In a pioneering initiative, Chennai-based startup Kelvin6K, in collaboration with the Military Engineer Services (MES) Tambaram, has successfully inaugurated India’s first commercial onsite 3D-printed defence structures in Chennai. The project includes a guard room and a sentry post, constructed using Kelvin6K’s domestically developed SCARA (Selective Compliance Articulated Robot Arm) robotic printer. This achievement signifies a significant advancement in construction automation within the defence sector.

The inauguration ceremony was led by Air Commodore Ratish Kumar VM M-i-D, highlighting the military’s commitment to adopting innovative construction methods. The use of 3D printing technology in these structures demonstrates the potential for rapid, cost-effective, and sustainable building solutions, particularly beneficial for defence applications requiring swift infrastructure development.

Kelvin6K’s approach automates various construction processes, including foundation laying, concrete reinforcement, plastering, and painting. The company claims that their technology can reduce house construction time from months to days, offering a faster and more sustainable alternative to traditional methods. Following this successful project, Kelvin6K plans to construct additional structures across India to address housing demands through 3D printing technology.

This collaboration between Kelvin6K and MES Tambaram marks a significant milestone in India’s construction and defence sectors, showcasing the practical applications of 3D printing technology in creating efficient and durable infrastructure. It also reflects a broader trend of integrating advanced technologies to meet the evolving needs of the country’s infrastructure development.