Ep 17. Conga Drums, Metal Plating, Buttons

"How It's Made" is a popular television series that explores the fascinating process of manufacturing everyday objects. In season 2, episode 17, the show takes a closer look at the production of three diverse items: conga drums, metal plating, and buttons.

The first segment of the episode focuses on the creation of conga drums, one of the most popular percussion instruments in the world. The conga drum originated in Cuba and is an essential part of Latin American and Afro-Caribbean music. The show takes us on a step-by-step tour of the manufacturing process, starting with the raw materials needed to make the drum. The shells of the drums are made from either fiberglass or wood, and the heads are made from animal skins or synthetic materials such as Mylar.

The next step involves cutting the shell to the right shape and size and adding reinforcement rings to give the drum strength and durability. This is followed by polishing, sanding, and painting the drum to give it a smooth finish. The final step involves tuning the drum, which requires skill and experience. The tone of the drum is adjusted by tightening or loosening the head, and the pitch is determined by the size of the drum, the thickness of the shell, and the tension of the head.

The second segment of the episode delves into the world of metal plating. Metal plating is a vital industry that involves coating metals with a layer of another metal to enhance their durability, strength, and resistance to corrosion. The show takes us through the various stages of the plating process, as workers carefully clean, degrease, and rinse the metal to remove any contaminants that could affect the quality of the plating.

Once the metal is clean, it is put through a series of chemical baths that help form a bond between the base metal and the plating material. The most common metals used for plating are nickel, copper, and zinc, but other metals such as gold, silver, and platinum can also be used. The plating process is closely monitored to ensure a uniform and consistent coat, and the thickness of the plating is carefully controlled to achieve the desired result. The show also explains the importance of environmental regulations in the metal plating industry and how companies work to limit their impact on the environment.

The final segment of the episode explores the manufacturing of buttons, a small yet essential item that is used in virtually every piece of clothing we wear. The show takes us through the various stages of making buttons, from the raw materials to the finished product. Buttons can be made from a wide range of materials, including plastic, metal, wood, and even seashells.

The first step in making buttons is to create a mold, which is used to shape the button. The mold is often made from brass or aluminum and is carefully crafted to ensure the button is the correct size and shape. Once the mold is ready, it is filled with the button material, which is usually a thermoplastic or thermosetting resin. The mold is then heated to the right temperature, and the material is allowed to cure or harden.

The buttons are then removed from the mold and undergo a series of finishing processes, such as trimming, sanding, and polishing. The show also explains the different types of buttons available, including snap buttons, shank buttons, and flat buttons. It also explores how designers use buttons to add a decorative touch to clothing and accessories.

In conclusion, season 2, episode 17 of "How It's Made" gives viewers an in-depth look at the manufacturing processes involved in creating conga drums, metal plating, and buttons. Through these fascinating segments, viewers gain a greater appreciation for these everyday objects and the skilled craftsmen and women who create them.