Pin badges are tiny yet decorative items that people wear to express their interests, achievements, and affiliations. They display pieces of different designs, shapes, and sizes on their clothing, bags, or other accessories. Some individuals are also avid collectors of it and create various home décor items with it.
These meaningful and stylish items comprise diverse details, but one of them that usually goes unnoticed is the plating. It not only improves the aesthetic appeal of the emblem but also offers durability and protection. In short, they hold great importance; they consist of distinctive types that are essential to know for both manufacturers and consumers. If you want to know everything about pin badge plating, this guide is the right destination.
The Pin Badge Plating: What Does It Mean?
Pin badge plating is the procedure of coating a metal surface with a thin layer of another one. This process aims to improve appearance, increase durability, and offer corrosion resistance. The base metal of this emblem type is generally composed of iron, brass, or zinc alloy. On the other hand, the plating layer typically comprises either gold, silver, nickel, or copper.
The Plating Process: 4 Essential Steps
The procedure comprises the following four essential steps:
- Preparation: During the first step, manufacturers clean and polish the base metal to make sure it adheres well to the plating. They remove all sorts of imperfections to create a smooth surface.
- Electroplating: Here comes the most common step of this procedure, in which the emblem is dipped into a solution. It contains the metal ions of the plating material, and the electric current passes through the liquid. The electricity causes the metal ions to deposit onto the surface of the insignia.
- Rinsing And Drying: Once the metal ions are properly layered on the emblem’s surface, the manufacturers rinse it. They remove any residual solution and then dry it.
- Finishing: The plated emblem goes further under additional steps, such as polishing and antiquing. Manufacturers also add a protective coating to custom pin badges to elevate their appeal, professionalism, and durability.
5 Popular Types Of Pin Badge Plating: Choose Yours!
There are so many plating for pin badges, but each one has its unique properties and benefits. Here are a couple of popular ones that you should explore to pick the one that suits your emblem:
1. Gold Plating
Gold plating is highly famous for its luxurious appeal and corrosion resistance and is often used for superior-quality collectable emblems. It has a bright, shiny finish that introduces a touch of elegance and prestige to the item, plus it offers ultimate durability. Flipping the other side is more expensive than other types and can wear off over time with heavy use.
2. Silver Plating
It provides a bright and reflective finish, which makes it a preferable choice for many pins. Its other pro is decent corrosion resistance and is economical compared to the above option. On the other hand, the silver type can tarnish over time and requires regular maintenance to retain its shine.
3. Nickel Plating
Nickel plating is known for its longevity plus resistance to wear and tear. It also has a shiny, metallic feel, typically used for emblems that require a more industrial or modern appeal. It is cost-effective, making it a suitable option for budget-conscious buyers, but it is less prestigious than gold or silver. However, the nickel option is unsuitable for individuals who are allergic to nickel.
4. Copper Plating
Looking for a warm, reddish finish? Copper plating is the way to go, as it also offers a unique and vintage appeal. This kind is often used as a base layer for other plating, but many manufacturers also utilize it on its own for decorative purposes. It has good electrical conductivity if needed but is prone to oxidation and tarnishing. It also requires a protective coating to maintain the appearance, which may add further cost to the overall expenses.
5. Antique Finishes
Another type is antique finishes, which require the application of a darkening agent to the plated surface. It further needs a polishing layer to achieve a worn, aged look, which also enhances its durability. This type is the best option if you want to create a vintage or retro appearance and highlight intricate details with high clarity.
However, the antique finish may not appeal to everyone; it is not a good choice if you want to distribute it among numerous people. It is also pretty expensive due to the additional processing, limiting its access to budget-restricted individuals.
Why Do You Need Pin Badge Plating?
Below, we have listed a couple of reasons for you to evaluate whether you need plating for your pin badges. Whether you’re a manufacturer or a consumer, acquainting yourself with the following causes will greatly benefit your purchase:
1. Improves Aesthetic Appeal
Plating significantly improves the visual appeal of emblems, making them appear polished and professional. It takes the attractiveness of die struck pin badges to another level. Each type you explored above introduces a different appeal to the insignia: a luxurious gold finish or a sleek nickel shine. Pick the one that matches your desired look for your customization endeavour.
2. Boosts Durability
It provides a protective layer that shields the base metal from possible wear and tear, corrosion, and environmental factors. It also boosts the lifespan of this item and keeps it in a decent condition even with frequent use.
3. Resistance Against Corrosion
Many metals, such as brass or iron, can oxidize over time when exposed to air and moisture. The plating with ores, like silver, nickel, or gold, serves as a barrier against corrosion. It ensures that the emblem remains rust-free and retains its appearance for a more extended period.
4. Offers Hypoallergenic Properties
Some metals, such as cobalt, copper, or zinc, have the potential to cause allergic reactions on the skin of a wearer. To prevent this problem, manufacturers add a layer of another ore, like gold or nickel, that contains the least allergic properties. It can create a hypoallergenic surface that is safe for individuals with metal sensitivities. This feature is particularly crucial for emblems that would be mainly worn, causing direct contact with the skin.
5. Provides Cost-Effective Customization
Another benefit is that it provides a high level of customization at a relatively lower cost. Individuals can create different eye-catching looks by choosing various finishes without breaking the bank. It will reduce the need to invest in expensive base materials. For instance, you can add a gold layer on a cheaply bought metal insignia to achieve a high-end appearance.
Closing Thoughts
Plating is an important aspect of the pin badge manufacturing process, as it significantly impacts its final appearance. It is also a crucial factor in enhancing the durability and functionality of the emblem. You’re ready to make an informed decision as you have explored its different types, entire process, and benefits.
Whether you’re a manufacturer or a consumer, choosing the right kind will make your insignia look great. It will also let them stand the test of time and offer a combination of resilience and beauty. So, next time you glance at a shiny, intricate pin badge, it will remind you of the crucial role plating plays in both its decorative and durability aspects.
