3 Essential Insights to Choosing Between Welded and Riveted Pin Backs

Have you noticed? Some enamel pins have welded posts, while others use riveted posts. Choosing the right attachment method is crucial for durability, appearance, and long-term use. Selecting the wrong type can lead to pins that loosen, bend, or fail prematurely. At HIPINS, we’ve helped thousands of customers choose the perfect method for their pins. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make the best decision.

At HIPINS, we use two primary attachment methods: Welded Pin Backs and Riveted Pin Backs. Here’s everything you need to know to make the right choice.

1. Welded Pin Backs – Ideal for Die-Struck Pins

Overview:
Die-struck (stamped) pins are produced by pressing metals like brass, copper, iron, or aluminum into shape using a custom mold. The back is completely flat, which makes riveting impossible. For these pins, we use high-temperature welding to attach the post securely.

Detailed Production Process:

1. Metal Selection & Cutting: Choose the proper metal based on pin design and durability requirements. Cut into base shapes.
2. Die-Struck Shaping: Use precision molds to strike the pin design.
3. Surface Preparation: Smooth and clean the back to ensure a strong welding surface.
4. Welding: Attach the pin post using controlled high-temperature welding.
5. Quality Check: Inspect weld strength, alignment, and surface finish.
6. Finishing: Apply protective coatings or polishing as needed.

Advantages:

• Works with a wide range of metals
• Flat back allows for back printing or sticker application
• Ideal for small or intricate designs

Limitations:

• Strength depends on welding quality; uneven force may cause loosening
• Not suitable for heat-sensitive materials like zinc alloy

Applications:

• Promotional pins
• Souvenir pins
• Event or corporate pins with back printing
• Limited-edition collector pins

Design Tips:

• Use welded backs when the pin design requires a smooth back
• Avoid overly thin posts, as they can bend under stress
• Ideal for pins under 3mm thickness

2. Riveted Pin Backs – Best for Die-Cast Pins

Overview:
Die-cast pins are usually made from zinc alloy, which cannot withstand high heat. To attach posts, the back is designed with recessed areas (pits) to allow mechanical riveting, creating a durable and reliable attachment.

Detailed Production Process:

1. Die-Cast Mold Design: Include recessed areas for post insertion.
2. Casting: Inject molten zinc alloy into molds.
3. Post Insertion: Place the pin post into the recessed area.
4. Riveting: Secure the post using precise mechanical riveting.
5. Inspection: Check alignment, post stability, and surface finish.
6. Finishing: Apply polish, plating, or coatings for durability and appearance.

Advantages:

• Extremely strong and durable
• Ideal for large-scale production
• Suitable for pins intended for long-term wear

Limitations:

• Slight bump on the back surface
• Only works with recessed-back designs

Applications:

• Military or police pins
• Corporate recognition pins
• High-volume collectible pins
• Pins for uniforms or long-term wear

Design Tips:

• Use riveted backs for thicker or heavier pins
• Recessed pit depth must match post size for optimal stability
• Best for designs with bold, solid shapes

3. Key Comparison: Welded vs Riveted

4. Choosing the Right Pin Back

• Die-struck brass or iron pins → Welded posts
• Zinc alloy die-cast pins → Riveted posts

Considerations:

• For pins requiring smooth backs or back printing → choose welded
• For pins that will be worn frequently or in high volumes → choose riveted
• For custom designs with unique shapes → consult HIPINS experts

5. Common Questions from Customers

Q1: Can I use welded backs on zinc alloy pins?
A: Not recommended. Zinc alloy melts at high welding temperatures and can deform.

Q2: Can riveted backs be used on thin metal pins?
A: Only if the pin design includes a reinforced recessed area; otherwise, welding is better.

Q3: Which method is better for collectible pins?
A: Depends on the metal and design. Small, flat pins → welded; heavier, long-term pins → riveted.

6. Why Choose HIPINS

• Expertise in both welding and riveting
• High-quality metals and precision craftsmanship
• Strict quality control for every batch
• Custom solutions for unique designs
• Professional advice to optimize durability and aesthetics

Looking to customize your pins? Contact HIPINS today to learn more about the best construction method for your design!

HIPINS – Professional Custom Pin Manufacturer
Website: www.hipins.com
Email: sales@hipins.com