Ep 13. Yacht Wheels and Chisels

Yacht Wheels and Chisels is a fascinating episode from the fourth season of How It's Made. The episode starts off by showcasing the production process of yacht wheels. Yacht wheels are not just any ordinary wheels; they are specially designed to be used on luxury yachts and boats. The episode takes us to a factory where we get to see how these wheels are made, and it is quite a complex process.

The first step in making yacht wheels is to create the mold. The mold is made using a high-density foam that is cut to the shape and size of the wheel. Next, the mold is covered with fiberglass, which is then reinforced with resin. A layer of gelcoat is applied to give the wheel a smooth finish. The mold is then left to cure for a few hours.

Once the mold is ready, it is time to create the wheel itself. The wheel is made using a process called "laying up." This involves laying layers of fiberglass onto the mold and reinforcing each layer with resin. The process is repeated until the desired thickness is achieved. The wheel is then left to cure for several hours.

After the wheel has cured, it is time to remove it from the mold. The mold is cut free, and the excess fiberglass and resin are trimmed off the wheel. The wheel is then inspected for any defects and sanded to achieve a smooth finish. The final step is to add the rim and hub, and the yacht wheel is ready to be mounted on a luxury yacht.

The second part of the episode focuses on chisels. Chisels are used for cutting and shaping wood and metal. The episode takes us to a factory where we get to see how chisels are made, and it is a fascinating process.

The first step in making chisels is to create the blade. The blade is made using high-quality steel that has been tempered to ensure it is strong and durable. The steel is cut into the shape of the blade and then heated until it is red hot. The hot blade is then plunged into oil to quickly cool it down. This process, known as quenching, hardens the steel, making it strong and durable.

The next step is to sharpen the blade. The blade is sharpened using a machine that grinds and polishes the blade to the correct angle. Once the blade is sharpened, it is time to attach the handle. The handle is made from wood that has been specially treated to prevent it from cracking or splitting. The handle is attached to the blade using a special adhesive.

The final step is to polish and finish the chisel. The chisel is polished using a machine that removes any rough edges and leaves a smooth, shiny finish. The chisel is then inspected for any defects and packaged for shipment.

In conclusion, Yacht Wheels and Chisels is an excellent episode from the fourth season of How It's Made. The episode offers a fascinating insight into the production process of two very different products. Watching the intricate process of making yacht wheels and chisels is sure to leave viewers with a new appreciation for the work that goes into creating these essential tools.