SYDNEY: Robotic technology company FBR Limited has executed a Pilot Program Agreement with Xella Technologie-und Forschungsgesellschaft mbH (Xella)to construct houses at FBR’s premises using the Hadrian X and Xella building products.
Headquartered in Germany, Xella is a multi-billion dollar international business that specialises in the manufacture and supply of innovative building products, including Ytong autoclaved aerated concrete blocks (‘AAC’) and Silka calcium silicate blocks (‘CSU’).
Ytong AACs are large format concrete blocks constructed to a high dimensional accuracy which are potentially very well suited to be laid by the Hadrian X. Silka CSUs are a sustainable, low energy, sound absorbent, low compression, non-combustible, weatherproof building block that are in common use throughout the world.
The purpose of the Australian Pilot Program is to enable FBR and Xella to develop a practical understanding of the capabilities of each other’s products, within the limitations of the economic conditions and travel restrictions resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Xella will deliver a number of AAC and CSU blocks to FBR, which FBR will use to construct at least two buildings at FBR’s premises using the Hadrian X.
After completion of the Pilot Program, FBR and Xella will consult with one another on any changes to the AAC or CSU blocks, adhesives or the Hadrian X that may be beneficial to progress the commercialisation of the Hadrian X with Xella blocks in Europe, as well as a European pilot building program.
FBR’s Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Mike Pivac: “We are very pleased to be working with another high quality block supplier with global reach as we continue to commercialise our automated bricklaying technology. Xella are known for their innovative products, and we are looking forward to working with them to progress the global scaling of the Hadrian X.”