nm (torque) to foot-pounds
Nm to foot-pounds
Nm to inch-pounds
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Conversion Result

Use this tool to convert between newton-meters (Nm) and foot-pounds (ft-lb). Although the technically correct term for torque is 'pound-foot (lb·ft)' - representing force × distance - we use the more familiar 'ft-lb' format. We discuss this distinction further down the page.

Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made in building our calculator tools, we are not to be held liable for any damages or monetary losses arising out of or in connection with their use. Full disclaimer.

How to convert Nm to ft-lb

One newton-meter (Nm) = 0.7376 ft-lb (frequently expressed as ft-lb or foot-pounds, but technically lbf·ft is correct), representing 1 lbf acting at 1 ft from the center of rotation.

To convert your Nm figure to ft-lb, simply multiply it by 0.7376.

Note: We express pound force as lbf in the definition above in order to distinguish it from lb mass, but it can also be written as ft-lb. The use of ft-lb for torque is inverted, although frequently seen and quoted in magazines.

Pound-feet and foot-pounds

There has been much debate around whether it is correct to use foot pounds when referring to torque, with the term "pound foot" being proposed to reduce confusion with foot-pound, a unit of work. This terminology was suggested by British physicist Arthur Mason Worthington in his 1900 book Dynamics of Rotation while he was a professor of physics at the Royal Naval Engineering College in Devonport.

In an article on EngineerLog, Greg Azcona explains why pound-feet (or pound-force foot) is the correct term to use, referencing the industry standard adopted by the Society of Automotive Engineers.

"The industry standard for measuring an engine's power output is SAE Standard J1349, which is the standard adopted by SAE to specify a basis for net engine power and torque ratings. 'SAE standard J1349, Table 1 lists the units of measure used in the standard as "N·m or lb·ft" for torque and "kW or hp" for the horsepower rating,' says Gary W. Polak, P.E., Program Manager for the Society of Automotive Engineers."

Newton-meters and pound-feet (lb·ft) are both units of torque - a measure of the rotational force applied to an object.

Note that despite the technically correct term being lb·ft, the more familiar ft-lb format is used in many practical applications like torque wrenches and car maintenance manuals, so both forms are widely understood by mechanics and engineers. We discuss the distinction for the benefit of world references they encounter.

The chart below features some of the most common conversions between newton-meters and foot-pounds.

Nm to ft-lb chart

Newton-metersFoot-pounds

Note: conversions are rounded to max 2 decimal places.

Note that if your calculation involves inch-pounds and foot-pounds and foot pounds for energy, you can convert between in-lb and ft-lb here.

For any figures not represented in our Nm and ft-lb chart, please use the converter at the top of the page.

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Calculator by Alastair Hazell

Referenced:

  1. Arthur Worthington. Dynamics of Rotation.
  2. EngineerLog. Pound-feet or foot-pounds, what's one of?
  3. Other Sources. What is a Torque?