3D Concrete Printing (3DCP) Material Science Hands-On Course

This comprehensive 3D Concrete Printing (3DCP) class provides an in-depth understanding of the essential processes, equipment, and techniques required for successful concrete printing. Combining lectures, hands-on assembly, and live demonstrations, this course will equip participants with the knowledge and skills to operate, troubleshoot, and optimize 3DCP systems.

*This course will be taught in a setting similar to a construction site.  Waterproof shoes that are composite or steal-toed are required.  Safety hats, safety glasses and vests will be provided.  Students should expect to get dirty.

Learning Activities & Key Topics:

 Mixing Systems & Material Preparation

• Lecture on Batch Mixing vs. Continuous Mixing Systems, their components, and operational differences.

• Hands-on physical examination of a batch mixing system and its major components.

• Dry run of the batch mixing system, highlighting its different control functions.

• Walkthrough of the cleanout procedure, ensuring proper maintenance and longevity.

 3DCP Print Head Systems & Assembly

• Lecture on different types of print heads used in 3D concrete printing.

• Hands-on assembly of an Auger Driven Print Head and attachment to the R0 system.

• Discussion on pros, cons, and improvements made to various print head designs.

Site Setup & Workflow Optimization

• Lecture on site setup and planning, including major considerations and mitigation strategies.

• Interactive workspace planning by placing scale models of printing equipment within a proposed workspace.

• Hands-on hose attachment and routing from the mixing station to the print head.

• Dry-run of a print to verify proper hose routing and system functionality.

Live 3D Concrete Printing & System Operation

• Students will load cementitious material into the mixing station, ensuring proper water-to-material ratios for 3DCP.

• Monitoring of material consistency, with real-time adjustments as needed during printing.

• Execution of the full cleanout procedure, covering the mix station, hose, and print head.