MDF
What is MDF?
MDF is a product obtained by thermomechanically processing wood or other lignocellulosic raw materials, drying the fibers to a certain moisture level with the addition of synthetic adhesives, and then pressing the resulting sheet under heat and pressure.
The even distribution and high density of fibers throughout MDF allows for machining of both surfaces and edges without any breakage or gaps between material particles. This makes MDF ideal for producing parts such as tabletops, door panels, and drawer fronts with edge trim or profiled surfaces. With its extremely smooth and homogeneous surface, MDF provides an excellent base for painting, as well as for applying decorative foils, PVC, or wood veneers.
Its uniform thickness, suitability for machining, and strength allow MDF to be used as an alternative to solid wood for applications such as drawer fronts, mirror frames, and moldings.
How is MDF produced?
For MDF production, wood chips obtained from hardwoods and softwoods are steamed and passed through a defibrillator to transform them into wood fibers. These fibers are then dried, and binding agents such as glue, paraffin, and hardeners are added. The fibers, mixed with binding agents, are then subjected to a spreading process. During the subsequent pre-pressing process, the fiber layers are compressed to approximately half their thickness, the edges are trimmed and straightened, and then sized.
In the subsequent hot pressing stage, the fibers and binders, under high temperature and pressure, fuse and harden completely, forming sheets of the desired thickness. The final stage of production is cooling the sheets after hot pressing and sanding them to achieve a flawless surface. High-quality MDF fiberboard is now ready for use in all types of production.
Types of MDF
Depending on their intended use, MDF can be classified as: thin MDF (1.8-3 mm thick), thick MDF, moisture-resistant, outdoor use, fire-resistant, and furniture making.
Classified by their specific gravity: Lightweight fiberboards (soft), medium-hard fiberboards, and hard fiberboards.
Properties of MDF
MDF is essentially a board product that combines the superior properties of hard fiberboard and particle board. Its physical and mechanical properties make it suitable as an alternative to solid wood.
Due to its high surface density and low roughness, all types of liquid surface treatments such as lacquers, paints, and varnishes can be applied to the surface of the panels.
MDF board surfaces can be covered with all types of laminate, resin-impregnated paper, foil, and wood veneer.
MDF has extremely smooth and tight edges, allowing for tongue-and-groove joints without the need for gluing solid wood strips, and enabling the creation of any desired profile.
Another advantage of MDF is its high bending resistance, modulus of elasticity, and screw and nail holding strength.
