Accelerating custom part production for environmental solutions: Apria Systems and UltiMaker S6

Founded in 2006 as a spin-off from R&D projects at the University of Cantabria, Apria Systems specializes in environmental and chemical engineering, along with consulting services. From separation and purification to waste valorization and sustainable energy, Apria serves clients around the world.

With a background in chemical engineering, project engineer Andrés Del Castillo Martín designs end-use 3D-printed parts for Apria Systems’ clients. With extensive experience in additive manufacturing, Andrés values speed and precision - qualities the UltiMaker S6 consistently delivers.

Solving environmental challenges with custom end-use parts

Each customer project has unique requirements, demanding material compatibility and rapid iteration. Before finalizing a part, Andrés often makes several adjustments to optimize performance.

With the UltiMaker S6 printer, it’s possible to create new applications we couldn’t do before.

This custom cooling cone for an annular UV lamp directs airflow through the glass tube and across the lamp’s LEDs. Printed with PLA, this application was replicated 8 times with a total print time of 21.5 hours.

Before additive manufacturing, Apria Systems used CNC manufacturing. Compared to 3D printing, CNC was expensive with limited geometrical capabilities. CNC manufacturing is also time-consuming, especially for low-volume production. With UltiMaker S6, Andres can print parts in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods.

3D printing saves time and money, as we can print exactly the amount that we need.

Printed on the UltiMaker S6 with Nylon CF Slide, this internal component and protective casing supports the glass end of a custom immersion UV lamp, holds the aluminum hollow LED mount, and secures the cooling fan. This end-use part was customized for the needs of the client, with wear and temperature resistance in mind.

Andrés has fully integrated the UltiMaker ecosystem into his workflow - from slicing files in UltiMaker Cura to monitoring prints via Digital Factory. By using both UltiMaker and third-party materials, he can choose the best option for any application.

Security and support with every step

Since Apria Systems works on big projects for various clients, the safety of files and designs is important. While researching printers, Andrés found the security of UltiMaker reassuring, and the European-made hardware reliable.

With support from trusted reseller Sicnova, Andrés found the guidance he needed — from selecting the right printer to ongoing service. The collaboration ensured a smooth integration of UltiMaker technology into Apria’s operations.

I would strongly recommend the UltiMaker S6 to existing customers and new ones.

With the growing demand for sustainable solutions, Apria Systems continues to innovate in membrane technology and oxidation-reduction processes with the help of UltiMaker.

Secure precision and speed with UltiMaker S6

Ready to bring 3D printing into your workflow? The UltiMaker S6 is the ideal entry point into the complete UltiMaker ecosystem, offering up to 4× productivity, access to hundreds of materials, and powerful tools like UltiMaker Cura and UltiMaker Digital Factory.