MDF, or Medium-Density Fibreboard, is a composite wood product that is sold in large, thin sheets with a density between 0.5g/cm3 and 0.8g/cm3. It is a type of hardboard with two smooth surfaces, made from wood fibres and particles glued under heat and pressure. MDF is not considered true lumber and has no grain patterns. This specific fibreboard is widely used as it is very dense translating into more weight with enhanced strength and durability.
Some believe that MDF is the better option to use as a spoilboard due to its durability, but that is not necessarily the case. MDF sheets have both sides heat-sealed to a smooth finish making the surfaces less porous; you may need to skim both sides to allow for better suction. In addition, you need to ensure that all the edges are sealed after skimming to prevent loss of suction from the sides.
A better option to use as a CNC spoilboard is LDF, low-density fibreboard. LDF has a density of between 0.35g/ cm3 and 0.5g/cm3 making it lighter than MDF. Essentially, spoilboards are sacrificial material being used as a base to cut on so that your CNC table is not damaged by the cutting tool. Being a lighter material, LDF offers better suction between the board and the vacuum underneath the table compared to a thicker MDF sheet. Increased suction allows for stability in regards to your cutting material, resulting in more accurate cuts.
MultiCam Canada stocks LDF sheets available for purchase as CNC spoilboards. Contact our order desk today at [email protected] for purchase inquiries.
7 Responses
Useful information and especially enlightening. Thanks for taking the time to write it and post it!
Not a problem–glad you found it helpful!
Great article and very informative. Thanks for taking the time to write it and post it!
Thank you for reading it!
Are there any significant differences in the surface texture/ porosity of these two products?
In terms of surface texture, the products are similar although LDF does not have the same degree of heat sealing in turn allowing for more porosity. LDF drastically increases material hold down in turn lowering the amount of material waste due to slippage and part movement.
Thank you!