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Thrust Formula:
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The thrust formula calculates the force produced by an engine or propulsion system based on its horsepower and velocity. It's particularly useful in aviation and automotive applications where understanding the relationship between power and thrust is important.
The calculator uses the thrust formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula converts horsepower to thrust by accounting for the speed at which the power is being applied. Higher speeds result in less thrust for the same horsepower.
Details: Thrust calculation is crucial for determining an aircraft's performance, acceleration capabilities, and takeoff requirements. In automotive applications, it helps understand a vehicle's pulling power and acceleration potential.
Tips: Enter horsepower in HP, velocity in mph, and optionally weight in lbs. All values must be positive numbers. The calculator will compute thrust in pounds and, if weight is provided, the thrust-to-weight ratio.
Q1: What is a good thrust-to-weight ratio?
A: For aircraft, a ratio > 1 means the aircraft can accelerate vertically. Typical ratios are 0.2-0.6 for commercial jets, 0.7-1.5 for fighter jets.
Q2: How does velocity affect thrust?
A: Thrust decreases as velocity increases for a constant horsepower. This is why propellers are less efficient at high speeds compared to jets.
Q3: What's the difference between thrust and torque?
A: Torque is rotational force, while thrust is linear force. Thrust is what actually propels a vehicle forward.
Q4: Can I use this for electric motors?
A: Yes, if you know the horsepower equivalent of your electric motor. Remember that electric motors often have different torque characteristics.
Q5: Why is weight important in thrust calculations?
A: The thrust-to-weight ratio determines acceleration capability and whether an aircraft can take off vertically or climb at a certain rate.