The construction industry is evolving rapidly as automation and robotics reshape how buildings are designed and built. One company at the forefront of this transformation is Robotic Construction Technologies (RCT), a U.S.-based innovator developing large-scale robotic systems for 3D printed construction. With a strong background in machine and process automation, the team brings a fresh, engineering-driven approach to an industry traditionally reliant on manual work.
“We come from a background in factory and process automation, so transitioning into construction robotics felt like a natural step,” explains Chris Gilman, Co-founder of RCT.
Founded around the development of its first prototype in 2020, RCT has quickly moved from concept to real-world applications. Today, the company not only manufactures robotic construction systems but also actively uses them in its own projects, while offering solutions to customers through sales and leasing models.
From Prototype to Real Buildings
RCT’s technology focuses on large-scale robotic 3D printing, enabling structures to be built layer by layer directly on-site. This approach allows for faster construction, reduced labor dependency, and improved precision.
A recent example highlights the potential of the technology. At their facility in Denver, Colorado, RCT completed a 500-square-foot building in approximately 25 hours of printing time.
“We recently finished a small building at our site. It took about 25 hours to print the structure itself, and now we’re completing the final stages like roofing and windows,” Gilman says.
This kind of speed and efficiency demonstrates how robotic construction can significantly streamline building processes while maintaining high quality.
Integrated Power for Demanding Applications
Operating advanced robotic systems on construction sites requires reliable and flexible support systems. For RCT, this includes integrating hydraulic-powered solutions directly into their machinery.
The DYNASET HK450 Hydraulic Piston Compressor is used to provide mobile compressed air for the system. Its primary function is to control pneumatic components, such as pinch valves, which are essential in managing material flow during the printing process.
“We primarily use the compressor to run a pinch valve, but also for other pneumatic processes like material handling and mixing. On these job sites, you don’t always have the option to bring a separate compressor or generator, so having compressed air directly on the machine is a huge advantage,” Gilman explains.
Simplifying Maintenance with High Pressure Water
In addition to compressed air, RCT utilizes the DYNASET HPW Hydraulic High Pressure Water Pump to support daily operations – particularly maintenance.
Concrete and material handling systems are extremely important to clean and at the same time the task can be challenging. Having a high-pressure water solution readily available makes a significant difference.
“Cleaning these systems can be a real challenge. Having a high-pressure water pump integrated means we always have a pressure washer available, which makes maintenance much easier,” Gilman notes.
Building the Future
Robotic Construction Technologies represents a new generation of construction companies that combine robotics, engineering expertise, and practical on-site solutions. By integrating essential utilities such as compressed air and high-pressure water directly into their systems, they are able to maximize efficiency, reduce complexity, and focus on what matters most – building faster and smarter.
As construction continues to evolve, solutions like these are not just improving productivity – they are redefining how the industry operates.