Where to find the gearboxes, bearings, couplings and other components.

What was once targeted specifically toward the machine tool and metalworking industries, IMTS 2014 in Chicago spent a great deal of time and resources on automation, controls, mechanical components, self-diagnostics and an increase in productivity on the shop floor.

It's not a show title that rolls off the tongue, but the Industrial Automation North America and MDA NA @IMTS 2014 show nevertheless may well be one to remember.

Most of you probably think you know what IMTS is about—machine tools, cutting tools, and various manufacturing processes. And if you stick to the North, South and West halls, you’ll be mostly right. But there’s a substantial group of exhibitors in the East building that are dedicated to automation, motion control and mechanical components.

Many of you probably think of IMTS as just a machine tool show. Of course, it’s hard not to. With the majority of the show focused on metalworking equipment, tooling and supplies, there’s no doubt that IMTS is a machine tool show. But this year, the show has partnered with Hannover Messe to include IANA—Industrial Automation North America.