Advanced Construction Robotics (ACR) has launched IronBOT, which is able to augment construction sites by lifting, carrying and placing rebar.
IronBOT is able to manage rebar bundles weighing up to 2,250 kg in a transverse or longitudinal orientation without the need for heavy lifting from crew members.
When IronBOT is combined with TyBOT, ACR’s rebar-tying robot, the pair can typically provide 50 per cent schedule savings during rebar installation.
“We are confident the combination of TyBOT and IronBOT generates a disruptive technology, meaning the time and cost savings are so significant on a job that it will disrupt the way our industry installs reinforcing steel,” said Stephen Muck, Founder and Executive Chairman of Advanced Construction Robotics.
IronBOT’s inaugural project
IronBOT successfully completed its inaugural project in February on the Port St. Lucie West Boulevard Bridge in Port St. Lucie, Florida, alongside Shelby Erectors.
The original estimate for rebar installation was 14 days. By augmenting crews with IronBOT and TyBOT, installation was completed in seven days.
“I am so excited to see our initial prediction of cutting schedules by at least 50 per cent come to fruition on IronBOT’s maiden voyage. This was a perfect example of how field teams working alongside our technology can form a modern crew to unleash disruptive productivity levels,” said Danielle Proctor, CEO of Advanced Construction Robots.
“This robotic revolution provides innovative construction firms the ability to become game-changers by adopting and putting their modern crew to work.”
During the project, IronBOT placed more than 66,500 kg of rebar while TyBOT completed more than 58,000 ties.
Shelby Erectors have been using the TyBOT on jobsites for more than two years.
“We were excited to be able to have IronBOT and TyBOT work together alongside our crews on this project,” said Jack Nix, COO of Shelby Erectors.
“We were impressed that we could slash our rebar installation schedule in half. We are actively looking for new projects to incorporate the BOT bundle in our operations.”
Currently, United States contractors Brayman Construction and Advantage Steel & Construction are the only companies certified to provide the BOT bundle solution as part of ACR’s newly launched Certified Innovator Program. Certified Innovators have dedicated crews that have gone through hands-on training to optimize operations alongside the BOT bundle and incorporate the technology in their installation pricing.
“Technology is changing the way we approach construction. It helps contractors like us cope with shrinking labour forces and growing demand. We become more productive, efficient and safer when we pair this technology with an innovative mindset,” said Tim Taylor, Vice President of Heavy Civil at Brayman Construction Corporation.
“That’s why we are proud to be the first Certified Innovator and will continue to work with ACR to weave technology into our company identity.”
