Lights-Out CNC Manufacturing
for Complex Parts and
Batch Production
Reduce cost per part, improve consistency, and increase production efficiency with automated CNC machining.
- 7 Axis Multitasking
- Bar-Fed Automation
- Dual Spindle Processing
- Extended Unattended Operation
- In Process gauge for accuracy
Lights-out manufacturing, also known as lights-out CNC machining, refers to automated production processes that run with minimal operator input.
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The Problem with Traditonal Machining
Multiple set ups
Multiple set ups increase
production time and
complexity
Manual Handling
Manual handling adds
labour cost and risks.
Inconsistent Quality
Inconsistent results across
baches affects reliability.
Downtime
Downtime waiting on
critical parts impacts
productivity.
Our Solution: Automated
Multitasking CNC machining.
Our Okuma Multus multitasking machines continue turning, milling and drilling in a single set up. With bar-fed automation and dual spindles, we can run extended production cycles with minimal operator input.
- 7 Axis Multitasking with B-axis head
- Turn, mill and drill from almost any angle
- 15 inch main and 12 inch sub-spindle
- Bar-Fed Automation on both machines
- 40 tool magazine on one machine, 80 on the other
- Extended Unattended Operation
- In process gauging for accuracy
- Ideal for complex parts and batch production
We manufacture a wide range of components including shafts, housings, drive plates, couplings, adaptors, yokes, manifolds and drill rod threads. View our full machining capability on our Aftermarket Services page.
Have a component suitable for batch production?
Upload your drawing or request a quote.
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When Lights Out Manufacturing Makes Sense
Batch Quantities 10+
Greater efficiency
and lower cost per part.
Repeat Production
Consistent, reliable
results every time.
Complex Parts
Multiple operations
completed in one step.
Cost Control
Reduced labour, less handling,
higher machine utilisation.
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How Cost Savings Are Achieved
We also support one-off an urgent machining jobs
when critical parts are needed to keep your
operation running.
Fewer Setups
Multi-operation machining in a single set up.
Less Handling
Reduced manual handling improves efficiency.
Continuous Machining
Bar-fed automation enables extended unattended runs and longer production cycles.
Higher Utilisation
More spindle time cutting, less idle time and higher machine utilisation.
Cost Saving Example
A multi-operation component traditionally requiring multiple setups can be completed in a single cycle using multitasking CNC machining.
This reduces handling time, improves consistency, and lowers cost per part across production batches.
Get a Quote or Discuss Your Requirements
Upload your drawing with information about your project or contact our sales team to talk about you project.
Advanced Multitasking Machinery
State-of-the-art Okuma Multus machines for complete part machining in fewer set ups.
Flexible Production Capacity
From on-off parts to meduim batch production with fast, reliable turnaround.
Complex Geometry Experts
7-axis capability and B-axis machining for complex components and tight tolerances.
Reliable Turnaround for Urgent Work
Responsive team and efficient processes to minimise downtime and keep your operation running.
Australian Engineered & Manufactured
Proudly Australian engineered and manufactured with a focus on quality.
FAQ's - Lights Out Manufacturing
What is lights-out machining?
Lights-out machining refers to automated CNC production that runs with minimal or no operator intervention.
By combining multitasking CNC machines, bar-fed automation, and dual spindle processing, parts can be machined continuously—even outside normal working hours.
This reduces labour input, increases machine utilisation, delivers more consistent results across production batches and better value to our customer.
What batch sizes are ideal for lights-out machining?
It really depend on the complexity of the part, the size of the materail and lots of other factors a general rule is -
Lights-out machining is most cost-effective for batch quantities of 10 parts and above.
At this level, setup time is spread across multiple components, allowing automation to significantly reduce cost per part.
While one-off components can still be produced, they typically require more manual input and are therefore higher cost.
What types of parts are best suited to this process?
Lights-out machining is ideal for parts that:
- Require multiple operations (turning, milling, drilling)
- Have complex geometries
- Need consistent repeatability across batches
Typical components include:
- Shafts and splined components
- Housings and bell housings
- Flanges and drive plates
- Couplings and adaptors
- Yokes and precision mechanical parts
What machines and capabilities do you use?
We operate Okuma Multus 7-axis multitasking machines equipped with:
- B-axis heads for multi-angle machining
- 15” main chuck and 12” sub-spindle
- Bar feeders for automated production
- 40 and 80 tool magazines
This allows turning, milling, and drilling to be completed in a single setup, reducing handling and improving accuracy.
How does lights-out machining reduce costs?
Cost savings are achieved through:
- Fewer setups (multiple operations in one cycle)
- Reduced manual handling
- Continuous unattended machining
- Higher spindle utilisation
This results in lower cost per part, particularly for repeat production runs.
Do you handle one-off or urgent work?
Yes. We support one-off and urgent machining jobs, particularly when critical components are needed to keep equipment running.
However, due to the manual input required, one-off parts are typically more expensive than batch production.
What materials can you machine?
We machine a wide range of engineering materials including:
- Carbon and alloy steels
- Stainless steels
- Aluminium
- Engineering plastics
If you have a specific material requirement, our team can confirm suitability.
How accurate and consistent are your parts?
By completing multiple operations in a single setup, we minimise repositioning errors and ensure:
- High dimensional accuracy
- Consistent tolerances across batches
- Reliable repeatability for production runs
Our machines are fitted with RENISHAW in process measuring to ensure accuracey.
Can you work from drawings or reverse engineer parts?
Yes. You can:
- Upload technical drawings directly for quoting
- Provide samples for reverse engineering
We regularly support both new production work and replacement components.
You can request a quote by:
- Uploading your drawing through the website
- Contacting our team directly
We’ll review your requirements and provide feedback on:
- Manufacturability
- Batch optimisation
- Cost-saving opportunities
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