1. Scope

This document defines the requirements for building and construction projects in which additive manufacturing (AM) techniques are used. The requirements are independent of the material and printing method used. This document specifies the criteria for additive manufacturing processes and quality-relevant characteristics and factors along the AM system operations and defines activities and sequences within an AM cell (Additive manufacturing site) and project. This standard applies to all additive manufacturing technologies in building and construction (load bearing & non-load bearing), structural and infrastructure building elements for residential and commercial applications and follows an approach oriented to the manufacturing process. Local H&S standards and environmental aspects are not covered in this standard but should be applied. Design approvals, material property characterization and testing are are not covered in this standard.

Keywords

AM; applications; qualification

Rationale

The construction sector is increasingly facing challenges with respect to labour shortages, project delays, increased lead times, excessive material use, large amounts of waste, adverse CO2 footprint impacts, and most recently, the covid pandemic and social distancing guidelines. Furthermore, from a market perspective, the global construction demand is increasing especially as the housing crisis continues and infrastructure projects (whether new or sustaining existing structures) are on the increase. Construction 3D Printing (C3DP) is capable of addressing all of these issues directly. Synonyms like AM and 3DCP are also used. Within this standard, the term C3DP is used. Of recent, C3DP has made great strides. Printed elements could potentially prove to be more durable, more sustainable, more eco-friendly, cheaper (en masse), and faster to deliver than conventional approaches. However, without C3DP standards, approval, certification, and especially risk mitigation are unattainable. The focus of this document is to outline the requirements necessary as a basis for production and delivery of high quality additively manufactured structures (residential or infrastructure) in the construction sector. Important steps relating to the C3DP process are defined, which are to be controlled and monitored in order to ensure high quality printed structures whether on or off-site. This document is not intended to be technology or material specific, and therefore sub-processes are applicable or can be disregarded, depending on the approach used. It should be noted however, printed element(s) will need to be approved by a locally certified engineer and adhere to local/regional specifications and requirements. Once complete, this standard will carry the designation of ISO/ASTM52939, per the PSDO agreement between ASTM & ISO.

The title and scope are in draft form and are under development within this ASTM Committee.