1. RPM (Revolutions Per Minute)

Definition: RPM stands for Revolutions Per Minute. It is a unit used to measure the rotational speed of an object, indicating how many complete rotations the object makes in one minute.

Uses: RPM is commonly used to describe the speed of rotating machinery, such as motors, engines, fans, hard drives, and wheels. For example, the RPM of a car's engine or a computer's cooling fan is often measured to assess performance.

Formula: RPM can be calculated using the formula:
RPM = (Number of Revolutions) / (Time in Minutes)

2. FPM (Feet Per Minute)

Definition: FPM stands for Feet Per Minute. It is a unit used to measure linear speed, indicating how many feet an object travels in one minute.

Uses: FPM is commonly used to describe the speed of moving objects, such as conveyor belts, air flow in ventilation systems, or the speed of vehicles in industrial settings.

Formula: FPM can be calculated using the formula:
FPM = (Distance in Feet) / (Time in Minutes)

3. Relationship Between RPM and FPM

RPM and FPM are related in scenarios where rotational motion is converted into linear motion. For example, the linear speed (FPM) of a conveyor belt driven by a rotating pulley can be calculated using the pulley's RPM and its circumference.

Conversion Formula:
FPM = RPM × Circumference (in feet)
Where Circumference = π × Diameter (in feet).

For instance, if a pulley with a diameter of 2 feet rotates at 100 RPM, the linear speed of the conveyor belt would be:
FPM = 100 × (π × 2) ≈ 628.32 FPM

RPM to FPM Conversion Table