3D-printed Train Station

3D-printed Train Station: The West Japan Railway Company unveiled a 3D-printed train station in Arida city, claiming it as a world first.

• The new station’s components were 3D-printed elsewhere and assembled on-site in less than six hours.
• About 3D printing: Also known as additive manufacturing, is a process that creates three-dimensional objects from a digital design by layering material until the object is complete.
• Key Sectors Adopting 3D Printing in India:

o Aerospace: HAL & Wipro 3D, printed air blower component for TEJAS aircraft using Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) → 50% weight reduction.

o GE: Manufactured 3D-printed jet engine fuel nozzle in India → improved durability and thermal efficiency.

o Automotive: Mahindra, produces 200+ 3D-printed polymer parts annually for prototypes → faster design verification.

o Construction: India’s first 3D-printed house: Built in 2 weeks by Tvasta using concrete extrusion technique.

o Healthcare: Yaantra, the 3D-printed skull implant helped surgeons visualise tumour shape accurately.

ü Ossio: Developed orthopaedic implants from Ossioglass → matches bone strength and hardness.

o Consumer Goods: Dochub & Carbon Heel, use 3D printing for customised, flexible footwear.

o Public Infrastructure: India’s first 3D-printed post office, constructed in 45 days by L&T and IIT Madras → shows rapid construction capability.

o Biomimicry: Designs inspired by natural structures (e.g. spider webs, lotus leaves).