Aramco to 3D Print Part of New Saudi Oil Processing Facility
Why 3D Printing?
Three Huge Opportunities
JGC and Aramco seem to be carefully exploring their options with 3D printing. However, their engagement alone points to huge market opportunities for construction 3D printing. This single initiative reveals three distinct opportunities simultaneously.
First, large engineering, oil, and gas companies are like economies in and of themselves. Giants such as Bechtel, China Railway, Vinci, and Bouygues subsist on the largest projects in the world, often specializing in specific areas like bridges, toll roads, or infrastructure. Penetrating one of these companies and working deeply within it can lead to millions in business from a myriad of projects worldwide. For these firms, a construction printer doesn’t need to do everything; if it can efficiently print a particular structure, it could be used extensively for that purpose alone.
Second, labor shortages are a significant issue, particularly in first-world countries. While other industries may pay too little, creating their own labor shortages, the construction industry is often willing to pay well but still struggles to find workers for what is now considered hard labor. Many prefer cushier office jobs, leading to a gap in available labor for construction work.
Third, the amount of construction in energy infrastructure is immense, often located in remote areas where the economics of construction 3D printing are particularly favorable. This points to a future where there is an opportunity to develop a general construction 3D printer that performs well overall. Additionally, creating a specific construction 3D printer and material for energy infrastructure or particular tunnel parts could lead to a highly profitable market worth billions.
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