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Can My CAD File for Biotech CNC Parts Be Used Directly? 5 Errors to Check
Created on 10.08
For mechanical engineers, design engineers, and procurement managers in biotech R&D—working on CNC parts like diagnostic instrument components, reagent cartridge housings, or lab equipment frames—CAD file errors are a hidden risk. Using a flawed CAD file directly for CNC machining leads to rework, wasted biocompatible materials (e.g., PEEK, 316L stainless steel), and delayed compliance with medical/biotech standards. The good news? Most errors are easy to fix if you check for them first. Below are 5 common CAD file mistakes to avoid, plus how Marigold Rapid (www.marigold-rapid.com) ensures your biotech CNC parts stay on track.
1. Incompatible File Formats (Not STEP/IGES)
Biotech CNC shops rely on universal, editable file formats—but many teams send proprietary files (e.g., SolidWorks SLDPRT, Autodesk IPT) that can’t be opened or modified. For example, a CAD file for a bioreactor sensor housing saved as a SLDPRT might lose data when converted, leading to mismatched dimensions.
Fix: Export CAD files to STEP (AP214) or IGES—these formats work with all CNC software and preserve design details.
2. Missing Critical Biotech-Specific Annotations
Biotech CNC parts need unique labels (e.g., 无菌区范围 /sterile zone boundaries, 材料标识 /material specs like “PEEK ISO 10993”) that general parts don’t require. Skipping these annotations means machinists can’t prioritize key features—for instance, a reagent 舱体’s sterile inner wall might be machined with the wrong surface finish.
Fix: Add clear annotations for sterile zones, biocompatible material requirements, and any regulatory marks (e.g., “CE for Medical Devices”).
3. Unmachinable Geometric Features
Overly complex or unfeasible designs (e.g., 0.1mm-thin walls on a lab pipette holder, internal cavities with no access) look good in CAD but can’t be machined. This forces last-minute redesigns and delays biotech prototype timelines.
Fix: Avoid features thinner than 0.5mm (for most biotech materials) and ensure internal cavities have at least one open access point. Use fillets (not sharp corners) to reduce machining stress.
4. Ignoring Material Machining Allowances
Biocompatible materials (e.g., titanium alloy, medical-grade aluminum) need extra machining allowance to account for tool wear and post-processing (e.g., passivation for corrosion resistance). A CAD file for a DNA sequencer part with no allowance might end up undersized after finishing.
Fix: Add 0.1–0.3mm allowance for materials like 316L stainless steel, and 0.2–0.4mm for softer plastics like PEEK.
5. Messy Layers/Unlinked Assemblies
CAD files with disorganized layers (e.g., mixing part geometry with reference lines) or unlinked assembly components (e.g., a sensor mount not attached to the main frame) cause confusion. Machinists might misinterpret the design, leading to misaligned biotech parts.
Fix: Group layers by feature (e.g., “Sterile Surfaces,” “Mounting Holes”) and ensure assembly components are fully constrained.
How Marigold Rapid Fixes Your Biotech CAD Files
At Marigold Rapid, we know biotech R&D can’t wait for CAD rework. As a one-stop full-process integrated manufacturer, our DFM (Design for Manufacturability) team offers free CAD file checks for biotech clients—we flag errors like incompatible formats or missing annotations within 24 hours (our fast response keeps your timeline on track).
Backed by SGS certification (ISO9001 and 13485), we ensure your CAD files align with biotech standards—from sterile zone annotations to material allowances. Whether you’re machining small-batch prototype parts (e.g., a new diagnostic tool housing) or low-volume production runs, we flexibly adapt to fix errors and optimize designs for CNC machining.
For biotech teams tired of CAD-related delays, Marigold Rapid is your reliable partner. Send us your CAD file today to get a free check!
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