Construction 3D-printing firm Alquist 3D recently announced plans to build 200 homes in the state of Virginia, an objective which will be the world’s largest 3D construction project to-date, 3D Printing Industry reports. Virginia neighborhoods like Pulaski and Roanoke have a need for affordable and accessible new homes, particularly as a selling point for incoming residents who could boost the region’s workforce.
Alquist’s ambitious plans to tackle affordable housing come after the company’s successful completion of several residential builds, one in partnership with Virginia Tech University, and another conducted with nonprofit Habitat for Humanity, which was constructed in a mere 28 hours.
With a top speed that’s said to be limited by the USA’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration to 9.8″ per second, and 12-hour continuous operation capabilities, the machine is able to build 1,000 sq. foot structures in under 20 hours.
To make loading materials as easy as possible, the NEXCON’s nozzle features an open hopper design and interchangeable tips, enabling users to manually inspect them and switch heads, depending on the application. The unit is also available with the firm’s proprietary ‘ink’ blends, which are said to offer better strength and durability than mortars, another aspect that could benefit Alquist 3D’s new builds.
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