The 3D printing technology is fully automated controlled by computer. In that technology execution of printing an object layer by layer and this technology used for manufacturing various types of models and producing complex shapes of engineering products.
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| Photo via 3dprint.com |
Some variety of 3D printing used at construction site with extrusion, powder bonding and additive welding. This technology used on-site & off-site fabrication of building and components by using industrial robot, gantry system, autonomous vehicles. It is used for fabrication of not only houses but also construction of components, bridge, civil infrastructure, etc.
Principles of 3D printing :
1. Modeling :
Modeling means drawing the plan of building or any other structure in CAD software. In that drawing we should mention all the things with the requirement of customer because 3D printer work as per provided design.
2. Printing :
3D printer print object as per the design which you provided. Print the object by 3D printer in layer by layer and extrusion.
3. Finishing :
Next step is finishing. It is done after modeling and printing.
Advantages of 3D Printing :
- Speed of construction is fast
- Single storeyed building is constructed within 12-14 hours.
- Require lower labour costs
- Formworks, scaffolds, etc not required
- Environmental friendly
- Emission of Carbon footprint is reduced
- Waste produced is less
- Increase accuracy
Disadvantages of 3D Printing :
- Though the cost of construction may be reduced by 3D printing but the cost of the printers is huge.
- Skilled labourers who can work efficiently with 3D printer.
- CAD are required
- The size of the printers is huge so it can creates problems in the on-site storage.
Conventional Building Vs 3D Printed Building
Some facts about 3D printing technology in construction
- First 3D printed building is fabricated in Europe
- First 3D printed two storey building in India was constructed by L&T Construction located at company's Kanchipuram facility near Chennai City.
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| India's first two storey building by using 3D printing technology. Image via COBOD |
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