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Pounds Per Minute Calculator

Convert mass flow rate between pounds per minute, kilograms per second, and other units with step-by-step conversion formulas.

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Mass Flow Rate in Pounds Per Minute

Mass flow rate describes how much mass passes through a cross-section per unit time. Pounds per minute (lb/min) is common in US industrial and process applications, while kilograms per second (kg/s) is standard in SI work.

Formulas

From mass and elapsed time:

$$ \dot{m} = \frac{\text{mass}}{\text{time}} $$

From fluid density and volumetric flow rate:

$$ \dot{m} = \rho \times Q $$

When density is in lb/ft³ and volumetric flow is in ft³/min, the product gives lb/min directly.

Unit Conversions

To convert lb/min to kg/s, divide by 2.20462 to get kg/min, then divide by 60. You can also multiply lb/min by approximately 0.00756 to obtain kg/s directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I calculate pounds per minute?

Divide the mass in pounds by the time in minutes. For example, 1.5 lb in 0.3 min gives 5 lb/min.

How do I convert lb/min to kg/s?

Multiply lb/min by about 0.00756, or divide by 2.20462 and then by 60.

How do I convert cfm to lb/min?

Multiply the volumetric flow in cubic feet per minute by the fluid density in lb/ft³.

Is mass flow rate the same as volumetric flow rate?

No. Volumetric flow is volume per time. Mass flow is mass per time and depends on density.

What industries use lb/min?

Process piping, HVAC, fuel systems, and chemical plants in the United States often specify mass flow in lb/min.