Cernarus

Convert Kilopascals to Kilogram-Force per Square Centimeter - Pressure Converter

This converter transforms a single pressure value expressed in kilopascals (kPa) into kilogram‑force per square centimeter (kgf/cm²). The relationship is a fixed physical conversion based on the definition of the kilogram‑force and the SI unit pascal.

Use this tool for quick engineering checks, instrumentation setpoints, specification comparisons, and documentation where kgf/cm² is required. For legal, safety-critical, or calibrated measurement reporting, pair the numeric result with documented instrument uncertainty and traceability to recognized standards.

Results assume the conventional standard gravity (g = 9.80665 m/s²) and the exact area conversion from square centimetres to square metres (1 cm² = 1e-4 m²). See methodology and calibration notes below for accuracy and compliance considerations.

Updated Nov 3, 2025

Interactive converter unavailable for this calculator.

We could not resolve compatible units for this experience. Please verify the slug follows the pattern `from-unit-to-unit-converter`.

Methodology

Conversion is deterministic: 1 kgf/cm² equals the force of one kilogram under standard gravity applied over one square centimetre, which corresponds to 98,066.5 pascals (98.0665 kPa). The converter uses SI definitions and the conventional standard acceleration of gravity for the kilogram‑force definition.

For traceability and reporting, follow laboratory and calibration standards such as ISO/IEC 17025 for calibration laboratories and NIST guidance for unit realization and uncertainty. Instrumentation and transducer outputs should include uncertainty budgets when used for compliance or safety decisions.

Note that kilogram‑force (kgf) is a gravitational, non‑SI unit still used in some industries; when absolute SI reporting is required, prefer pascals or kilopascals and supply conversion with stated uncertainties.

Worked examples

101.325 kPa → 101.325 × 0.010197162129779 = 1.03323 kgf/cm² (typical atmospheric pressure conversion).

500 kPa → 500 × 0.010197162129779 = 5.09858 kgf/cm².

Further resources

Expert Q&A

What exact conversion factor is used?

This tool uses 1 kgf/cm² = 98.0665 kPa (exactly 98,066.5 Pa) and the inverse factor 1 kPa = 0.010197162129779 kgf/cm², derived from the conventional standard gravity 9.80665 m/s² and 1 cm² = 1e-4 m².

Is kilogram‑force an SI unit and should I use it in reports?

Kilogram‑force is not an SI base unit. It is a gravitational unit that remains in use in some industries. For formal scientific reporting and regulatory compliance prefer pascals or kilopascals; include converted kgf/cm² only if required by the recipient, and always state uncertainties and traceability.

How many significant digits should I report?

Match the number of digits to the measurement instrument's accuracy and uncertainty budget. For example, a transducer with ±0.5% accuracy justifies reporting about three significant digits for typical engineering magnitudes. Do not overstate precision.

Does temperature or local gravity change the conversion?

The numerical conversion uses the conventional standard gravity (9.80665 m/s²). Local variations in gravity and temperature can affect high‑precision force or mass measurements and should be included in the uncertainty budget for calibrated metrology work.

What calibration or standards should I follow for pressure instruments?

Use accredited calibration laboratories compliant with ISO/IEC 17025. For unit realization, follow guidance from national metrology institutes and NIST publications. For workplace safety, consult applicable OSHA regulations and industry standards for pressure equipment.

Why do I sometimes see kg/cm² without the 'force' qualifier?

Kg/cm² is an informal shorthand used in some contexts but technically ambiguous. The correct term indicating force per area is kilogram‑force per square centimetre (kgf/cm²). When possible use explicit units to avoid ambiguity.

Sources & citations