How Apria Systems Used 3D Printing to Protect Fragile Lab Equipment — Faster and Smarter
At Paragon Visual, we love spotlighting real-world examples of how 3D printing drives innovation. This week, we’re showcasing a 3D printed protective lab case designed to safeguard fragile glassware in high-precision environments.
Why 3D Print a Labware Case?
In environmental and chemical labs, precision glassware can be costly—and it’s often vulnerable to breakage during handling or storage. Apria Systems’ project engineer, Andrés Del Castillo Martín, needed a fast, effective way to protect this glassware without relying on expensive machining or slow traditional fabrication.
The Solution: A Modular 3D Printed Case
Instead of outsourcing or waiting on traditional production methods, the team used PLA filament and the UltiMaker S6 to design and print a custom four-piece protective case. The entire process took just 8 hours—produced entirely in-house.
What makes this case stand out?
- Tailored Protection: The design was shaped precisely to the unique geometry of the labware, preventing damage without adding bulk.
- Refined Surface Finish: Using 0.4mm print cores, the part achieved a clean, professional look that holds up to daily handling.
- Faster Prints with Smaller Nozzles: Thanks to the S6’s Cheetah motion planner, Apria was able to cut print time even while using fine nozzles—proving speed doesn’t have to come at the expense of quality.
- Scalable Design: The modular nature of the case means it can be easily modified for other tools or reprinted as needed.
Built with UltiMaker S6 Performance
This project demonstrates the power of the UltiMaker S6 to deliver fast, polished results in high-precision environments. With advanced motion control and optimized print speeds, the S6 empowers R&D and lab teams to iterate quickly and produce durable parts in-house—saving both time and cost.
Interested in Exploring 3D Printing for Your Lab or Facility?
Paragon Visual partners with organizations across Florida and beyond to help implement smart additive solutions. Whether you’re printing prototypes, tools, or final-use parts, we’re here to support you with hardware, materials, and expertise.
📩 Contact us today to learn more about the UltiMaker S6 and other advanced 3D printing systems:
Source: UltiMaker – Application of the Week: Protective Case for Custom Glass Labware
UltiMaker S6 3D Printer – Fast, Reliable, Modular 3D Printing
The UltiMaker S6 offers professional-grade performance with up to 4× the output of the S5.
Featuring the Cheetah motion planner, dual-extrusion print head, flexible heated build plate, and full cloud connectivity, it’s ideal for fast, reliable 3D printing across prototyping, tooling, and production applications. Compatible with a wide range of advanced materials including carbon fiber and soluble supports.
