3D printing, also called Additive Manufacturing is the continuous layering of building materials for creating 3D shapes and structures. The complete procedure is computer controlled and can be described as a computer-aided design. The 3D model can also be designed with the use of 3D scanners.
In the construction sector, 3D printing can create construction elements or print entire structures. Contingent on the printing method used, diverse sets of materials and colors can be utilized for printing individual or numerous components concurrently. High-resolution subtractive procedures can augment the accuracy of printing models. The use of computer-aided design in the construction sector has been there for some time, and the new expansion of BIM has facilitated better and better use of 3D printing.
The use of 3D printing in the construction sector is increasing quickly because of its numerous advantages and protruding functions. Some of the main compensations of using 3D printing in construction are:
- State-of-the-art and Flexible Design- The usage of AMs generates space for revolutions as 3D structural visual models can be intended at the stage of planning to satisfy the customer's design necessities. 3D printing presents contractors with feasible options to construct more composite designs than conventional manufacturing processes.
- Rapid Production- The production time of structures is significantly reduced when 3D printing approaches are used. Roughly a 500-800 sq ft house can be constructed within a day. 3D printing procedures are free of human error and fully automated; the only effort that needs to be put in is monitoring the printing procedure. It does not require any external support during the construction procedure as the design structure has been programmed, and the printer can complete all functions, from printing concurrent layers to printing with diverse materials.
- Negligeable Wastage- There is nearly zero waste in the 3D printing procedure. Recycled materials can likewise be utilized instead of conventional supplies in 3D printing, which decreases the influence on the environment to a vast degree. Not only wastage of materials is barred, but also material costs are significantly reduced.
- Cost Effective- As stated above, the costs are significantly reduced because of less material use and also as a result of less requirement of the workforce for printing. It is also lucrative in terms of a smaller amount of time used for building completion.
- Strong and Lightweight Products- Most of the building components built with the use of 3D printing technology are more robust and lighter than their conventional counterparts.
- Accessible to Use- 3D printing know-how is becoming more available to service providers, helping them receive more projects and providing them with subcontracting prospects. There is no requirement to put extra effort into the transference of materials and equipment, reducing transportation costs.
Due to the growing environmental concerns and the reduction in accidents on construction sites, the demand for 3D printing construction around the world has increased like anything in the recent past.
