Electrical Wholesaling’s editors have been tracking the development of 3D printing technology for the construction industry for the past few years. But when we got a recent email announcing that SQ4D's 3D printer Max ARCS (named “Max”) was recently inducted into the Long Island Builders Institute (LIBI), that really caught our attention.
SQ4D, Patchogue, NY, has developed its patent-pending ARCS (Autonomous Robotic Construction System) technology to robotically build a structure's footings, slab, foundation walls, interior walls, exterior walls and roof. All of this is printed on-site and accounts for over 50% of the total construction. SQ4D aims to revolutionize the antiquated field of construction by utilizing a combination of automation, additive manufacturing and sustainable building methods to produce cost-efficient structures, all while improving worker safety.
According to the press release long-time LIBI member Charles Weinraub, one of Long Island's most active developers, has already built one home with his own Max ARCS printer, and has since changed his entire business model for 2023 to build exclusively using 3D printing technology. Already included in his upcoming plans are a number of 3D printed projects, such as a 25-lot subdivision as well as a 26-unit senior rental community, both scheduled to break ground in 2023.
"The construction industry hasn't been disrupted in 100 years,” Weinraub said in the press release. "SQ4D's revolutionary technology enables me to deliver a far better product in less time at a lower cost."
Accepting the membership on behalf of Max was Kristen Henry, Chief Technology Officer of the company. "It's time to drop the hammer and let the 3D printers do their work as we push the construction industry forward", said Henry of the historic induction.
Formed in 1941, the Long Island Builders Institute (LIBI) is an association of building industry professionals. LIBI is a local chapter of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and the New York State Builders Association (NYSBA). The organizations represent over 140,000 members, including builders, developers, general contractors, remodelers, and now… a robot named Max.