Züblin Constructs 'World First' Load-Bearing Concrete Walls with 3D Printer

In a pioneering development in construction technology, Züblin, a leading Germany-based construction engineering company and a subsidiary of both Putzmeister and Strabag, has made headlines by constructing a building entirely through 3D printing. This significant achievement features the creation of load-bearing concrete walls using a 3D printer, marking a world-first in the industry. The innovative structure now stands as Strabag Baumaschinentechnik International’s newest warehouse located in Stuttgart, Germany.

This construction not only serves as a new facility for Strabag but also acts as a live testbed for Züblin's 3D printing capabilities and processes. Central to this technological feat is Putzmeister’s KARLOS mobile concrete printer, equipped with a mast boom boasting an impressive 26-meter reach. This capability enables it to apply concrete in multiple layers precisely according to a pre-defined digital blueprint, which is controlled by a specialized print head.

Historically, the scalability of 3D concrete printing technology has been limited, with traditional portal printers only capable of producing smaller structures. However, Züblin emphasizes that KARLOS introduces unprecedented flexibility and range, significantly enhancing the potential for scalability in large-scale projects. The printer delivers a cementitious paste in a rectangular format, which enables the construction of squared walls robust enough to support significant loads.

Züblin's approach integrates electrification, digital planning, and the utilization of a Building Information Modeling (BIM) system. This integration not only streamlines and accelerates the construction processes through automation but also reduces the need for traditional formwork. Furthermore, the project promotes environmental sustainability by employing only green electricity and CO2-reduced concretes in the construction process.

The company's innovative use of these advanced techniques and materials underscores its commitment to revolutionizing construction methods and enhancing the sustainability of building projects worldwide. Through such initiatives, Züblin and its partners, Putzmeister and Strabag, are setting new benchmarks in the construction industry, paving the way for future advancements in building technology.