A major 3DCP project appears to have failed, and the cause is a bit mysterious.
The project was to build a residence at the University of Windsor in Ontario. Some two million CAD were invested in the project, which started a couple of years ago.
As of now, the project has been paused and no construction activity is taking place at the site, although some work had been commenced. 3D printers and other equipment have been removed.
CTV News investigated the situation and was only able to obtain this statement from the University:
“The University of Windsor’s 3D-printed multi-storey residence is at the municipal occupancy approval stage. The building technology is breaking new ground, and while its materials have been tested and exceed current safety standards, they have not yet been formally incorporated into the Building Code for a structure of this type. The University is working with project partners to advance that process.”
This is very peculiar, for several reasons:
- Why was a building permit issued if there were questions about adherence to building code?
- Will the local building code be adapted to include 3D printed technology?
- Who decided to proceed on this project when it was not clear that it met building codes?
It’s also not clear whether the contractors involved in the project were paid for their efforts, nor whether any construction activity will resume. However, apparently the project is still active, as far as the University is concerned.
This situation demonstrates a real risk for 3DCP projects in any location: while the technology may work very well, it must be approved by local building codes before you can use it. In this case, someone jumped the gun and got caught.
If you are considering a 3DCP project, be absolutely sure it is legally feasible to proceed in your jurisdiction before committing.
Via CTV News
