1. What is Axle Torque?

Axle torque is the rotational force applied to the axle of a vehicle, calculated by dividing the wheel torque by the differential ratio. It represents the actual torque delivered to the wheels after accounting for the gear reduction in the differential.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the axle torque equation:

Where:

• \( wheel\_torque \) — Torque at the wheels (N·m)
• \( differential\_ratio \) — Gear ratio of the differential (unitless)

Explanation: The differential ratio reduces the rotational speed while increasing torque, allowing the wheels to receive more torque than what's directly produced by the engine.

3. Importance of Axle Torque Calculation

Details: Calculating axle torque is essential for vehicle performance analysis, transmission design, and understanding the actual force delivered to the wheels for acceleration and towing capacity.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter wheel torque in Newton-meters (N·m) and differential ratio as a unitless value. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the typical range for differential ratios?
A: Differential ratios typically range from 2.5:1 to 4.5:1 for most passenger vehicles, with higher ratios providing more torque multiplication.

Q2: How does axle torque relate to vehicle acceleration?
A: Higher axle torque results in better acceleration and pulling power, as more force is delivered to the wheels to overcome inertia and resistance.

Q3: What's the difference between engine torque and axle torque?
A: Engine torque is the raw output from the engine, while axle torque is the final torque delivered to the wheels after all gear reductions (transmission and differential).

Q4: Can I calculate wheel torque from axle torque?
A: Yes, by rearranging the formula: wheel_torque = axle_torque × differential_ratio.

Q5: Why is torque measured in Newton-meters?
A: Newton-meters is the SI unit for torque, representing the force of one Newton applied perpendicularly to a moment arm of one meter.