3D Printing in Construction: A Glimpse into the Future of Industry

Construction technologies are constantly evolving. 3D printing in construction is a futuristic technology that promises to replace the manual work of creating and assembling structures with an agile machinery procedure. It offers a cost-effective, convenient, and environmentally friendly way to construct new buildings.

 

Gaining insights into 3D construction printing can help streamline workflows and deliver better outcomes. In this article, we will discover the meaning, benefits, and uses of this technology.

What is 3D Printing in Construction?

 

3D construction printing enables companies to leverage computer-controlled processes for sequentially layering materials to create 3D models. 3D printers empower AEC professionals to create new structures on-site or components off-site, which can be assembled later. The software provides the dimensions to the printer, which uses various materials such as liquid metals, plastic, or cement to build the structure on a platform. 

 

A nozzle extrudes the material as it gets to the printhead steadily. Predefined settings in leading-edge software make the printing process automated. It contributes to a much faster and more efficient construction process. Moreover, it opens new possibilities for architectural design.

Uses of 3D Printing in Construction

Prototyping

 

Pre-construction planning cannot be completed without prototyping. 3D printing has a pivotal role in building design and construction as it assists in creating multiple prototypes in a short period. 

 

Here are a few benefits of prototypes:

 

• AEC experts can utilize a building’s scale prototype to evaluate the structural integrity and feasibility. Engineers can check for potential problem areas by testing the model.
• Ensuring accuracy in measurements for cost and time estimation for the project is easy with a prototype. A 3D model also contributes to boosting precision in cost estimation.
• Prototypes of specific components can be created by engineers for testing. It is useful for finding discrepancies in design and can lead to the production of various components for construction.

 

In a few cases, the software helps read the CAD drawings for the 3D-printed prototype. Inputting the data into construction planning tools leads to creating accurate estimates and improving project planning. 

Modeling

 

Modeling and prototyping are similar, however, they have some differences. Architectural modeling in the design phase emphasizes a building plan’s visual and creative aspects. For example, it outlines the prominent elements of the building. Modeling illustrates the look of the structure to the stakeholders and can also lead to finding investors.

 

Architects can use the modeling feature to improve the design’s visual elements before the construction begins. 3D printing in construction can use architectural plans to offer a more precise model. Architects can use a 3D printer to create various models to contemplate and discover the finest design. 3D printing can also speed up the modeling process.

Robotic Arm Extruding

 

Mounting is done by 3D printers through a gantry (a large frame). In this process, the printer goes up and down on the structure to create multiple 2D layers and ultimately generates a 3D model.

 

A printing setup, that offers more flexibility, is robotic arm extruding. Its mechanical arm has a printer nozzle on the top of a rotating head. The higher flexibility offered by this setup is valuable for a few construction projects. For example, it is easy to add elements to walls using a printer on the top of a robotic arm.

 

If some large components do not fit on a gantry, then robotic arm extrusions are also helpful. Professionals use these tools often in cement.

3D Printing of Concrete

 

3D printers follow a layer-by-layer process to create architectural features and objects. In some cases, printers facilitate the creation of a whole structure from bottom to top through this approach. 

 

Professionals begin by laying a foundation using a 3D printer in this process. Later, they create walls using layered concrete and add a roof at the end. 

Layering

 

3D printing in construction ensures lower labor costs and elevates precision in construction based on digital designs. Hence, it is better than the traditional method. Implementing this technology can help build some houses in 24 hours, although more time is required for fixtures, additional components, and finishing.

 

AEC firms often print a building’s components leveraging layering. Later, these elements are transported to the construction site and installed with components, made using the traditional approach.

Powder Binding

 

In the powder binding process, professionals add thin layers of powder to a surface. After that, they create a solid by spraying a binding substance. They use ceramic, metal, polymers, sand, or mineral composites as building materials.

 

Designers can create intricate shapes as binding liquids’ thin jets can create solids in particular areas. Professionals repeat the binding process for each subsequent layer, which leads them to build complete 3D structures. 

 

Other 3D printing materials are often more expensive than powder and binding agents. Also, spraying liquid and creating detailed patterns is easy with very fine jets. A broad spectrum of materials can suit this printing method. Powder binding also helps in metal hardware or ceramic components. 

Additive Welding

 

Additive welding in 3D printing in construction is an approach that makes metal components. The technical term for this process is Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM). In this method, a 3D structure is created as a 3D printer continuously welds layers of metal. 

 

This technique simplifies intricate welding work or metal components in an AEC project. It is ideal for construction as it offers robust structural components.

Making of Individual Parts

 

Cement-based 3D printing enables professionals to prefabricate components or build an entire structure. This technology also aids in creating small parts.

 

3D printing of components is beneficial as it can help in the creation of customized parts that suit the exact demands of a particular project. This way, professionals do not have to rely on pre-fabricated hardware. On-site production of these components also mitigates transportation costs and eliminates the risk of delays. Furthermore, following this procedure leads to lower material waste as the teams can produce the parts as per requirement.

Integration with Other Technologies

 

Construction professionals can integrate 3D printing with other technologies. For example, they can use construction takeoff software to make precise estimates and measurements, leveraging the same CAD design and data, which they use for 3D printing. Cost estimators can utilize CAD models’ automated measurements to automate the processes. Additionally, 3D-printed models assist the contractors in evaluating the project, taking expected materials and labor time into account.

 

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a revolutionary process that offers vast engineering and design data about the project. Harnessing this technique offers crucial insights into guidelines regarding the 3D printed parts’ shape and materials within the entire structure.

Benefits of 3D Printing in Construction

Speedy Production

 

Companies are harnessing 3D printing in construction to accelerate the production process. A COBOD 3D construction printer is powerful enough to operate at speeds up to 1000mm/s. However, factors such as the experience level of operators, design, materials, and building and safety regulations of a particular area play a significant role in determining the actual printing speed.

 

Hence, it is recommended to operate at the standard printing speed of 250 – 500mm/s. Although much supervision is not required for 3D printing, however, construction can take a halt due to bad weather and at night. Nonetheless, this technology is ideal for creating structures within a few days.

Lower Waste

 

High waste generation is common on construction sites. However, 3D printing in construction utilizes a precise amount of materials while building, leading to zero waste generation. Incorporating other waste-reduction methods in the construction plans can lower the wastage. For example, in prefabrication, a firm can create small sections of a structure off-site and assemble them on-site, contributing to little or no waste.

Flexibility of Design

 

Architects can use 3D printing’s three-axis gantry-based approach to embrace more contemporary architectural forms. This technology offers a flexible printhead. It can create complex and wavy designs with ease as the printhead can reach any point. 

 

Hence, it expands the possibility for architects to create unprecedented designs, maintaining cost-effectiveness, and lower labor, and waste.

Cost-Effectiveness

 

3D printing in construction harnesses material calculations and accurate placement to refine the material usage, leading to minimal waste. Also, traditional construction site setup is disrupted by it. This process can run safely and efficiently with a few trained professionals, such as a printer operator and a materials operator. 

 

It is in contrast to the conventional construction approach, which is more labor-intensive. Also, 3D printing in construction operates at a higher speed, paving the way for significantly shortening the duration of construction projects. It boosts cost-efficiency in the construction.

Sustainability and Recycling

 

This cutting-edge technology instills sustainability in construction through various methods. 3D printing in construction brings automation and precision into this process, which ensures responsible use of raw materials. Additionally, this technology promotes the stability and longevity of the structure. Furthermore, faster construction timelines aid in decreasing noise pollution and reducing particulate emissions, which leaves a positive impact on the environment.

 

3D printing in construction also promotes the use of recycled materials. Lattice patterns are created using materials through this tool, leading to the creation of a sturdy structure using recycled plastic. Other reusable materials, such as recycled concrete, are also useful. 

Conclusion

 

3D printing in construction is causing a paradigm shift in this sector. It offers multiple benefits, however, it poses a few challenges as well. One such challenge is the requirement for skilled labor, and the second is adhering to the local building codes. Since it is an innovative technology, local authorities must formulate new standards and regulations for its implementation.

 

In the future, 3DCP has the potential to take the construction industry to unparalleled heights. It can contribute to reducing the issues of labor shortage and also offer affordable housing as it will continue to evolve and become smarter.

FAQs

 

Q 1: What are the disadvantages of 3D printing in construction?

 

Ans: Find some of the disadvantages of 3D construction printing below:

 

• Limited materials.
• Requirement of post-processing.
• The build size is limited.
• Large volumes.
• Part structure.
• Inaccuracy in design.
• Issues related to copyrights.

 

Q 2: Is 3D printing expensive?

 

Ans: 3D printing in construction is costly, especially for large-scale projects. Higher costs related to the machine, materials, and printing make it expensive. However, it is a rapid process of construction, hence it can be cost-efficient for prototyping and a few small-scale productions.

 

Q 3: What is the future of 3D printing in construction?

 

Ans: The future of 3D construction printing is promising. This technology is contributing significantly to building 3D homes and even whole neighborhoods across the globe. However, it requires skilled labor and compliance with local codes and regulations. Also, lowering the cost of 3D printing can encourage more AEC firms to go for this technology.