HP to in-lbs Torque Calculator

Convert horsepower and RPM into torque in inch-pounds.

HP to in-lbs Torque Calculator
RESULT

This calculator finds torque in inch-pounds from horsepower and RPM — useful for small motors and gearmotors where torque is rated in inch-pounds rather than foot-pounds.

Quick answer: Torque (in-lb) = (HP × 5252 ÷ RPM) × 12. A 5 HP motor at 1,750 RPM makes about 180 in-lb.

HP to in-lbs Torque Formula

Formula
Torque (in-lb) = (HP × 5252 ÷ RPM) × 12
First find lb-ft via the 5252 rule, then multiply by 12.

How to Use This Calculator

  1. Enter horsepower.
  2. Enter RPM.
  3. Read torque in inch-pounds (and lb-ft).

Worked Example

Worked Example
lb-ft = (5 × 5252) ÷ 1750 = 15 lb-ft
in-lb = 15 × 12 = 180 in-lb

When Inch-Pounds Are Used

Inch-pounds are the natural torque unit for small motors, gearmotors, servos, and precision mechanisms where foot-pounds would be awkwardly small fractions. Power-tool makers, fractional-horsepower motor manufacturers, and fastener specs for delicate assemblies all quote torque in in-lb. Since there are 12 inches in a foot, in-lb is simply lb-ft × 12.

HP to Inch-Pounds at 1,750 RPM

HorsepowerTorque (lb-ft)Torque (in-lb)
0.51.518
13.036
515.0180
1030.0360

Torque depends on RPM, so the same horsepower yields more torque at lower speeds — a key reason gear reduction is used to boost torque in compact drives.

How this calculator is checked

First applies the 5,252 rule for lb-ft, then multiplies by 12 for inch-pounds. Exact given torque and RPM.

Frequently Asked Questions

First find torque in lb-ft using (HP × 5252 ÷ RPM), then multiply by 12 to get inch-pounds. You need the RPM.

Torque depends on the speed at which power is delivered. The same horsepower produces different torque at different RPM.

Twelve. One foot-pound of torque equals 12 inch-pounds.

For small motors, gearmotors, and fasteners where foot-pounds would be awkwardly small numbers.

Convert in-lb to lb-ft (divide by 12), then use HP = (lb-ft × RPM) ÷ 5252.