Ep 15. Jaws of Life, Artificial Christmas Trees, Soda Crackers, Ratchets

How It's Made is a documentary-style television series that explores the manufacturing processes behind everyday objects and items. In season 6, episode 15, viewers can expect to learn about the production of Jaws of Life, Artificial Christmas Trees, Soda Crackers and Ratchets.

The show starts with an exploration of the Jaws of Life, which are hydraulic rescue tools that are used to save lives in emergency situations. Viewers will see how these powerful machines are designed and built, using precision engineering and specialized materials. They will learn about the various components that make up the Jaws of Life, including the hydraulic pump, the rescue spreaders, and the cutting tools. They will also see how these tools are tested and optimized for maximum performance.

Next up, the show moves on to artificial Christmas trees, which are a popular and convenient alternative to real trees. Viewers will get to see how these trees are made, starting with the wireframe that forms the skeleton of the tree. They will learn about the various materials used to make the needles and branches, and see how they are attached to the frame to create a realistic and aesthetically pleasing tree. They will also get a behind-the-scenes look at the various styles and sizes of artificial trees that are available to consumers.

The third segment of the show focuses on soda crackers, a classic snack food that has been enjoyed for generations. Viewers will go inside a commercial bakery to see how these crackers are made, starting with the mixing and kneading of the dough. They will learn about the various techniques used to create the distinctive flakiness and texture of soda crackers, as well as the seasonings and flavors that are added. They will also see how the crackers are baked to perfection and packaged for sale.

The final segment of the show explores ratchets, a simple but ingenious mechanism that is used in a wide variety of tools and machines. Viewers will get an up-close look at the inner workings of ratchets, including the pawl, the gear teeth, and the handle. They will learn how ratchets are used to convert linear motion into rotational motion, and how they can be adapted for different applications. They will also see how ratchets are manufactured, including the precise machining and heat treatment processes that are used to create these durable and reliable tools.

Overall, this episode of How It's Made offers a fascinating and educational look at the manufacturing processes that create some of the most important and beloved products in our daily lives. From lifesaving rescue tools to festive holiday decorations to crunchy snack foods to versatile mechanical devices, viewers are sure to come away with a newfound appreciation for the ingenuity and skill that goes into creating these amazing products.