CMS & Oracle Racing: A Winning Team

Jan 20, 2014

In preparation for the 33rd America’s Cup in 2010, Oracle Racing utilized CMS’ advanced CNC machining technology to manufacture composite material parts for the AC45-class trimaran yacht, the USA 17. CMS is proud to have been an official supplier for what would prove to be the Cup-winning boat, as Team Oracle defeated the defending Swiss team, Alinghi, 2-0.

With an Ares 5-axis CNC machining center at their disposal, Oracle Racing was able to produce a wide range of parts for the USA 17. Among these was the yacht’s innovative wing-sail, the single largest boat part ever built at over 20 stories in height. Constructed primarily from carbon fiber and Kevlar, with a custom aeronautical film over the frame, it trims much more easily and more precisely than a traditional soft sail. This wing-sail provided Oracle Racing with a unique competitive advantage, allowing them to sail upwind faster than their competitors, even without the use of a jib.

The hulls of the USA 17 were made from carbon epoxy with honeycomb cores, materials commonly used for aerospace applications. These materials are extremely stiff, but light, and built sandwich-style, with two carbon skins less than 1 mm thick laminated over the honeycomb core.

Oracle Racing’s Ares system provided them with the precision machining capabilities and versatility needed to work with these advanced materials. Ares’ PX5 12kw (16hp) 5-axis working unit enables the machining of three-dimensional surfaces and other unusual surfaces like those found on a 45-foot racing yacht.

After winning the 2010 racing event, Oracle Racing set to work building an even bigger, better boat to help them defend their title at the 34th America’s Cup in 2013. Bearing the similar moniker Oracle Team USA 17, the team’s new vessel would be an AC72-class, 72-foot catamaran.

Again, Oracle Racing turned to CMS to supply the manufacturing technology needed to create their craft. This time, Team Oracle purchased a Poseidon moving bridge system to machine their parts and components. The Poseidon’s precision, versatility, and large work envelope were perfectly suited to the task, helping Oracle Racing create a one-of-a-kind, technologically advanced yacht.

After the longest ever America’s Cup, in both days and races, Oracle Racing again emerged the victor after a “winner takes all” final race against Team New Zealand.

CMS and Oracle Racing have proven to be a winning team through two of the most grueling racing events in all of sports. We look forward to working with Team Oracle again as they seek to extend their reign at the upcoming 35th America’s Cup.