The University of Maine is home to the world’s largest 3D printer, capable of printing objects measuring up to 29 x 10 x 5.5 meters. This massive machine, known as “Future Factory 1.0,” was introduced on April 23 and is four times larger than the first version that was in operation nearly five years ago. It can print larger objects and uses thermoplastics to do so.
The printer has the potential to revolutionize the construction industry by cutting down on construction time and labor costs. The University of Maine plans to use the printer to explore the possibility of creating affordable housing solutions using biological materials. The goal is to address the issue of homelessness in the region by demonstrating that neighborhoods can be built using innovative 3D printing technology.
The printer, located at the Center for Structural Engineering, Advanced Architecture, and Composites at the University of Maine, has a chassis that takes up most of the space in the building. It is capable of printing large objects quickly, consuming around 227 kg of material per hour. The initial version of the printer, called “BioHome3D,” was used to create a single-family home from wood fiber and recyclable bioplastic materials.
The University of Maine aims to show that housing can be built using printers with a low carbon footprint, which could have a significant impact on reducing greenhouse gases produced by the construction industry. Research is ongoing to upgrade the materials used by the printer, including incorporating more biological ingredients from Maine’s abundant wood chips.
In addition to housing construction, the giant 3D printer has the capacity to create a variety of products, from boats to security structures. Researchers are exploring the potential for combining the two printer versions for seamless production on the same project. This groundbreaking technology has the potential to transform the construction industry and provide innovative solutions to housing challenges.