Ep 3. Noise Barrier Walls; Front-Load Washers; Bourbon; Flexible Circuit Boards

How It's Made season 16 episode 3 explores the production processes behind Noise Barrier Walls, Front-Load Washers, Bourbon, and Flexible Circuit Boards.

The episode starts with a look at Noise Barrier Walls. These walls are designed to block out unwanted noise from high traffic areas like highways, airports, and construction sites. The show takes viewers through the manufacturing process of these walls, which includes casting concrete with a specialized mixture of cement, water, and aggregate. Once the concrete is cast, it is reinforced with steel bars to give it added strength. The show also explores the installation process of these walls, which involves placing them on a solid foundation and anchoring them in place with steel rods.

The next segment of the show focuses on Front-Load Washers. These machines are popular because of their energy efficiency and ability to clean clothes effectively. The show takes viewers through the various stages of production, including the welding of the machine's tub and outer drum, the installation of electronic components, and the addition of a rubber seal to prevent leaks. The episode also explores the testing and quality control processes of these machines to ensure that they meet industry standards and customer expectations.

The third segment of the episode explores the world of Bourbon. This popular American whiskey is made from fermented grain mash and aged in charred oak barrels. The show takes viewers through the production process, which includes distilling the fermented mash and aging it for several years in wooden barrels. The episode also explores the different types of Bourbon, including those made from corn, rye, and barley.

The final segment of the show focuses on Flexible Circuit Boards, which are used in a variety of electronic devices. These boards are made from a thin layer of copper foil that is laminated onto a flexible substrate, such as polyimide. The show takes viewers through the manufacturing process, which includes coating the copper foil with a layer of photoresist, exposing it to light, and then using chemical etching to create the desired circuit pattern. The episode also explores the testing and quality control processes of these boards to ensure that they function properly.

Overall, How It's Made season 16 episode 3 provides an interesting and informative look at the production processes of four very different products. Whether it's the noise-blocking walls on highways, the energy-efficient front-load washers in our homes, the beloved American Bourbon, or the flexible circuit boards that power our electronic devices, this episode gives viewers a behind-the-scenes look at how these products are made.