Using 3D printing technology, Nidus3D and COBOD technologies have teamed to build the first three-story building in North America. Demonstrating Nidus3D's commitment to affordable housing solutions and Toronto area innovation, this collaboration marks a major turning point in the evolution of sustainable building techniques.
(Photo : AI Generated/Bernadette Salapare)
First 3D Printed Three-story Structure from North America
Nidus3D, a Canadian business, employed COBOD's technologies to build North America's first three-story 3D-printed structure, changing the building industry. With four living apartments and a 4,500-square-foot footprint, the Toronto area house also has the only 3D-printed basement in the entire globe.
As stated, Nidus3D, which started in 2021, has utilized every minute in its pursuit of affordable housing. Among others, the corporation has worked with groups like Habitat for Humanity and Queen's University to help provide reasonably priced houses throughout the world.
In just one year after its founding, the Canadian building company finished the first two-story tower in North America using 3D printing. Accordingly, nidus3D believes that its procedures can assist in meeting an increasing demand for housing amid a developing housing crisis since two stories are standard in at least half of American and Canadian residential buildings.
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Why Should Construction Use 3D Printing?
In the cutting-edge manufacturing method known as 3D printing, a computer-aided design and drafting (CAD) or Building Information Modelling (BIM) program communicates the requirements to the 3D printer. It is reportedly comparable to providing the printer with a specific design command since the printer would make use of the resources required to build the model that has been selected.
Using a nozzle that is positioned on a gantry system, robotic arm, or crane, this method of 3D printing uses a back-and-forth stacking of material to create finished products. Usually, extrusion is achieved with the help of a robotic arm in charge of concrete material or polymer release.
Thus, the faster completion of projects made possible by using a 3D printer in the building sector would be among their most important advantages. One can build the constructions in a much shorter period. Due to developments in three-dimensional printing, buildings have been transformed in recent years and complete houses may be quickly erected in a few days. With up to 60% of building time predicted to be shortened by this transforming technology, it presents a viable way to more effectively meet housing needs.
On the other hand, the building industry significantly contributes to global environmental problems including 23% of air pollution, 40% of carbon dioxide emissions, 40% of drinking water contamination, and 50% of landfill waste worldwide. Nevertheless, 3D printing presents a sustainable substitute for making the best use of materials, reducing waste and environmental impact which not only guarantees notable financial savings but also fits initiatives to encourage environmentally friendly building methods and reduce the industry's impact on the surroundings. This results in significant cost savings and waste reduction. Nevertheless, 3D printers are also capable of working with recycled materials, such as concrete and plastics.
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