards over time. SI dominates engineering, while imperial units remain common in service work and legacy documentation.
Should I always convert, or can I estimate?
Estimation is useful for rough checks, but for assembly, safety, and quality control, use exact conversion and a calibrated torque tool.
Final Thoughts
A reliable torque conversion calculator saves time and prevents errors—especially when switching between manuals, tools, and standards. Use the converter above for quick, accurate unit changes before tightening critical components.