Foot-pound (ft·lbf)

Definition

The foot-pound (ft·lbf) is a unit of torque in the imperial system and is not an SI unit. It is defined as the torque resulting from a force of one pound applied perpendicularly at a distance of one foot from the pivot point.

History

The concept of foot-pounds emerged during the Industrial Revolution when engineers needed standardized measurements for mechanical work and torque. The unit became widely adopted in the United States and the UK for engineering applications.

Uses

Foot-pounds are commonly used in engineering, automotive specifications, and construction. Mechanics use it to measure the torque of engines and fasteners. In the United States, it’s prevalent in various industries, while other countries may prefer metric units.

Conversions

• 1 ft·lbf = 1.35582 newton-meters (N·m)
• 1 ft·lbf = 0.73756 joules (J)

Fun Facts

• A common misconception is that foot-pounds and pounds are the same; they measure different concepts.
• The foot-pound is often used in American sports, especially in measuring the power of firearms.