Ep 7. Nail Files, Birch Canoes, Boat Hardtops, and High Voltage Circuit Breakers

In season 21 episode 7 of How It's Made, viewers are taken on a journey through the fascinating process of creating everyday items such as nail files, birch canoes, boat hardtops, and high voltage circuit breakers. Each segment of the show details the intricate steps involved in manufacturing these products, and showcases the hard work and precision that goes into making even the simplest of objects.

The first segment explores the creation of nail files, which is a process that involves shaping and smoothing metal components using various abrasive materials. Viewers are shown how the metal is shaped into the distinctive form of a nail file, before being coated in diamond dust to give it its abrasive properties. The manufacturing process for nail files is a delicate and precise one, as even the slightest deviation from the desired shape can result in a flawed product.

The second segment of the episode takes viewers deep into the forests of Canada, where the ancient art of birch canoe building is still practiced to this day. The creation of birch canoes involves selecting the right kind of wood, stripping and bending it into shape, and sealing it with a mixture of pitch and resin. Viewers are treated to a fascinating look at the traditional techniques used to create these iconic vessels, which have been used by Native American tribes for centuries.

The third segment of the show focuses on the creation of boat hardtops, which are essential components of modern boats that provide important protection against the elements. The manufacturing process for boat hardtops involves cutting and shaping panels of fiberglass, before coating them in a layer of gelcoat to provide protection against UV rays and other environmental factors. The process is a complex one that requires significant expertise and precision, as even a small mistake in the measurements can result in a flawed product.

The final segment of the episode brings viewers into the world of high voltage circuit breakers, which are critical components of electrical power systems. These devices are designed to break electrical currents in case of an emergency, and must be extremely reliable and durable. Viewers are taken inside the factory where these circuit breakers are manufactured, and shown the complex process involved in creating these high-tech devices. The creation of a circuit breaker involves a variety of complex steps, including designing custom components, testing and assembling parts, and conducting extensive quality control checks.

Overall, season 21 episode 7 of How It's Made is a fascinating exploration of the intricate manufacturing processes behind some of the most common objects we encounter in our daily lives. By showcasing the hard work and precision that goes into creating even the simplest of items, the episode highlights the incredible ingenuity and dedication of the people who work in these industries. Whether you're interested in the traditional craft of birch canoe building or the cutting-edge world of high voltage circuit breakers, there's something for everyone in this engaging and informative episode of How It's Made.