FAQ Material for 3D Concrete Printing

Material for 3D Concrete Printing

• What kind of material is used for 3d concrete printing?
  Though the construction method is commonly known as 3D concrete printing, the used material isn’t exactly concrete. For 3D printing: we use mortar; specifically our in-house developed CyBe Mortar
• What does 3D concrete printing material consist of?
  To print, we use mortar: a mixture that often includes additives like cement, sand, and water. Blending these materials creates a paste-like consistency, which can be printed.
• What 3D concrete printing material does CyBe use for their systems?
  We recommend utilizing CyBe Mortar, a material rigorously tested and certified for its rapid set-time. Our CyBe Mortar Ready-Mix facilitates high-speed, high-quality printing. Through our cutting-edge technology and intelligent printing processes, we achieve a print width of 40 mm, significantly reducing the required material volume. Additionally, through our Partnership Program, CyBe Mortar can be produced locally by blending our concentrated CyBe PowerPack with regionally available resources such as cement, aggregates, and sand. It’s essential to note that our systems are specifically optimized for use with our proprietary material. However, clients retain the flexibility to use alternative materials if desired. Over our 10 years of printing, we have worked with a multitude of materials available around the globe. While we have yet to find a better printing material than our own CyBe Mortar, our equipment is capable of processing and printing with a wide variety of other materials as well.
• How can I optimize material costs in 3D concrete printing?
  Our standard print layer width is 40 mm, which effectively minimizes material usage compared to traditional concrete walls or other 3D concrete printers. This inherently reduces the amount of material required. Additionally, through our Local Material Development Program, we empower our customers to produce CyBe Mortar locally by blending our concentrated CyBe PowerPack with regionally available materials such as cement, aggregates, and sand. This initiative not only reduces raw material expenses and transportation costs but also ensures the quality of the material, leading to optimal printing results.
• Can I mix and use my own material with your 3D concrete printer?
  Yes, you have the option to mix and use your own developed material with our system. However, it is important to note that doing so carries certain risks. We cannot guarantee the system’s proper response and functionality, as it may be susceptible to issues such as clogging. Furthermore, we cannot assure that the material will yield the same high-quality print results as CyBe Mortar. It is essential to understand that using your own material will void the system’s warranty.
• What are the technical specifications of 3D concrete printer material CyBe Mortar, such as strength and curing time?
  The technical specifications of CyBe Mortar include superior strength compared to traditional concrete. The mortars exhibit fast curing times, typically ranging from 3 to 25 minutes, depending on the specific type of mortar and the length of the print path. For wall elements printed with the CyBe Robot Crawler, a three-minute set time is optimal. The curing time of the mortar can be adjusted by varying the amount of retarder added to the mix. For a comprehensive overview of the mortar’s technical specifications, please refer to the CyBe Mortar datasheet available in our Knowledgebase in the CyBe Lybrary. You can find the link to our CyBe Lybrary at the top of your screen.