First and foremost, 3D printing will improve working conditions

Human issues are the priority. Companies will still need their staff, if only to operate, programme and maintain the machines. Which raises another question on the subject of training, as 3D printing requires a whole new set of skills. Without doubt, some work will be necessary in that respect. 3D printing deserves to be considered as an asset when it comes to working conditions and occupational hazards: 

When we use a robot, whether it’s to print in 3D or to carry heavy loads, above all we’re seeking to reduce the harshness of the working conditions

Bruno Linéatte, R&D Constructive Modes Manager at Bouygues Construction.

Another factor to bear in mind is that the building and public works industry is having trouble recruiting; robots offer the solution by enhancing the building trade and giving it more appeal. One example is the Yhnova trial carried out in Nantes for the on-site construction of a house with a 3D printing system, Batiprint3D^TM: ” We also had discussions with the workers, foremen, etc. who did express some concern, naturally. But they unanimously agreed on one thing: that this is going to make life easier. If we are to successfully introduce robots to building sites, it will be on the basis that they make work more pleasant for humans”, declares Bruno Linéatte.

3D printing in the building industry: new challenges

Today’s reality is that the construction industry isn’t even close to the widespread use of 3D printing. According to a prospective business study on add-on constructions*, add-on manufacturing is only a secondary field for the building and architecture sectors, with 3.2% of the world market. And that field is restricted to trials or complex items that would generate extremely high costs if manufactured by conventional methods. “This is what the aviation and car-making industries are experiencing; their 3D printing applications are operational but are generally used only for the most sophisticated parts.” 

3D printing for the Sagrada Familia

For the time being, 3D printing only promises to make the construction of very complex or artistic buildings easier and less costly than with traditional formwork methods: 

“Its level of productivity makes it viable only in niche markets. One example is the Sagrada Familia whose construction will be finished thanks to the 3D printing of certain components, including the cathedral’s capitals. For such highly complex shapes, this is quicker than traditional methods” 

Bruno Linéatte explains.

But this technology doesn’t make all of our processes obsolete, on the contrary… It’ll be an extremely useful tool which, rather than ruling us, will help us in many ways.

The Advantages of Panalized Systems

There are many positive sides to panelization which include:

• Factory conditions mean that walls are built to a high quality standard and that there is consistency in construction
• Panelized homes can be constructed in a very short amount of time which means that you save money on labor and you save time too
• Panelization allows for a number of variations in home design
• Little onsite waste
• Less room for errors which will reduce callbacks

Amvic’s SilveRbord

SilveRboard Rigid Foam Insulation is a high performance EPS which is coated with a layer of reflective lamination on both sides. SilveRboard offers a higher R-value per inch compared to traditional flat-sheet insulation and provides built-in moisture and air barriers which eliminate the need for house wrap.

When panalized walls are built with SilveRboard, they meet code and the requisite R-values, and are significantly tougher than other material options because of the reflective lamination. Because they are tougher, they are better for transportation and have less chance of getting damaged in transit to the jobsite or during assembly.

From a carbon footprint standpoint, EPS foam is a greener than other foam products because it is manufactured using steam and heat to expand the product and to mold it as opposed to other products which melt the components and then add foaming agents. EPS utilizes less energy and chemicals in the manufacturing process.

The reflective laminated surface contributes to heat retention in the home in the winter and lowering solar heat gain as it reflects sun in the summer months, making this a duel season product.

The product is easier and faster to install because of its toughness and it requires less mechanical fastening because of the increased strength. This, in turn, reduces labor and installation time and costs.

The reflective lamination is corona-treated which makes it exceptionally easy to adhere tape to. All types of sheathing tape stick to it very well. Other products require specialized, expensive tape. SilveRboard Rigid Foam Insulation is also UV protected and that means that when it sits on the house for several weeks waiting for the siding, the product doesn’t degrade.

All of these features also apply to conventional homebuilding and DIY projects where homeowners are looking to improve the energy efficiency of an existing older home.