Ireland-based Smithstown Light Engineering has integrated the Starrag Bumotec 191neo into its operations to strengthen high-precision medical device manufacturing, reinforcing advanced production capability within Ireland’s industrial manufacturing sector relevant to high-value engineered components and construction-adjacent precision supply chains.

Machinery Market reported that the Shannon-based company has deployed the machine as part of a dedicated New Product Introduction (NPI) strategy aimed at improving process stability and handling increasingly complex component geometries.

Smithstown, founded in 1974, has evolved from a traditional toolmaking business into a global supplier of precision medical device components, employing more than 300 people across Ireland and Poland.

The company now focuses primarily on medical manufacturing, with around 90% of its output supporting Irish-based medical operations linked to global device manufacturers.

The introduction of a dedicated NPI department has separated prototype development from production to reduce disruption and improve manufacturing efficiency.

Gerard Henn, chief executive of Smithstown Light Engineering, said: “We needed something for all the multiple operations.”

He added: “Something that could handle very complex geometries with tight tolerances.”

The Bumotec 191neo features integrated 5-axis machining capability within a turning centre, enabling single-setup production of complex parts with micron-level precision requirements.

Flavio DeCampos, manufacturing and NPI leader, said: “With the Bumotec 191neo, you're putting a 5-axis inside of a turning centre.”

He added: “This gives you the capability to handle complex parts with the tightest of tolerances.”

The system is currently operating across two shifts, with potential for 24-hour production and efficiency gains expected as operational familiarity increases.

Smithstown stated that cycle times of approximately 15 minutes per part are achievable, with further optimisation anticipated as machining strategies are refined.

Discover the full details on Smithstown Light Engineering’s adoption of Starrag machining technology.