Most carbide suppliers use a common convention to describe the application range of a carbide grade. Understanding this designation system will make it easier for you to quickly select the correct carbide grade from a catalog and increase the probability of choosing wisely.
In most cutting tool catalogs, you will come across a “code” that looks like “P05-P15” / “K30-K45” etc… What does it mean?
Format:
| X | n | n | – | m | m |
Legend:
Letter X: The material group for which the grade should function. The material is designated with a letter and a color code:
- P – Steel
- M – Stainless Steel
- K – Cast Iron
- N- Non-ferrous
- S – Superalloys
- H – Hardened Steel
Numbers – nn & mm: A number between 5 and 45 in increments of 5 (05, 10, 15…45) representing the “difficulty level” of the application.
- 05 – for the Most Favorable overall condition:
- Smooth Workpieces.
- The workpiece is clamped very well.
- Strong clamping of the tool.
- A Short overhang of the tool.
- 45– For The Least favorable overall condition:
- Interrupted cut Workpieces.
- Poor workpiece clamping.
- Poor tool clamping.
- A Long overhang of the tool.
Examples:
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| P05-15 | A grade dedocated for machining steel in very stable conditions. |
| P15-30, M15-30, K15-30, S15-25 | An all-around grade for machining all material types (Except non-ferous) in general conditions |
| S15-25 | A grade dedicated for machining Superalloys in general conditions. |
| P30-40, K35-45 | A grade for machining steel and cast iron in unfavorable/unstable conditions. |
