Ep 9. Recycled Skateboards, Braided Pastry, Construction Trailers, and Vises

In season 17, episode 9 of How It's Made, viewers are taken inside the manufacturing process of four diverse products - recycled skateboards, braided pastry, construction trailers, and vises.

The episode begins with the creation of recycled skateboards. The process of making these boards starts with collecting broken skateboards from skate shops and parks. The broken boards are then sorted and prepared for the manufacturing process where they are ground into smaller pieces and bonded together to form a new board. The boards are then cut into their desired shape and sanded, ready to be decorated with customized designs before hitting the shelves for avid skaters to purchase.

The episode then shifts its focus to the sweet realm of braided pastry. The process begins with mixing the dough, using flour, salt, water, and yeast. The dough is then left to rise before being divided into small parcels. These parcels are then stretched and braided into various traditional shapes such as hearts and braids. Once shaped, the pastries are brushed with egg and sugar to give them a glossy finish before being baked and enjoyed across the globe.

Next up on the show is a fascinating look at the manufacturing of construction trailers. The process starts with a blueprint, and the materials are assembled to meet the desired specifications. The steel frame of the trailer is then built, followed by the installation of the flooring system and walls. Once the walls are up, the wiring and insulation are installed, and the trailer is painted and fitted with windows and doors. Finally, wheels and axels are added, and the trailer is ready for use on construction sites for workers to store tools and equipment.

Finally, the episode explores the manufacturing of vises. Visas are used by many craftsmen to hold objects securely in place while they work on them. The process starts with casting the base of the vise using molten iron poured into a mold. Next, the vise jaws are forged, and the requisite holes for the screws are drilled. The jaws and screws are then mounted onto the base, which is then cleaned and painted. The final product is tested to ensure it is reliable and can safely hold the desired objects.

Throughout the episode, the experts who work on these products provide information and insight into the intricate manufacturing processes required to create them. Each product requires different materials, machinery, and techniques, which adds to the uniqueness of the show and keeps viewers engaged.

Overall, season 17, episode 9 of How It's Made is a fascinating exploration of four very different products, presenting the manufacturing processes in a clear and informative way that's ideal for those who love learning about how things are made.