Kurpfalz News
Technology up close: Mini-excursion to Heidelberg
At the end of June, class 10b took part in a mini-excursion to Heidelberg as part of their technology class. The goal was the largest 3D-printed building in Europe – the “Wavehouse” – on the site of the former Campbell Barracks.
An innovative construction project
The Wavehouse, completed in 2023, is a stand-alone data center designed by SSV Architects and Mense-Korte Engineers and realized by PERI 3D Construction using the COBOD BOD2 printer. With a length of about 54 m, a width of 11 m, and a height of 9 m, there is a gross floor area of nearly 600 m².
Record-breaking printing time
The entire shell was printed in just 170 hours – spread over about 30 days – supported by only two construction workers on site. A true pioneering achievement in Europe!
Sustainability and Design
The 3D printing concrete used comes from Heidelberg Materials. It is fully recyclable and according to the manufacturer, it has about 55% less CO₂ emissions than conventional Portland cement. The wave-shaped facade illustrates the design possibilities of the process – classic right angles are a thing of the past.
Exciting impressions on site
The students of 10B, accompanied by their technology teacher Ms. Meessen, received an informed insight into pressure-assisted construction on-site. They learned about the technical processes, such as how computer-controlled print heads apply concrete layer by layer and how interior and exterior walls are decoupled and then filled with in-situ concrete.
Particularly exciting were the explanations regarding the ecological and economic dimensions: Rapid construction progress, resource conservation, and recyclable building materials demonstrated how 3D printing can revolutionize construction processes.
Glance into the future
The excursion marked the conclusion of the 10th grade technology class and simultaneously provided an outlook on modern career fields in engineering. The combination of digitalization, sustainability, and high-end technology captivated the youth in a lasting way.
Conclusion: Class 10b experienced in Heidelberg how modern technology, sustainability, and creative architectural design come together – an inspiring excursion with a view towards the construction of tomorrow.
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