MDF(medium-density fiberboard)is made from pre-consumer recycled wood, usually sawdust from a sawmill or wood chips from lumber operations.
MDF is a very niceprototyping materialbecause it’s inexpensive, uniform in texture and color, and takes paint very well. Don’t confuse MDF with particle board – which uses much larger and looser wood fibers.
Laser cutting MDFworks beautifully, with most lab cutters cutting up to 1/4in and many cutting up to 1/2in or more. The laser does leave a dark charred edge. Most people leave it as is, but if you prefer, you can easily sand the edges to remove the charring.
MDF is processed with the usual machines and tools suitable for solid wood. In addition to wood and metal drills, circular table saws and scroll saws are also suitable for processing. MDF boards can also be easily milled. Due to the high density of the boards, we recommend the use of less wearing, carbide-tipped tools for all machining processes.