Innovative 3D-Printed Housing Community in Georgetown, Texas Nears Completion
After nearly two years of development, a groundbreaking neighborhood composed of homes constructed using a colossal 3D printer is on the verge of completion in Georgetown, Texas.
Reuters reveals that these residences are part of a larger project known as Wolf Ranch. The initiative leverages an impressive 3D printing machine called the Vulcan, which spans 45 feet in width and weighs over 4.75 tons. This ambitious endeavor is a collaboration between ICON, a leader in the realm of construction through 3D printing technology, and Lennar Homes. Commencing in November 2022, crews are now on track to finish constructing 100 homes with this advanced printer before summer wraps up. Some homeowners have already begun to move into the finished properties, which range from $450,000 to $600,000; more than a quarter have already been sold.
The Construction Process and Design Features
The Vulcan operates by mixing concrete powder with water and sand along with additional materials to create cylindrical layers that form walls for houses and ultimately the entire structure. Each home features single-floor designs offering three to four bedrooms and takes approximately three weeks to reach completion through this method. Additionally, traditional techniques involving human labor are utilized for laying foundations and installing metal roofs.
The resulting walls exhibit unique textures reminiscent of wide corduroy but boast durability suited for various weather conditions. These structures provide excellent water resistance while prioritizing energy efficiency as well. Architectural firm BIG-Bjarke Ingels Group contributed contemporary ranch-style designs for these innovative homes (source). Over time, construction workflows have evolved significantly; according to Conner Jenkins from ICON’s project management team speaking to Reuters, they initially began with five distinct teams but have refined their approach down to just one crew alongside one robotic printer.
Challenges Faced by Residents
A notable challenge arising from this innovative approach lies within WiFi connectivity—due to wall thickness impacts on signal quality—prompting residents to employ mesh networking systems with strategically positioned routers rather than relying on a single source router for internet access throughout their homes.
Pioneering Applications Beyond Earth
The potential use cases for ICON’s large-scale printing technology extend beyond terrestrial applications; NASA has expressed interest in utilizing this method for constructing habitats on the lunar surface as part of its Artemis Moon exploration initiative slated for its inaugural crew launch in September 2025.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at
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