Ep 11. Tequila, Waterbeds, Flip Flops, Silver

How It's Made is a documentary-style TV show that delves into the nitty-gritty world of manufacturing. In season 9 episode 11, viewers get an inside look at the processes involved in making four very different products: Tequila, Waterbeds, Flip Flops, and Silver.

The episode starts with a visit to a tequila distillery, where we learn how the Mexican spirit is made from agave plants. Workers harvest the agave, cook it, and crush it to extract its juice. This juice is then fermented and distilled, before being aged in oak barrels to create the distinctive flavor of tequila. Viewers will see the entire process, from the agave fields to the bottling plant.

Next up is a trip to a waterbed manufacturer, where we learn how these unique beds are made. Viewers will see how the waterbed's vinyl exterior is molded and welded to create the bed's unique shape, before being filled with water and sealed tight to prevent leaks. The episode will also explore the science behind waterbeds and how they offer unique benefits to sleepers.

The third segment focuses on flip flops, a summer staple loved by millions worldwide. We'll see how the simple design of flip flops is brought to life in the factory, with workers molding rubber or foam into the iconic flip flop shape. We'll also learn about the different materials used to make flip flops, from recycled rubber to plant-based foams.

Finally, the episode concludes with a visit to a silver refinery, where we'll see how raw silver ore is processed to create the shiny metal that's used in everything from jewelry to electronics. The refinery uses a process called leaching to extract the silver from the ore, before refining it further to achieve the desired purity. Viewers will also learn about the different types of silver, including sterling silver and pure silver.

Overall, season 9 episode 11 of How It's Made promises to be an informative and fascinating look at the intricate processes involved in making four very different products. From agave plants in Mexico to silver ore in a refinery, viewers will get an inside look at the often-overlooked world of modern manufacturing.