Ep 15. Springs, Pavers, Pianos #1, Pianos #2

How It's Made season 3 episode 15 takes us on an exploration of the production process behind some of the most fascinating products in the world: springs, pavers, and pianos. This episode is divided into two parts, with the first half focusing on the manufacturing of springs and pavers, and the second half detailing the intricate process of building pianos.

We start with springs, which are ubiquitous in our daily lives and are used in everything from cars to watches. The episode takes us inside the manufacturing process where we learn that springs are typically made from steel wire, which is fed into a machine that coils it around a mandrel. The machine then cuts the wire to the desired length, and the finished spring is removed and inspected for quality. We see how various types of springs, including compression, torsion, and extension springs, are produced and learn about their unique abilities to absorb and store energy.

Next, we move on to the world of pavers, which are the building blocks of many of our outdoor spaces. The episode takes us to a factory where we watch as concrete is mixed and poured into molds. We see how various shapes and sizes of pavers are created, including the classic rectangular brick shape, as well as hexagon and circular patterns. We also learn about the importance of coloring and finishing techniques in the manufacturing process to create the perfect paver for any outdoor space.

The second half of the episode is dedicated to the fascinating process of creating pianos. We start with the raw materials, including the wood used to create the soundboard, the cast iron used for the frame, and the felt used for the hammers. We see how these materials are carefully selected and prepared for use in the piano-building process.

We then move on to the assembly process, where we see how the various components of the piano, including the keys, pedals, and hammers, are put together to create an instrument that is both beautiful and functional. We learn about the importance of precision and attention to detail in the construction of a piano, as even the slightest error can result in a poorly functioning instrument.

Throughout the episode, we are treated to fascinating behind-the-scenes glimpses of the manufacturing processes that create some of the products we rely on every day. We see how technology and skill come together to produce items that are both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional, and we come away with a new appreciation for the work that goes into creating the products that make our lives easier and more enjoyable.