Convert N·m, ft·lb, in·lb & kgf·m Instantly Convert between newton-meters, foot-pounds, inch-pounds, and kilogram-force meters.

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Torque Converter

Convert between newton-meters, foot-pounds, inch-pounds, and kilogram-force meters.

Enter torque

Type the torque value to convert.

Select units

Choose source and target torque units.

Read the converted torque

Converted torque appears instantly.

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What Is Torque Converter?

A torque converter translates between units of rotational force. Torque (or moment of force) measures the tendency of a force to rotate an object around an axis. The newton-meter (N·m) is the SI unit. Foot-pounds (ft·lb) and inch-pounds (in·lb) are standard in the US for automotive and mechanical specifications. Kilogram-force meters (kgf·m) are still used in some European and Asian contexts. Proper torque conversion is critical for correctly tightening bolts, comparing engine specifications, and mechanical design.

Why Use Torque Converter?

Covers the four most-used torque units.
Essential for automotive work and mechanical engineering.
Prevents over- or under-tightening bolts when following specs from different systems.
Real-time bidirectional conversion.

Common Use Cases

Automotive

Convert engine torque specs and bolt torque values between N·m and ft·lb.

Bicycle Maintenance

Translate component torque specs, often given in N·m, to inch-pounds for smaller fasteners.

Mechanical Engineering

Compare torque specifications across international standards.

Manufacturing

Set torque wrenches correctly regardless of the specification's unit system.

Technical Guide

Torque = force × lever arm length.

• 1 N·m = 1 newton applied at 1 meter from the pivot
• 1 ft·lb = 1.35582 N·m
• 1 in·lb = 0.112985 N·m = 1/12 ft·lb
• 1 kgf·m = 9.80665 N·m

Automotive context: Engine torque is typically rated in N·m (metric) or ft·lb (imperial). A common sedan might produce 200 N·m (148 ft·lb) while a sports car might produce 500+ N·m. Bolt torque specs in service manuals are critical for safety — always convert accurately when your torque wrench uses different units than the specification.

Tips & Best Practices

1
Quick estimate: 1 N·m ≈ 0.738 ft·lb. Multiply N·m by 0.74 for a rough ft·lb value.
2
1 ft·lb = 12 in·lb exactly.
3
Always torque fasteners to spec — over-tightening can strip threads; under-tightening can lead to failure.
4
Torque wrenches should be calibrated regularly for accuracy.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q How do I convert N·m to ft·lb?

Multiply N·m by 0.7376. For example, 100 N·m ≈ 73.76 ft·lb.

Q How many inch-pounds in a foot-pound?

Exactly 12. One foot-pound = 12 inch-pounds.

Q What torque do car lug nuts need?

Typically 80-100 ft·lb (108-135 N·m) for most passenger cars, but always check your vehicle's specification.

Q Is torque the same as work/energy?

They have the same dimensions (force × distance) but different physical meanings. Torque is rotational; work/energy is the result of force through a distance.

Q What is kgf·m?

Kilogram-force meter: the torque from 1 kgf applied at 1 m. Equal to 9.80665 N·m.

About This Tool

Torque Converter is a free online tool by FreeToolkit.ai. All processing happens directly in your browser — your data never leaves your device. No registration or installation required.