A Novel of 3D Printer Types and Sizes in the Construction Industry

10 pages•Published: July 23, 2025

Abstract

This study provides a comprehensive review of 3D printer types and sizes utilized in the construction industry, examining their applications, capabilities, and impacts on modern construction processes. With 3D printing revolutionizing construction through enhanced design flexibility, reduced material waste, and labor efficiency, it is essential to understand the distinct roles of different printer types and scales. The construction sector has begun adopting various printer types, such as robotic arms (stationary and mobile robotic arms) and gantry-based systems. Each type offers distinct benefits for specific construction needs, from creating detailed prototypes and specialized components to printing structural elements and entire buildings. Small-scale 3D printers provide greater precision and flexibility, are suitable for intricate designs and component-level production, and are often used in rapid prototyping or for custom architectural details. In contrast, large-scale 3D printers are primarily used for constructing full-size structures, utilizing substantial material volumes to achieve stability and durability. These printers, often fixed or semi-mobile, enable efficient production of large sections but may lack the fine detail achievable by smaller systems. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of these 3D printer types and sizes, assessing their efficiency in construction for both industrial and institutional use.

Keyphrases: 3d printers, 3d printing, construction, gantry, robotic arm

In: Wesley Collins, Anthony J. Perrenoud and John Posillico (editors). Proceedings of Associated Schools of Construction 61st Annual International Conference, vol 6, pages 401-410.

Links:	https://easychair.org/publications/paper/vNCC
	https://doi.org/10.29007/wbsm

BibTeX entry

@inproceedings{ASC2025:Novel_3D_Printer_Types,
  author    = {Amaal Al Shenawa and Poonam Karoti},
  title     = {A Novel of 3D Printer Types and Sizes in the Construction Industry},
  booktitle = {Proceedings of Associated Schools of Construction 61st Annual International Conference},
  editor    = {Wesley Collins and Anthony J. Perrenoud and John Posillico},
  series    = {EPiC Series in Built Environment},
  volume    = {6},
  publisher = {EasyChair},
  bibsource = {EasyChair, https://easychair.org},
  issn      = {2632-881X},
  url       = {/publications/paper/vNCC},
  doi       = {10.29007/wbsm},
  pages     = {401-410},
  year      = {2025}}

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