The process of making medals
As an important item for recognition and commemoration, the production process of medals requires fine craftsmanship and high standards of materials. Here are the main steps in medal making:
1. Design link
Creative ideation: Determine the overall style and design elements of the medal based on its purpose (such as sports day, academic competition, etc.) and theme. This includes shapes, sizes, patterns, and text content.
Sketching: Use drawing software or hand-drawn methods to transform design ideas into detailed sketches. The sketch should include front, back, and side views.
Confirm design: Communicate with customers or related parties to modify and refine sketches until the design is finalized.
2. Mold making
3D modeling: 3D modeling is carried out using CAD software to accurately simulate the three-dimensional shape of the medal.
CNC machining: According to the 3D model data, the CNC machine tool is used to process the mold. This process ensures that the mold is exactly the same as the design drawing.
Mold inspection: Inspect the processed molds to ensure that their accuracy and quality meet the requirements.
3. Material selection and preparation
Metal Options: Common medal materials include copper, silver, gold, and alloys. Choose the right metal material based on your budget and needs.
Surface treatment: For some special effects (such as gold plating and silver plating), the corresponding plating solution or other treatment agents need to be prepared in advance.
4. Casting and molding
Melting the Metal: The selected metal material is heated to a molten state.
Casting and forming: The molten metal is poured into the mold and taken out after cooling to form the preliminary shape of the medal.
Trim the edges: Remove excess metal parts to make the medal's edges smooth and flat.
5. Post-processing
Grinding and polishing: Use sandpaper, grinding wheels and other tools to polish and polish the surface of the medal to make its gloss meet the requirements.
Electroplating coloring: If gold plating, silver plating or other color treatments are required, electroplating operations should be carried out at this time.
Text engraving: Engrave the name of the winner, the name of the award and other information on the medal. This is usually done through laser engraving or mechanical engraving.
Protective coating: To prevent oxidation and wear of the medal, a transparent protective paint can be applied to its surface.
6. Quality inspection and packaging
Visual Inspection: A comprehensive inspection of the medal's appearance is conducted to ensure it is free from blemishes and defects.
Performance testing: Test the hardness, wear resistance and other performance indicators of the medal to ensure its quality meets standards.
Packaging and shipping: Qualified medals are cleaned, dried, and properly packaged for transportation and preservation.
Through the above steps, a beautiful medal completes the whole process from design to finished product. Every aspect of the production process is crucial, and any negligence can affect the quality and aesthetics of the medal. Therefore, the production unit should strictly control the quality of each link to ensure that the final delivery to customers is high-quality medal products.
