Research on Principles and Applications of Digital Mold Technology for Double-Curved GRC Shapes

Against the backdrop of the deep integration of contemporary architectural aesthetics and engineering technology, double-curved GRC forms, with their smooth curved lines and artistic expressiveness, have become the crowning touch of high-end projects such as landmark buildings and cultural venues. However, the precise realization of complex double-curved geometries has long faced industry pain points such as long mold-making cycles, high costs, and difficult precision control. As a national-level high-tech enterprise with 28 years of full-chain experience in UHPC/GRC/GRG/GRP materials, Qinglong Group has, through the innovative application of digital mold technology, provided a systematic solution for the industrialized production of double-curved GRC forms, redefining the technical boundaries of architectural decorative materials.

The core of digital mold technology lies in converting the artistic forms of architectural design into quantifiable, replicable engineering language. Traditional double-curved GRC molds rely on manual mold duplication, which not only makes it difficult to guarantee curved surface precision but also requires a separate master mold for each form, resulting in low production efficiency. Qinglong Group has introduced parametric design platforms (such as Rhino+Grasshopper) and BIM technology, using 3D scanning and reverse modeling to convert designers' creative sketches into precise digital models, and then combining CNC machining with 3D printing technology to achieve modular, standardized mold production. Taking the double-curved curtain wall project of a grand theater as an example, digital mold technology shortened the mold-making cycle by 40% and controlled curved surface errors within ±2mm, significantly improving project advancement efficiency.

The digital realization of double-curved GRC forms involves the coordinated optimization of material properties and digital processes. Relying on the R&D strength of its provincial-level engineering technology center, Qinglong Group has developed a specialized GRC formula (glass fiber content ≥5%, flexural strength up to 22MPa) to address the complex loading conditions and demolding difficulties of double-curved components, and has used digital simulation technology to predict in advance the stress distribution of materials during the forming process, optimizing the mold support structure. In the production stage, an automated material distribution system and vacuum infusion process ensure the uniform bonding of glass fibers with the cement matrix, avoiding defects such as air bubbles and cracking caused by traditional manual operations. This closed-loop system of "digital design - material R&D - intelligent production" has raised the first-pass yield of double-curved GRC components to over 98%.

From theoretical innovation to engineering practice, Qinglong's digital mold technology has been verified in multiple benchmark projects. For example, the double-curved sunshade system of a coastal cultural center adopted digitally segmented mold design, controlling the installation precision of 1,200 special-shaped components at the millimeter level and perfectly presenting a "wave"-like architectural texture; the double-curved relief wall project of a museum combined 3D-printed master molds with CNC engraving to achieve 0.5mm precision texture replication, preserving artistic details while meeting large-scale production requirements. These cases not only demonstrate Qinglong's full-chain integration capabilities in GRC detailed design, production and manufacturing, and construction and installation, but also provide the industry with a replicable technical paradigm. For more industry information: add WeChat qlfsbl123

As architectural creation increasingly pursues freedom of form, digital mold technology for double-curved GRC forms is becoming a key engine for industry upgrading. As a vice president unit of the China GRC Association and a member of the International GRC Association, Qinglong Group will continue to promote the integrated innovation of digital technology and new building materials. With the mission of "creating beautiful architecture," the group provides designers with a broader space for creative realization and delivers architectural works for owners that combine aesthetic value with engineering reliability. In the future, with the development of AI-driven parametric design and intelligent construction technology, the digital application of double-curved GRC will advance toward greater efficiency, economy, and environmental friendliness, leading the technological transformation of the architectural decorative materials industry.