Establishing any kind of construction, along with the use of quality materials, requires consistent expert guidance and observation. Every construction project has some complex processes and designs to be met. The technology of modern times is aiding in simplifying these processes.
With various software and manufacturing solutions, the speed and quality of construction are improving. Among such highly beneficial technologies, one that looks promising in the revolutionizing construction industry of tomorrow is 3D printing. The 3D printing construction market is gaining momentum with growing complex design and manufacturing needs.
What is 3D Printing Construction?
The manufacturing of three-dimensional objects with the reference to a digital three-dimensional model is referred to as 3D printing. Also known as additive manufacturing, the process adds n number of thin layers of material one upon another to complete the computer-created design.
3D printing is considered the opposite of subtractive manufacturing processes, where the larger block material is cut and shaped as per the design to achieve the final product. In 3D printing the object is created putting layer upon layer, thus, reducing the unnecessary wastage of materials.
3D printing is effective for manufacturing complex design three-dimensional objects. This makes it the ideal method to be used for creating construction parts that are complex in design. The technology aids in creating lightweight material with high strength and integrity.
In 3D printing construction, some components of construction or the entire building can be 3D printed by printing a superimposing successive layer of materials including concrete, metal, polymer, or other types of construction material. A robotic arm printer is commonly used for 3D printing construction, as it moves forward and backward while squeezing out concrete material layer-wise to construct the object.
Methods of 3D Printing Construction
There are three major methods followed for 3D printing construction. They are material extrusion, powder bonding, and spray method.
Material Extrusion: It is the most commonly applied technique for 3D printing construction. The method is suitable for all environments and is performed with large 3D printers specially designed for construction purposes. The method is applied with the computer-controlled laying of cement through extrusion. Using this technique construction components and even placement of in-situ walls of buildings can be carried out.
Powder Bonding: Unlike other 3D printing construction methods, powder bonding utilizes powdered material as the main raw material. There are two types of powdered bonding, namely powder bed jetting and binder jetting. In the powdered bonding technique, the dust particles are melted with laser light onto the objects. The coating is added to layers to add on extra material to make it robust.
The binder jetting process is performed with two materials, binder which act as construction adhesive, and powder-based material. The printer deposits both the material one by one to construct. First, the powdered layer is formed and then a liquid binding agent with the help of the printer head is selectively deposited onto thin-layered powdered material.
Spray: As the name suggests, the construction material is layered by spraying under pressure in the desired design unless the final form is achieved. With this method, the spaces in construction can be filled with concrete material.
Why Demand for 3D Printing Construction is Likely to Grow?
The construction industry is globally expanding at a rapid pace. The factors such as the growing population, urbanization, and government initiatives for developing infrastructure are driving the global construction industry. It was valued at 6.4 trillion USD in 2020, and is projected to reach 14.4 trillion USD research suggests.
The rapidly evolving construction industry is adopting innovative techniques and materials to develop strong structures. 3D printing construction is promising to meet the demands of optimizing the use of construction materials, reducing costs, improving safety, and developing sustainable structures.
Various governments across the globe are supporting 3D printing construction with different measures. For example, Dubai city is aiming to build 25% of buildings with 3D printing construction by 2030. While the United States is currently leading with the highest number of construction projections that use 3D printing technology.
Major Providers of 3D Printing Construction Technology
The 3D printing construction technology offers several advantages over traditional construction methods. The benefits such as reduced time for project completion, safety, flexible design, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability can be derived from 3D printing construction. However, the cost required for buying 3D printing construction equipment and technology is high, which can limit its adoption.
Some of the major providers of 3D printing construction solutions in the global market are COBOD International A/S; Yingchuang Building; Sika AG; Technique (Shanghai) Co.Ltd.(Winsun); XtreeE; Apis Cor; WASP S.r.I; MX3D; Contour Crafting Corporation; CyBe Construction; and ICON plc.
These prominent players, with the help of innovative 3D printing software and equipment, are creating next-generation construction projects. The growing demand for infrastructure development such as urban housing, office spaces, civil infrastructure, furniture, and other construction components is expected to increase the use of 3D printing construction technology.
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