"MDF to Ply (probably) [Mad Mecha Guy]" Topic

Dear All

Having got fed up with the quality issues of 3mm MDF (companies don't know how to check the setting of rollers), I am probably going to change from 3mm MDF to 3mm laser Plyboard.

This will involve a slight price increase of around 25p-£3 (most around £1.00 GBP) for an item depending on how much material is used. I can't afford to absorb extra cost myself at present.

Pros:
Stronger
Slightly Lighter

Cons:
More expensive
Very fine wood grain on surface.

Will still be using 2mm MDF as this thickness is still OK & 2mm ply is too expensive (4 times the cost).

Will not come into effect until used up all my 3mm Stock & done some more test cuts.

I hope people will not be unhappy with this.

Regards

MMG.

Hello MMg,
Still have to use the stuff I got from you but I would say that Plywood absorb less so it's easier to seal with varnish & does not fear humidity as MDF does ( the reason why you should seal it with varnish in the first place ).

It also drills, shapes better but perhaps ( because of the wood grain ) does not finish as smooth as MDF.

Have you tried white melamine covered Hardboard ( the stuff they use for the backs of cabinets ? This will off course have other issues as I do not know the effects of lasers on melamine ( might be toxic, so take care )

Z