Recently, in Yongkang City, Zhejiang Province, a rural metalworker has captured attention by crafting a unique “Mini Iron Man Band” using only discarded metal parts and his skilled hands.

The metalworker, 41-year-old Chen Youhao, has worked in the trade for many years. In 2020, he began experimenting with turning scrap metal into small ornaments, and by 2023—after being inspired by short videos—he officially began creating his line of creative mini iron figures. Most of his materials come from scrap yards, including discarded items like nuts and threaded steel rods, which he transforms into art.

Drawing from his experience in bearing welding and structural design, Chen overcame the technical challenges of working with tiny parts. Initially, it took him 2–3 days to make each figure, but now he can finish one in a day. Since launching his first “Metal Guitarist” in September 2023, he has created over 20 movable mini iron men.

His Iron Man band features an eclectic lineup—bassists, drummers, and even erhu (Chinese violin) players—each with punk hairstyles and heavy metal outfits. Some of the figures include dancing functions, moving their limbs and heads via crankshaft mechanisms and mechanical pistons, highlighting the beauty of industrial design.

Technically, each ironman has an internal motor that drives its limbs through an up-and-down crankshaft motion. Chen has also given his figures charming facial expressions, such as a “deep squat” series that vividly captures the strained look of working out. His more complex pieces, like full drum kits, take several days to complete and showcase his advanced mechanical craftsmanship.

Following his viral success, Chen has also become active in public outreach and education. He once built a 100-kilogram metal archery sculpture in a week for a school project, and in December 2024, he was invited to a local elementary school’s science festival to inspire kids’ interest in mechanics. He’s currently researching ways to mass-produce his creations while maintaining quality, in response to growing demand from enthusiastic fans.