Torque Unit Conversion Chart

What it is

Torque is a turning force: a force times the distance from the center of rotation. US tools and specs use foot-pounds (ft-lb, also written lbf·ft) and inch-pounds (in-lb). Metric tools and specs use newton-meters (N·m). This chart converts between them. It does not give the torque for any fastener. Get tightening values from the equipment maker or the fastener spec.

How to use it

• ft-lb to N·m: multiply by 1.3558.
• N·m to ft-lb: multiply by 0.7376.
• ft-lb to in-lb: multiply by 12.
• in-lb to ft-lb: divide by 12.
• in-lb to N·m: multiply by 0.1130.
• N·m to in-lb: multiply by 8.851.
• kgf·m to N·m: multiply by 9.807.

ft-lb to N·m

N·m to ft-lb

Key points

• ft-lb and lb-ft mean the same thing for torque. Some references prefer lb-ft to avoid confusion with work (energy).
• Small values are usually given in in-lb or N·m. Use a torque wrench with a matching scale. Most torque wrenches are most accurate in the middle of their range.
• Adapters and extensions that change the wrench length change the applied torque. Use the tool maker's correction method.
• A torque value only means something with the lubrication condition it was written for (dry, oiled or with threadlocker).

Common mistakes

• Setting an in-lb spec on a ft-lb wrench, which over-tightens by 12 times.
• Converting N·m to ft-lb by multiplying instead of dividing by 1.3558.
• Rounding early in a multi-step conversion.

Governing standards: NIST SP 811 (unit conversion factors); equipment and fastener maker tightening specifications; ISO 6789 (hand torque tools).

Reference only. Verify against the current governing code or standard, the manufacturer's data and the project documents before use. Apps for Distributors disclaims liability arising from reliance on this reference.