Question 1

What is metric horsepower (PS)?

Accepted Answer

PS (Pferdestärke) = 735.5 watts. Defined as lifting 75 kg by 1 meter in 1 second. Common in European/Asian auto specs. Also called CV (France), pk (Netherlands), hk (Scandinavia).

Question 2

Why do European cars list different HP than US cars?

Accepted Answer

European cars use PS (metric HP = 735.5 W), US uses mechanical HP (745.7 W). A car rated 200 PS = 197 HP. Difference is about 1.4%.

Question 3

What's the difference between mechanical and electrical horsepower?

Accepted Answer

Mechanical HP (550 ft·lb/s) = 745.7W. Electrical HP = 746W. Metric HP (PS) = 735.5W. Boiler HP = 9810W. Different industries defined their own standards.

Question 4

How do I size a motor or generator?

Accepted Answer

Calculate peak power needs, add 20-25% safety margin. Consider duty cycle - continuous vs intermittent use affects sizing differently.

Metric Horsepower to Watts Converter

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