Pound-foot (lbf·ft) – The Imperial Unit of Torque
ThePound-foot (lbf·ft)is the traditional imperial unit for measuring torque. It is defined as the torque produced when one pound of force is applied at a perpendicular distance of one foot from a pivot point.
History & Background
Used extensively in countries that follow the imperial system, the pound-foot has been a standard measurement in automotive, construction, and industrial applications. Its origins trace back to early mechanical devices and engineering practices where force was measured using everyday units.
Conversion Factors
- 1 lbf·ft ≈ 1.35582 N·m
- 1 lbf·ft ≈ 0.737562 kgf·m
- 1 lbf·ft = 1.35582 × 105dynes·cm
Applications
Pound-foot is widely used in the automotive industry to rate engine torque, in construction to evaluate the force on structural elements, and in mechanical systems where everyday force measurements are required.
Interesting Facts
Many car specifications still use horsepower and torque expressed in pound-foot, making it a familiar unit among consumers in regions that use the imperial system.
Conclusion
The pound-foot remains a practical and intuitive unit of torque, crucial for many engineering applications and everyday measurements in industries using the imperial system.