PILOT Grade Selection Matrix
PILOT insert grade comparison by ISO group
Match PILOT carbide insert grades to the job by ISO material group (P/M/K/N/H), operation, coating and actual work material instead of memorising codes — ideal for shops looking for a replacement grade to cut cost without losing surface quality.
Grade comparison table
PILOT insert grade selection and comparison by ISO material group
| PILOT grade | ISO group | Primary operation | Coating | Recommended material |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP300 | P, M | General turning/milling | ALTiSiN (heat-resistant 1200°C) | Carbon steel, alloy steel, stainless |
| EP330 | P, K | Milling | ALTIN (tough/impact-resistant) | General steel, cast iron, roughing |
| EP830 | H | Hardened-steel machining | ALTIN (special structure) | Hardened steel < 55 HRC |
| EB230 | P, K | Heavy continuous turning | CVD | General steel, cast iron |
| EC205 | P, K | High-speed turning | CVD | General steel, cast iron (mass production) |
| EC215 | P, M, K | General / drilling, cost-effective | CVD | General industrial steel |
| ES300 | P | Grooving / parting off | ALTiSiN (low friction) | Carbon steel, alloy steel |
| CE102 | P, K | Fine finishing | Cermet (uncoated) | General steel, cast iron (mirror finish) |
| EAL | N | Aluminium / non-ferrous | Uncoated (sharp edge) | Aluminium, copper, brass, plastics |
Shop-floor buying intent
Already using another brand's grade and want the PILOT equivalent
Unsure which grade suits the material being cut
Reduce cost per part by matching the right grade
Related product categories
How to choose
- 1Start from the workpiece ISO group (P steel, M stainless, K cast iron, N aluminium, H hardened steel)
- 2Pick the operation — turning/milling/drilling/grooving — and whether tool life or finish matters more
- 3Compare coating and speed/feed range against your real machine before ordering
FAQ
How do I compare PILOT grades to other brands?
Compare by ISO material group and real cutting condition rather than a one-to-one code match, since each brand defines grades differently. Align ISO group, operation and coating closely, then validate on the actual job.
What if I don't know the material's ISO group?
Share the material type and hardness and the CAGO team will map the ISO group and recommend a suitable PILOT grade before quoting.