Chicago Prepares for IMTS 2012

If information could be weighed, the Internet might break the planet. So many details about additive manufacturing (AM) can be found online that it can be easy to become swamped. I know when I first looked into the technology, it was a daunting task to take in all the information that was available.

Nothing beats being able to talk face-to-face with AM experts and industry professionals to learn more about the subject. Enter the conference. If you weren’t able to attend RAPID 2012, you can still attend other conferences that touch upon the field (and you can have a look at our coverage).

The International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) 2012 will open its doors for this biannual event at the McCormick Place in Chicago, running from September 10 – 15. IMTS bills itself as the “America’s Largest Manufacturing Show” with more than 1,800 exhibitors. AM manufacturers set to attend include 3D Systems, ExOne and envisionTEC.

AM-related seminars at IMTS 2012 include an overview of AM, a look at additive versus subtractive technology, and additive metal manufacturing. Two separate keynote addresses look at the future of the aviation and aerospace industry, a field in which AM is already making an impact. While not exclusively an AM problem, attendees can also take part in a seminar devoted to discovering new ways of finding employees for hard-to-fill positions.

More general information about AM can be found by visiting the Emerging Technology Center, where a number of 3D printer manufacturers will be on hand to discuss the technology. Other potentially interesting events include a presentation by Harry Moser about the Reshoring initiative, a display of unmanned aerial vehicles, and, of course, the chance to build personal relationships with people in the AM industry.

Below you’ll find a video overview of what IMTS has to offer.

Source: IMTS