Rotational dynamics
Centrifugal Force Calculator
Size outward rim load from mass, radius, and spin — linear velocity, ω, or RPM. The rotor diagram tracks your inputs and highlights the dimension you are editing.
Results
Centrifugal force
F = m · v² / r
Enter mass, radius, and speed — the rotor diagram syncs to your angular velocity.
Apparent outward load in a rotating frame — paired with centripetal acceleration inward.
In a rotating reference frame, inertia makes it feel as if mass is pushed outward. In an inertial frame the real interaction is centripetal — directed toward the centre — but engineers still size guards, bolts, and rims using this outward load F.
- From linear velocityF = m · v² / r
- From angular velocityF = m · ω² · r
- From RPMF = m · (2πn/60)² · r
- Centripetal accelerationa = v²/r = ω²r
- Linear speedv = ω · r
- ω from RPMω = 2π · RPM / 60
Centrifuges
Separate phases by density using extreme rim acceleration.
Rotating machinery
Size shafts, keys, and housings for peak rim load.
Vehicle cornering
Lateral grip and roll depend on effective outward load.
Roller coasters
Banking and restraints sized for peak g in curves.
Space habitats
Artificial gravity from rotating living modules.
Industrial mixers
Keep covers and bolts rated for runaway speed, not idle.