India’s first 3D-printed post office was virtually inaugurated by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in Bengaluru’s Cambridge Layout on August 18.
Key Highlights of India’s First 3D-Printed Post Office
- India’s first 3D-printed post office construction was completed in just 43 days
- Multinational company Larsen & Toubro Limited built India’s first 3D-printed post office with technological support from IIT Madras
- India’s first 3D-printed post office covers an area of 1,021 square feet and was created using advanced 3D concrete printing.
- Robotic printers used an automated process to layer concrete according to the approved design.
- A specially formulated quick-hardening concrete ensured strong bonding between layers.
- With robotic precision and pre-embedded designs, India’s first 3D-printed post office was completed in just 43 days, far shorter than the conventional 6 to 8 months.
- India’s first 3D-printed post office cost ₹23 lakhs, indicating a 30-40% cost reduction compared to traditional methods.
What is 3D Printing in Construction?
- 3D printing in Construction is also known as additive manufacturing
- It is a process that uses computer-created design to make three-dimensional objects layer by layer.
- It is an additive process, in which layers of a material like plastic, composites or bio-materials are built up to construct objects that range in shape, size, rigidity and colour.
- It was invented in the 1980s
How Is 3D Printing Done?
Benefits of 3D Printing in India’s Construction Sector
- It is likely to simplify supply chains as semi-fabricated products substitute raw materials and suppliers consolidate.
- Procurements and labour costs will decrease.
- This will help Make in India campaign and the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan as successful.
- It is expected to increase productivity which may lead to reduction in employment.
- The products will be more energy-efficient. This will help India reduce its carbon footprint and lead to eco-friendly environment.
- It allows manufacturers the ease to redesign their products.
Examples of 3D Printing
- 3D printing is being used in a host of different industries like healthcare, automobile and aerospace.
- In May 2023, aerospace manufacturing company Relativity Space launched a test rocket made entirely from 3D-printed parts, measuring 100 feet tall and 7.5 feet wide. However, shortly after its take off, it suffered a failure.
- At the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, the healthcare industry used 3D printers to make much-needed medical equipment, like swabs, face shields, and masks, as well as the parts to fix their ventilator.
Government Initiatives to Promote 3D Printing in India
- Atal Innovation Mission (AIM)- It is a flagship initiative to create and promote entrepreneurship and innovation across the country.
- Atal Tinkering Labs – It is launched under AIM which aims to foster creativity and innovation in young minds.
- It focuses on Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) concepts.
- Dedicated workspaces have been set up with do-it-yourself (DIY) kits including 3D printers, robotics and miniaturised electronics are installed.
- National Strategy on Additive Manufacturing– The strategy aims to increase India’s share in global AM to 5% with a target to add nearly US 1$bn to the GDP by 2025.
The Future Of 3D Printing In India
India’s first 3D-printed post office marks just the start of a transformative journey. As technology continues to evolve, 3D printing is poised to become a key driver in sustainable construction, cost-effective building solutions, and eco-friendly urban planning. With ongoing government support for research and development, the prospects for 3D printing to accelerate India’s infrastructure growth are immense.
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