Hyderabad-based construction firm Apsuja Infratech has joined forces with Mumbai’s additive manufacturing solutions provider Simpliforge Creations to construct the world’s first 3D printed temple.
Nestled within Apsuja Infratech’s forthcoming project in Siddipet, the 3D printed temple is an intricate tripartite structure across an expanse of 3,800 square feet, and 30 feet high. The 3D printing method promises to cut the time needed in half compared to conventional construction methods.
“This structure demonstrates Simpliforge’s ability to print 51° and 32° in outward and inward cantilever, respectively while printing in-situ catering to the architectural and aesthetic requirements. This construction takes care of the structural requirements, principles of temple design, 3d printing requirements while dealing with the challenges of in-situ construction,” Simpliforge Creations CEO Dhruv Gandhi told Times of India (TOI).
The 3D technology creates a sacred space
Simpliforge, a company that specializes in 3D printing, is leveraging its robotic 3D construction facility. This facility, according to the company, is the largest 3D printer of its kind in South Asia. Employing its in-house developed system along with material and software, Simpliforge tackles the “intricate feat of realizing the 3D printed temple’s design and structure.”
“Completely printed on-site, the temple’s dome-shaped structures presented formidable challenges that required the team to employ bespoke design techniques, meticulous analysis, and innovative construction methods while following the principles of temple architecture resulting in this awe-inspiring architectural marvel,” said Apsuja Infratech’s Managing Director, Hari Krishna Jeedipalli.
The temple is divided into three distinct sanctums. Each sanctum is dedicated to a different deity. The first sanctum, which is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, takes the shape of a Modak – a traditional Indian sweet. The second sanctum is a square Shivalay dedicated to Lord Shankar, and a lotus shaped chamber reserved exclusively for Goddess Parvati. The modak and Shivalay sections are complete, but the construction of the lotus-shaped chamber and the towering spires, or Gopurams, is still in progress.
“This proof of concept also sets the stage for future applications of Simpliforge’s robust systems in inaccessible areas like frontiers, high altitude areas, deserts and snowy regions with applications in challenging terrain, disaster-hit areas, and defense applications. The enclosed dome-shaped structures eliminating the need for flat slab roofs paves the way for extra-terrestrial applications,” added Jeedipalli.
Symbolizing innovation and faith with 3D Printing
3D printing has been used in construction for many years. A 3D-printed temple is an impressive achievement. Was there ever a place of worship that was 3D-printed?
This year started off with an announcement made by Dubai’s Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) set to construct the world’s first 3D printed mosque, situated in the Bur Dubai neighborhood. This 2,000 square meter mosque is set to welcome 600 worshippers before 2025. The initial cost of the project is higher than that of conventional methods. However, it is expected to balance out in time. IACAD’s focus on mosque sustainability and Islamic leadership drives this venture. In October 2023 construction will use a concrete blend that is specialized to reduce waste material and improve sustainability. Employing a ‘robotic 3D printer,’ the process will involve three workers depositing materials at a rapid pace of two square meters per hour. A four-month building phase will be followed by an furnishing stage lasting a full year. IACAD is working closely with Dubai Municipality for final design approval, aiming for the mosque’s opening within the next two years.
Don Ajamian Construction and Emergent 3D successfully erected the world’s first 3D printed church in Tehama County, California. Demonstrating novel construction techniques, the Lake California Community Church boasts 3D printed interior and exterior walls, incorporating COBOD‘s advanced concrete system. While the roof adhered to traditional construction methods and the church’s foundation featured a standard concrete slab, meticulous attention was paid to the inner walls. The walls, designed by a distinguished architect, resemble elegant floor to ceiling curtains. However, they possess a solid structure that directs sound waves into the center audience.
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Image of a 3D printed temple from Aspuja Infratech & Simpliforge Creations. Image via Simpliforge Creations.
