Moment of Inertia Converter

About This Tool

This Moment of Inertia Converter is a crucial tool for mechanical engineers, physicists, and anyone involved in rotational dynamics. Moment of inertia is a measure of an object's resistance to changes in its rotation. It is the rotational analog of mass for linear motion. The base unit for all calculations is the kilogram square meter (kg·m²), the standard SI unit.

The value depends on the mass of the object and how that mass is distributed relative to the axis of rotation. This tool helps in converting between the standard SI units and various imperial/customary units, such as slug square foot, used in different engineering contexts.

Tips & Features

• The SI Standard: All units are converted by relating them to the kilogram square meter (kg·m²). This is the standard for all scientific and most engineering calculations.
• Mass vs. Force Units: Be aware of the distinction between units based on mass (like kg·m² or lb·ft²) and those based on force (like lbf·ft·s²). The latter are part of gravitational systems and incorporate the acceleration of gravity.
• Not Just Mass: Unlike linear inertia (mass), the moment of inertia is not just about how heavy an object is, but also about its shape and the chosen axis of rotation. A hollow cylinder will have a different moment of inertia than a solid cylinder of the same mass.