Experimental and numerical prototyping of a complex cement column formwork for construction

Complex shapes in civil engineering require complex and unique molds. Starting from the fact that 3D printing technology primarily targets this type of product, this paper investigates the potential adaptation of 3D printing in the mold and formwork industry. A small-scale printing test was realized to build a complex architectural design prototype using cement. The results are presented according to three phases: 1 - Selection phase: 3D printing technology was selected and the adequate printing material. Experimental and numerical studies were realized to assess the material. 2 - Adaptation phase: the 3D printer was scaled for use. 3 - Prototyping phase, that deals with printing the formwork and evaluating the cement poles. The research proved the feasibility of using 3D printing technology to produce complex-shaped prototyped formworks for cement poles in construction.Complex shapes in civil engineering require complex and unique molds. Starting from the fact that 3D printing technology primarily targets this type of product, this paper investigates the potential adaptation of 3D printing in the mold and formwork industry. A small-scale printing test was realized to build a complex architectural design prototype using cement. The results are presented according to three phases: 1 - Selection phase: 3D printing technology was selected and the adequate printing material. Experimental and numerical studies were realized to assess the material. 2 - Adaptation phase: the 3D printer was scaled for use. 3 - Prototyping phase, that deals with printing the formwork and evaluating the cement poles. The research proved the feasibility of using 3D printing technology to produce complex-shaped prototyped formworks for cement poles in construction.