How Are Medals Made? A Detailed Process

Ever wondered how the shiny medals awarded to champions are made? The process is intricate and fascinating, involving several steps from design to production. In this article, we will take a closer look at how these coveted symbols of achievement are brought to life, providing a deeper understanding of the craftsmanship involved.

Materials Used in Creating Medals

Types of Metals Commonly Used

Common types of metals used in creating medals include gold, silver, and bronze:

Gold Medals: Often awarded in prestigious competitions like the Olympics.

Silver Medals: Typically given for second place in sports like baseball or volleyball.

Bronze Medals: Commonly awarded for third place in competitions such as soccer or pickleball.

The choice of metal significantly impacts the durability and appearance of the finished medal. For instance, a silver perimeter insert with blue glitter is visually striking, while a gilded finish on a bowling medal exudes a sense of accomplishment.

Other Materials Needed

Besides metals, creating medals requires specific tools and equipment, such as:

Double Action Perimeter Inserts

Blue Glitter

Cheer Blaze Designs

These materials and designs ensure that each medal, whether for a shiny captain, lion pride, or pickleball event, stands out and signifies the achievement it represents.

Designing the Medals

• Creating the Artwork

Artwork for medals is created using various techniques, including computer-aided design (CAD) software. This software allows for precise customization, ensuring intricate details are accurately represented. Designs can be tailored for specific events or organizations, ensuring the artwork reflects the occasion well.

• Using Computer-Aided Design Software

CAD software offers numerous functions to customize medals precisely. It can create unique designs for various sports and events, incorporating elements like double action features, royal chess themes, or honor roll blaze elements. The software also allows for selecting different finishes such as gold, silver, or bronze to match the event's significance.

• Customizing for Specific Events or Organizations

Customizing medals for specific events or organizations ensures the design matches the theme or purpose seamlessly. Whether it’s a baseball or soccer event, or a cheerleading competition, customization adds a special touch to each medal. Elements like blue glitter or honor roll blaze can distinguish runner-ups, while unique themes like lion pride or royal chess cater to specific interests.

Manufacturing Process of Medals

• Molding the Design into a Die

The first step in creating a medal involves making a mold with the chosen design. Molten metal, often gold, silver, or bronze, is poured into the mold, filling all its crevices to achieve a precise design. After the metal cools, the mold is opened to reveal the detailed medal.

• Pouring Molten Metal into the Mold

Pouring molten metal into the mold requires careful temperature control to ensure a shiny finish. The design and size of the mold impact the final outcome, with intricate details enhanced by techniques like double action methods. This process is crucial for medals in sports like baseball, volleyball, soccer, and more.

• Cooling and Hardening of the Metal

Cooling and hardening the metal involves methods such as quenching and tempering, which impact the final quality and durability of the medal. Proper cooling ensures the medal maintains its shape and structure, making it suitable for various sports and competitions.

• Removing Excess Metal and Polishing the Finished Medal

Excess metal is removed through techniques like grinding, polishing, and buffing. This process gives the medals a shiny, flawless surface, essential for showcasing winners' achievements in sports and competitions.

• Finishing Touches on the Medals

Adding Colors or Enamel for a More Intricate Design

Adding colors or enamel enhances the visual appeal of medals. Whether it’s a shiny captain emblem or blue glitter perimeter insert, these details make medals stand out and signify the honor and victory they represent.

Attaching Ribbons or Lanyards for Wearable Medals

Ribbons or lanyards are attached to medals for easy wearing. This involves threading the ribbon through a slot or using double action clasps to secure it, ensuring the ribbon stays in place during activities.

Quality Control Measures for Medals

Inspecting for Flaws or Imperfections

Inspect medals for flaws by examining the surface for scratches, dents, or discolorations. Ensuring the medals meet quality standards is crucial for maintaining their pristine appearance.

Checking for Accurate Specifications and Details

Ensure that medals are made from high-quality materials and that details like colors and finishes are accurate. This attention to detail guarantees that medals represent the excellence they are meant to symbolize.

Conclusion

The creation of custom medals involves a detailed die-casting process. From creating a custom mold to pouring, cooling, and polishing the metal, each step requires precision and craftsmanship. Adding colors, enamel, and attaching ribbons completes the process, transforming the medals into symbols of honor and victory. By understanding this intricate process, we can appreciate the craftsmanship and dedication that go into making these coveted awards.