The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) classifies carbide cutting tools primarily based on their material composition and application, using a color-coded system for easy identification. Here's the main categories:
| ISO Class | Color Code | Primary Application & Workpiece Material |
| K Class | Red | Suitable for cutting short-chipping ferrous and non-ferrous metals and non-metallic materials. Ideal for cast iron, non-ferrous metals (like aluminum), and non-metallic materials. These grades typically offer good toughness and wear resistance. |
| P Class | Blue | Designed for long-chipping ferrous metals. Used primarily for carbon steel, alloy steel, and malleable cast iron. These grades generally provide good wear resistance and edge stability. |
| M Class | Yellow | Designated for materials between cast iron and steel, or for cutting both long- and short-chipping ferrous and non-ferrous metals. Often used for stainless steel, alloy steel, malleable cast iron, and high-temperature alloys. These grades aim to balance wear resistance and toughness. |
2. Key Points
1. The "C" in Classification: You might often see these classes written as K10, K20, M10, P20, etc. The letter indicates the group (K, P, M), and the number that follows roughly indicates the application range within that group (e.g., lower numbers might indicate finer machining operations, while higher numbers indicate heavier cuts or more interrupted cuts). However, the exact meaning of the number can vary between manufacturers.
2. Beyond the Basic Three: While K, P, and M are the core classes for general machining, the ISO system includes other classifications for specific materials like N (for non-ferrous metals like aluminum) and S (for heat-resistant alloys and superalloys).
3. Manufacturer's Grades: The ISO classification provides a framework. Individual manufacturers (like Sandvik, Kennametal, Iscar, etc.) develop their own specific grade names (e.g., Sandvik's MP40 is designed for the ISO P40 range) within these ISO classes, each with proprietary compositions and characteristics optimized for particular performance needs.
4. Tool Geometry & Identification: The ISO system also standardizes other aspects of cutting tools, such as:
***Insert Shapes: Codes like C (diamond 80°), D (diamond 55°), S (square), T (triangle), etc.
***Clearance Angles: Codes like A (3°), B (5°), C (7°), N (0°), etc.
***Tolerances: Specific codes define dimensional tolerances.
***Nose Radius: Standards like ISO 3286 define corner radii for indexable inserts.
***Dimensions: Numerous ISO standards define precise dimensions for various types of indexable inserts (e.g., ISO 3364, ISO 3365) and tool holders (e.g., ISO 514 for internal turning tools).
2. Why is this Classification Important?
This standardized system allows machinists and engineers across the globe to select the appropriate carbide grade for a specific material and machining operation (turning, milling, drilling), ensuring efficient machining, good tool life, and desired surface finish. It provides a common language between tool manufacturers and users.
About Huaxin:Tungsten Carbide Cemented Slitting Knives Manufacturer
CHENGDU HUAXIN CEMENTED CARBIDE CO.,LTD are a professional supplier and manufacturer of tungsten carbide products, such as carbide insert knives for woodworking,carbide circular knives for tobacco&cigarette filter rods slitting,round knives for corugatted cardboard slitting ,three hole razor blades/slotted blades for packaging ,tape,thin film cutting,fiber cutter blades for textile industry etc.
With over 25 years development, our products have been exported to U. S. A, Russia, South America,India,Turkey,Pakistan,Australia,Southeast Asia etc. With excellent quality and competitive prices, Our hard working attitude and responsiveness are approved by our customers. And we would like to establish new business relationships with new customers.
Contact us today and you will enjoy benefits of good quality and services from our products!
The high performance tungsten carbide industrial blades products
Custom Service
Huaxin Cemented Carbide manufactures custom tungsten carbide blades, altered standard and standard blanks and preforms, starting from powder through finished ground blanks. Our comprehensive selection of grades and our manufacturing process consistently delivers high-performance, reliable near-net shaped tools that address specialized customer application challenges across diverse industries.
Tailored Solutions for Every Industry
custom-engineered blades
Leading manufacturer of industrial blades
Follow us: to get Huaxin's industrial blades products releases
Customer common questions and Huaxin answers
That depends on the quantity, generally 5-14days. As an industrial blades manufacturer, Huaxin Cement Carbide plans the production by orders and customers' requests.
Usually 3-6 weeks, if you request customized machine knives or industrial blades that are not in stock at the time of purchasing. Find Sollex Purchase & Delivery Conditions here.
if you request customized machine knives or industrial blades that are not in stock at the time of purchasing. Find Sollex Purchase & Delivery Conditions here.
Usually T/T, Western Union...deposits firstm, All first orders from new customers are prepaid. Further orders can be paid by invoice...contact us to know more
Yes, contact us, Industrial knives are available in a variety of forms, including top dished, bottom circular knives, serrated / toothed knives, circular perforating knives, straight knives, guillotine knives, pointed tip knives, rectangular razor blades, and trapezoidal blades.
To help you get the best blade, Huaxin Cement Carbide may give you several sample blades to test in production. For cutting and converting flexible materials like plastic film, foil, vinyl, paper, and others, we provide converting blades including slotted slitter blades and razor blades with three slots. Send us a query if you're interested in machine blades, and we'll provide you with an offer. Samples for custom-made knives are not available but you are most welcome to order the minimum order quantity.
There are many ways that will prolong the longevity and shelf life of your industrial knives and blades in stock. contact us to know about how proper packaging of machine knives, storage conditions, humidity and air temperature, and additional coatings will protect your knives and maintain their cutting performance.
Post time: Sep-10-2025
