Is 'Laser' MDF worth the extra money? 

Thank you. It served me well but I have now got an omtech removable bed. I have been cutting things that just fall through the pins and sometimes get stuck

As soon as he said that he used different speeds, this comment became the only usable information on the whole post.

They only tell you that😂

@@B3RG3RS0N Some manufacturers/suppliers state E1 glue but are unable to back up their claim or provide evidence. More reputable manufacturers/suppliers will provide a material data sheet upon request while others provide a downloadable .pdf file on their website.

The Builders Merchant MDF or hardboard sheets are formaldehyde free. At least they are here in the USA.

There has been a long debate about the safety of using MDF for all kinds of uses. Most companies these days, especially in Europe and the US have to conform to pretty strict safety guidelines meaning they have to restrict the levels of harmful chemicals used in production of MDF. From what documentation I could find, the levels of chemicals in both lots conform with E1 and CARB phase 2 safety levels. As for the strength test. Yes I definitely could have set up a method of being more accurate with how well they perform. I will look into doing another video based on this soon. It was a spur of the moment while recording that I decided to test the strength

I have to say that I am currently using the standard 3mm MDF due to cost and supply issues. It's been great to work with and really consistent results

@@philscraftcorner It is good, and I find it sturdier than the other MDF, but it's also a little bit harder to cut. I do prefer the effect of the cutting and engraving in it, it scorches a lot less

Learning which materials work for you and the specific job you have on is half of the fun

All modern MDF has to comply with strict safety rules with what levels of glue formaldehyde etc. 'laser' MDF does have lower levels of chemicals though. Nothing is completely safe to cut and engrave. Always have good extraction on your machine

Hi, I'm lot sure of any online that will cut to size for a reasonable price. Kitronik seem to be the best place for them cut to size, or laser supplies UK. Most local builders merchants will cut to size for you too. Buying in bulk and cutting to size to re sell has been something I have been thinking of doing in the future though

There's a risk of fumes with every material you cut and engrave. Suppliers in US and Europe have strict rules about how much formaldehyde is allowed to go into their bonding agents. Although it's not perfectly safe, it's also not as dangerous as people claim. Just keep the fume extraction on and you will be fine.

Thank you for your answer, I appreciate your dedication 🫶

Standard MDF boards give off a little more residue, if there is that much soot coming off I suggest you check your speed and power settings. You are either using too much power or too little speed

I wouldn't consider any material safe on a diode laser without a fume box. Any lasering that you do will just put the fumes into your room

I have a very efficient fume extraction system so no worries there

Should be all set then 👍

It's medium density fibre board. It's a man made board that has a more smooth surface than plywood. It's not as strong though

I made it myself with rivets

@phil's craft corner glued down or loose?

They are loose for now but I'm planning on making another pretty soon

@phil's craft corner I would be tempted to glue them down in a bed of epoxy

The board at the bottom has holes cut out to hold them in pretty snug. But it's only 4mm MDF and it flexes quite a bit..I'm thinking of going with a thicker board and gluing them in on the next one