3D printing in architecture and construction is no longer a promise of the future, but a present reality. It is an adding system for the production of three-dimensional objects by superimposing successive layers of material or extrusion. In the case of architecture and construction, this material is usually concrete with specific properties.
Today, the most widespread 3D printing techniques are:
- Contour Crafting: This is a process in which concrete is deposited to form a 3D model with a smooth surface finish. The rails on which the robotic arm of the printer pivots are installed around the floor of the building. On each side and above the extrusion nozzle, paddles are positioned to smooth and compact each layer. Conventional concrete is not suitable for this process, as it does not support its own weight. Instead, a concrete capable of hardening after the printing of each layer is required, before the next layer can be printed.
- Concrete printing: This system, similar to the previous one, can create more diverse shapes and sizes. However, because the printhead does not have a paddle, the distinctive-looking finish reveals at a glance the different print layers in which the material has been deposited.
- D-Shape: This system uses a large printer that slides across horizontal beams and four columns. The material it uses for construction, similar to marble, is composed of liquid binders and sand. It is stronger than concrete and does not require reinforcement. This technology allows the construction of virtually any structure, whether it is a duct, a hollow column or other organic forms.
In a comparison of the three 3D printing processes mentioned above, whilst Concrete Printing requires the use of reinforcement to support cantilevers and other free-form shapes, Contour Crafting does not. In contrast, the D-Shape system uses unconsolidated material for support. All three types of construction are layered addition processes.
By Juan Guardiola Cutillas, Senior Architect in the Architecture Department at Amusement Logic
