Pressure Measurement · Free Calculator
Pressure to Force Calculator
Find the force produced by pressure on a circular area, such as a pneumatic cylinder piston, blind flange, valve plug or sensor diaphragm.
F = P × ACylindersBlind flangesDiaphragms
Force4,712.4 N
Force4.7124 kN
Force480.53 kgf
Force1,059.4 lbf
Effective area78.54 cm²
How this result was calculated
- A = π/4 × (D² − drod²) = 0.007854 m²
- F = P × A = 600,000 Pa × 0.007854 m² = 4,712.4 N
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Pressure Force Formula
F = P × A, A = π/4 × (D² − drod²)
Worked example
A 100 mm bore cylinder at 6 bar produces 600,000 × 0.007854 = 4,712 N (480 kgf) on the extend stroke.
Key insight: large areas turn modest pressures into big forces: a DN 300 blind flange at 10 bar carries over 70 kN. Always depressurise before loosening bolts.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate force from pressure?
Multiply pressure in pascals by area in square metres to get newtons.
Why is a cylinder weaker on the retract stroke?
The rod takes up part of the piston area on that side, so the effective area and force are lower.
Should I add a safety margin for cylinders?
Yes. Friction and dynamic loads mean practical force is typically 70 to 85 % of the theoretical value.
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