About this season
Coinciding with the release of the remastered original episodes of The Secret Life Of Machines, Tim Hunkin began a self-produced spiritual successor called The Secret Life of Components. It explores some of the individual parts that so often make up the appliances and machines that were the focus of the original series. The weekly episodes included what Hunkin has learned through his experience with the component, along with many models for demonstration and examples from his amusement machines and other works.
Episodes (8)
1. Chain and Belts
Aired 3 March 2021 • 47 min
Explores chains and belts, including demonstrations of different types of roller chain, round and toothed belts
2. LEDs
Aired 10 March 2021 • 43 min
LED history, brightness and color, use in diorama, addressable LED strips, and power LEDs for home lighting
3. Hinges
Aired 17 March 2021 • 50 min
An overview of different types of hinges and their usage around the home and in machinery.
4. Switches
Aired 25 March 2021 • 32 min
An overview on how electrical switches work, and how to use microswitches for sensing and power switching in projects.
5. Springs
Aired 1 April 2021 • 42 min
Explores springs, their manufacture, properties, and several different types of springs with their use cases
6. Connectors
Aired 8 April 2021 • 45 min
A wide variety of connectors are shown and their operation explained, including their benefits, drawbacks and how they may be used in equipment
7. Glue
Aired 15 April 2021 • 50 min
Explores different types of glue, their properties and uses
8. Bearings
Aired 22 April 2021 • 44 min
A wide variety of bearings, bushes, and races are explained with their uses and properties including materials and lubrication