Process

Contains all the answers regarding 3D house printing process.

What logistics and staff are needed on a 3D printing site?

Using the MaxiPrinter requires only 2 operators on-site at all times during printing. For logistics, the machine and accessories (excluding material) are transported in the provided container. Material is delivered by truck, each carrying 20–25 tons.

Does 3D concrete printing really save materials?

Yes. 3D construction printing reduces up to 40% of concrete compared to traditional construction, as material is deposited only where needed. It also generates very little waste.

Is 3D concrete printing a low-carbon solution?

Yes, because it optimizes material consumption and allows the use of alternative low-carbon binders, as demonstrated with our Termix-3D material. The process is also compatible with local formulations, reducing transport and thus the overall carbon footprint of a 3D-printed house.

What are the impacts of 3D printing on bricklayers’ jobs?

3D printing reduces the physical strain of masonry work and makes the profession more attractive to younger generations. It revitalizes a traditionally tough job through construction robotics.

What added value compared to traditional construction methods?

3D concrete printing provides speed, cost reduction, architectural flexibility, less waste, and the ability to build in challenging environments. It complements existing methods and enables innovative projects. In the short term, our goal is to make 3D printing more affordable than traditional construction.

What flexibility is there in the thickness of 3D-printed walls?

Printed layer width generally varies from 4 to 10 cm depending on the nozzle used. This allows single, double, or hollow walls, adapted to structural, thermal, and aesthetic needs.

What software is used to prepare 3D printing files?

In addition to the printers, Constructions-3D develops and provides software that generates G-code from various file formats: STL, OBJ, DXF, and 3D DXF. These formats make Constructions-3D solutions compatible with all CAD software on the market (AutoCAD, Fusion 360, Solidworks, OnShape, etc.).

Can a traditional plan be converted into a 3D printable file?

Yes. Our software can convert a 2D plan into a printable model for the MaxiPrinter. The original plan often needs to be simplified by removing doors, annotations, etc., then converted to .DXF format before importing. These aspects are covered during training on our machines.

How long does it take to move and install a 3D concrete printer on-site?

Installing a MaxiPrinter takes 15 to 30 minutes. Including repositioning the file relative to the site, the total time from arrival to the start of printing is usually under 2 hours.

What floor space is required for installing the MaxiPrinter?

The MiniPrinter PRO can operate in a space as small as a 20ft container (6m x 2.5m). The MaxiPrinter requires about 20 m² and can print within a radius of ~7m. For indoor printing, a ceiling height of at least 6m is recommended.

What are the ground requirements before installing the MaxiPrinter?

The ground must be stable and level to support the gantry. Uneven terrain may need prior preparation (slab or compaction) to ensure precision and safety.

Is it possible to print multi-story buildings?

Yes. A MaxiPrinter can print up to ~6m high. In theory, there’s no height limit since the printer can be lifted to the next floor once the slab is cast. This method was used for 'La Tour', the world’s tallest 3D-printed building (R+2, 14.14m high) built at La Citadelle Des Savoir Faire in France.

How are windows and doors integrated in a 3D-printed house?

Openings are modeled in the plan. The machine can be programmed to pause before the top of an opening so a lintel can be installed. Windows and doors are then fitted traditionally by carpenters.

How does the 3D house printing process work?

3D construction printing consists of extruding a special mortar layer by layer using a large robotic arm that precisely positions a nozzle in space. The 3D printing mortar, a fast-setting mortar, is mixed with water on-site and pumped through a concrete hose to the nozzle. Here are the main steps: - Digital design: the building or element is modeled in 3D (CAD files exported in .STL, .DXF, etc.). - Slicing: dedicated software converts the model into print paths. - Material preparation: a specially formulated, pumpable, fast-setting mortar or micro-concrete is prepared in a silo/pump. - Printing: the machine deposits successive beads of material that solidify quickly, allowing layers to stack without formwork. - Finishes and integrations: technical ducts, insulation, or lintels can be inserted during printing. Finishes (plaster, paint…) are then applied as in traditional construction. Main benefits are significant time savings, reduced labor, unprecedented architectural freedom, and less material thanks to precise deposition.

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