3D printing has been largely confined to hobby projects up until now, but Dutch 3D printing firm MX3D has recently begun its biggest project to date, a record-breaking bridge that proves the value of 3D printed beyond the confines of sculptures and tchotchkes. The metal bridge will span 12 meters, crossing Amsterdam's Oudezijds Achterburgwal canal in the heart of the historic city.
MX3D's project, once completed, will become the first ever 3D-printed metal bridge in the world. Concept bridges have been printed before, but the upcoming Amsterdam span will be the first to be able to support substantial loads. The bridge will serve cyclists and pedestrians, and its performance will be monitored by The Allen Turing Institute to gain information for bridges to be built in the future.
3D-Printed Metal Bridges
MX3D Has Begun Construction on the World's First 3D-Printed Metal Bridge
Trend Themes
1. 3D Printing Advancements - The construction of the world's first 3D-printed metal bridge showcases the advancements in 3D printing technology beyond hobby projects.
2. Functional 3D Printing - The creation of a metal bridge that can support substantial loads demonstrates the expanding capabilities of 3D printing beyond sculptures and decorative items.
3. Structural Printing Innovation - The development of a 3D-printed metal bridge opens up disruptive opportunities in the field of structural printing for infrastructure projects.
Industry Implications
1. Construction - The construction industry can explore the potential of 3D printing for creating structurally sound bridges and other infrastructure projects.
2. Additive Manufacturing - The field of additive manufacturing can leverage the success of the 3D-printed metal bridge project to further advance metal 3D printing techniques.
3. Infrastructure - The infrastructure industry can benefit from the data collected by monitoring the performance of the 3D-printed metal bridge to improve future projects and bridge designs.