Torque Unit Converter
Convert N·m, kgf·m, lbf·ft, lbf·in, and related torque units from the same N·m basis. Useful when a manual, a wrench scale, and a report do not use the same unit.
Input
Result
ready to use.
- Visible firstKeep the input and result positions clear.
- Results firstPut the main number up front and keep the process secondary.
- Less to askNo sign-up or extra information before using the tool.
Move a torque spec onto the wrench scale
Torque is the turning force used when tightening a fastener or describing a rotating load. English-language manuals often mix N·m with lbf·ft or lbf·in, while older workshop notes may still show kgf·m. Comparing the number alone is a good way to make a wrong setting.
This page converts the source value through an N·m basis, then shows the unit you selected plus the main reference cards. It is meant for the moment when the manual says one unit and the torque wrench, service sheet, or imported part note shows another.
From manual value to wrench setting
- Enter only the numeric torque value. For a spec written as 100 N·m, enter 100.
- Set the source unit exactly as written in the manual or label, including ft versus in.
- Choose the target unit printed on the wrench scale or required by the report. Use Switch units when you need to check the reverse direction.
- Before copying, compare the N·m, kgf·m, lbf·ft, and lbf·in cards to catch a misplaced prefix or inch/foot mix-up.
Why N·m stays the anchor
- NIST Guide to the SI lists moment of force as newton meter, N·m. It should be kept distinct from joule even though the dimensions match.
- kgf·m and kgf·cm use kilogram-force under standard gravity, 9.80665 m/s². They are not plain kilogram mass values.
- lbf·ft and lbf·in use pound-force with foot or inch distance. One lbf·ft equals 12 lbf·in.
- mN·m and kN·m are SI-prefix forms of N·m; dyn·cm is a much smaller cgs unit.
Workshop conversions worth checking
Use these as quick sanity checks before moving a setting from paper to a tool.
Before tightening the fastener
- This converter changes units only. It does not decide the safe torque for a bolt, nut, or assembly.
- Dry threads, lubrication, reused bolts, tightening order, and manufacturer service updates can change the required torque.
- A negative torque value is usually a direction or coordinate sign, not a negative physical magnitude. Keep the original convention when recording it.
- Round the final value to the resolution of the actual torque wrench, not just to the decimals shown on screen.
Torque conversion FAQ
How many lbf·ft is 100 N·m?
100 N·m is about 73.7562 lbf·ft. Divide the N·m value by 1.355817948.
Is kgf·m the same as kilograms on a scale?
No. kgf is kilogram-force under standard gravity. 1 kgf·m equals 9.80665 N·m.
What is the difference between lbf·ft and lbf·in?
The force unit is the same, but the distance unit is different. 1 lbf·ft equals 12 lbf·in, and 1 lbf·in is about 0.112984829 N·m.
Can I set a torque wrench directly from the converted number?
Use the converted number only after checking the manufacturer torque spec, lubrication condition, thread condition, tightening sequence, and wrench calibration.
How should I round the result?
Round to the scale and tolerance of the tool you will actually use. The screen keeps extra decimals so you can audit the conversion.
References used
Torque factors follow NIST SP 811 Appendix B.8 for foot pound-force, inch pound-force, and dyne centimeter, plus NIST Guide to the SI Chapter 4 for moment of force as N·m. kgf-based units use standard gravity, 9.80665 m/s².