How It's Made Season 31 Episode 4 Steamer Baskets

In episode 4 of season 31 of How It's Made, viewers get an up-close look at the manufacturing process behind one of the most versatile kitchen tools - the steamer basket. Known for its ability to evenly cook vegetables, seafood, and dumplings, steamer baskets are a staple in households all around the world. In this episode, viewers will get to witness the intricate steps that go into creating these baskets and learn about the materials used, the design process, and the testing process.

The episode begins by showcasing the materials used in creating a steamer basket. Typically, steamer baskets are made using stainless steel. The steel is cut into thin sheets and then programmed into machines that can shape them into the desired size and shape of the basket. This particular episode focuses on baskets that are circular in shape and come in varying sizes.

Next, viewers get to learn about the design process. The first step in this stage involves creating a blueprint for the basket. The blueprint will outline the specific dimensions that the basket needs to be in order to accommodate the type of food that it will be holding. Once the blueprint is finalized, it is then put into a machine that can create a 3D prototype of the basket.

The 3D prototype is then inspected and tested thoroughly to ensure that it meets safety regulations and that it can withstand the heat and pressure that it will be exposed to during the cooking process. If any adjustments need to be made to the design, they are made at this stage.

Once the design has been finalized, the production process can begin. The steel sheets that were cut in the beginning stages are fed into a machine that can create the shape of the basket. The process involves perforating the steel pieces so that they have tiny holes throughout them. These holes will allow steam to escape during the cooking process, which helps to prevent overcooking.

The next step in the production process involves putting the baskets through a machine that can stamp the branding onto them. The branding is usually the name of the company that produces the baskets as well as any specific information about the basket, such as the size or type of material used.

The final stage in the production process involves cleaning and packaging the baskets. The baskets are first cleaned thoroughly to remove any excess steel shavings or debris. They are then packaged in sets of varying sizes and shapes to be sold to consumers.

Overall, this episode of How It's Made gives viewers a comprehensive look at the process that goes into creating one of the most essential kitchen tools - the steamer basket. From the materials used to the design process and production stages, viewers get an in-depth understanding of the work that goes into creating these versatile tools. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or someone who is just starting to explore your culinary skills, this episode is sure to leave you with a newfound appreciation for the kitchen gadgets that make cooking a little bit easier.