So, the US Army Corps of Engineers has been around for more than 2 centuries, starting with the founding and operation of the famed West Point.
A century later, the 20th century, the Corps was granted control of the country’s flood control program, along with hydroelectric energy systems. And, for the bulk of that century, they did a splendiferous job. But, by the end of that century, it was obvious to anyone and everyone that they had lost their way. (Katrina and the New Orleans fiasco proves my point.)
That was a wake-up call. And, they seem to be doing better now- especially with their new portfolio- recovery from disasters and terrorism.
Now a new program, Automated Construction of Expeditionary Structures (ACES) is designed to help the armed forces as they provide temporary forward base operations, ones that may not be needed for long duration. This turns out to be basically a sophisticated 3D printing program- one where they “print” concrete barracks and bunkers. And, even a vehicle bridge.
The constraints are considerable. The 3D printer (this really is additive manufacturing) needs to shipped via a container, be able to employ a variety of local materials, and work reliably in “dirty” environments… Like the Timex watch of old- it has to be able to take a beating and keep on ticking.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6EK9KWHjvfM
That’s a real problem because the 3D printers that produce materials with concrete (which means the concrete must be extrudable through a nozzle) are nowhere near so robust. They need special mortar- and won’t work with locally sourced aggregate. The Corps has also investigated adding metal fibers, bentonite, and silica to the mix to provide the necessary construction qualities. (The Corps made one such unit in a partnership with Caterpillar. This looks like those devices we see at ports- a gantry crane- with a crane that shoots out concrete, layer by layer.)
What is really neat is that simple structures are now complete in a day- not the five days of yore. On top of that, the Corps deploys a crew of 3, not the 8 that were needed before. (Note that these concrete printed structures still need roofs and interior finishing touches, after the additive process is complete.)
More importantly, the Corps plans to use such technology for disaster relief- where a bridge, housing, and the like are desperately needed- NOW.
About time.
So will 3D printing be able to make anything soon? I love the concept but I actually thought there would be a limit to what it could create.
Very interesting!
Dominique recently posted..What Does Peace Mean to You?
The military has high hopes for 3D printing- so they can cut their logisitic needs. The aviation industry is using the technology for plane manufacture and repair. Let’s see who else joins the bandwagon, Dominique.
Quite interesting. To me it’s almost unfathomable what they can now do with 3D printers.
We are reading a book about then biography of RG LeTorneau, who developed heavy equipment in the earliest days of cranes, bulldozers, and the like. It’s amazing to learn about how they did it way back then, and to realize that although the technology has improved since then, the same basic goals remain. To build something that will stand the test of time. Hopefully these new technologies will prove to be beneficial.
Laurie
Ridge Haven Homestead
Laurie recently posted..Thoughtful Gifts for a Caregiver
I’m with you, Laurie. And, thanks for bringing attention to LeTorneau and his innovations used for major construction!
Amazing. Our area is full of flood walls built by the Army Corp of Engineers back in the 1930’s so it’s good that the former glory is being reclaimed, using modern technology.
Alana recently posted..Another Fall Another Sunday
Aha! thanks for bringing the history of your locality to bear upon the dixcussion, Alana.