Connector for Takenaka
MX3D produced a Structural Steel Connector, designed in collaboration with the engineers of Takenaka, one of the largest architecture, engineering, and construction firms in Japan. This project shows the progress in the production of highly customized and engineered steel connectors using robotic 3D metal printing, i.e. Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM). The Steel Connector’s net weight is 40Kg reaching up to 45Kg after its hollow core was filled with approximately 2.5 liters of mortar. MX3D has 3D printed this connector using Duplex stainless steel, an alloy renown for its good mechanical properties and excellent corrosion resistance, ideal for structural design.
The goal of this project is to automate both the design and production of complex connectors for large structures in the building industry. As the complexity of structures increases and skilled labour in countries with aging populations is less available such innovation is much required in the building industry. Closing the digital design loop is another key focus point for the construction industry. The method used to produce this connector allows for full digital control over the design, production, timeline and cost with great logistic benefits and excellent integration with BIM applications.
The Structural Steel Connector is printed using an advanced version of the MX3D proprietary technology MetalXL. For more information about the robotic WAAM solution visit mx3d.com/systems.
The collaboration continued with destructive and non-destructive testing on a series of printed duplex steel connectors – see below for more research results
Recent research with destructive and non-destructive testing on a series of printed duplex steel connectors shows strong and consistent performance on mechanical and material properties. The successful tests are a crucial step towards certification of the structural connector, which parties intend to use for innovative building projects.
Destructive testing on a series of printed structural connectors showed strong and constant mechanical and material properties, paving the way to certification. Tensile tests, fatigue tests and buckling tests performed on the connectors showed convincing results. CT scans relieved the interior was dense and solid. Moreover, compressive failure tests confirm the clear effect of mortar filling on buckling resistance and ultimate strength. A 4mm-thick connector filled with mortar has approximately the same strength as an 8mm-thick connector (2.2 kN vs. 2.3 kN resp.), reducing 50% of required material making the freedom of form that 3D metal printing offers even more advantageous. The material properties and mechanical testing achieved desired specs and consistency, establishing the relevance of robotic 3D printing to the industry.
The strong mechanical and material results from the research project confirm the relevance of robotic 3D metal printing for architecture, engineering and construction and open up a new generation of structural connections for the AEC industry.
The Structural Steel Connector is printed using an advanced version of the MX3D proprietary technology MetalXL.
For more information about the robotic WAAM solution visit mx3d.com/systems.
