Task #4

Concrete Printing

Concrete printing process was developed at Loughborough University in the UK.  Scientist there are inspired by the 3D printing process.  3D printing is an additive manufacturing process.  Information is created from computer generated model.  The models are exported to a machine which builds up a model or components layer by layer. The virtual model is in effect materialized.  Loughborough University experiments with concrete instead of using powder and glue to create large scale building components. 

Concrete printing process works on the basis of a highly controlled cement based mortar, which is precisely positioned according to computer data.  The process has the potential to create architecture that is more unique in form, but components do not have to be made from site material.  As a result, resources can be used more efficiently than traditional techniques. 3D could make possible for a whole section of a building to be created and printed on site with all service provisions installed.  With this process a building's form and scale could take on limited possibilities.   

Prefabricated concrete part 1 (manufacturing a double T) Important facts listed below.

·         A double T is used primarily in parking structure

·         Maintaining a clean plant is important from a safety standpoint

·         A foot size gap is required between strands, so each double T can be stripped from the form

·         A pre-pour quality check must be made and signed off on by a quality control person.  This check is critical for a quality product

·         During winter in Northern climates, the aggregate must be heated to get them to flow properly through the batching system and maintain proper concrete mixing temperatures. 

Prefabricated concrete part 2 (manufacturing a double T) Important facts listed below.

·         It is imperative that the concrete mix be delivered to the form as soon as possible

·         Vehicles called tuckers are used to deliver the concrete to the bed

·         The use of the double T determines the surface pattern 12 to 16 hours the T’s are ready to be stripped

·         The strands are detention in a particular sequence determined by quality control.