Torque is a measure of the rotational force or twisting force applied to an object, typically a shaft or a wheel. It’s the force that causes an object to rotate around an axis or pivot point. Torque is commonly measured in pound-feet (lb-ft) in the imperial system or newton-meters (N-m) in the metric system.
Key Points:
- Turning Force: Torque is the force that causes an object to rotate around an axis. It’s essential for tasks like tightening bolts, driving screws, or rotating machinery.
- Measurement: Torque is typically measured using a torque wrench, which applies a specified amount of force to tighten nuts or bolts to a desired level. This helps ensure proper fastening and prevents over-tightening or under-tightening.
- Units: In the traditional system, torque is measured in pound-force-foot (lb-ft) or foot-poundforce. In the International System of Units (SI), torque is measured in newton-meters (N-m), while in the metric system, it’s measured in dyne-centimeters.
- Relationship to Work and Power: Torque differs from work and power. While torque is the rotational force applied to an object, work is the result of applying force over a distance, and power is the rate at which work is done. Torque alone does not necessarily produce motion but is essential for rotational motion.
- Calculation: The magnitude of torque is calculated as the product of the applied force and the distance from the axis of rotation to the point where the force is applied. This product is called the moment arm or lever arm.
Example:
Imagine using a wrench to tighten a bolt. The force applied to the handle of the wrench generates torque, which tightens the bolt as the wrench rotates around the bolt’s axis. The magnitude of torque depends on both the force applied and the length of the wrench handle (the torque arm).
In summary, torque is a fundamental concept in mechanics, representing the rotational force applied to an object. It’s crucial for various tasks in engineering, construction, automotive, and many other fields where rotational motion is involved.
See Related Terms:
- Braking Torque
- Breakdown Torque
- Dial torque wrench
- Full Load Torque
- Interchangeable head torque wrench
- Locked-Rotor Torque
- Lock-up torque converter
- Lockup torque converter
- Midrange torque
- Pull-In Torque
- Self-aligning torque
- Stall Torque
- Starting Torque