This month, we shine the spotlight on how 3D printing technology is revolutionising the construction industry.
ANOTHER DIMENSION
Printing on an architectural and industrial scale has potential to be a game-changer for construction. 3D concrete printing allows architects to realise the most challenging shapes and is entering the world of large-scale objects and structures.
Thanks to its expertise, Sika is spearheading the digitalisation and industrialisation of concrete construction and says they are the only company capable of supplying all the technologies needed for industrial 3D concrete printing from a single source.
The digitalisation of construction processes is ushering in a new era for architects and property developers. 3D concrete printing releases designers from the limitations of the right angle and previously inconceivable architecture becomes possible. It means dynamic curves and futuristic interlinked structures can be printed directly and efficiently from digital plans.
Traditionally placed concrete has long been the most economic method of construction. If 3D concrete printing is to compete with this tried and trusted solution, then structures need to be printed efficiently. As a 3D printing pioneer, Sika’s technology is doing precisely that.
Frank Höfflin, Chief Technology Officer at Sika said: “We have now achieved our ambition. With our technology, it is possible to print concrete so rapidly, inexpensively, and precisely that it can be used on construction sites.”
“Digitalisation is changing every aspect of construction and the entire life cycle of a building, from the design process and automated construction all the way to maintenance. Building processes can be optimised and time and money saved. At the same time, these advanced technologies offer greater design flexibility.”
HEAD FULL OF SOLUTIONS The most challenging part of the 3D printing process is what happens in the print head, which was developed by
the 3D research team at Sika’s technology centre in Widen, Switzerland. In this high-performance tool a range of high- grade additives is mixed with the mortar. The material cures within seconds and bonds with the layer previously applied. This rapid curing speeds up the process, and the print head guarantees maximum precision.
3D printing not only lets complex shapes be realised economically, Sika technology allows the printing of completely homogeneous concrete. As Didier Lootens, Head of Material Physics at Sika, explains: “Because the mortar is mixed in the print head, it has a uniform consistency when it is applied. As a result, structures can be produced which exhibit the same character throughout.” The colour also remains consistent - assuming that is what is wanted - as concrete offers more than just a range of shades of grey.
COLOURFUL AND SMOOTH
SURFACE FINISHES Adding pigments makes it possible to insert coloured concrete into buildings under construction. This can be achieved efficiently with 3D printing, as the colours can be accurately controlled by metering pumps. Even precise changes of colour are possible. The formwork-smooth surface finishes which characterise traditional concrete, will also be achievable with 3D printing, allowing all types of subsequent processes, including plastering to be undertaken.
Whether it’s extravagant shapes, precision-curing, or colours to customers’ specifications, Sika now has an industrial product which meets the high material requirements expected of concrete.
www.sika.co.uk 10 | SPOTLIGHT
www.tomorrowscontractfloors.co.uk
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