Press releases

PALFINGER AND ICON COLLABORATE TO BRING LARGE‑SIZE ROBOTIC 3D PRINTING INTO HEAVY INDUSTRY

Mar 12 2026
Operating Titan

↗ PALFINGER contributes precision‑engineered lifting and handling solutions, modular system platforms and large‑size robots expertise to ICON’s 3D printing ecosystem.

A strategic technology collaboration advancing large‑size robots at the intersection of construction, automation and digital manufacturing. Combining PALFINGER’s engineering and integrated solution expertise with ICON’s pioneering robotic 3D printing technology.

PALFINGER, global provider of innovative crane and lifting solutions, today announced a strategic technology collaboration with ICON, a U.S. based pioneer in robotic 3D printing construction. The collaboration marks an important step in extending PALFINGER’s expertise into large‑size robotics and digital manufacturing, opening up new opportunities at the intersection of construction, automation and industrial production.

PALFINGER, global provider of innovative crane and lifting solutions, today announced a strategic technology collaboration with ICON, a U.S. based pioneer in robotic 3D printing construction. The collaboration marks an important step in extending PALFINGER’s expertise into large‑size robotics and digital manufacturing, opening up new opportunities at the intersection of construction, automation and industrial production.

A core element of the large-size robot system “Titan” is the PALFINGER Special Lifting Solutions, which enables the precise positioning, stability and scalability required for large‑size robotic 3D printing systems. By combining ICON’s advanced 3D printing technology with PALFINGER’s engineering know‑how, the collaboration lays the foundation for scalable solutions that address global megatrends such as labor scarcity, sustainability and the growing demand for affordable housing.

“This partnership with ICON demonstrates how PALFINGER is systematically expanding its capabilities beyond traditional applications,” said Alexander Susanek, COO of PALFINGER. “By combining our expertise in large‑size lifting and handling systems with ICON’s pioneering 3D printing technology, we are opening up new industrial applications and strengthening our position in the field of large‑size robots and automation.”

As part of the collaboration, PALFINGER is contributing to the “Titan” system, a large‑size robot system derived from its core crane and machinery technologies. “Titan” enables the automated printing of structures of up to 27 feet in height and supports multi‑level construction. The system is designed for continuous 24/7 operation and integrates modular components, stabilizers and crawler systems to ensure reliability, flexibility and cost efficiency.

Initial prototypes of the “Titan” system have already been successfully tested, demonstrating readiness for industrial application. The solution significantly reduces building costs compared to conventional construction methods and enables faster project execution with fewer and safer labor requirements.

“Innovation at PALFINGER means applying our engineering DNA to entirely new use cases,” said Alexander Susanek, COO of PALFINGER. “By transferring our expertise in - lifting solutions, automation and system integration into robotic 3D printing, we are actively shaping the future of industrial construction. Partnerships like this allow us to turn innovation into scalable, real‑world solutions.”

The collaboration with ICON supports PALFINGER’s long‑term strategy to expand beyond cyclical core markets, accelerate the industrialization of large‑size robots and unlock new applications in digital manufacturing. At the same time, ICON benefits from PALFINGER’s global industrialization expertise, engineering standards and worldwide service network.

 

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↗ ABOUT PALFINGER

PALFINGER sets benchmarks with innovative crane and lifting solutions worldwide. As a leading technology and mechanical engineering company, PALFINGER transforms customer needs into seamlessly integrated solutions. A broad product portfolio and regional footprint drive balanced profitable growth. With its promise of Lifetime Excellence, PALFINGER delivers outstanding performance throughout the entire product lifecycle.

Around 12,000 employees, 30 international manufacturing sites, and a global distribution and service network ensure worldwide proximity to the market.

PALFINGER AG has been listed on the Vienna stock exchange since 1999 and achieved a revenue of EUR 2.34 billion in 2025.

For further information, please contact:

Elisabeth Baumann-Rott | Teamlead External Corporate Communications | PALFINGER AG

M +43 664 85 13218 | e.baumann-rott@palfinger.com