Deep Tech Startup Tvasta launches Construction of Kerala’s First 3D-Printed Structure
To be printed in just 10 days, this Demo House will be constructed through a ‘Robotic Arm Printer’ and will illustrate a hybrid 3D printing methodology (Onsite and Offsite printing) for the first time using the same printer
CHENNAI : Deep Tech Startup Tvasta Manufacturing Solutions, which specializes in Construction 3D Printing, has launched construction of the first 3D-printed structure in Kerala at the premises of Kerala State Nirmithi Kendra (KESNIK), a State-run entity, in Thiruvananthapuram. The Launch event was held today (2nd August 2023)
The onsite printing of this 3D-printed structure has been initiated in association with KESNIK and has been designed as a Demo House on a builtup area of approx 350 sq.ft. It will be an exhibition of rapid construction and mass customisation through 3D printing.
Tvasta, founded by IIT Madras Alumni, has been in the industry for seven years and has completed more than 5,000 sq. ft. of 3D printed construction across India.
Several eminent dignitaries and stakeholders including Mr. K. Rajan, Hon’ble Minister of Housing and Revenue, Government of Kerala, Mr. V K. Prashanth, MLA, Vattiyoorkavu Constituency, Thiruvananthapuram. Dr. Febi Varghese, Director of KESNIK, Mr. R. Jayan, CTO, KESNIK and Mr. Anoop P Ambika, Director, Kerala Start-up Mission, among others.
Addressing the launch event Mr. K. Rajan, Hon’ble Minister of Housing and Revenue, Government of Kerala, said, “As the construction industry in Kerala is growing due to new construction programmes, housing policies and principles. Introducing Tvasta’s technology to the construction community is hopeful. Kerala faces problems due to sudden climate changes, so the potential of this technology is promising as it is durable, rapid and sustainable”
The project will be carried out through a robotic arm printer and will illustrate hybrid 3D printing methodology (offsite and onsite printing) for the first time using the same printer. The entire printing period is about 10 days, inclusive of both printing methodologies. While offsite printing has been completed, onsite printing has been initiated.
Speaking about this project, Mr. Adithya VS, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Tvasta Manufacturing, said, “We are proud to collaborate with KESNIK, a pioneering organisation in cost effective and sustainable construction. Through this collaboration, we aim to create awareness on the benefits of construction 3D printing and increase the utilisation of the technology in government initiatives. We hope that the demo structure will be a congregating point for the talented Kerala construction industry.”
KESNIK is a State-run organization established in 1989 for the practice and propagation of Cost Effective and Environment Friendly construction techniques. Cost Effective Environment Friendly (CEEF) technology propounded by KESNIK became a practical alternative to the high priced existing processes.
Founded in 2016 by IIT Madras Alumni, Tvasta developed a ‘Made in India’ technology focusing on leveraging Automation and Robotics in 3D Printing Platforms for faster, economical and sustainable construction methods compared to conventional technologies. The start-up is currently based out of Chennai and Bengaluru.
Mr. V K Prashanth, MLA, Vattiyoorkavu Constituency, Trivandrum, said, “India aims to provide housing for everyone by 2040 and Kerala wants to lead the initiative. This technology will be helpful in achieving this goal.”
India’s First 3D Printed House was constructed by Tvasta in the IIT Madras Campus, demonstrating its capabilities and feasibility in the actualization of a physical structure. This pilot structure along with the indigenously developed technology also marks the start-up’s endeavours in highlighting a potential alternative solution that may address India’s housing and infrastructure challenges.
Additionally, Tvasta has successfully constructed India’s first 3D printed Monument ‘Ananta Siras’ for the 75th Anniversary of The India Cements Ltd. in Chennai last year. Tvasta has also successfully constructed India’s first 3D printed Security Pavillion in collaboration with Godrej Construction in Mumbai this year. It is designed and developed to be climate-responsive.