MDF vs. MFC: Features of Use

Probably you are familiar with Melamine Faced Chipboard and Medium Density Fibreboard-but do you know the differences between these two sheet materials?

MFC and MDF are both sheet materials utilized in the manufacture of home and office furniture. However, these materials are different and shouldn't be used interchangeably. Each board has its benefits and cons, and it is, therefore, essential to know the differences between them before deciding what to buy for your project.

If that’s what brought here at Sheet Materials, you are reading the right page. Let’s plunge in and dissect each of these sheet materials for better understanding.

Melamine Faced Chipboard: Where Is Used

Popularly known as MFC, the sheet material is an engineered wood product manufactured using wood strands and resin. Melamine is a thermosetting plastic placed on paper (the paper can be patterned to resemble wood). The melamine 'veneers' are then glued to the board to get the finished product.

MFC is commonly utilized in making furniture and other wooden products.

Medium Density Fibreboard

Commonly referred to as MDF, this is a quite popular sheet material. It is engineered from wood waste, and it has been around for the last six decades. Nowadays, it is used in almost all areas of construction. This can be attributed to its versatility.

However, one feature of MDF that stands out is its smooth surface. The material also has minimal reaction to moisture.

Features of Use MFC

• MFC is resistant to moisture and therefore doesn’t warp when exposed to humid conditions;

• It is highly scratch-resistant, and therefore you can place heavy utensils on it without affecting the surface of the cabinet;

•  It is easy to clean. This makes it ideal for hygienic kitchen cabinets.

MDF vs. MFC

Here are the main differences between MFC and MDF:

• Safety – when cut, MDF releases harmful particles, and this can be a health hazard to the manufacturers and anyone working with it. The particles contain carcinogenic matter known as formaldehyde, and it is airborne. This element is mostly released into the air when the furniture gets damaged. Usually, the furniture is sealed to keep the harmful element in the wood.

There are no such safety issues in MFC.

• Stability – MFC beats MDF when it comes to stability. This is because MFC is engineered using thick carcass panels, while MDF is made from wood waste products.

• Ease of manufacture – MFC is relatively harder to cut and shape compared to MDF. This implies you may take more time to complete your project when using MFC than when using MDF. The order delivery for MFC may also take a longer time.

• Density – MFC is lighter than MDF. Most manufacturers prefer to use MFC since MDF can have serious issues. For instance, lower grades of MDF warp and swell if they get in contact with moisture. Besides, if repeatedly screwed into the sides, the sheets can split.

Conclusion

Both MFC and MDF are excellent sheets used in manufacturing furniture and other wooden products. They are durable and strong, but there are some differences when it comes to ease of use, density, safety, and stability.