Introduction
Think 3D printing is only for small gadgets? Think again. Some of the world’s largest 3D printers are being used to create full-scale buildings, emergency shelters, and even bridges. Welcome to the era of construction-scale 3D printing.
Landmark Projects Using Giant 3D Printers
- Apis Cor (Dubai): Printed the world’s first fully functional office building in 2016. The structure was 640 square feet and printed in 17 days.
- COBOD (Europe): Created modular homes in record time with their BOD2 printer — already being used in Germany, Belgium, and Kenya.
- ICON (USA): Uses their Vulcan system to build affordable housing across the US and Latin America. Collaborated with NASA for lunar habitat concepts.
- WASP (Italy): Uses local clay and sustainable materials to print environmentally friendly homes that merge technology and ecology.
Benefits of Large-Scale Printing
- Reduced labour and building time
- Minimized construction waste
- Lower cost housing for underserved communities
- Design freedom for curved or unconventional architecture
Conclusion
From social housing to Mars habitats, giant 3D printers are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. At 3DCustomPrint, we stay inspired by these breakthroughs as we shape the future, one layer at a time.