WASP 3D Prints Airport Services Building at Milan Bergamo — Completed in Just 7 Days

Italian 3D printing pioneer WASP has completed another landmark construction project: a certified airport services building at Milan Bergamo Airport. Named "Ol Casél," the structure serves as a rest and relaxation area for customs staff.

Fast Turnaround in a Secure Environment

The 19-day project, developed for airport operator SACBO by construction firm EDILCO in collaboration with WASP, demonstrates how 3D printing can be a game-changer for infrastructure in high-security environments. Seven of those days were spent on the actual 3D printing process.

What makes this project stand out isn't just the technology—it's the practical benefits. At airports, any construction activity requires extensive security protocols, site monitoring, and access controls. The difference between a 5-day construction window versus several weeks can mean significant savings in security personnel, site management, and operational disruption.

Technical Details

The project used WASP's Crane system, introduced in 2018. Key specs:

• Build volume: 8,200mm x 3,200mm
• Print speed: Up to 200mm/s
• Machine weight: Over 700kg
• Extruder: Twin screw system with pumping

The lime-based mortar used in the build was chosen specifically to reduce emissions compared to traditional cement. The printed walls incorporated recesses (occlusions) for easy integration of wiring and other building systems. Doors, windows, and the roof were added after printing was complete.

Why This Matters

While much attention on construction 3D printing focuses on residential housing, this project highlights an often-overlooked application: infrastructure in secure, high-value, or difficult-to-access environments.

As the author of the original report notes, projects like this make economic sense beyond just construction costs. For airports, nuclear plants, military facilities, or remote industrial sites, minimizing construction time directly translates to reduced security overhead, lower monitoring costs, and minimal disruption to ongoing operations.

This isn't WASP's first rodeo—the company has printed buildings in Japan using soil, sustainable homes in Italy, and even a concept store for Dior in Dubai. But it's another step forward for practical construction 3D printing.