When 3D Printing Flows Like Water
United Utilities is revolutionizing British water infrastructure with industrial-scale 3D printing. 💧🖨️ Following the success of the Water Industry Printfrastructure project, the company is already using printed parts in its daily operations, from nozzles to complex concrete structures. An advancement that demonstrates how additive manufacturing can transform even the most essential services.
From Weeks to Hours: The Magic of Printing Infrastructure
Key achievements include:
- Temporary 3D printing plant in concrete installed in Wigan
- Sewer chambers and walls printed in compliance with IED regulations
- 50% reduction in emissions compared to traditional methods
A Future Shaped Layer by Layer
United Utilities' AMP8 program (with a budget of £5.1 billion) will integrate this technology to:
- Modernize water and wastewater networks
- Accelerate critical construction times
- Reduce the carbon footprint of infrastructure
"This isn't the 3D printing from your university projects: here every layer supports tons of water... and expectations"
The Steady Flow of Innovation
While many associate 3D printing with prototypes and small parts, United Utilities demonstrates that:
- Industrial scale is possible
- Traditional materials like concrete have a place
- Sustainability and efficiency can go hand in hand