Convert Kilonewtons to Kilogram-Force
Convert Kilonewtons (kN) to Kilogram-Force (kgf) instantly and accurately.
Conversion Formula
kgf = kN × 101.9716213
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.
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.
Quick Reference Table
| Kilonewtons (kN) | Kilogram-Force (kgf) |
|---|---|
| 1 kN | 101.972 kgf |
| 2 kN | 203.943 kgf |
| 5 kN | 509.858 kgf |
| 10 kN | 1019.72 kgf |
| 25 kN | 2549.29 kgf |
| 50 kN | 5098.58 kgf |
| 100 kN | 10197.2 kgf |