MDF/HDF(WoodFibrePanel)
Engineered panel obtained by decomposing wood into microscopic fibres, mixing with resins and hot-pressing. Offers absolute homogeneity, free of the defects and cleavage planes of natural wood, making it perfect for 3D CNC routing and flawless lacquering.
Density gradient. The surfaces in direct contact with the heated press platens become significantly denser than the central core.
MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard) is the masterpiece of timber reconstruction. While OSB exploits visible flakes, MDF pulverises wood to a molecular level, then thermally re-aggregates it into a panel with a silky surface.
Wood chips are fed into a thermo-mechanical defibrator: high-pressure steam shreds the wood, separating lignin from cellulose. These fibres are sprayed with synthetic resins (MUF or PMDI) and water-repellent paraffin, forming a soft mat that enters high-temperature presses. The heat cures the resin and plasticises the natural lignin, creating a solid board with a silky surface.
Unlike solid wood, MDF has no grain (isotropic material). This absence of directionality makes it the material of choice for CNC milling: it can be carved and engraved in 3D, producing smooth, compact edges. The HDF (High Density) variants or those coloured throughout (e.g. Valchromat) offer monolithic architectural finishes.
Standards
European and international references applicable.
Physical properties
Usage environment
Use MDF.H (green, hydrophobic) in damp environments. For acoustic applications prefer HDF (> 800 kg/m3) thanks to its high specific mass. For interior design specify NAF (No Added Formaldehyde) panels with PMDI or soy-based glues. Always seal cut edges in humid environments.
Documented applications
TAV. DBoiserie and fitted furniture
Wall panelling, lacquered doors and shaped components.
Diffuse bracing
DWD/MDF.LA structural panels in highly breathable timber frames.
Acoustic panels
Microperforated or slotted surfaces for indoor reverberation control.
Technical floors (HDF)
High-density substrates for vinyl or resilient floor finishes, able to resist point loads.
Average Density (kg/m3) — Relationship with Internal Bond (IB)
TAV. EAverage density (kg/m3). As density increases so does Internal Bond (IB) — the internal cohesion critical to prevent delamination during deep CNC routing. HDF density above 800 kg/m3 also improves acoustic mass and floor resilience.
Operational documents from this sheet
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