Convert MPa to Psi
1 MPa equals 145.038 psi.
MPa to Psi Converter
What Is a Megapascal?
The megapascal (MPa) is an SI-derived unit of pressure equal to 1,000,000 pascals (1,000 kPa or 10 bar). It is the standard unit in engineering for material properties — tensile strength, yield strength, and compressive strength are all reported in MPa. It is also used for hydraulic system pressures and concrete specifications.
What Is PSI?
PSI (lbf/in²) stands for pound-force per square inch. It is the primary pressure unit in the United States, used for tire pressure, hydraulic systems, water pressure, and compressed gas. One psi equals approximately 6,894.76 pascals.
MPa to PSI Formula
The conversion factor is:
psi = MPa × 145.038
Derived from: 1 psi = 6,894.757 Pa, so 1 MPa = 1,000,000 ÷ 6,894.757 ≈ 145.038 psi.
Worked Example
Convert 250 MPa (typical yield strength of structural steel) to psi:
- Multiply: 250 × 145.038 = 36,260 psi
So 250 MPa ≈ 36,260 psi — a common specification for A36 structural steel.
Quick Estimation
1 MPa ≈ 145 psi. Multiply by 145 — or multiply by 150 and subtract 3%. Example: 10 MPa × 150 = 1,500 - 3% ≈ 1,450 psi (exact: 1,450.4).
Common MPa to PSI Conversions
| MPa | PSI | Context |
|---|---|---|
| 0.1 MPa | 14.5 psi | ≈ 1 atmosphere |
| 0.7 MPa | 101.5 psi | Industrial compressed air |
| 1 MPa | 145 psi | Water main pressure (high) |
| 2 MPa | 290 psi | Fire hose operating pressure |
| 10 MPa | 1,450 psi | Hydraulic jack / car lift |
| 20 MPa | 2,901 psi | Standard hydraulic system |
| 30 MPa | 4,351 psi | Concrete compressive strength (typical) |
| 100 MPa | 14,504 psi | High-performance concrete |
| 250 MPa | 36,260 psi | A36 structural steel yield strength |
| 500 MPa | 72,519 psi | High-strength steel / titanium alloy |
Which Is Bigger: MPa or PSI?
A megapascal is about 145 times larger than a psi. One MPa = 145 psi. MPa is a large unit designed for engineering applications; psi is a smaller unit used for everyday pressures. Material strength values in MPa are compact numbers (250 MPa vs. 36,260 psi).
When You Need This Conversion
- Material specifications: International standards (ISO, EN) specify material strength in MPa. US standards (ASTM, SAE) use psi. A36 steel: 250 MPa = 36,260 psi yield strength.
- Hydraulics: European hydraulic equipment is rated in MPa (or bar); US systems use psi. A 20 MPa hydraulic pump = 2,901 psi.
- Concrete testing: Concrete compressive strength is specified as 20-50 MPa internationally, or 2,900-7,250 psi in US construction.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many psi is 1 MPa?
145.038 psi. For quick estimates, use 1 MPa ≈ 145 psi.
How do I convert MPa to psi?
Multiply by 145.038. Example: 50 MPa × 145 = 7,252 psi.
What is 30 MPa in psi?
30 MPa = 4,351 psi. This is typical compressive strength for standard structural concrete (C30 grade).
How do I convert psi to MPa?
Divide by 145.038 — or multiply by 0.006895. Example: 5,000 psi ÷ 145 ≈ 34.5 MPa.
What is the relationship between MPa, kPa, and bar?
1 MPa = 1,000 kPa = 10 bar. All three are metric and based on the pascal. MPa is used for high pressures, kPa for moderate pressures, bar for everyday industry.
MPa to psi Conversion Table
Reference table with common mpa to psi conversions. All values calculated with high precision.
MPa to Psi Table
0.0001 to 12
MPa to Psi Table
1 to 100000
Psi to MPa Table
1000 to 1 × 108
Looking for the reverse? Convert Psi to MPa
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