The U.S. military is embarking on a significant transformation in its construction practices, moving away from traditional reliance on concrete and steel towards innovative, cost-effective solutions such as mass timber and 3D printing. These materials have been chosen for their potential to streamline construction processes, reduce costs, and enhance sustainability amidst growing logistical challenges and rising prices associated with conventional building materials.
Dave Morrow, the director of military programs for the Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), recently highlighted the necessity of these innovations during a presentation to lawmakers. He emphasized that the adoption of additive construction methods has the capacity to lower expenses while simultaneously reducing manpower and logistical requirements. “These strategies not only promise to expedite building timelines but also enable the introduction of novel applications, particularly for unconventional countermeasures,” Morrow stated.
The introduction of 3D printing technology has already reached operational bases, with ongoing projects at Tyndall Air Force Base in Florida and Fort Bliss in Texas for the development of new barracks. This method, which constructs building components layer by layer from digital blueprints, is touted for its efficiency and adaptability, which can significantly enhance the speed of facility readiness for American troops.
In tandem with 3D printing efforts, Morrow revealed initiatives featuring mass timber, specifically designed for the Army’s barracks. This method uses laminated layers of wood, yielding a sustainable alternative without compromising structural integrity. Morrow pointed out that incorporating mass timber not only provides a strong material for construction but also helps to expedite overall project completion times.
The U.S. Navy is also integrating mass timber into its construction endeavors. In Virginia, the Navy is in the process of building a new child development center that will utilize cross-laminated timber in its hybrid mass timber design, featuring a robust exterior comprising both walls and diaphragms made from this innovative wood product. Keith Hamilton, the chief engineer for the Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command, underscored the importance of these advanced materials in modern facility construction.
Both Morrow and Hamilton have actively engaged in discussions with the House Appropriations Committee’s Subcommittee on Defense, advocating for the continued exploration of these advanced construction techniques as critical components of military infrastructure development. These initiatives are poised to not only enhance the quality of facilities for servicemen and women but also ensure efficient use of taxpayer funding, a pivotal consideration in defense spending.
