Ireland’s first 3D printed homes are being constructed in Dundalk, using innovative concrete printing technology. The project promises faster construction, reduced labor needs & could Significantly Impact Ireland’s housing sector, drawing interest from across the country.
The system employs a gantry mounted 3D concrete printer, programmed to extrude a specialized concrete mix according to a digital plan. This machine constructs cavity walls without traditional concrete blocks, laying precise 50mm layers to form the structure.
Justin Kinsella, MD of Harcourt Technologies (HTL), the company behind this innovation, explains the concrete composition: “We’re using the lowest carbon embodied printed concrete globally. Its specific formulation allows for optimal flow through the printer while maintaining structural integrity.”
The printer’s current pace is notable – it takes about 18 minutes to lay a 50ml layer around the three-unit block. HTL aims to reduce this to 12 minutes, further accelerating construction.
This method offers significant advantages:
- Triples construction speed compared to traditional methods
- Reduces labour requirements by a third
- Cuts overall construction time by 25-30%
While currently cost-comparable to traditional construction, the real savings lie in reduced on-site time and labour costs.
The implications for Ireland’s construction Industry are far-reaching. With a housing crisis looming, this technology could dramatically increase housing output. The Louth Meath Education & Training Board (LMETB) is already preparing for this shift, offering training programs on 3D construction printing.
Sadie Ward McDermott of LMETB emphasizes, “This technology is crucial in addressing our housing needs & labor market challenges. It allows companies to expand despite workforce shortages.”
However, the technology doesn’t replace traditional skills entirely. As McDermott notes, “You’ll still need electricians & plumbers for finishing work. This technology augments rather than replaces existing construction methods.”
The project has caught the attention of county councils nationwide, who see its potential to address housing shortages. Joan Martin, CEO of Louth County Council, predicts, “It will get more efficient, cheaper and quicker, giving us another option for rapid house construction in Ireland.”
As the Dundalk project progresses, it’s clear that 3D printed housing could reshape Ireland’s construction landscape, offering a high-tech solution to age-old housing challenges.
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Nestor Sawayn is a U.S.-based tech journalist specializing in maker tools and creative technologies. His coverage spans 3D printers, vinyl cutters, paper printers, and laser cutters across North America, Europe, and Asia. Sawen’s articles offer concise, insightful analysis of the latest News, innovations in this space. Beyond hardware, he explores the creative potential of board games and tabletop RPGs, providing readers with a comprehensive view of both digital and analog maker trends.
Feel free to reach out to me at nestorsawayn@360techinsights.com.
