JR West, JR West Innovations, and the Japanese 3D construction printing company Serendix have unveiled plans to build the world’s first 3D printed train station. This revolutionary project, set to debut at Hatsushima Station in Wakayama Prefecture, marks a major milestone in railway construction as Japan looks to address challenges from its aging workforce.
The new station will feature a compact single-story structure measuring approximately 10 square meters. Constructed from reinforced concrete, it will stand 2.6 meters tall, have a width of 6.3 meters and have a depth of 2.1 meters. The walls will incorporate local design elements inspired by Arida City’s famous produce, such as mikan oranges and cutlassfish.
The station’s primary components will be fabricated using 3D printing technology implemented by Serendix. The Japanese 3D construction printing service provider owns several concrete 3D printers and has recently added a large system from COBOD. The printed sections will undergo reinforcement with steel bars and concrete filling before on-site assembly. Cranes will lift and connect the prefabricated parts, allowing for a rapid build process. The entire structural assembly is expected to take just six hours, from the night’s last train to the first train in the morning. This method significantly reduces on-site labor and construction time compared to traditional steel and concrete methods.
Manufacturing on Demand
Reinforced concrete ensures high durability and resistance to corrosion. Compared to conventional precast methods, 3D printing eliminates the need for formwork, enhancing design flexibility and reducing material waste. The innovative approach allows for customized structures that blend seamlessly with local surroundings. The concrete structure will replace an old wooden one. The Hatsushima location, on the JR Kisei Main Line in Arida City, Wakayama Prefecture, was chosen as a test site to evaluate the feasibility of 3D printed railway infrastructure.
The streamlined process minimizes labor requirements, addressing the ongoing workforce shortage in the construction sector. By optimizing resource use and reducing construction time, this technology has the potential to lower costs for future railway infrastructure projects.
This project will serve as a model for future railway stations, with a detailed evaluation of cost efficiency and long-term maintenance needs. If successful, JR West may expand 3D printing to renovate other aging station buildings. By embracing advanced technology, JR West addresses workforce challenges while modernizing railway facilities. This initiative aligns with the company’s long-term vision to provide safe, sustainable, and eco-friendly transportation solutions. Beyond this project, JR West aims to integrate cutting-edge innovations into railway infrastructure, ensuring long-term sustainability while fostering stronger connections with local communities.
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Author: Davide Sher
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