Zaha Hadid Architects' Tech Lab has achieved a groundbreaking feat in 3D printing technology, showcasing their expertise in architectural innovation. The lab has successfully printed a six-meter-tall tower, a feat that demands immense technical prowess and precision. This project, designed for the Passenger Terminal Expo 2026, is not just a one-time display but a testament to the lab's ability to create sustainable and adaptable structures.
The tower's construction involved a meticulous process. It was printed using the WASP HDP XL extruder, mounted on a robotic arm, with 15 modular panels, each approximately one meter tall and wide. The printing process, spanning 270 hours, utilized fire-resistant PETG material to comply with exhibition safety regulations. Internally, programmable LED lighting was installed to enhance the tower's aesthetic appeal and structural integrity.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this project is its demountability. The tower's design allows it to be easily assembled and disassembled, making it ideal for various events and exhibitions. This feature not only reduces waste but also demonstrates the lab's commitment to sustainability and adaptability in architectural design.
The technical challenge of this project lies in the machine-time constraint. Printing a single tower required 270 hours of continuous printing on a single extruder. To address this, ZHA employed a strategic solution: a second robot, enabling simultaneous multi-robot production. This innovation allows for parallel processing, significantly reducing the time required for large-scale projects.
ZHA's expertise in 3D printing is further exemplified by their previous work, such as the Striatus footbridge, the first unreinforced 3D-printed concrete bridge. The lab's computation group has been instrumental in pushing the boundaries of 3D printing technology, and their focus on coordination software rather than larger extruders is a significant contribution to the industry.
The industry's convergence on coordination software is evident in the integration of WASP's robotic-arm printing into Ai Build's AI-powered platform. This automation of toolpaths and machine orchestration is revolutionizing large-format printing, allowing for more efficient and scalable production.
Zaha Hadid Architects' achievement with the six-meter tower is a testament to their innovative spirit and technical prowess. It not only showcases their ability to create visually stunning structures but also demonstrates their commitment to sustainability and adaptability in the ever-evolving field of architecture and 3D printing.
