In a pioneering move towards modernizing military infrastructure, the Indian Army has inaugurated its largest 3D-printed building to date at Morar Cantonment in Gwalior. This innovative structure, designed to house 14 jawans, marks Madhya Pradesh's first foray into 3D-printed construction.
The project was a collaborative effort between Telangana-based Simpliforge Creations, the Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IIT-H), and the Military Engineer Services (MES).
This initiative showcases the potential of 3D printing technology to provide efficient and rapid housing solutions for troops stationed in remote and challenging terrains.
The building, spanning approximately 2,500 square feet, stands at a height of 11-11.5 feet. While the foundation was laid using conventional methods, the 10-foot structure above ground, excluding the beam, was entirely 3D printed.
This process significantly expedited construction, with the 3D printing phase completed within a month, compared to the two weeks required for the foundation work.
Dhruv Gandhi, co-founder and CEO of Simpliforge Creations, highlighted the efficiency of the technology, stating that the 3D printing portion was completed in just one month.
He acknowledged that while the overall cost was about 20% higher than traditional construction, the time savings and potential for deployment in difficult terrains make it a viable option for future military infrastructure projects.
IIT-H played a crucial role in the project, providing design analysis and structural vetting, while Simpliforge Creations handled the design and construction aspects. The barrack was officially inaugurated by Major General KTG Krishnan, General Officer Commanding, Shahbaaz Division.
This development aligns with the Indian Army's increasing focus on leveraging cutting-edge technologies for enhanced operational efficiency and troop welfare. The success of this project paves the way for wider adoption of 3D printing in constructing military infrastructure, particularly in areas with logistical challenges.
