in-lbs to ft-lb Converter - Inch-pounds to Foot-pounds Calculator
Free in-lbs to ft-lb converter and inch-pounds to foot-pounds calculator. Convert between inch-pounds (lbf·in) and foot-pounds (lbf·ft) instantly with accurate, real-time conversions. Perfect for torque measurements in automotive repair, engineering applications, construction projects, and mechanical work.
Last updated: January 24, 2026
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How it works:
Enter a value in either field to convert to the other unit. Conversions update automatically as you type.
Conversion factor: 1 ft-lb = 12 in-lbs
Understanding Torque Units
Definition
1 in-lb = 1 lbf × 1 in
The imperial unit for torque, representing the rotational force produced by one pound-force applied at a distance of one inch from the rotation axis.
- Commonly used in US automotive industry
- Ideal for smaller, precise torque values
- Found in many US tool specifications
Conversion
1 ft-lb = 12 in-lbs
The imperial unit for torque, representing the rotational force produced by one pound-force applied at a distance of one foot from the rotation axis.
- Commonly used in US automotive industry
- Ideal for larger torque values
- Standard in construction and engineering
Quick Example Result
For 120 inch-pounds (in-lbs):
Foot-pounds
10 ft-lb
Conversion Factor
12 in-lbs/ft-lb
How Our in-lbs to ft-lb Converter Works
Our in-lbs to ft-lb converter uses the exact conversion factor based on the fundamental relationship between inches and feet. All conversions are calculated in real-time as you type, ensuring instant and accurate results for torque measurements in automotive, engineering, and construction applications.
Conversion Formula
1 foot-pound (ft-lb) = 12 inch-pounds (in-lbs)1 inch-pound (in-lb) = 0.083333... foot-pounds (ft-lb)To convert in-lbs to ft-lb: ft-lb = in-lbs ÷ 12To convert ft-lb to in-lbs: in-lbs = ft-lb × 12This conversion is mathematically exact because both units use the same force measurement (pounds-force) and differ only in the distance measurement. Since 1 foot equals exactly 12 inches, the conversion factor is precise with no rounding errors.
Understanding Torque
Torque is a measure of rotational force—the force that causes an object to rotate around an axis. It's a fundamental concept in mechanics, essential for understanding how rotational systems work. Torque is calculated by multiplying force by distance from the rotation point.
- Torque = Force × Distance: The basic formula for calculating torque
- Inch-pound (in-lb): Imperial unit representing 1 pound-force at 1 inch distance
- Foot-pound (ft-lb): Imperial unit representing 1 pound-force at 1 foot distance
- Relationship: 1 ft-lb = 12 in-lbs (exact conversion)
- Applications: Used in automotive repair, construction, manufacturing, and engineering
- Importance: Correct torque prevents component damage and ensures safety
Practical Applications
Torque conversion between inch-pounds and foot-pounds is essential in many practical scenarios. Automotive mechanics need to convert between these units when working with different torque wrench scales. Engineers convert units when using tools calibrated in different systems. Construction workers convert torque values when following specifications that use different units.
Common Use Cases:
- • Automotive repair: Converting torque specifications between in-lbs and ft-lb for engine components, wheels, and fasteners
- • Mechanical engineering: Converting torque values in design specifications and calculations
- • Construction: Converting torque requirements for structural bolts and fasteners
- • Manufacturing: Converting torque settings for assembly line equipment
- • Tool calibration: Converting between torque wrench scales and specifications
- • Precision work: Using inch-pounds for smaller, more precise torque measurements
Why Accurate Torque Matters
Using the correct torque is critical for safety and performance. Insufficient torque can cause fasteners to loosen, leading to mechanical failures. Excessive torque can strip threads, damage components, or cause stress fractures. Accurate conversion between units ensures you apply the correct torque regardless of which unit system your tools or specifications use.
Sources & References
- International System of Units (SI) - Bureau International des Poids et Mesures (BIPM)Official definitions of torque and force units
- NIST Guide for the Use of the International System of Units - National Institute of Standards and TechnologyComprehensive reference for unit conversions and torque measurements
- Khan Academy - Torque and Rotational MotionEducational resources for understanding torque concepts
Need help with other torque conversions? Check out our Nm to ft-lb converter and Nm to in-lbs converter.
Get Custom Calculator for Your Platformin-lbs to ft-lb Converter Examples
Input:
- Torque: 120 inch-pounds (in-lbs)
- Conversion factor: 1 ft-lb = 12 in-lbs
Calculation:
- Step 1: Identify the value in in-lbs: 120 in-lbs
- Step 2: Divide by conversion factor: 120 ÷ 12
- Step 3: Calculate result: 10 ft-lb
- Step 4: Verify: 10 ft-lb × 12 = 120 in-lbs ✓
Result: 120 inch-pounds equals 10 foot-pounds
This conversion is commonly used in automotive applications when working with torque specifications that use different unit systems.
89 in-lbs to ft-lb
89 in-lbs = ?
89 in-lbs = 7.417 ft-lb
5 ft-lb to in-lbs
5 ft-lb = ?
5 ft-lb = 60 in-lbs
Frequently Asked Questions
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