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3D Printing is changing the construction industry

The construction industry has traditionally been very conservative and at times slow to innovate, however a change seems to be occurring. The industry is now embracing more innovative technology and the introduction of 3D printing buildings and homes is one current example of this.

The 3D buildings are made by a very large 3D printer that consists of a robotic base which has 360 degrees of motion and a smaller arm that prints out various building materials. This technology holds great potential in the construction industry and investing into such forms of research makes companies eligible to obtain a Research and Development (R&D) Tax credit.

The technology has been put to the test and has successfully built entire two bedroom, one bathroom homes in under 24 hours for $5,100. Everything besides the roof was 3D printed in a time frame of 12-24 hours. The homes are made from concrete and once completed are transportable on the back of a truck.

It is predicted that eventually 3D printing will become a common feature in the fabrication process. 3D printing specific for the construction industry has been researched and refined for almost a decade now.

It has been proven that 3D printed buildings are built much faster and cost a lot less than traditional buildings. Such significant decrease of cost and time to build a home could even be the solution for ending homelessness in impoverished areas. The 3D printers allow for buildings to be made to any specification and allow architects to have more freedom when designing their projects. Such R&D has the potential to create a boom in the construction industry and provide safe homes for millions of people.

The construction industry affects every Australian as it has a direct impact on our homes, workplaces, schools, hospitals, water supplies and so forth. The industry is also the fourth largest contributor to our GDP and employs almost 10% of Australia’s workforce. R&D will create smarter construction operations, processes and techniques and will help ensure Australia’s place in a competitive global economy.

Innovation in construction is greatly supported by the government and can be eligible to receive an R&D Tax Incentive.  Swanson Reed R&D Tax Consultants help companies to claim this incentive and help ensure that companies receive the maximum eligible amount. If your company is developing novel solutions, take our online eligibility quiz to find out whether you qualify for a tax rebate.