How many British Thermal Units (Btu) are equivalent to one mechanical horsepower?

One mechanical horsepower is equivalent to 2,545 British Thermal Units (Btu) per hour. This conversion is based on the definition of horsepower, which measures the rate of work done or energy used over time. Specifically, one mechanical horsepower is defined as the ability to do work at a rate of approximately 745.7 watts.

In terms of thermal energy, the Btu measures the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. Therefore, when you multiply the horsepower value (in watts) by the conversion factor necessary to obtain Btu, you arrive at the answer of 2,545 Btu per hour.

This relationship is essential for engineers and operators to understand, especially when dealing with energy and power calculations in heating, cooling, and various mechanical processes.