BAM installs Scotland’s first 3D concrete printed staircase on Sighthill Bridge across the M8 in Glasgow
This week, BAM craned in a new 3D concrete printed staircase on Sighthill Bridge on behalf of Glasgow City Council.
The staircase will provide access to the new pedestrian and cycle bridge which, once complete, will connect Glasgow City Centre to the Sighthill area.
The steps were printed by Weber Bemix, in the Netherlands, before being shipped to Scotland.
What are the benefits of a 3D concrete printed staircase?
3D printing of the bridge components allows for precision when creating a unique structure, and reduces concerns around weather, as well as the risks associated with on-site construction.
Costs can be also kept down, along with improved carbon efficiency, thanks to a 40% reduction in waste for the removal of moulds and materials when compared to traditional methods.
Ian Steele, BAM contracts manager for the M8 Footbridge said,
“It’s wonderful to see these 3D concrete printed aspects installed as this iconic bridge takes shape. The printed element saw us manufacture the stairwells offsite, creating strong, one-of-a-kind structures, all while reducing waste and interaction with weather and other elements which can create hold ups.
“Although this part of the landscaping will ultimately be hidden from site, it marks a huge step forward for BAM in how we modernise our approach to construction – reducing risk, improving efficiency, and driving down our carbon footprint.
“The use of this technology is in its infancy, but the aspiration is that interest and application grow to such a degree that we can invest in a UK based printing facility which would improve how we construct within the UK”.
The 3D concrete printed staircase is believed to be largest printed concrete construction in the UK to date.
