Application of the week: Protective case for custom glass labware

Welcome back to our application spotlight series, where we showcase real-world 3D printed parts that drive smarter, faster, and more efficient manufacturing. Each week, we dive into practical examples that highlight how additive manufacturing solves everyday industrial challenges.

This week, we’re focusing on a 3D printed protective case by Apria Systems, which specializes in environmental and chemical engineering, along with consulting services.

This application was developed by project engineer Andrés Del Castillo Martín, to safeguard custom-made glass labware.

Protecting precision equipment with 3D printing

In lab environments, custom glass components are often fragile and expensive to replace. That’s why Apria Systems turned to 3D printing to create a robust, tailored protective case that ensures that glass labware stays secure during handling and storage.

Traditionally, custom enclosures like this would require machining or molding - slow, costly processes that offer little flexibility. But with 3D printing, Apria Systems was able to design and produce the full four-part protective case entirely in-house using PLA, all in just 8 hours.

Better quality at faster speeds

Printed on the new UltiMaker S6, this application takes advantage of the latest in print performance and motion control.

Thanks to the Cheetah motion planner, the S6 printed these cases even faster than the older setup, despite using narrower nozzles. The result? A smoother surface finish and shorter lead times- without compromising on strength or accuracy.

Key features and benefits

Here’s what makes this protective case a smart application of 3D printing:

Custom-fit for lab safety Each case is tailored to the unique shape of the glassware, offering secure protection without unnecessary bulk or overdesign.

Improved surface quality Using 0.4 mm print cores resulted in a more refined finish, important for parts that are handled regularly and need to look professional.

Faster prints with smaller nozzles Thanks to the Cheetah motion planner on the UltiMaker S6, Apria achieved faster prints despite using a finer nozzle—proof that high quality doesn’t mean slower production.

Modular and scalable Designed as a four-part assembly, the case is easy to adapt, scale, or reprint - ideal for labs that frequently prototype or update equipment.

Speed, precision, and polish - made possible by the UltiMaker S6

Whether you're protecting delicate tools or creating tailored enclosures, the UltiMaker S6 gives you the speed, surface quality, and flexibility to get it done faster than ever.

Explore how additive manufacturing can empower your R&D or production team to work smarter at every stage, from concept to final part.