Convert Kilogram-Force to Kilonewtons
Convert Kilogram-Force (kgf) to Kilonewtons (kN) instantly and accurately.
Conversion Formula
kN = kgf × 0.00980665
About Kilogram-Force
The kilogram-force (kgf), also called the kilopond (kp), is the gravitational force on 1 kg under standard gravity - exactly 9.80665 N. It was the primary force unit in continental European engineering before SI. ISO 1000 (1973) and EU Directive 80/181/EEC deprecated it in favour of the newton. Spring and bathroom scales reading in 'kg' technically measure kgf. Older DIN and JIS materials standards give tensile strength in kgf/mm² (× 9.80665 = MPa). Hydraulic cylinder ratings in legacy European machinery use kgf or tonne-force. 1 kgf = 9.80665 N = 2.20462 lbf.
About Kilonewtons
A kilonewton (kN) is 1,000 N - the standard force unit for structural engineering outside North America. A 70 kg person exerts ~0.687 kN; a heavy goods vehicle axle 100-130 kN; a loaded Boeing 747 on its landing gear ~2,800 kN. Eurocode and BS EN structural codes express beam loads and foundation reactions in kN and bending moments in kN·m. Universal testing machines for materials testing are rated 10-10,000 kN. Prestressed concrete tendons are stressed to 100-250 kN each. 1 kN = 1,000 N = 224.81 lbf = 101.97 kgf.
Quick Reference Table
| Kilogram-Force (kgf) | Kilonewtons (kN) |
|---|---|
| 1 kgf | 0.00980665 kN |
| 2 kgf | 0.0196133 kN |
| 5 kgf | 0.0490333 kN |
| 10 kgf | 0.0980665 kN |
| 25 kgf | 0.245166 kN |
| 50 kgf | 0.490333 kN |
| 100 kgf | 0.980665 kN |