What Material Makes Badges More Durable?

As brand identifiers, identity symbols and commemorative carriers, badges are widely used in image promotion, event commemoration, business gifts and other scenarios. "Durability and texture" are the core demands for badge customization. Based on actual measurement data, this article analyzes the material selection logic for durable badges.

Mainstream badge materials are divided into metal and non-metal. Metal materials are preferred for long-term use due to excellent hardness and corrosion resistance; non-metal materials are only suitable for short-term temporary scenarios. Core indicators for judging durability: hardness, corrosion resistance, wear resistance, non-deformability and color durability.

Zinc alloy is the preferred choice for badge customization, with high cost performance and full-scenario adaptability. Its dense oxide film prevents rust, and it has strong plasticity to restore fine patterns. Matching electroplating, baking paint and other processes, it is suitable for name tags, commemorative badges, etc. High-quality zinc alloy badges can be used for decades.

Stainless steel and iron are super durable and easy to maintain, suitable for outdoor and high-frequency use. Stainless steel is corrosion-resistant and wear-resistant, not afraid of wind, rain and sweat; iron is low-cost, with texture close to copper after protection, requiring moisture-proof for long-term storage. Aviation-grade aluminum alloy meets high-end needs, unchanged in extreme environments and non-fading for five years.

Enamel process with metal base is the first choice for high-end collectible badges. Hard enamel is fired at high temperature, with high hardness and non-fading, service life over 20 years; soft enamel is more cost-effective for high-end needs with limited budget, and high-quality enamel badges have high pass rate in wear tests.

Copper has a warm texture, preferred for high-quality badges, including brass, red copper and purple copper, suitable for various processes, and can be stored for a long time with proper maintenance. Non-metal materials such as acrylic have poor durability, only recommended for short-term use.

Acrylic is the most widely used non-metallic badge material. It features high light transmittance, rich colors, and flexible molding, achieving transparent, gradient, and fluorescent effects unavailable with metal. Laser cutting and UV printing ensure sharp details. At one-third the weight of metal, it is lightweight and comfortable to wear, with short production cycles and cost advantages, ideal for promotions and gifts. However, it is easily scratched, fragile when dropped, and prone to yellowing and fading under long-term sunlight, making it unsuitable for long-term wear or collection.

Badge durability is closely related to craftsmanship. Selection can be based on scenarios and budget: Acrylic,zinc alloy + enamel/baking paint for high cost performance; stainless steel/iron for durability; copper + hard enamel for collection value; non-metal for short-term use.