Calculator
Enter rotor details to convert RPM into relative centrifugal force.
Plotly Graph
The graph shows how g-force changes with rotor speed.
Example Data Table
| Rotor Radius | Unit | RPM | Converted Radius | Estimated G |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.0 | cm | 3000 | 5.0 cm | 503.1000 g |
| 8.5 | cm | 12000 | 8.5 cm | 13685.7600 g |
| 95 | mm | 8000 | 9.5 cm | 6794.2400 g |
| 4.2 | in | 6000 | 10.668 cm | 4294.1610 g |
Formula Used
The calculator uses the standard relative centrifugal force equation:
RCF (g) = 1.118 × 10-5 × r × RPM2
- RCF means relative centrifugal force.
- r is the rotor radius in centimeters.
- RPM is revolutions per minute.
Angular velocity uses ω = 2π × RPM / 60.
Tip speed uses v = ω × r after converting radius into meters.
This approach helps compare rotating systems using radius and speed together.
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter the rotor or device name for reference.
- Type the operating speed in RPM.
- Enter the rotor radius and choose the correct unit.
- Add sample count if you want a load index.
- Enter a target g-force to estimate required RPM.
- Enable the comparison table to generate speed scenarios.
- Click the convert button to show results above the form.
- Review the graph, metrics, and export options.
FAQs
1. What does g mean in this calculator?
It represents relative centrifugal force compared with normal gravity. A value of 1000 g means the sample experiences one thousand times Earth gravity during rotation.
2. Why is rotor radius required?
RPM alone does not define force. A larger radius produces more centrifugal force at the same speed, so radius is essential for accurate conversion.
3. Can I use inches or meters?
Yes. The calculator accepts millimeters, centimeters, meters, inches, and feet. It converts every value into centimeters before calculating g-force.
4. Is RCF the same as g-force?
In this context, yes. Laboratories often use RCF and g-force interchangeably when describing centrifugal acceleration produced by a spinning rotor.
5. Why does g rise so quickly with RPM?
The equation squares RPM. That means a small increase in speed creates a much larger increase in centrifugal force.
6. What is target g useful for?
It helps estimate the RPM needed for a desired separation force. This is useful when protocols specify force instead of speed.
7. What does the tip speed value show?
Tip speed estimates the linear velocity at the rotor edge. It adds engineering context for rotating devices, safety checks, and performance comparison.
8. Can I export the result?
Yes. Use the CSV button for spreadsheet data and the PDF button for a printable report of the current result section.