3D Printing in Construction - How Can the Industry Benefit
The unfamiliar can be intimidating, and new processes nearly always spark some resistance. I'm sure at first, the idea of using a 3D printer to create sustainable construction materials had a lot of people scratching their heads. While this technology may still feel out of reach for some, it's becoming clear that it's part of the industry's future, with a long list of successful projects and long-term financial benefits already under its belt.
Still, you may wonder what's in it for you. That is a valid point, yet the list of advantages grows each year, from improved creative freedom to beneficial consequences on your business line. Most of us are still years away from completely reaping the benefits of this latest construction innovation, but it's worth noting where 3D printing has been and where it's heading.
The Story So Far
If you haven't utilised 3D printing technology yet, your time is coming. There are many advantages to employing 3D printing technologies as more people accept it and more newcomers to the industry are trained in it before ever stepping foot on a jobsite.
While the use of 3D materials in architecture and design may appear to be a fresh notion, it has been around for decades. In recent years, an increasing number of construction businesses have embraced this approach to give their projects a unique twist. You can call 3D printed components the 'construction chameleons' for their ability to shift into materials we've all used for generations to build. The manufacture of 3D concrete printing, for example, is showing significant potential. If all of the adjustments are made, this option will generate foundation, cinder blocks, and other concrete-based materials in a faster, more cost-effective, and ecologically responsible manner.
The manufacture of 3D printed material goes far beyond the promise of concrete-based building with experimental work well underway on materials like wood and metal.
Pros v Cons of 3D Printing in Construction
It never hurts to examine the advantages and disadvantages of any new industry initiative. With 3D printing, both sides’ arguments boil down to money and time.
Pros
Time Saving - The use of 3D printer technology will significantly cut the time spent on a project. Tasks that would normally take months or even years to complete have been reduced to days.
Reduces the likelihood of human error - Because 3D printing technology is automated, the possibility of human error, damage, or death is virtually removed.
Cuts down on material waste - When you use technology, such as a robotic arm, you can produce exactly the amount of material required to build a structure.
Design autonomy, creativity, and innovation - If you can imagine it, you can make anything with 3D printing. You can make whatever form or angle you choose, which opens the door to new creative designs.
Cons
Increased Costs - For many, the cost of owning or renting the requisite 3D printing equipment remains a barrier to mainstream adoption.
Changes to Regulations - The norms and regulations governing the use of 3D printing in the building business are hazy. The lack of government oversight of this technology will stymie ambitions for a quick rollout. Another challenge will be integrating 3D printing technology with existing construction project management methods. Building codes will also need to be revised to allow for the use of this technology.
Labour Shortages - Of course, if you can't get your hands on the equipment due to cost, you won't be able to adequately train workers to operate it. As we've all seen, the demand for competent construction workers extends far beyond this disparity.
Success Stories
For those who are sceptical, several companies are changing their focus and using 3D printers to revolutionise construction while breaking records in the process. 3D printing technology holds great promise for making everyone's dream of home ownership a reality. Groups such as New Story have built low-cost homes for underprivileged communities all around the world in record time. Bridges, office buildings, and residential properties are also being constructed in a matter of hours utilising 3D-printed materials.
What Does the Future Hold
3D printing, like countless other breakthroughs that have disrupted the way we produce and work, need more time to settle into the sector. It holds considerable promise in terms of cost and time savings, as well as environmental benefits. With each passing year, we should expect to witness an increase in the inventiveness with which contractors employ computer-generated, three-dimensional materials into their construction projects. With this ingenuity comes the ambition to construct commercial and residential structures that we could only imagine in the past.
Throughout history, we've found imaginative ways to improve our processes. The usage of 3D building printing is merely the most recent in a long line of innovations. While you sit and observe the developments take place, consider how this technology can benefit you. Everyone has the opportunity to think outside the box and make space to profit from these improvements. Take your time, but don't stop learning about 3D printing technology and how it's reshaping a bright future in construction.
How Can We Help?
Searching for an opportunity in the construction industry? Or are you a hiring manager in search of the top talent in the market today? Contact our team of industry experts to start the conversation. getus@jamesgrayrecruitment.com