IIT-H, Simpliforge Create 3D Printed Bunker In Leh

Hyderabad: IIT Hyderabad and Mumbai-based Simpliforge Creations, a technology and product development company, in collaboration with Indian Army, have delivered India’s first on-site 3D printed protective military structure at an altitude of 11,000 feet above sea level in Leh, under Project Prabal.

Under the guidance of Prof K V L Subramaniam of IIT-Hyderabad, a specialised 3D printing technology was developed to operate under extreme environmental conditions. This innovation enabled the construction of a protective bunker using locally sourced materials. It was completed over a total printing time of 14 hours.

Prof KVL Subramaniam said, “One of the most critical aspects of this project was the development of specially engineered materials tailored to perform in extreme environmental conditions. Operating at high altitudes with low oxygen levels, low humidity and significant thermal variations required not just structural innovation, but also material science at its finest.