Ep 10. Clay; Pitted Prunes; Spurs; Polyurethane Tires

How It's Made is a show that explores the fascinating world of manufacturing and production. In season 12, episode 10, viewers are taken on a journey to see how clay, pitted prunes, spurs, and polyurethane tires are made.

First up is clay, which is used for everything from pottery to construction materials. The episode takes us to a factory where workers mix together different types of clay, including kaolin and ball clay, to create a versatile material that can be molded into various shapes. The clay is then dried and fired in a kiln at high temperatures to make it hard and durable.

Next, we explore the process of making pitted prunes, which are a popular snack and ingredient in many foods. The episode takes us to a prune processing facility where we see how the fruit is harvested and sorted before being pitted and dried. The prunes are then treated with potassium sorbate to keep them fresh and juicy.

Moving on to the world of equestrian sports, we learn about the production of spurs. These small metal accessories are worn on the heels of riding boots to help the rider communicate with their horse. The episode takes us to a factory where workers use precision machinery to cut and shape the spurs before adding decorative designs and finishes.

Finally, we delve into the manufacturing process of polyurethane tires. Unlike traditional rubber tires, polyurethane tires are made using a foam-like material that offers increased durability and resilience. The episode takes us to a tire factory where we see how the polyurethane foam is molded and shaped into different tire sizes and designs.

Overall, season 12, episode 10 of How It's Made provides a fascinating look at the manufacturing processes behind some everyday objects, as well as some lesser-known products like spurs and polyurethane tires. Viewers will gain a greater appreciation for the work that goes into creating the items we often take for granted, and come away with a new understanding of the creativity and expertise that goes into the manufacturing process.