3D printing isn't just for industrial production anymore. A groundbreaking project led by German 3D printing pioneer Georgios Staikos proves that the technology can also be of great benefit in the construction industry. The German Red Cross (DRK) in Warendorf Beckum, North Rhine-Westphalia, is building its new headquarters using 3D printing technology, a first for non-residential buildings in Germany.
An ABB IRB 6700 six-axis robot is at the heart of this project, applying building materials with precision and speed. This method not only speeds up construction but also enhances sustainability. The DRK, known for its vital social services, needed more space due to its growing responsibilities. The new building will more than double their space, featuring modern training rooms, offices, and community areas.
An ABB IRB 6700 six-axis robot is at the heart of this project, applying building materials with precision and speed. This method not only speeds up construction but also enhances sustainability. The DRK, known for its vital social services, needed more space due to its growing responsibilities. The new building will more than double their space, featuring modern training rooms, offices, and community areas.
Prof. Dr. Karl-Uwe Strothmann and Detlef Weißenborn from the DRK highlight the project's goals:
“After a thorough analysis and evaluation by our association, we came to the conclusion that the new building should be as innovative, future-oriented and climate-friendly as possible. It was important to us that the technologies used in the construction project reflected our innovation and sustainability ambitions.”
Georgios Staikos, a leader in 3D printed buildings, emphasizes the importance of collaboration with building and construction experts across the value chain. As the owner of STAIKOS 3D GmbH and a shareholder of Innovationszentrum Westfalen GmbH, he has already realized Germany's first 3D-printed residential building.
“In the future, we plan to further advance the 3D printing of buildings by consistently developing the technology and simplifying approval procedures. The ABB robot acts as an optimal platform for our large-format polymer printer, which – compared to a permanently installed gantry printer – offers significantly more flexibility in the additive production of interior walls and facades,” Staikos added.
Together, these partners are setting new standards for sustainable and innovative construction, paving the way for fully automated and digitalized building processes. This project not only showcases the potential of 3D printing in construction but also serves as a model for future developments in the industry.
