Convert RPM to m/s from the rotating part’s diameter or radius, or work back from m/s to RPM, with rev/s, m/min, km/h, mph and ft/s too.

Use the speed of the rotating part itself, after any gearing or pulleys.

Wheel or belt travel speed equals this rim speed only when there is no slip.

Optional settings

RPM to m/s Formula

v = (2π r × RPM) / (60) RPM = (60 v) / (2π r)

To convert RPM to m/s, multiply RPM by the circumference (2Ï€r) and divide by 60. To convert m/s to RPM, multiply by 60 and divide by 2Ï€r. Ensure radius is in meters and linear speed is in m/s for direct use of the formulas.

Representative RPM → Linear Speed
RPM Radius (m) Speed (m/s) Speed (mph)
101.00001.04722.3425
301.00003.14167.0275
601.00006.283214.0551
1201.000012.566428.1102
3001.000031.415970.2754
6001.000062.8319140.5509
10001.0000104.7198234.2514
30001.0000314.1593702.7543
* v = 2πr·(RPM/60). mph = m/s ÷ 0.44704. Values rounded to 4 decimals. Table shown for r = 1 m.

Example Problem

Use the following example problem to compare with the output from the calculator above and confirm the results.

  1. Given RPM = 120 rpm and radius r = 0.25 m.
  2. Use the formula v = 2πr·(RPM/60).
  3. Plug in values: v = 2π(0.25)·(120/60) = 2π(0.25)·2 = π ≈ 3.1416 m/s.
  4. The result is 3.1416 m/s.
rpm to m/s formula