Weatherhaven has delivered a deployable 3D printing facility integrating MECC™ expandable containers to provide rapid, cost-effective additive manufacturing capability in forward and remote environments.
Weatherhaven delivered a pioneering forward-deployable additive manufacturing facility to a US client, demonstrating the potential of rapidly fielded manufacturing capability. Built around our MECC™ expandable containers, the system provides a cost-effective, adaptable, and robust platform for 3D printing at the point of need.
The facility comprises two MECC™ units—one configured as a workshop and the other as a dedicated additive manufacturing facility. The units are interconnected through an innovative interface, enabling rapid setup and operational flexibility. Importantly, the MECC™ units maintain their functionality in multiple configurations, whether deployed independently on the ground or mounted on vehicles. This modular approach maximises operational capability while minimising logistical demands, establishing a new benchmark for rapidly deployable, containerised additive manufacturing.
Integrated Workshops and Additive Manufacturing Systems for Immediate Deployment
Each MECC™ unit is delivered as a fully integrated facility, incorporating the required systems, services, and interfaces and ready for the client to install their selected additive manufacturing equipment. Unlike conventional facilities that require lengthy setup and commissioning, the system is designed to transition from transport mode to operational capability within minutes of arrival.
This rapid transition from transport to production enables an immediate response to mission requirements. The high level of integration provides the end user with a complete, ready-to-operate manufacturing environment that can be deployed virtually anywhere in the world.
High-Performance HVAC for a Controlled Manufacturing Environment
A stable, clean, and controlled environment is critical to successful additive manufacturing. The MECC™ facility incorporates a high-performance HVAC system designed to maintain controlled environmental conditions within the workspace.
This protects sensitive equipment while supporting personnel comfort and safety during operations. By maintaining suitable operating conditions across a wide range of external climates, the facility enables reliable additive manufacturing performance in diverse environments.
Global Transportability with CSC Certification and C-130 Compatibility
Rapid deployment requires maximum logistical flexibility. Each MECC™ unit is CSC-certified for transport as a standard 20 ft ISO container, enabling efficient movement by sea, rail, or road.
The units are also engineered to meet C-130 airlift requirements, including an 8 ft transport-height configuration. With design and manufacturing capabilities under one roof, Weatherhaven can tailor MECC™ specifications to meet specific mission, transport, and operational requirements.
This versatility enables advanced manufacturing capability to be rapidly transported and deployed wherever it is required.
Expandable MECC™ Provides Maximum Usable Volume and Environmental Protection
The MECC™ incorporates an advanced layered fabric wall system that creates a sealed, protected working environment during deployment. Once expanded, the 3-in-1 container provides significantly increased usable floor area while maintaining the protection and transportability of a standard 20 ft container.
The expanded configuration provides sufficient space to accommodate sensitive additive manufacturing equipment while maintaining environmental protection from dust, temperature fluctuations, and other external conditions. Operators therefore gain the advantages of a larger, fully functional facility without compromising mobility or protection.
Advanced Additive Manufacturing Systems Integrated for Operational Effectiveness
The specific additive manufacturing equipment installed within the delivered facility remains undisclosed. The system incorporates advanced 3D printing and additive manufacturing technologies, installed in accordance with the equipment manufacturers’ specifications to support reliable and effective operation.
By integrating these technologies within a redeployable, expandable platform, the facility enables operators to design, prototype, and manufacture components on demand in forward and remote environments. This capability can support the rapid production of critical spare parts and mission-specific components, reduce supply chain dependencies and strengthen operational resilience.
