TUC

Unit Converters

Torque Unit Converter

Convert a selected torque value through a newton-metre base to pound-feet, kilogram-force metres, pound-inches, and newton-centimetres. The custom wrench visual demonstrates force times perpendicular lever arm rather than presenting unrelated number cards.

Newton-metres (N·m)-
Pound-feet (lb-ft)-
Kilogram-force metres (kgf·m)-
Pound-inches (lb-in)-
Newton-centimetres (N·cm)-

Decision view

Force, lever arm, and equivalent torque units

Force, lever arm, and equivalent torque unitsA wrench diagram anchors every converted unit to the same physical turning moment.
Exact scenario comparisonTorque value changes while all other entered assumptions remain constant.
Torque valueNewton-metres (N·m)Pound-feet (lb-ft)Kilogram-force metres (kgf·m)Pound-inches (lb-in)Newton-centimetres (N·cm)

How to use Torque Unit Converter

  1. Select the unit attached to the source specification.
  2. Enter the signed or unsigned torque value exactly as required by the task.
  3. Use the converted value with the original tightening procedure, tolerance, sequence, lubrication, and tool calibration.

Calculator guide

Understanding Torque Unit Converter

Torque is the turning moment of a force about an axis. Unit conversion preserves the same physical moment while force and lever-arm conventions change.

One physical moment Every output represents the same torque.
Perpendicular distance Only the moment arm contributes directly.
Unit labels Similar abbreviations can differ by large factors.
Procedure controls Conversion never replaces tightening instructions.

Calculation method

How the calculation works

Convert the selected input unit to newton-metres using fixed unit factors, then derive pound-feet, kilogram-force metres, pound-inches, and newton-centimetres from the same base value. Multiply the entered value by its fixed factor to obtain newton-metres, then divide or scale from that base for every displayed unit.

Fastener caution

Do not confuse a converted torque with a joint design

The same numerical torque can create different clamp loads.

Friction Threads and bearing surfaces consume much applied torque.
Tool Calibration, range, adapters, and technique affect delivery.
Sequence Multi-fastener joints require the specified pattern and stages.
Specification Use manufacturer units, tolerance, and procedure.

Worked situations

Practical examples

  • 250 N·m is about 184.39 lb-ft.
  • The same moment is about 25.49 kgf·m.
  • Moving from lb-ft to lb-in changes the number by a factor of 12 without changing torque.

Better inputs

Useful tips

  • Keep N·m distinct from N·cm and lb-ft distinct from lb-in.
  • Use calibrated tools in the unit they display natively when possible.
  • Follow the equipment specification for dry, lubricated, angle, prevailing-torque, or torque-plus-angle procedures.

Before relying on the result

Limitations and common mistakes

  • Conversion does not calculate bolt preload, clamp force, friction, power, or tool accuracy.
  • Fastener condition, lubrication, joint stiffness, prevailing torque, temperature, and sequence are excluded.
  • Kilogram-force is a conventional force unit rather than mass.

Reference

Key terms

Torque
Force multiplied by perpendicular distance from an axis.
Lever arm
Perpendicular distance from axis to force line.
Newton-metre
SI-derived torque unit.
Pound-foot
Torque from one pound-force at one foot.

Important note

Calculated directly from the entered values using the displayed formula and rounding settings.

Frequently asked questions

Is N·m the same as joules?

They share dimensions, but torque and energy are different physical quantities.

Can torque be converted to horsepower?

Power also requires rotational speed.

Why is kgf·m not kg·m?

Kilogram-force represents force under standard gravity, not mass alone.

Does conversion include wrench adapters?

No. Inline extensions can change delivered torque and require separate geometry.