Foot-Pound Conversion Tool - Convert Foot-Pounds to Any Unit
Convert Foot-Pounds to Other Units
Quick Conversions
Convert Other Units to Foot-Pounds
Quick Conversions
Related Torque / Moment Units
Foot-Pound Conversion Table
This comprehensive foot-pound conversion table shows how various units relate to foot-pounds, a common unit for torque and moment. Use this reference for quick conversions between foot-pounds and other common torque units.
| Conversion | To Unit | Multiplier |
|---|---|---|
| Foot-pounds to newton-meters | Newton-meters | 1.35582 |
| Foot-pounds to inch-pounds | Inch-pounds | 12 |
| Foot-pounds to kilogram-force meters | Kilogram-force meters | 0.138255 |
| Foot-pounds to pound-force inches | Pound-force inches | 12 |
This foot-pound conversion reference table provides accurate conversion factors for both metric and imperial units. All values are based on internationally recognized standards for maximum precision in engineering and mechanical applications.
What is a Foot-Pound?
The foot-pound (symbol: ft·lbf) is a unit of torque (also called moment) in the imperial and US customary systems. It represents the torque created by one pound-force acting at a perpendicular distance of one foot from a pivot point. The foot-pound is commonly used in mechanical engineering, automotive applications, and construction.
The foot-pound is used primarily in the United States for measuring torque in various applications. Our foot-pound conversion tool helps you easily convert between foot-pounds and other units. For example, 1 foot-pound equals approximately 1.356 newton-meters or 12 inch-pounds.
Definition of Foot-Pound
The foot-pound is defined as the torque resulting from a force of one pound-force applied perpendicularly to the end of a one-foot-long moment arm. Mathematically, this can be expressed as:
Torque = Force × Distance
1 ft·lbf = 1 lbf × 1 ft
This relationship forms the foundation for all torque unit conversions:
- Newton-meter (N·m) = 1.35582 ft·lbf
- Inch-pound (in·lbf) = 1/12 ft·lbf
- Kilogram-force meter (kgf·m) = 0.138255 ft·lbf
- Pound-force inch (lbf·in) = 1/12 ft·lbf
What are Foot-Pounds Used For?
Foot-pounds are used in a wide range of mechanical applications across engineering, automotive, and construction industries. As a standard unit for measuring torque in the imperial system, foot-pounds provide a practical scale for many common applications:
Automotive Applications
Engine torque specifications, bolt tightening, and mechanical adjustments. For example, a car engine might produce 300 ft·lbf of torque, or wheel bolts may require 80 ft·lbf of tightening force.
Mechanical Engineering
Design specifications, machinery operation parameters, and maintenance procedures. For example, specifying that a gearbox requires 50 ft·lbf of input torque for proper operation.
Construction & Maintenance
Structural calculations, equipment installation, and fastener specifications. For example, determining that a beam connection must withstand 200 ft·lbf of moment force.
Manufacturing
Assembly line torque specifications, quality control measurements, and tool calibration. For example, ensuring that a bolt is tightened to exactly 45 ft·lbf using calibrated torque wrenches.
Etymology and History
The foot-pound derives from two fundamental units: the foot (a unit of length) and the pound-force (a unit of force). The term "torque" comes from the Latin "torquere," meaning "to twist." The foot-pound was developed as part of the imperial system of units, which originated in Britain and was later adopted in the United States.
Unlike SI units that are defined based on fundamental physical constants, the foot-pound is a derived unit based on other imperial measurements. Its definition has remained consistent over time as both the foot and pound-force definitions have been standardized. In scientific contexts, the newton-meter (N·m) is preferred as it's part of the coherent SI system, but foot-pounds remain widely used in practical applications in the United States.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the foot-pound used instead of newton-meters?
The foot-pound is used primarily in the United States because it's part of the imperial system, which is still the standard for many engineering applications in that country. While newton-meters are the SI unit for torque and preferred in scientific contexts, foot-pounds remain common in automotive, construction, and manufacturing industries where imperial measurements are standard practice.
How accurate is the foot-pound conversion?
Our foot-pound conversion tool provides high accuracy with conversion factors based on internationally recognized standards. The conversion from foot-pounds to newton-meters uses the precise factor of 1.3558179483314004 N·m per ft·lbf, ensuring reliable results for engineering calculations and practical applications.
What's the difference between foot-pound and pound-foot?
There is no difference in meaning between "foot-pound" and "pound-foot" - both refer to the same unit of torque. The term "foot-pound" is more commonly used in the United States, while "pound-foot" is sometimes preferred in technical documentation to emphasize the order of units (pound force times foot distance). Both terms describe identical measurements.
How do I convert foot-pounds to other units?
Use our foot-pound conversion calculators above, or multiply by the appropriate conversion factor. For example, to convert foot-pounds to newton-meters, multiply by 1.35582; to convert to inch-pounds, multiply by 12. For detailed instructions on converting foot-pounds to newton-meters, visit our ft·lbf to N·m converter.
What are common uses for foot-pound conversion?
Foot-pound conversion is essential in automotive engineering (engine torque specifications), mechanical design (bolt tightening torque), construction (structural calculations), and manufacturing (assembly line specifications). Whether determining the correct torque for wheel bolts or calculating machinery requirements, our foot-pound converter tool simplifies these engineering tasks.
How does foot-pound conversion differ from other torque units?
The foot-pound is an imperial unit for torque, while the newton-meter is the SI unit. The foot-pound is based on pound-force and feet, making it convenient for applications in countries using imperial measurements. Other units like inch-pounds are fractions of foot-pounds, while metric units like newton-meters are based on SI force and distance units.
Can I convert very small or very large torque measurements in foot-pounds?
Yes, our foot-pound converter handles both extremely small and large torque measurements with precision. For precision applications, convert pound-force inches to foot-pounds (1 lbf·in = 1/12 ft·lbf). For high-torque applications, convert foot-pounds to kilogram-force meters (1 kgf·m ≈ 7.233 ft·lbf). Our smart rounding feature ensures readable results for all scales.
Is your foot-pound conversion tool free to use?
Yes, our foot-pound conversion calculator is completely free with no registration required. Simply enter your value, select your target unit, and get instant, accurate results. We believe precise torque measurement conversion should be accessible to everyone, from automotive enthusiasts to professional engineers.