On this page, you’ll find the most frequently asked questions about 3D concrete printing for your project. Still haven’t found what you were looking for? Reach out to us via our contact form!
3D concrete printing for your project
- How does 3D concrete printing work?3D concrete printers construct structures layer by layer based on programmed instructions. CyBe’s printers utilize our proprietary Chysel and Artysan software to prepare 3D models and control the printing process. The software guides the printer, ensuring precise positioning of the nozzle as it moves from coordinate to coordinate, achieving an average speed of 500 mm/s (the fastest in the industry) while continuously extruding concrete. Various concrete mortars are used, tailored to the size and type of structure being printed. For wall elements, CyBe Mortar, our fast-drying mortar that sets in 3–5 minutes, is utilized, enabling the printing of one wall element (3x3m or 9x9ft) in approximately 1.5 hours (including startup and cleaning). When printing entire finished modules (PPVC), a longer set time can be achieved by adding more retarder during the mixing procedure.
- What are the main benefits of 3D concrete printing?For us at CyBe, we view 3D concrete printing as a means to an end. What is that end, you ask? We focus on faster, more affordable, and therefore more sustainable construction solutions. 3D concrete printing is just a small part of our construction process. Before you can start construction, no matter the method, you have to design your project. By leveraging 3D parametric design software, we not only optimize the actual construction process but also the preconstruction phase of a project. 3D concrete printing complements 3D design by allowing a lot of design freedom and smart construction details to be developed and optimized without being limited by traditional methods. These smart details and designs only need to be created once, as we have an international platform for sharing these innovations with all our partners, called the CyBe Lybrary. For example, when our partner in Morocco wanted to print a public restroom, they did not have to hire an architect because they could simply download a model from our Lybrary, uploaded by our partner in Japan, resulting in reduced project costs before actual construction even began. Most of you reading this might think, at this stage, that sounds like a great first step, but what about the actual direct cost of construction using 3D concrete printing? What about the material price (which is, of course, more expensive than traditional concrete), and the integration of 3D concrete printing with traditional methods for elements not printed, such as the foundation or the roof? You will never hear us say that 3D printing is some magic solution that will allow you to build a full house in one day for €10,000 (as some articles online might suggest). While it is not a magic solution or a so-called silver bullet, 3D printing does offer many benefits during the actual construction phase. Since 3D printing is an automated process, significant reductions in labor costs can be achieved because the 3D printer requires only 2-3 operators to build large and complex walls. 3D concrete printing is also significantly faster than traditional construction; a 3x3m (9x9ft) wall is printed in just under one hour. This reduces overall construction time and, therefore, time-related costs. Regarding material costs, it is true that 3D printable concrete is more expensive than traditional concrete (anyone telling you otherwise is “hopefully optimistic”). However, when implemented properly, as we do at CyBe, 3D concrete construction can reduce the amount of material needed by almost 60%. This is achieved because our 3D printer applies thin layers of material precisely where needed and not more. There is also almost no waste, as 3D printing is a precise construction method. With this in mind, we typically achieve a direct construction cost reduction of roughly 2-5%. Due to time reductions in both the preconstruction and construction phases, we can save between 15% and 30% on overall construction costs.
- How can concrete 3d printing help the environment?3D concrete printing is more environmentally friendly than traditional construction methods. The material used is often more sustainable than regular concrete, and the technique allows for less overall material usage. There is also less waste material, and there are options for local material development. 3DCP also relies on energy as opposed to fossil fuels, and the low print times make the technique energy-efficient. Additionally, by combining Prefabricated Prefinished Volumetric Construction (PPVC) with 3DCP, you’re able to construct modular, net-zero housing units.
- Can I see examples of 3D concrete printing projects your company has completed?Absolutely! Our company has extensive experience and has successfully executed numerous projects we’re proud of! To get a glimpse of our work, please visit the cases on our website using the top menu, or by navigating to https://cybe.eu/cases/!
- I am interested in purchasing a 3D concrete printer. Where do I start?You’re at the right place! Our FAQ provides you with quite a lot of information that you need to know. If, after reading the answers, you feel confident to take the next step, our sales team is eager to connect with you. Simply fill out our contact form and describe your inquiry (https://cybe.eu/contact/). We’ll get in touch with you shortly. To help us assist you to the best of our abilities, we would appreciate it if you could specify the nature of your inquiry as much as possible. By doing so, we can connect you with one of our experts who is best suited to help with your needs.
- Is my product or project suitable for 3D concrete printing?At the moment there is a vast amount of possibilities for using CyBe’s 3D Concrete printing technology. 3DCP enables free-form design, which makes it possible to build complex forms. We can do a printability analysis to see whether your project is suited for 3D printing. To check if your product or projects is suited all we need is a 3D-model or design. We will verify whether your plans are printable for us.
- Is 3D concrete printing possible in every climate?Yes, very much so! We have successfully conducted printing projects in various climates and temperatures across the globe, ranging from desert environments to sub-zero conditions. We adapt our printing parameters accordingly to ensure optimal performance and quality.
- How do I decide which 3D concrete printing system is best for my project?This can be complex to determine right off the bat. The most important factor, among others, is what you would like to print the majority of the time. If you are interested in purchasing one of our 3D concrete printers, you can get in touch with us via the contact form. Our sales team will guide you through every step to determine the best printer for your specific application. If you would like to learn more about selecting the best printer for your needs yourself, you can read more about the topic in the following post: https://cybe.eu/choosing-your-3d-concrete-printer/
- What do you get when you buy a 3D concrete printing system?We offer a comprehensive package that includes hardware, software, training, support, and service options, ensuring a seamless experience for your 3D concrete printing needs. Our package features essential components that create a robust printing system, including options such as the Robot, Robot Crawler, Robot Track, or Gantry Robot. Additionally, it includes a mixing system and our proprietary operational software, Chysel, tailored specifically for 3D concrete printing. You will also have access to Artysan, our intuitive software for printer control. To kickstart your printing journey, we provide a starter kit complete with all necessary consumables. Moreover, our offering includes comprehensive operator training to equip you with the essential knowledge and skills required to not only operate the machine successfully but also to use the technology effectively to build and profit. With a dedicated support contract, our team is ready to assist you at every step, ensuring your success is our top priority. Whether it’s learning, support, or troubleshooting, we are committed to helping you achieve your printing goals. Your success is our success.
- What is the delivery time for 3D concrete printers?You can expect to receive our 3D printers approximately 5 to 6 months after making your initial payment. To potentially shorten this timeframe, feel free to inquire about our currently available in-stock machines.
- Can a 3D concrete printer be shipped to my location?We have extensive experience in shipping our printers worldwide. From North America to Europe, Asia, Africa, and beyond, our printers have been delivered to various locations around the globe. You name it, we’ve probably shipped there—well, except Antarctica… But we sure love a challenge if you’re up for it!
- What kind of additional items and factory/site preparation is needed to start 3D concrete printing?The minimal requirements are a 3-phase power supply and a tap water supply of 250 liters per hour. To prepare your factory or construction site for printing, we have created a detailed list called our ‘Pre-Print Checklist.’ This document outlines all necessary facility requirements, including helpful tools and items to further facilitate the printing process. With the purchase of your printer, we assist you in preparing the facility so that the printers are operational within a few days after delivery, allowing you to start production!
- What is the warranty on a 3D concrete printer?CyBe provides a standard one-year warranty with the purchase of our 3D printers. While our systems are reliable and perform optimally, unforeseen issues may arise. Rest assured that, within the warranty period and in accordance with our Service Level Agreement, any necessary repairs or replacements due to malfunctions will be promptly addressed. After the one-year warranty period, our commitment to customer satisfaction continues. You can opt for ongoing support through a service contract or schedule individual service appointments for any maintenance or repairs needed.
- What is the cost of a 3D concrete printer?The starting cost of our different printers can be found on their respective pages on our website (https://cybe.eu/3d-concrete-printing/printers/). These prices include the basic printers and necessary auxiliary equipment. However, we understand that every situation and need is unique. That’s why we offer tailored solutions that include additional options for our printers, supplementary training, service and support packages, and full transportation arrangements. We believe in providing comprehensive solutions that meet your specific requirements, ensuring a smooth and successful implementation of 3D concrete printing. While it’s important to know your initial investment to start 3D concrete printing, at CyBe we believe it’s even more crucial to determine the ROI on that investment. A printer costing €1,000 that results in a loss on every print is far less appealing than a printer costing €300,000 that can pay for itself within a year. To determine this ROI, our sales team would be happy to assist you with the business case for your specific application.
- Are there financing possibilities when buying a 3D concrete printer?While CyBe itself does not offer international financing or leasing programs, we work with local partners who may be able to provide leasing or financing options. The availability of these options depends on your location. Alternatively, CyBe offers various payment structures to accommodate your specific needs. Our team would be happy to discuss these options with you during a call.
- What does it cost to 3D print a building?The total cost of printing a building varies depending on several factors, including its size, specific requirements such as insulation, and the chosen print strategy. Our approach aims to significantly reduce construction time, resulting in potential savings due to decreased overhead costs at construction sites and reduced labor expenses. Additionally, by organizing construction projects in a way that maximizes printer utilization, overall costs for 3D-printed buildings can be substantially lower. However, it’s important to note that the total price of a building can vary greatly depending on these factors. If you’d like to receive a customized quotation for your project or need assistance in estimating the costs for a building in your region, please don’t hesitate to contact our team via the contact form.
- How quick is 3D concrete printing and what is the speed per square meter?Our printers operate at speeds of up to 500 mm per second. This allows CyBe 3D concrete printers to print 1 square meter of a double-layered wall in just under 6 minutes.
- What is the production capacity of a 3D concrete printer?The production capacity depends on the level of difficulty of the element. We recommend printing with a minimum of 2 certified operators to manage 1) the Mix Pump System, 2) the printing process and the overview. In a day, you can do multiple prints, depending on how big the prints are and how fast the preparation process goes. The more often you print, and also the more you repeat a model, the easier the preparation process becomes. With nonstop printing of 2x2m walls, you would be able to print at least 8 wall elements in a day. Of course, if you gain more experience, this number increases dramatically
- How are 3D concrete printed structures reinforced?3D printed structures are reinforced with rebar. The rebar can be placed during the printing process, for maximum adhesiveness and speed.
- Which software is used for 3D concrete printing and what are the benefits?The CyBe 3D Concrete Printers use in-house developed software, such as Chysel (our slicer) and Artysan (our robot controller software). Additional information can be found at https://cybe.eu/3d-concrete-printing/software/