A homemade structure using the method of 3D printing is a residential structure. A physical structure is formed by the 3D printer gradually printing the material in layers from a converted blueprint or CAD drawing.
However, in comparison to traditional building methods, this process is typically more time- and money-efficient. Well, in this reading, we’ll explore what 3D printed homes or 3D printer buildings are, their applications, components, diagrams, and materials. We’ll also look at its effects and benefits.
Ok, let’s begin!
What are 3D-Printed Homes?
A household built using 3D printing technology is referred to as a 3D printed home. The 3D printer uses a modified blueprint or CAD drawing to gradually print layers of material to build an actual construction.
In most circumstances, this approach is less expensive and takes less time than conventional construction methods.
The manufacturing of three-dimensionally printed homes is a revolutionary development, and the procedure isn’t all that difficult. Additive manufacturing is the process by which life-sized dwellings are constructed layer by layer using industrial-sized 3D printers.
These printers use a heated nozzle to discharge a cement-based slurry while adhering to a pre-made digital plan. A concrete drier is then used to solidify the slurry before the subsequent layer is applied, and this procedure is repeated until the desired outcome is achieved.
There are many different materials available besides cement, including polymers, sand, resins, and even ecological substitutes like wood composites, hempcrete, and bio-resins.
By progressively printing the material in layers, the 3D printer turns a CAD model or translated blueprint into a tangible construction. Compared to conventional building methods, this procedure is typically more economical and time-efficient.
The fundamental structure of the house is the primary focus of the 3D building printer. This indicates that parts like windows, doors, and electrical systems are installed following the printing process.
The technique may be used to build commercial, public, and industrial buildings as well as parts of other structures, such as wind turbines.
Related: Drones in construction: Uses, Types, and Importance
What are the Uses of 3D Printers in Home Building?
The applications of 3D printers in home construction include:
Creating Parts:
If the project is too sophisticated to print, construction companies may use 3D printing to generate the materials they demand.
The specific quantities you need for your materials can be printed using 3D printing, which is both reasonable and advantageous for the environment because it typically generates less waste.
However, this may guarantee that there will always be a need for construction workers and enable you to produce the required components from raw materials.
Creating Prototypes:
Prototypes are initial models of buildings that show potential users how something might appear.
Furthermore, if a business wishes to build a new office, a 3D printer might make a prototype for the structure far more quickly than a construction company could prepare whole construction sites, level the land, and engage labour.
However, there is still a cost; 3D printing gives clients the opportunity to develop these prototypes considerably more quickly and affordably than they could by using conventional building techniques.
Completing a Full Job:
Whole buildings, including homes and workplaces, can be produced using 3D printers. In general, this is speedier, more affordable, and more environmentally friendly than conventional building.
However, other infrastructure requirements, such as those for stairways, bridges, railings, and other community projects, may also be considered by towns when adopting 3D printing.
Creating Architectural Models
Construction companies or architects use modelling to scale down planned projects so that you may see them in a more intimate setting.
This enables customers to examine a structure’s design, layout, and other components. In traditional construction, people usually plan structures using software beforehand, building models.
However, once you’ve designed the structure in your computer program and the printer has your materials, 3D printing can swiftly construct models, enabling you to make additional architectural models.
Types of 3D Printer Buildings
Below are the 3 major types of 3D printer buildings:
Combination with other technology
You can use other technologies, like welding, in conjunction with 3D printing.
However, raw metals can be layered using the robotic arm or other printing equipment. The materials can then be solidified through welding as the machine prints them. By using this technique, it may be possible to build bridges and other structures without a foundation.
Robotic arm extruders
The robotic arm extruder technique, also known as contour crafting, uses a crane-like arm that swings back and forth to release materials and lay down layers. To allow the arm to adjust its location and height as needed, construction companies place rails around building spaces.
However, this technique might be used for more modest 3D printing projects. For projects employing this technique, you might need to perform additional work depending on the materials.
For instance, to prevent concrete from setting up too quickly, you may mix some concrete and pour it into the printer as you work.
Sand layers
In this technique, structures are created by releasing layers of sand from a 3D printer. The machine produces droplets that solidify and bond the sand once the layers have reached the proper thickness.
However, this technique can be applied to smaller building materials or structures.
How Are 3D Printed Homes Constructed?
Building a 3D printed house requires a converted blueprint or CAD drawing, a 3D construction printer, a material supply system, and materials.
The process typically involves four steps: creating a blueprint, preparing for installation, analysing materials and environment, printing the walls, and finishing the structure.
The first step involves creating a blueprint or CAD drawing using computer-aided design (CAD) software to describe the building’s design and measurements.
A 3D slicer software program converts the detailed drawing into a printable file, allowing for the installation of the printer onsite and estimating time and material usage.
The second step involves installing the 3D printer onsite with additional equipment such as hardware and software solutions, a pump, a mini batch plant, and a safety fence.
An analysis of the materials and environment is necessary to ensure the building can withstand weather and other environmental conditions. Adjustments are made to the printing material mix, with concrete or mortar being the most commonly used materials.
The printer prints the walls in layers following the predetermined design of the house, with the finish defining the wall’s texture. After printing, the concrete is kept moisturised for another 24 hours to prevent cracks or flaws.
3D concrete printing is time-efficient, allowing the building to be completed within hours or days depending on the complexity of the building.
Although the building process is self-sufficient, human supervision is still essential to maintain quality control. Complex jobs like electrical wiring, plumbing, and door and window installation require the presence of specialists on the job site.
Materials Used in 3D Printed Houses?
Below are the materials used in 3D-printed houses:
Proprietary Concrete.
- Mortar.
- Plastic.
Local Natural Material.
- Sand.
- Metal.
Other Materials.
- Concrete.
3D Printed House Companies
- Lennar and Icon: Lennar, a major homebuilder, partnered with Icon, a 3D technology company, to build 100 3D-printed homes in Georgetown, Texas, according to CNBC.
- SQ4D: SQ4D uses 3D printing technology to build full-size concrete houses and commercial structures faster, safer, and stronger, while reducing costs.
- Alquist 3D: Alquist 3D completed the first ever owner-occupied printed home in Williamsburg, Virginia.
- Contour3D: Contour3D built Australia’s first 3D-printed one-bedroom home with a Full Occupation Certificate.
- Azura Printed Homes: Azura Printed Homes prints homes using recycled plastic.
Advantages of 3D Printed Homes
- Speed and Efficiency: 3D printing can significantly reduce construction time compared to traditional methods.
- Cost Reduction: The process can lead to lower labour costs and reduced material waste, potentially lowering overall construction costs.
- Sustainability: 3D printing can reduce waste and allow for the use of sustainable materials, making it a more environmentally friendly option.
- Customisation: The digital design process allows for greater flexibility and customisation in home designs.
- Affordable Housing: 3D printing has the potential to address the affordable housing crisis by providing quick and cost-effective solutions.
Disadvantages of 3D Printed Homes
- Initial Investment: The high cost of 3D printing equipment can be a barrier to entry for some companies.
- Material Consistency: Ensuring consistent material quality and performance is crucial for the structural integrity of 3D-printed homes.
- Public Acceptance: Some people may be hesitant to live in 3D-printed homes due to concerns about aesthetics or structural reliability.
- Regulations and Standards: Developing appropriate regulations and standards for 3D-printed construction is essential for ensuring safety and quality.
Related: What is Construction Robot, its Uses, Types, and How it works?
FAQs
How much is a 3D printer for building?
Large-format professional FDM printers start at roughly $4,000, and professional FDM 3D printers start at around $2,500. Professional desktop printers may be had for $3,750, while large-format benchtop printers can be had for $11,000 and have a larger build capacity.
Is it cheaper to build your own 3D printer?
While it may take some time and patience, it might be far less expensive than purchasing a machine that has already been put together. More significantly, learning how to build a 3D printer will teach you more about the inner workings of the device and all the customisation options available.
What are the building methods of 3D printing?
Extrusion (concrete/cement, wax, foam, polymers), powder bonding (polymer bond, reactive bond, sintering), and additive welding are the three main 3D printing techniques used in the building industry.
Can 3D printers make buildings?
By enabling quicker, more affordable, and more sustainable home construction, 3D-printed houses are transforming the construction business. A tiny home’s foundation and walls may be printed using 3D printers in under 24 hours for a fraction of the price of conventional building.
Is a 3D printing business profitable?
Establishing a 3D printing company can be quite lucrative. You can achieve enormous success if you work diligently and plan well.
How much is material for 3D printing, and what is the cost?
Regarding materials, the majority of standard and engineering filaments cost between $50 and $150 per kg, while support materials cost between $100 and $200 per kg.
What is the cheapest 3D printing method?
The cost of 3D printing varies depending on the printing technology employed. SLS (Selective Laser Sintering), SLA (Stereolithography), and FDM (Fused Deposition Modelling) are the three varieties. The least expensive of the three technologies listed is FDM, while the most expensive is SLS.
How much does 3D printer plastic cost?
Below are the types of filaments and prices:
- PETG $23 to $40
- Nylon Filament $70 to $90
- Flexible Filaments (TPU/TPE or Soft PLA) $30 to $50
- ABS $20 to $28
How long does 3D printing cost?
The price of 3D printing can range from $3 to thousands of dollars. Without a 3D model, it is difficult to determine the precise cost of a 3D print. The cost of 3D printing depends on a variety of elements, including labour, model complexity, and material. Services for 3D printing might occasionally be more expensive than a basic 3D printer.