DESIGN AND FABRICATION OF A 3D CONCRETE PRINTER

Abstract

The construction industry has seen significant technological advancements in recent years, with 3D printing being one of the most notable. 3D printing technology has the potential to revolutionize the construction industry, allowing for faster, more efficient, and more sustainable construction practices. In this thesis, we present the design and fabrication of a 3D concrete printer, which is capable of printing small-scale concrete structures. The 3D concrete printer is designed to be affordable and easy to assemble, using off-the-shelf components and 3D printed parts. The printer is designed to be versatile, allowing for printing various shapes and sizes of concrete structures. The printer uses a custom-designed extruder, which is capable of printing concrete at high speeds while maintaining accuracy and precision. The fabrication of the printer involved the construction of a sturdy frame and the integration of the extruder and control system. The printer was then tested and optimized to ensure its performance met the desired specifications. The 3D concrete printer has the potential to transform the construction industry, allowing for faster and more efficient construction practices, reducing waste, and improving sustainability. This thesis presents a proof of concept for the design and fabrication of a 3D concrete printer, which can be further developed and optimized to suit specific construction needs.