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