What Is This Tool?
This converter transforms force values measured in poundals, a unit from the foot-pound-second (FPS) system, into newtons, the standard SI unit of force. It facilitates consistent force measurement conversions useful in engineering, physics, and legacy data interpretation.
How to Use This Tool?
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Enter the force value in poundal [pdl] you want to convert
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Select 'poundal [pdl]' as the input unit and 'newton [N]' as the output unit
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Click the convert button to see the equivalent value in newtons
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Use the result for engineering, physics, or data interpretation purposes
Key Features
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Converts force units from poundal [pdl] to newton [N] accurately
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Supports classical mechanics and engineering legacy unit conversions
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Browser-based and easy to use interface
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Provides conversion based on the exact defined relationship between units
Examples
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Convert 10 poundal: 10 × 0.1382549544 = 1.382549544 newtons
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Convert 50 poundal: 50 × 0.1382549544 = 6.91274772 newtons
Common Use Cases
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Solving classical mechanics problems that use FPS units
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Interpreting or converting archival engineering and ballistics data in poundals
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Performing small-force calculations in legacy systems using pound-mass and feet
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Expressing force measurements in SI units for research and modern engineering
Tips & Best Practices
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Always ensure the input unit is poundal and output is newton for correct results
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Use the converter to standardize force units before conducting analysis
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Be aware of unit system differences to avoid confusion when mixing values
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Apply conversions mainly for legacy data or small-force calculations requiring SI units
Limitations
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Poundal is less common and may cause confusion if units are mixed without care
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Minor rounding differences can occur due to the approximate conversion factor
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Conversion is mainly needed for legacy data; modern systems use newtons predominantly
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is a poundal?
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A poundal (pdl) is a force unit in the FPS system defined as the force causing an acceleration of 1 foot per second squared on a 1-pound mass.
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Why convert poundals to newtons?
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Converting to newtons standardizes force measurements in SI units, essential for engineering, physics, and interpreting legacy data.
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What is the conversion rate between poundal and newton?
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One poundal equals approximately 0.1382549544 newtons.
Key Terminology
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Poundal [pdl]
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A FPS system unit of force defined by the force accelerating a mass of one pound by one foot per second squared.
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Newton [N]
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The SI derived unit of force needed to accelerate one kilogram mass by one metre per second squared.
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FPS system
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A measurement system using foot, pound, and second as base units, primarily in classical mechanics.