The city of Münster has developed an ambitious vision for the future of the historic gasometer. A call for tenders was issued to find new uses for the impressive building. The architectural firm e.a+d is seeking the opportunity to design the project. The aim is to preserve the Gasometer’s significant past and at the same time create a contemporary alternative use. The architectural model, which is intended to represent the e.a+d architects’ vision for the future of the Gasometer, plays a central role in this architectural competition.

The architects’ approach to model making for their design is characterised by its innovative character. Instead of relying on traditional model making, the SLS office opted for 3D printing for the most important elements of the model. This choice not only allowed for a precise implementation but also opened up new horizons in terms of design possibilities and speed of model making. The architectural model consists of a base plate and a detailed image of the gasometer. Both elements were produced using SLS 3D printing in white PA12 with a layer thickness of 0.1 mm. An EOS laser-sintering system was used to reproduce even the finest details of the 3D data in the actual model.

The realisation of this project would not have been possible without the cooperation of priomold GmbH. The expertise of Felix Parsch, Head of Additive Manufacturing at priomold, played a crucial role in overcoming the challenges. In particular, the thin walls of the gasometer required special care. The processed 3D data, in particular, the digital hollowing out of the model base plate and the inclined construction of this base plate, were key factors in minimising distortion and ensuring stability.

The partnership between e.a+d architects and priomold GmbH not only demonstrates the potential of SLS 3D printing for architectural model making but also the complex component geometries that can be realised with SLS 3D printing. The symbiosis of creative thinking, technical expertise, and state-of-the-art technology resulted in an architectural model that goes beyond conventional boundaries and impressively illustrates the vision of e.a+d architects for the Gasometer in Münster.