Keel Bearing for the DMG MORI Global One: Turn-Mill Machining Process on the NTX 2500

The stern keel bearing is a critical component of the DMG MORI Global One, the 60-foot IMOCA sailboat built from scratch by the DMG MORI Sailing Team. Onboard are extremely stable titanium components, produced by CNC experts across the DMG MORI plants in Pfronten, Wernau, and Bielefeld.

This particular part stabilizes the keel axis in all three axes and carries a significant share of the resulting loads. Machined on the NTX 2500, the original component is made from titanium (TiAl6V4), though this video shows a demo part made from aluminum.

Titanium is one of the most challenging materials for CNC machining. Machining a complex part such as a high-precision keel bearing plate presents an even greater challenge: its geometry calls for seamless process integration. Turning, drilling, and simultaneous 5-axis milling, all completed in a single clamping and backed by technology integration like in-process measurement. The NTX 2500 2^nd Generation from DMG MORI delivers exactly that. It combines a stable integrated machining process with AI-driven CELOS X widgets and technology cycles.

Key Features:
• Combination of various machining technologies in a single production line
• Complex geometries are machined using 5-axis simultaneous milling
• High tooling and process complexity, with a total of 41 tools
• Machining time of around 37 h
• Programming via NX CAM