University of Maine Unveils World's Largest 3D Printer, Surpassing Previous Record

The University of Maine has unveiled the world's largest 3D printer, surpassing its own previous record-holding machine. The new thermoplastic polymer printer, dubbed the "Factory of the Future 1.0," is four times larger than the university's previous 3D printer and can print objects up to 96 feet long, 32 feet wide, and 18 feet high at a rate of up to 500 pounds per hour.

The printer combines robotics, sensors, high-performance computing, and artificial intelligence to create large-scale objects using bio-based materials like wood fiber and bio-resin. It was funded primarily by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and built in collaboration with Ingersoll Rand and Somatex.

The university's original 3D printer, certified by Guinness World Records as the world's largest polymer 3D printer in 2019, was used to create a 600-square-foot single-family home made of recyclable materials. The university believes this technology can help address the shortage of affordable housing and construction workers while reducing the carbon footprint of the building and construction sector.

Why this matters: The unveiling of this advanced 3D printer shows the potential for large-scale additive manufacturing to change industries such as construction, defense, and sustainable manufacturing. The University of Maine's commitment to innovation in this field could lead to more affordable and eco-friendly solutions for housing and other infrastructure needs.

University President Joan Ferrini-Mundy stated, "This reinforces the university's standing as a leader in composite materials and advanced manufacturing." The university plans to use the new printer to create a variety of objects, including boats, defense department structures, and homes for the homeless, as part of its efforts to expand its 3D printing capabilities and explore the potential of this technology for large-scale construction projects.

Key Takeaways

• University of Maine unveils world's largest 3D printer, 4x bigger than previous
• New printer can create objects up to 96ft long, 32ft wide, 18ft high at 500lbs/hr
• Printer uses bio-based materials like wood fiber and bio-resin, funded by U.S. Army
• Printer aims to address affordable housing shortage and reduce construction's carbon footprint
• University plans to use printer for boats, defense structures, and homes for the homeless