Kilogram-force under standard gravity.
Kilogram-forces to Hectonewtons Converter — kgf to hN
Convert Kilogram-force (kgf) to Hectonewton (hN) using the exact conversion factor (1 kilogram-force = 0.0980665 hectonewton). See the formula, worked examples, conversion table, and common uses.
Kilogram-forces to Hectonewtons converter
Converter
Force Converter
Convert newtons, dynes, pound-force, kilogram-force, kips, and ounce-force.
Context values
Some unit families need one extra value for a physically accurate result.
Hectonewton is 100 newton units.
Result = input x 9.80665 / 100.
Force uses the newton as the base unit.
Reserved above the conversion cards and below the converter.
About Converting Kilogram-forces to Hectonewtons
Kilogram-force and Hectonewton both measure force, and the conversion matters whenever an SI-trained engineer needs to compare notes with a US-trained one, or vice versa. Kilogram-force is most often used for appears on some older or legacy engineering and mechanical specifications, particularly torque wrenches and spring-force ratings, predating wider adoption of the newton.
Formula
hectonewtons = kilogram-forces × 0.0980665
This factor comes from each unit's defined relationship to the category's base unit: 1 kilogram-force equals 9.80665 base units, and 1 hectonewton equals 100 base units, so dividing one by the other gives the direct kilogram-force-to-hectonewton factor of 0.0980665.
Simple example
1 kgf × 0.0980665 = 0.0980665 hN
1 kilogram-force = 0.0980665 hectonewtons.
Real-world example
10 kgf × 0.0980665 = 0.980665 hN
10 kilogram-forces = 0.980665 hectonewtons.
Conversion table
| Kilogram-force (kgf) | Hectonewton (hN) |
|---|---|
| 1 kgf | 0.0980665 hN |
| 5 kgf | 0.4903325 hN |
| 10 kgf | 0.980665 hN |
| 50 kgf | 4.903325 hN |
| 100 kgf | 9.80665 hN |
| 1,000 kgf | 98.0665 hN |
Reverse conversion: Hectonewton to Kilogram-force
0.0980665 hN × 10.19716213 = 1 kgf
0.0980665 hectonewtons = 1 kilogram-force.
kilogram-forces = hectonewtons × 10.1971621298
For a page dedicated to this direction, see Hectonewton to Kilogram-force.
Understanding the Kilogram-force
Kilogram-force (kgf) measures force. Defined as the force exerted by standard gravity on a mass of one kilogram — exactly 9.80665 newtons. It is classified as a non-SI unit, deprecated but still encountered.
Where it's used: Still encountered in some older European and Asian engineering specifications and torque-related equipment, though official use has been phased out in favor of the newton
Kilogram-force vs. newton. The newton is the modern SI unit of force; kilogram-force is an older, gravity-dependent unit still occasionally seen on legacy equipment. 1 kgf equals exactly 9.80665 N.
Uses of the Kilogram-force today
- Appears on some older or legacy engineering and mechanical specifications, particularly torque wrenches and spring-force ratings, predating wider adoption of the newton
Understanding the Hectonewton (hN)
Hectonewton is 100 newton units.
Kilogram-force — sources
- BIPM SI Brochure — Notes kilogram-force among non-SI force units whose use is discouraged in favor of the newton.
Reserved between the cards and the FAQ so the page stays balanced.
Frequently asked questions
How many hectonewtons are in 1 kilogram-force?
1 kilogram-force equals 0.0980665 hectonewtons, using the exact defined conversion factor rather than an estimate.
How do I convert kilogram-force to hectonewton?
Multiply the kilogram-force value by 0.0980665. The converter above does this instantly to whatever precision you set.
How do I convert hectonewton back to kilogram-force?
Use the reverse factor: 1 hectonewton equals 10.19716213 kilogram-forces. You can also use the swap control in the converter above to flip the direction instantly.
What is a kilogram-force?
Kilogram-force (kgf) measures force. Defined as the force exerted by standard gravity on a mass of one kilogram — exactly 9.80665 newtons. It is classified as a non-SI unit, deprecated but still encountered.
What is a hectonewton?
Hectonewton (hN) is a unit of force.
Is the kilogram-force to hectonewton conversion exact?
Yes. Defined as the force exerted by standard gravity on a mass of one kilogram — exactly 9.80665 newtons. That fixed definition is what the converter above uses, so any rounding you see is a display choice, not a limitation of the math.
What is the difference between kilogram-force vs. newton?
The newton is the modern SI unit of force; kilogram-force is an older, gravity-dependent unit still occasionally seen on legacy equipment. 1 kgf equals exactly 9.80665 N.
Where is the kilogram-force still used today?
Still encountered in some older European and Asian engineering specifications and torque-related equipment, though official use has been phased out in favor of the newton