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Motor Horsepower Formula:
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Horsepower (HP) is a unit of measurement for power, representing the rate at which work is done. In motor applications, it quantifies the motor's output power capability and is crucial for selecting appropriate motors for various applications.
The calculator uses the standard horsepower formula:
Where:
Explanation: The constant 5252 comes from the relationship where one horsepower is defined as 550 foot-pounds per second, and there are 60 seconds in a minute (550 × 60 ÷ 2π ≈ 5252).
Details: Accurate horsepower calculation is essential for motor selection, system design, performance analysis, and ensuring mechanical systems operate within safe and efficient parameters.
Tips: Enter torque in lb-ft and RPM values. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator will compute the horsepower output instantly.
Q1: Why is the constant 5252 used in the formula?
A: The constant 5252 derives from the definition of one horsepower as 550 foot-pounds per second, converted to minutes and accounting for rotational motion (550 × 60 ÷ 2π).
Q2: What is the difference between horsepower and torque?
A: Torque is rotational force, while horsepower is the rate at which work is done. Horsepower combines torque and speed to measure overall power output.
Q3: Can this formula be used for electric and combustion engines?
A: Yes, this formula applies to all types of rotating machinery including electric motors, internal combustion engines, and hydraulic motors.
Q4: What are typical horsepower ranges for common applications?
A: Small appliances: 0.1-1 HP, automotive engines: 100-700 HP, industrial motors: 1-5000 HP, with larger applications requiring even higher power.
Q5: How does horsepower relate to efficiency?
A: Horsepower represents output power. Efficiency is the ratio of output power to input power, so higher horsepower doesn't necessarily mean higher efficiency.