3D-printed Walmart extension set to revolutionize US retail
The world of 3D-printed architecture and explore the implications of Walmart's groundbreaking project.
The 3D Printing Process
The 3D printing process used in the Walmart extension involved extruding a cement-like mixture out of a nozzle in layers to build up the basic structure of the building. This process is known as stereolithography (SLA) or fused deposition modeling (FDM), depending on the specific technology used.
In the case of the Walmart extension, Alquist 3D used a customized 3D printing system that allowed them to print large structures like this one. The printing process involved the following steps:
The Benefits of 3D-Printed Architecture
The use of 3D printing technology in construction has several benefits, including:
The Future of 3D-Printed Architecture
The use of 3D printing technology in construction is still in its early stages, but it has the potential to revolutionize the way buildings are designed and built. Some of the potential applications of 3D-printed architecture include:
Challenges and Limitations
While 3D printing technology has the potential to revolutionize the construction industry, there are still several challenges and limitations that need to be addressed, including:
The Role of Walmart and Alquist 3D
Walmart and Alquist 3D are playing a crucial role in the development of 3D-printed architecture. Walmart is providing the market demand and financial resources to drive the adoption of 3D printing technology, while Alquist 3D is providing the technical expertise and infrastructure to make it happen.
The partnership between Walmart and Alquist 3D is significant, as it demonstrates the potential for 3D printing technology to be used in commercial construction projects. The success of this project could pave the way for the widespread adoption of 3D printing technology in the construction industry.
The Implications for the Construction Industry
The use of 3D printing technology in construction has the potential to disrupt the entire industry. Some of the implications for the construction industry include:
Overall, the use of 3D printing technology in construction is a significant development that has the potential to transform the industry. While there are still many challenges and limitations to be addressed, the potential benefits of 3D printing technology make it an exciting and promising area of research and development.
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REVOLUTIONIZING COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION
In partnership with Walmart, Alquist completed the largest 3D concrete-printed (3DCP) commercial building in the United States.
The 8,000 square-foot addition to Walmart Supercenter in Athens, Tenn. boasts 19’4” high walls – among the tallest, seismic-ready, 3DCP structures in the world.
The use of 3DCP revolutionizes the construction of commercial spaces to offer more efficient and sustainable solutions when compared to traditional construction methods.
What is Alquist3D?
Alquist 3D is a groundbreaking technology developed by Alquist, a pioneering company in the field of 3D printing and additive manufacturing. Alquist 3D is a proprietary 3D printing process that combines innovative materials and techniques to create intricate, high-performance structures that were previously unimaginable.
Some of the key features and benefits of Alquist 3D include:
Alquist 3D has numerous potential applications across various industries, including:
Alquist 3D has the potential to revolutionize various industries by enabling the creation of complex, high-performance structures that were previously impossible or impractical to manufacture. By leveraging this technology, companies can reduce production costs, improve product performance, and gain a competitive edge in their respective markets.
From Alquist Website:
About ALquist
In December of 2021, Alquist became synonymous with 3D concrete printing (3DCP) by completing the first owner-occupied 3D printed home in the world. Alquist uses 3D printing technology to create exceptional designs while lowering the cost of housing and infrastructure. After 6+ years of research, and working with multiple machines and materials, Alquist continues to be a leader in the industry.
Alquist’s approach to 3DCP has been unique in our emerging industry. As 3DCP continued to emerge, Alquist took the route of becoming a construction company – as opposed to a manufacturer. Our goal is to become experts on a wide variety of printers, materials, and methods to expand our understanding and gain insightful knowledge of the best practices for the future of this industry. Alquist is the only 3DCP company that knows to work directly with local city officials, passcode and permitting, and successfully print a home using multiple printers and/or materials.
In September 2023 Alquist moved our offices to Greeley, CO after working with the City and the State of Colorado. Together with our municipal partners, and Aims Community College, to create our unique Economic Ecosystem, bringing jobs and housing back to our communities.
Alquist’s approach to 3DCP has been unique in our emerging industry. As 3DCP continued to emerge, Alquist took the route of becoming a construction company – as opposed to a manufacturer. Our goal is to become experts on a wide variety of printers, materials, and methods to expand our understanding and gain insightful knowledge of the best practices for the future of this industry. Alquist is the only 3DCP company that knows to work directly with local city officials, passcode and permitting, and successfully print a home using multiple printers and/or materials.
In September 2023 Alquist moved our offices to Greeley, CO after working with the City and the State of Colorado. Together with our municipal partners, and Aims Community College, to create our unique Economic Ecosystem, bringing jobs and housing back to our communities.
Zachary Mannheimer, Founder + Board Chair
Patrick Callahan, CEO
Mike Halas, Chief Strategy Officer
Ryan Cox, Chief Operating Officer
Chris Vaughn, Senior Operations Director
Aiman Hussein, Director of Technologies
Joe Crimmings, Creative Director
Greg Galifianakis, HR Director
Gia Galifianakis, General Manager
Krissy Adamow, Senior Programs Manager
Contact Us
Alquist 3D Headquarters
617 6th Street
Greeley, CO 80631
For Questions
sales@alquist3d.com