In a new first, Kelvin6K, a Chennai based construction 3D printing Startup, and Military Engineer Services (MES) Tambaram inaugurated 3D printed defence structures in Chennai. This was India’s first commercial onsite 3D printed building was inaugurated at MES Tambaram, a Defence Project site. The project was completed in collaboration with Kelvin6K, a Chennai based construction 3D printing Startup.
The 3D printed defence structures which include a guard room and sentry post, were constructed using a domestically produced SCARA (Selective Compliance Articulated Robot Arm) robotic printer.
3D Printed Defence Structures
This project was executed by Garrison Engineer (AF) Tambaram under the command of Chief Engineer (AF) and Commander Works Engineer CWE (AF) Bangalore, in collaboration with Chennai-based Startup Kelvin6k, was unveiled by Air Commodore Ratish Kumar VM M-i-D. This initiative marks a step forward in construction automation, utilizing Kelvin6k’s SCARA printers to build structures directly onsite.
Dr. Pradeepkumar Sundarraj and Dr. Ravi Kant Upadhyay, leaders of Kelvin6k, have introduced this 3D printing technology to the Indian construction sector. The company holds a patent for their construction robotic 3D printer and claims to offer cost-effective solutions compared to international alternatives. Following this project, Kelvin6k has announced plans to construct additional structures across India, aiming to address housing demands through 3D printing technology. The company also intends to expand its operations internationally in the coming year.
Kelvin6k’s approach involves automating various construction processes, including foundation laying, concrete reinforcement, plastering, and painting. The company states that their technology could potentially reduce house construction time from months to days.
Kelvin6K SCARA robotic 3D printer
This 3D printed defence structures project marks the dawn of a new era in the automation of construction, leveraging the advanced capabilities of Kelvin6k’s fully ‘Made in India’ SCARA (Selective Compliance Articulated Robot Arm) printers. These cutting-edge robotic concrete 3D printers, capable of constructing buildings directly onsite, offer a faster, more sustainable, and cost-effective alternative to traditional construction methods.
This development represents a shift in India’s technological landscape, with domestic companies like Kelvin6k developing advanced technologies for both local use and potential export. The successful implementation of this technology in a defence project also highlights the military’s interest in innovative construction methods.
As 3D printing in construction gains traction globally, projects like this may pave the way for wider adoption of such technologies in India’s construction sector. However, the long-term implications and widespread applicability of this technology remain to be seen.
