Improved temperature control for machinery at Protolabs precision manufacturing facility

Controlled environment for precision manufacturing

Protolabs is a global leader in digital manufacturing, specialising in Injection Moulding, 3D Printing, and CNC machining. Trusted by sectors including aerospace, consumer electronics, and automotive, the company’s reputation and manufacturing facilities rely on precision, compliance, and an unwavering commitment to quality. 

As part of their commitment to operational excellence, Protolabs wanted to improve temperature control between the warehouse and the CNC machinery area. The open layout meant that warm and cool air moved freely throughout the space. For the machinery, this was a risk. Thermal expansion caused by temperature swings can compromise accuracy, accelerate wear on cutting tools, and shorten the lifespan of expensive equipment. In a facility manufacturing components to extremely tight tolerances, even minor environmental inconsistencies can trigger quality and compliance failures. For the people working in that environment, inconsistent temperatures affect comfort, concentration, and productivity. 

Designing around the building, not against it

Working closely with the Protolabs team, Westgate Global specified a made-to-measure Flexiwall partition. The tensioned fabric system hangs directly from the building’s existing structure, taking up minimal floor space and requiring no disruptive groundworks or fixed wall construction. Manufactured in PVC-coated, fire-retardant material, it’s a smart, flexible alternative to traditional fixed walls, designed to create defined zones within large buildings without the cost or complexity of a permanent build.

The partition was designed to fit the existing building layout and create a clear, functional divide between the warehouse and CNC area. The installation was configured to ensure effective separation of the two zones without disrupting operational flow. Integrated vision panels were used to maintain clear sightlines between zones, while a single Flexistrip doorway was added to allow equipment and pallet movement with minimal air loss. For staff, two steel pedestrian doors provide regular access points, supported by four additional steel pedestrian doorways to accommodate wider movement throughout the space.

Because Flexiwall installs quickly and cleanly, the upgrade was completed with minimal disruption, allowing Protolabs to keep their operation running throughout.

Immediate impact, long-term value

The Flexiwall installation delivered an immediate and measurable improvement in temperature control across the facility. By effectively separating the warehouse from the CNC work area, Protolabs can now reduce the impact of temperature fluctuations on precision machinery and maintain a working environment that is both comfortable and practical. Having a well-sealed, segregated space also means that heating and cooling systems operate more efficiently, reducing energy waste and contributing to Protolabs’ broader sustainability goals.

Westgate Global’s approach ensured minimal disruption throughout the installation process, and the bespoke, made-to-measure solution will continue to deliver operational and environmental benefits for years to come.

Learn more about Flexiwall