The construction industry is undergoing constant change thanks to advances in 3D printing. We’ve seen the creation of a variety of 3D-printed structures, from shopping malls and houses to boats. This innovative technology offers numerous solutions to current challenges in the industry, including rising material costs and a growing demand for new construction. QOROX stands out in this field with numerous successful projects, extensively utilizing 3D printing to bring its visions to life. To better understand the impact of this technology, we spoke to Wafaey Swelim, the director of QOROX, who shared his expertise and experiences with 3D-printed structures.
3DN: Can you tell us about QOROX and your connection to additive manufacturing?
QOROX is an innovative construction printing company dedicated to transforming traditional construction methods. We use additive manufacturing to print structures using low-carbon inks.
3DN: Why did you decide to turn to 3D printing?
I turned to 3D printing after observing, during my experiences around the world, recurring problems: a labor shortage, rising material costs, and growing demand that we cannot meet. To reduce the cost of homes and buildings, it is imperative to improve our productivity and efficiency while adopting more sustainable practices that are better adapted to climate change.
3DN: What types of structures can be 3D printed?
We’ve used 3D printing to create a variety of structures, including homes, commercial buildings, landscaping, skate parks, and even coral reefs. We’ve also completed numerous infrastructure projects, such as traffic management, stormwater harvesting systems, flood prevention, and seawall construction.
3DN: What materials and technologies do you use?
Open Think ink, known as Q-Ink, is made from 80% local resources and reduces CO2 emissions by 30% compared to traditional cement. In 2019, we partnered with CyBe, a printer supplier, becoming their regional partner for Australia and New Zealand.
3DN: Do you have any examples of 3D printing projects you’ve completed?
We’ve completed several projects, including the construction of the world’s first passive solar house with 3D printed walls, as well as one of the largest 3D printed houses, covering an area of 252 square meters. We’ve also designed a commercial building for a daycare and a skate park, while working with Auckland City Council to create coral reefs. These initiatives represent some examples of our ongoing commitment to 3D printing.
3DN: How do you see the future of 3D printing in construction?
In the future, I am confident that 3D printers will be integrated into construction teams, becoming an essential tool alongside excavators and cranes. Their widespread adoption will significantly contribute to improving productivity, reducing construction times, and controlling associated costs.
3DN: Any last words for our readers?
The current model in the construction industry is unsustainable in the long term. Continuing to apply the same solutions and expecting a different result is simply counterproductive. I firmly believe that 3D printing will revolutionize our approach to construction, further automating processes and alleviating the pervasive pressures in our sector. This development promises to fundamentally transform the way we build, paving the way for more efficient and innovative methods.