Horsepower Formula:
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Horsepower from torque and speed is a fundamental calculation in mechanical engineering that determines the power output of an engine or motor based on its torque production and rotational speed.
The calculator uses the horsepower formula:
Where:
Explanation: The constant 5252 comes from the definition of horsepower (1 HP = 550 foot-pounds per second) and unit conversions between minutes and seconds.
Details: Accurate horsepower calculation is essential for engine performance analysis, vehicle design, industrial machinery specification, and power transmission system optimization.
Tips: Enter torque in lb-ft units and rotational speed in RPM. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero for accurate calculation.
Q1: Why is the constant 5252 used in the formula?
A: The constant 5252 comes from the conversion between different units: 1 horsepower equals 550 foot-pounds per second, and there are 60 seconds in a minute (550 × 60 ÷ 2π ≈ 5252).
Q2: What is the relationship between torque and horsepower?
A: Torque represents rotational force, while horsepower represents the rate at which work is done. Horsepower increases with both torque and rotational speed.
Q3: Can this formula be used for electric motors?
A: Yes, this formula applies to any rotating machinery including electric motors, internal combustion engines, and turbines.
Q4: What are typical horsepower values for different applications?
A: Passenger cars: 100-300 HP, sports cars: 300-700 HP, industrial motors: 1-500 HP, large engines: 1000+ HP.
Q5: How does gear reduction affect horsepower calculation?
A: Gear reduction changes torque and speed but horsepower remains constant (minus efficiency losses) through ideal gear systems.