The Intermodal Large-Format 3D Printing Platform
Developed inside a shipping container, our systems have been used by leading R&D labs and aerospace innovators to design, build, and deliver precision machines that push the limits of additive manufacturing
Capabilities
Additive Manufacturing (AM)
High-flow filament, pellet extrusion, and DED for versatile large-format builds.
Subtractive Manufacturing (SM)
Precision 3-/5-axis CNC and laser machining for post-processing and fine features.
Hybrid Manufacturing (HM)
Seamlessly combines additive and subtractive for fully integrated, end-to-end workflows.
Prior Projects
ERDC (U.S. Army)
Delivered a multi-material, 5-axis CNC, Direct Plastic Pellet, and Metal DED large-format printer— 60% faster prototyping
Pivotal (Opener Aero)
Delivered custom 5-Axis containerized composite production system.
Millebot 3.0 Dev Machine
Our development machine
Core Differentiators
Printatron’s machine solutions are turn-key production platforms designed for large build volumes. Each machine is highly configurable, offering multiple tool options, gantry styles, and additional features tailored to meet diverse manufacturing needs.
Ideal for R&D
Full Machine Access
Millebot machines are built for innovation. Every system is designed with full accessibility, allowing researchers to reach, adjust, and modify components with ease. This hands-on flexibility enables rapid prototyping, iterative testing, and direct integration into R&D environments. A user-friendly interface reduces the learning curve, ensuring even complex operations can be performed with minimal training. Perfect for labs pushing the boundaries of technology.
Modular Gantry Design
Precision with Flexibility
Our modular gantry systems deliver high precision while adapting to your workflow. With expandable build volumes and multiple configuration options, Millebot machines can be tailored to fit specific project requirements. The modular design supports multi-step processes on a single platform, reducing downtime and streamlining operations. Components are engineered for quick replacement without special tools—keeping productivity high and maintenance simple.
Scalable Platform
Future-Proof Your Workflow
Millebot platforms grow with you. From compact units for research to expansive machines for large-scale production, every system can be scaled and customized with different tools, gantry styles, and add-ons. This adaptability ensures seamless progression from prototyping to production without the need to replace your entire system—protecting your investment while evolving with your goals.
From Millebot to Printatron
Millebot (2015–2021) pioneered containerized additive manufacturing using technology I invented and patented. After Millebot’s closure, I sold the patent to Snowbird Technologies in Jacksonville, ensuring the concept continues forward. The lessons from Millebot laid the foundation for my next chapter: Printatron — a modular, scalable platform designed to push large-format printing even further.
Timeline:
Jul 2015
Mille 3D Printer unveiled — transforming shipping containers into large 3D printers, shredders, and extruders.
Feb 2019
Invited to pitch at SXSW — national recognition for innovation in large-format additive manufacturing.
Apr 2019
Demonstrated additive manufacturing with metal for aerospace applications.
Nov 2020
Delivered the MilleBot 100S 20' 5-Axis CNC system to Silicon Valley.
Mar 2021
Shipped MilleBot Dev 3.0 to a new partner in Jacksonville, FL.
2021– Now
Millebot has officially closed. It accomplished its mission as the world’s first shipping-container-based 3D printing platform company.The innovation lives on through Printatron, Inc. — continuing the legacy, now without the box.
About the Inventor
I’m Andy Tran, the inventor of the technology behind Millebot and the founder who led its development. While Millebot is now closed, I continue to advance the vision through Printatron and other projects in large-format additive manufacturing.
