The Centre for Additive Manufacturing (AM.NUS), a branch of the National University of Singapore, has announced a new 3D printing construction program. The purpose of the program is to accelerate the adoption of construction printing processes in the wider industry. As a result, they hope to lower costs and implement better, eco-friendly methods across the world.
The program aims to create an ecosystem of of construction 3D printing by uniting industry experts with academics. While the technology has made great strides as of late, there is still a low rate of adoption. They are looking to work in the direction of mass production and sustainability to outmatch traditional construction processes.
They are aiming at achieving these goals with 2 key projects that will show off the industrial capabilities within Asia. For the purposes of these projects, the collaborators will use Singapore’s largest gantry-type concrete printer.
AM.NUS Projects
The two projects they have announced deal with toilet and bathroom units. Such a crucial aspect of any building is a major step forward, especially with the growth of industries in Asia. The first project deals with the 3D printing toilets to accelerate the state of sanitation in India. The collaboration has developed a unit design that takes 5 hours to print and can even be built manually within a day. As one would expect, its also cheaper than traditional manufacturing by about 25%. The units will be printed at NUS and then they will send them for installation in India.
Similarly, the second project is a printable volumetric formwork for bathroom units. While formworks are traditionally steel or timber, the new one uses a polymer as an alternative. The speed of the implementation is considerably rapid, with the ability to construct up to 24 bathroom units within a day. The project will make use of a semi-automated production line.
According to their website: The NUS Centre for Additive Manufacturing (AM.NUS) leverages the University’s world-class faculties, expertise and advanced capabilities in 3D printing technology.
Previously, AM.NUS has been prolific in medical printing and all sorts of design research. It seems they are now moving with the general tides of the industry and incorporating construction ideas into their portfolio. The project links together industrial and academic endeavours, thus pooling resources and knowledge in an efficient manner. It’s another important project for the growing Asian bloc, steadily upping their 3D printing capabilities.
Featured image and video courtesy of AM.NUS.
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