MPa ↔ PSI Pressure Converter
Use this tool to convert megapascals (MPa) to pounds per square inch (psi), or convert psi back to MPa.
What is MPa and what is psi?
Both MPa and psi measure pressure, but they come from different measurement systems.
- MPa (megapascal) is part of the SI metric system. 1 MPa equals one million pascals.
- psi (pounds per square inch) is part of the imperial/U.S. customary system.
If you work with hydraulic systems, structural engineering, manufacturing specs, compressed air equipment, or test data sheets, you will often need to convert pressure units quickly and accurately.
MPa to psi conversion formula
The exact relationship is:
1 MPa = 145.0377377 psi
So the forward formula is:
psi = MPa × 145.0377377
And the reverse formula is:
MPa = psi ÷ 145.0377377
Quick examples
- 0.5 MPa = 72.519 psi
- 1 MPa = 145.038 psi
- 2 MPa = 290.075 psi
- 5 MPa = 725.189 psi
- 10 MPa = 1450.377 psi
Common MPa to psi chart
| MPa | psi |
|---|---|
| 0.1 | 14.504 |
| 0.2 | 29.008 |
| 0.5 | 72.519 |
| 1 | 145.038 |
| 2 | 290.075 |
| 3 | 435.113 |
| 5 | 725.189 |
| 7 | 1015.264 |
| 10 | 1450.377 |
| 15 | 2175.566 |
| 20 | 2900.755 |
| 30 | 4351.132 |
When this conversion matters
1) Hydraulic equipment and pneumatics
Many pumps, regulators, and actuators list ratings in one unit while documentation uses another. Correct conversion prevents overpressure and helps with safe operating ranges.
2) Engineering drawings and material specs
International standards may specify values in MPa, while suppliers or field instruments may display psi. Converting correctly keeps calculations consistent and avoids costly design mistakes.
3) Laboratory and testing work
Test rigs, pressure transducers, and calibration devices can report readings in different units. Unit consistency improves reporting quality and makes data easier to compare across teams.
Tips for accurate pressure conversion
- Use enough decimal places during calculations, then round at the final reporting step.
- Check whether pressure is gauge or absolute—the unit conversion is the same, but the baseline reference is not.
- Keep one standard conversion factor for all reports to avoid mismatch between spreadsheets.
- For safety-critical systems, always verify with project standards and equipment labels.
Frequently asked questions
Is 1 MPa exactly 145 psi?
Not exactly. It is 145.0377377 psi. Using 145 is a quick estimate and often fine for rough mental math.
Can I convert negative pressure values?
Yes. The same conversion factor applies. Negative values can occur in gauge-pressure contexts (for vacuum relative to atmosphere).
What is 2.5 MPa in psi?
2.5 MPa × 145.0377377 = 362.594 psi (rounded to three decimals).
Bottom line
If you need a fast, reliable MPa to psi conversion, use the calculator above and keep the core factor in mind: 1 MPa = 145.0377377 psi. Whether you're reading pressure gauges, checking technical datasheets, or preparing engineering reports, consistent conversion helps you stay accurate and confident.