World’s First 3D Printed Concrete Tanks Completed in Kuwait

The first on-site 3D printed water tanks have been constructed in Kuwait by building engineering company Abyan, using a ‘COBOD’ 3D construction printer which achieved a 25% reduction in the amount of concrete and reinforcement used compared to casted tanks.#

Whereas 3D printing has already been an established method when it comes to small-scale production and even construction, the Abyan towers mark a milestone in scale. The tanks, with 4.5m in height and a diameter of 7m, were 3D printed with low cost concrete in only five days and include macro fibers for reinforcement.

Traditional construction of tanks usually has the limitation of walls needing to be at the same thickness from top to bottom. 3D construction printed allows engineers to adjust thickness where needed. The bottom walls can be thicker and upper walls thinner with materials saved and construction made more economical and sustainable.