MDF Quality

[Geoff_S]

I have generally bought my MDF from a well know local timber yard for years now. However, I have noticed recently that
when ploughing a properly sharp router bit through it, it seems to be very fibrous resulting in quite a lot of sanding to
smooth the cut off.

So, I know a bit about HDF, but are there better quality grades of MDF and if so, where can I get it?

Thanks

 

[Bodgers]

My local timber place sells the premium Medite stuff. Try asking for that. Seems ok for MDF to me, I try to stick to plywood for casework- just built some workshop cabinets with some okish hardwood ply and it is nicer to deal with than MDF IMO.


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[thick_mike]

MRMDF is much denser with a less fluffy core. Machines well.

 

[porker]

MRMDF is much denser with a less fluffy core. Machines well.

+1 Best I have used is Medite V313 MRMDF then some other MRMDF but not sure of the manufacturer. I won't use the beige B&Q stuff if I can avoid it because it is so fluffy on the edge. My supplier (Laver online) is not too pricy either.

 

[custard]

Moisture Resistant MDF is better for routing than regular MDF, but you can do better still.

A few of the MDF manufacturers offer variants of MDF specifically designed for routing and moulding work, for example you could try Kronospan Deep Rout which is available from quite a few outlets including Timbmet,

http://www.timbmet.com/uk/products/range/mdf/mdf-range/

It gives a very smooth and paint ready surface straight from the router.

Good luck!

 

[Sideways]

I got hold of a few offcuts recently that were interesting. A green tinged moisture resistant MDF was like everyone else says noticeably tougher on the surface and less furry when cut.
Also, what i figure was Valchromat or an equivalent. Harder still, very impact resistant, very clean cutting. The dust had an abrasive, fine but granular feel to it. I put it to use as a small benchtop and as wear / impact facings for something that gets a lot of knocks. Valchromat is pretty expensive but Axminster do MFT style tops out of it and I think it might be good for that purpose.

 

[Geoff_S]

Thanks for the replies, very helpful.

 

[toolsntat]

Recently had mrmdf from a trade supplier only to find it varying in size both ways by up to 6mm and not square.
Cheers
Andy