3D printing technology is making notable strides in the construction industry, as demonstrated by PERI 3D Construction's recent completion of ViliaSprint², a three-story residential building in Bezannes, France. This project marks a significant milestone as the first on-site-printed multifamily residential building in France and the largest in Europe. The event underscores the growing viability of 3D printing in construction, promising faster build times and potential cost savings.
What Happened
PERI 3D Construction, a subsidiary of the German construction technology company PERI Group, completed the ViliaSprint² project in April. The building, developed in collaboration with Plurial Novilia, a subsidiary of the French Action Logement Group, and designed by HOBO Architecture, consists of 12 social housing units. Utilizing a COBOD BOD2 3D gantry printer, the project features innovative construction techniques with each wall having an 8 cm-thick outer layer and a 16 cm-thick double inner layer. The 20 cm gap between these layers is filled with insulation, and fiberglass connectors are used to enhance structural integrity. The project not only highlights the architectural possibilities of 3D printing but also its sustainability benefits, as the concrete used was developed by Swiss Holcim with 30% lower CO₂ emissions compared to conventional concrete.
Why It Matters for the AECM Industry
For professionals in the Architecture, Engineering, Construction, and Manufacturing (AECM) industry, the adoption of 3D printing technology presents several advantages. The ViliaSprint² project showcased a 50% reduction in construction time compared to traditional methods, with only 24 active printing days required instead of the planned 50. This efficiency was achieved with just three employees, highlighting significant labor cost savings and addressing skilled labor shortages. The project also demonstrated a 50% reduction in material waste and a 10% reduction in concrete usage due to its curved geometry. These factors contribute to a more sustainable construction process, aligning with increasing industry demands for eco-friendly practices.
What's Next
The successful completion of the ViliaSprint² project paves the way for future applications of 3D printing in construction, especially in housing. Plurial Novilia is already planning a follow-up project involving 40 residential units, utilizing two printers simultaneously. As 3D printing technology continues to evolve, industry professionals should monitor developments in cost analysis and scalability, as these will be critical in determining the widespread adoption of this innovative construction method.
Source: https://aec-business.com/3d-printing-in-housing-faster-possibly-cheaper/
