evos GmbH was looking for a quick solution to eliminate odor issues caused by 3D-printing polymers and found a partner in sphairlab for flexible, textile enclosures with negative pressure technology that reconcile workplace safety and space utilization.

Challenge: Effective protection against resin fumes

evos GmbH, an innovative company in the field of engineering services—particularly in medical technology—operates several 3D printers at its facility that process liquid polymers. These materials release vapors not only during the printing process, which cause unpleasant odors but also impair working conditions for employees. A particular problem was that, as a result, the affected room could only be used to a limited extent for other activities.

The requirements for a solution were clear:

  • Quick implementation to avoid unnecessary interruptions to operations
  • Flexibility to continue using the space for a variety of purposes
  • Effective protection of employees from fumes
  • No extensive construction work to save time and money
An evos employee looks through a window in the textile wall of the 3D printing room
evos employees in the new 3D printing room

Solution: flexible walls and exhaust system

sphairlab developed a custom-made textile enclosure that isolates the affected area while enabling controlled extraction of fumes. Specifically, the solution consisted of:

  • Two walls that seal off the area containing the 3D printers
  • An exhaust system that creates negative pressure within the enclosed space
  • A modular design that allows for easy adaptation to the spatial conditions

It was particularly noteworthy that sphairlab did not rely here on the otherwise standard positive-pressure technology, which is primarily used for cleanrooms, but instead implemented a negative-pressure solution. This demonstrates the technological versatility of textile systems, which can be used for both cleanroom applications and occupational safety. The textile enclosure was designed so that it could be installed without requiring any structural changes to the building, a decisive advantage for evos GmbH.

A satisfied evos employee stands in front of the 3D printers and gives a thumbs-up
A satisfied evos employee

Result: A separated area to protect employees

The solution from sphairlab enabled evos GmbH to resume unrestricted use of the room while significantly improving working conditions for employees. An overview of the benefits of the implemented solution:

  • Immediate elimination of odor nuisance through targeted extraction of vapors
  • Flexible use of space: The room can continue to be used for other work while the 3D printers operate safely and under controlled conditions
  • No structural modifications to the building required: The textile enclosure was installed in a very short time and can be expanded or relocated at any time
  • Cost-effectiveness: A significantly more affordable alternative compared to permanent installations or complex ventilation systems
  • Scalability: The solution can be adapted to changing requirements as needed, e.g., by expanding the enclosure or adjusting the extraction capacity

evos GmbH now benefits from a safe, flexible, and cost-effective solution that improves both workplace safety and productivity. The project underscores once again how sphairlabs’ textile systems offer an innovative and practical solution not only for cleanrooms but also for workplace safety requirements.‍

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With sphairlab, we’ve found a fast, flexible solution to the odor issues caused by 3D-printing polymers. The textile enclosure with negative pressure technology works flawlessly, the room is fully usable again, and our employees are protected. It’s a practical, cost-effective, and innovative solution that we’re happy to recommend.

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Heiko De Ben

Managing Director

evos GmbH