FAQ

Below, you will find answers to the most common questions about CASTOR .

If you have further questions, please feel free to contact us.

General

1. What is CASTOR's software, and what does it do?

CASTOR is a cloud-based or on-premise software that enables manufacturers to identify cost reduction, lead time reduction, and carbon footprint reduction opportunities by automatically analyzing CAD or 2D drawing files on a part-by-part basis. CASTOR supports multiple manufacturing methods, including additive manufacturing, CNC machining, injection molding, investment casting, and die casting.

2. How does CASTOR's software analyze parts for manufacturability?

CASTOR performs in-depth geometry analysis of each part and suggests the most suitable manufacturing methods and materials without compromising mechanical properties. The software also identifies redesign opportunities, such as weight reduction and part consolidation, and highlights them for the user.

3. What materials and manufacturing technologies does CASTOR support?

CASTOR supports a wide range of metal and plastic production methods, including additive manufacturing, CNC machining, injection molding, investment casting, and die casting. The software is continuously updated with the latest commercially available technologies and materials.

4. Can CASTOR's software be used by individuals, or is it intended for businesses only?

CASTOR is designed for manufacturing businesses, from medium to large enterprises, that produce low-volume, high-mix parts.

5. How does CASTOR's software ensure quality control for manufactured parts?

CASTOR checks CAD files for geometry issues and manufacturability risks across multiple production methods, ensuring that parts are suitable for the selected manufacturing process.

Technical

6. What types of files does CASTOR support, and are files uploaded as an assembly?

CASTOR supports native 3D CAD file formats (Creo, SOLIDWORKS, NX, CATIA, Inventor, Solid Edge), STEP (STP) files, STL files, and 2D drawing files.

7. What is the maximum file size?

CASTOR has no file size limitations, but processing times may increase for larger files.

8. How long does it take to receive results after an upload?

Processing time depends on the number, weight, and complexity of the parts. Typically, results are available within 1 minute to a few hours for larger assemblies.

9. How many different parts can I analyze?

The number of parts you can analyze depends on your subscription plan.

10. What additional information is needed besides the uploaded files?

Users must provide the material. Additionally, they can either upload a Bill of Materials (BOM) specifying materials for each part or select a single material applicable to all parts. Advanced parameters, such as tolerance preferences and quantity can also be set but are optional.

11. What manufacturing processes and technologies does CASTOR support?

CASTOR continuously updates its database and supports a wide range of manufacturing processes, including additive manufacturing (FDM, SLS, SLA, DMLS, etc.), CNC machining, injection molding, investment casting and die casting.

12. How secure is CASTOR's cloud-based software?

CASTOR employs industry-standard security measures, including SSL/TLS encryption, access controls, and firewalls. For cloud-based solutions, CASTOR uses secure AWS infrastructure with compliance certifications such as SOC 2 and ISO 27001. On-premise solutions ensure data remains on the company's internal servers.

Analyses

13. How is cost estimation calculated?

CASTOR estimates manufacturing costs based on material costs, machine time, labor hours, post-processing requirements, and other factors. Final pricing may vary depending on supplier margins, additional processing costs, and logistics.

14. How does CASTOR estimate a part’s lead time?

Lead time estimation includes manufacturing time, post-processing, and estimated delivery time based on the user's location and selected manufacturing method.

15. What is CASTOR's stress test based on?

CASTOR's stress test streamlines the FAE process by automating mechanical analysis, helping engineers evaluate design safety and reliability without leaving the software environment.

16. How does CASTOR calculate carbon emission savings?

CASTOR’s CO2 calculator estimates potential emission reductions by comparing traditional and alternative manufacturing methods, considering factors such as material production, part manufacturing, transportation, and end-of-life processes.

17. What criteria does the software use to check manufacturability?

CASTOR evaluates manufacturability based on factors such as part volume, wall thickness, gap clearance, interlocked parts, voids, and material removal features. The software performs:
Manufacturability checks
Material comparisons
Cost estimations

18. How does CASTOR suggest changes for part consolidation?

CASTOR analyzes assemblies and recommends consolidations for non-moving parts that:
Are made of the same material
Are joined using screws or fasteners
Has minimal tolerance constraints

19. How does CASTOR choose a manufacturing method, material, and supplier?

CASTOR selects manufacturing configurations based on material properties and user-defined requirements. It then recommends the best-suited production technology, equipment, and supplier, prioritizing proximity and availability.

20. Does CASTOR provide information about post-processing requirements?

Yes. CASTOR assesses part geometry, material, and GD&T specifications to estimate post-processing needs and costs, including support structure removal for additive manufacturing or finishing steps for CNC and injection molding.

Integrations & Collaborations

21. What other manufacturing solutions can CASTOR integrate with?

CASTOR is part of the CO-AM platform, which includes various manufacturing solutions under one ecosystem.

22. What ERP/PLM software does CASTOR integrate with?

CASTOR integrates with Siemens Teamcenter and PTC Windchill. Additional integrations may be available upon request.

23. Does CASTOR partner with any manufacturing service providers?

Yes. CASTOR collaborates with service providers across the globe, covering a wide range of manufacturing technologies, including additive manufacturing, CNC machining, injection molding, and more.