Is MDF the same as melamine?

[lcm1947]

In reading up about what blades are good for what woods etc I notice there is no mention of MDF. Would MDF be grouped with melamine or maybe plywood perhaps?

[siliconbauhaus]

Melamine is a generic term for a laminate veneered board. MDF is a dark brown composite board that is usually sold as is.

Melamine items are usually chipboard based from my experience.

I've never had a problem with cutting MDF...be aware of the dust though

[cabinetman]

Melamine is a composite board with a core of industrial grade particle board. It's density is much greater than particle board (aka chipboard). The size of the particles are also much smaller.

The board is surfaced with a low pressure laminate (versus high pressure as in Formica).

MDF (medium density fiberboard) is a composite board made up of fine wood fibers instead of particles or chips, with glue under heat and pressure. Surface is very smooth. Care should be taken with both products with a mask and eye protection, as in machining, and sanding, they both will emit urea formaldahyde.

Cutting either can be done with most any saw blade. As for minimal chipping on melamine for a 10" blade, an 80 tooth tripple chip carbide tipped blade is recommended.



A THING OF BEAUTY IS A JOY FOREVER - John Keats

[lcm1947]

Thanks guys. That clears that up for me. I actually know what Melamine is but just wasn't sure if plywood would be in that same group in reguards to which blade is called for when cutting it. Looks like - not.