Torque is the force that causes an object to rotate around an axis. It is calculated by multiplying the force applied to the object by the distance of the force from the axis of rotation. It is denoted by the symbol τ (tau). In this article we will discuss different types of torque measurement units or in other words torque units.
Torque = Force × Distance
Torques are used in physics and engineering in the study of rotational motion. In mechanical engineering, for example, torque is applied to gears or shafts.
We would like to inform you about the unit of measurement for torque. Some of the most common torque units are:
Newton meter (N·m):
The Newton meter is the standard unit of torque in the International System of Units (SI). Represents the force exerted vertically on a lever arm at a distance of one meter.
This torque unit is used in technical applications and is also called kN.m.
Foot pounds (ft lb):
The foot-pound is a unit of torque commonly used in British and North American measurement systems. Represents the force exerted at a distance of one foot from the pivot point.
Pound Force Inch (lbf in):
The inch pound-force is another unit of torque in the imperial system in which the force is applied at a distance of one inch from the pivot point.
Kilogram-force meter (kgf m):
The kilogram-force meter is a unit of torque in the metric system where the force is applied at a distance of one meter from the pivot point.
Dyne centimeter (dyna cm):
The centimeter dyn is a smaller unit of torque in the centimeter-gram-second (CGS) system and represents the force exerted at a distance of one centimeter from the pivot point.
Foot pound (pdl·ft):
A foot pound is a unit of torque in the foot-pound-second (FPS) system in which force is applied at a distance of one foot from the pivot point.
Kilopound-foot (kip·ft):
Foot-kilo is a larger unit of torque often used in engineering where higher torque values occur.
Ounce-inch (oz·in):
Ounce-inch is a smaller unit often used in applications where precision is important, such as small engines or household appliances.
Gigapound foot (Gp·ft): An even larger unit of torque is the gigapound foot. It is used when discussing extremely high torque values, especially in large engineering projects.
Meganewton meter (MN·m):
The meganewton meter is a unit used to express torque on a larger scale, usually in heavy machinery and industrial applications.
In addition to the torque units discussed, there are other torque units, namely the following.
Kilogram-force-centimeter (kgf cm):
Similar to the kilogram force meter but with a shorter lever arm, the kilogram force centimeter is often used in applications where force is applied at a shorter distance from the pivot point.
Newton centimeters (Ncm):
The newton centimeter is a smaller unit of torque and represents the force exerted at a distance of one centimeter from the pivot point in the metric system.
Gram force millimeters (gf mm):
A smaller unit for accurate torque measurements, especially in laboratories and small mechanical systems.
Dynameter (din m):
The dynamometer is a smaller unit in the CGS system and represents the torque produced by a force of one dyn applied at a distance of one meter from the pivot point.
Kiloton meters (kton m):
The kiloton meter is a unit used in geotechnical engineering and large construction projects that expresses torque on a large scale.
We hope we were able to introduce you to some important torque units.
