The Building Talks Podcast

Talking with Tom Macrokanis about 3D Printing, Robotics, and Revolutionising Construction

Martin Preece Season 3 Episode 42

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Hey, Legends! Welcome to another exciting episode of The Building Talks Podcast with me, Martin Preece! This week, I had an awesome chat with Tom Macrokanis, founder and director of Macro3D and Macrofab, a fabrication and engineering firm in Victoria.

We dive into Tom’s work at Macro 3D, where he's shaking up the construction world with 3D concrete printing solutions. What's really cool about Tom? He’s not your typical construction pro—his background is in software engineering, and he’s bringing robotics and automation to the industry. We chat about the challenges of introducing 3D printing on-site, the innovation behind it, and the hurdles he’s overcoming in an industry that doesn’t always love change.

Tom’s approach is fresh, exciting, and set to make waves. If you’re curious about how 3D printing is revolutionising construction or want to hear from a young disruptor with big ideas, hit play and enjoy the conversation!

Takeaways:

  • Tom Macrokanis moved from software development to 3D printing in construction, bringing fresh ideas.
  • He found 3D printing while consulting, despite having no background in construction.
  • It’s tough convincing builders, but 3D printing could tackle housing and labour shortages.
  • The process uses a robotic arm to layer concrete, creating structures without formwork.
  • Mobile and efficient, it offers custom finishes like smoothing and rendering.
  • 3D printing could cut costs, boost efficiency, and lower carbon emissions.
  • Despite challenges, it’s a game-changer for the construction industry.

Please note, we had few microphone issues within this episode - but we've done our best to clean it up for you.

Hope you enjoy the podcast!

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