The construction industry in the United States is on the brink of transformation with the arrival of the Hadrian X, the world’s fastest brick-laying construction robot. Developed by the Australian robotics company FBR, the Hadrian X has made its journey to Florida, where it is set to redefine efficiency in building entire communities.
The Hadrian X is not just a brick-laying machine; it is a sophisticated robotic truck equipped with a 105-foot (32-meter) telescopic boom arm. This advanced machinery was first introduced in 2015 as a prototype capable of constructing a full-sized house in just two days. The latest version of Hadrian X can stack 500 USA-format masonry blocks per hour, a significant improvement in speed and efficiency.
The operational process of Hadrian X is straightforward yet impressive. After being loaded with pallets of blocks, each block travels down a chute on the boom arm, where it is coated with a quick-dry construction adhesive. This adhesive replaces traditional mortar, allowing for faster and cleaner construction.
The variable gripper at the end of the arm then places each block with precision. With its extensive reach, the boom arm can construct structures up to three stories tall. Furthermore, as a robot, Hadrian X can work continuously without needing rest or being affected by adverse weather conditions, ensuring 24/7 productivity.
The introduction of Hadrian X to the U.S. market is part of a collaboration between FBR and CRH Ventures Americas, Inc., a subsidiary of CRH plc, one of the largest concrete block suppliers in the country. Initially, the robotic builder will undergo a site acceptance test at a facility in Fort Myers, Florida, to demonstrate its capabilities. If successful, Hadrian X will then construct between five to ten single-story homes as part of a demonstration program. Following this, FBR and CRH Ventures plan to establish a permanent partnership, making FBR the exclusive “Wall as a Service” provider for CRH Ventures in the United States.
This partnership holds significant potential for the future of construction. The agreement may lead to the phased purchase of 300 Hadrian X units by CRH Ventures, paving the way for the creation of robot-built communities across the U.S. This move aligns with FBR’s strategy to enter the U.S. market with robust support from one of the world’s leading building materials producers.
Mike Pivac, Managing Director and CEO of FBR, expressed his enthusiasm about this development: “We have set a clear strategy for the Company to enter the United States market, and we will be doing so with the assistance of one of the largest concrete block manufacturers in the country. We are excited to arrive in a new international market to showcase the capabilities of our technology and commence our scaling plan with the financial and operational support of one of the world’s leaders in building materials production.”
The Hadrian X’s arrival in the U.S. marks a significant milestone in the construction industry, promising to enhance efficiency, reduce labor costs, and accelerate the building process. As the construction robot begins its journey in Florida, it represents a step forward in the integration of advanced robotics in building practices, potentially setting new standards for the industry globally.
Source: FBR
