Construction
RIC Unveils Revolutionary 3D Printer for Large-Scale Construction Projects
2025-01-23

RIC Technology, a pioneer in 3D construction printing, has introduced its latest innovation, the RIC-PRIMUS, at this year's World of Concrete event. This cutting-edge system represents a significant leap forward in construction technology, capable of building structures up to three stories high and 32 feet tall. The new printer surpasses its predecessor, the RIC-M1 PRO, by nearly doubling the dimensions it can handle, enabling more efficient and cost-effective construction solutions. The unveiling comes on the heels of a successful 2024 project where an earlier RIC printer, operated by Alquist 3D, completed an impressive Walmart extension, marking a milestone as the largest commercial 3D-printed structure in the U.S. to date.

The RIC-PRIMUS is designed to meet the growing demand for faster, more sustainable construction methods. With a maximum printing height of 32 feet, a length of 85.4 feet, and a width of 36.1 feet, this advanced system can construct both residential and commercial wall systems that are significantly larger than those built by previous models. The robot’s enhanced mobility and speed, along with its compact, modular design, reduce labor requirements from three operators to just two, making the construction process more efficient. Additionally, the system boasts a printing speed of 200mm/s and eight degrees of motion freedom, allowing it to maneuver around rebars and existing walls with precision.

A key feature of the RIC-PRIMUS is its integrated self-loading aggregate mixer pump, which can be adapted to most standard mixer pumps in the industry. This ensures compatibility with various concrete and mortar materials, providing flexibility for large-scale builds while maintaining the precision needed for smaller, detailed projects. A real-time material quality control system minimizes human error, improves printing accuracy, and guarantees consistent structural integrity. These advancements position the RIC-PRIMUS as a game-changer in the 3D construction industry, paving the way for broader commercial applications.

Ziyou Xu, Founder of RIC Technology and Chief Architect of the Robotic Construction Program, emphasized the significance of this development: "RIC-PRIMUS represents a monumental step toward the commercialization of 3D construction. Its expanded printing capacity enables faster and cheaper construction of large-scale projects, opening up new possibilities in both residential and commercial sectors."

The introduction of the RIC-PRIMUS marks a transformative moment in the construction industry. By offering unprecedented capabilities in size, efficiency, and material flexibility, this new system sets the stage for a future where 3D printing plays a central role in shaping the built environment. As the demand for sustainable and cost-effective construction solutions continues to grow, the RIC-PRIMUS stands out as a pivotal innovation that could revolutionize how we build.

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