Montana is the first U.S. state to give broad regulatory approval for 3D printing in building construction.
State regulators have approved 3D printed walls as an equal replacement for walls made with concrete masonry units or a standard cored concrete block assembly. The action came after a contractor based in Billings, Montana, filed documents, specifications, and testing reports developed by Apis Cor, a Florida-based construction technology company that holds the Guinness World Record for the largest 3D printed building.
The contractor sought permission to use Apis Cor’s 3D printed process and equipment for a housing development project in Billings and for projects in other areas of the state. Apis Cor says that the cost of a finished home printed with one of its printers can be constructed for up to 30% less than traditionally built concrete block or wood-framed homes.
Regulatory approval for 3D printing applies to all types of construction that follows the state building code. It is not limited to single-family dwellings.
Related Stories
Building Technology | Dec 18, 2018
Data and analytics are becoming essential for EC firms competing to rebuild America’s infrastructure
A new paper from Deloitte Consulting advises companies to revise their strategies with an eye toward leveraging advanced technologies.
3D Printing | Dec 7, 2018
Additive manufacturing heads to the jobsite
Prototype mobile 3D printing shop aims to identify additive manufacturing applications for construction jobsites.
Contractors | Oct 26, 2018
How three contractors expanded thin profit margins
If there’s one issue that every contractor is familiar with, it’s the challenge of finishing the job on time and on budget.
Contractors | Oct 26, 2018
Three ways construction leaders harness digital transformation
The construction industry is lagging behind others when it comes to digital transformation. Some construction firms “are still using paper-based processes that can only be described as archaic,” according to a 2016 report by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP’s Strategy1.
Contractors | Oct 24, 2018
How seasoned construction pros handle the cost of scaling up
Here’s how seasoned operators meet the new demand for homes, offices and new locations without drowning in new expenses.
Contractors | Oct 2, 2018
Nonresidential spending reaches new high in August
Total nonresidential spending stood at $762.7 billion in August, an increase of 8.4% compared to one year ago.
Contractors | Oct 2, 2018
Katerra adds a Denver-area GC to its growing stable
Bristlecone Construction brings self-performing expertise in concrete and framing.
Architects | Sep 14, 2018
We’ve entered the golden age of brain science. What does it mean for AEC firms?
New research from the SMPS Foundation explores the known principles and most recent research surrounding the human brain and behavioral science. The goal: to discover connections between the science and the AEC business.
Contractors | Sep 5, 2018
Lean, tech, talent training highlight contractor innovations
From 5D estimating tools to interactive punch lists, the nation’s largest construction and construction management firms continue to push technology to gain an edge.
Modular Building | Aug 6, 2018
More contractors are turning to offsite production for speed and quality
Skender launches an advanced manufacturing division. Katerra ups its bet on modular. Prefabrication comes to the rescue on multiple projects.