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Playing with Horsepower Comparison

Horsepower Formula:

\[ HP = \frac{T \times RPM}{5252} \]

lb-ft
rev/min

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1. What is Horsepower Comparison?

Definition: This calculator computes engine horsepower based on torque and RPM, allowing comparison across different engines or motors.

Purpose: It helps automotive enthusiasts, engineers, and mechanics evaluate and compare engine performance characteristics.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard horsepower formula:

\[ HP = \frac{T \times RPM}{5252} \]

Where:

Explanation: Horsepower is calculated by multiplying torque by RPM and dividing by the constant 5252, which is the RPM at which torque and horsepower values cross on a dyno chart.

3. Importance of Horsepower Comparison

Details: Comparing horsepower helps in engine tuning, vehicle selection, and understanding performance characteristics. It's especially useful when comparing engines with different torque curves.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter torque in lb-ft and engine speed in RPM. Both values must be positive numbers. The result shows the horsepower at that specific RPM point.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is 5252 the magic number?
A: 5252 comes from the conversion between rotational speed and power (33,000 ft-lb/min ÷ 2π radians/revolution).

Q2: What's more important - torque or horsepower?
A: Both matter - torque determines pulling power, while horsepower reflects how quickly work can be done. The ideal depends on application.

Q3: Can I use this for electric motors?
A: Yes, the formula works for any rotating machinery, though electric motors often have different torque curves than combustion engines.

Q4: Why do dyno charts cross at 5252 RPM?
A: Because mathematically, when RPM = 5252, HP equals torque in the formula HP = (T × RPM)/5252.

Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It's theoretically precise, but real-world factors like drivetrain loss may affect actual wheel horsepower.

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