Presentation models and display components
Define the required fit, finish and working environment. Include the intended test or acceptance criteria with your model.
AIHFABS MATERIAL GUIDE
MDF CNC Machining
Medium-density fiberboard
Stable, inexpensive sheet stock for cabinets, signage cores, molds, and painted CNC profiles. Sealed edges recommended.
START WITH THE APPLICATION
Where this material family fits
Use the application to shortlist a grade, then confirm the exact requirements against the part design and operating conditions.
Routed panels and decorative profiles
Define the required fit, finish and working environment. Include the intended test or acceptance criteria with your model.
Templates and noncritical assembly aids
Define the required fit, finish and working environment. Include the intended test or acceptance criteria with your model.
DESIGN & MANUFACTURING
What to review before selecting a grade
- Specify solid wood or the required engineered board, including species or grade, thickness and visible faces.
- Review grain direction, thin sections and small cutouts. Internal corners reflect the cutter radius and may need relief.
- Describe indoor or outdoor use, edge sealing and coating. Confirm how the part will be fixed to its mating structure.
CATALOG MATERIAL DETAILS
MDF: process and finishing
- Manufacturing process
- CNC
- Catalog dimensional reference
- ±0.2 mm
- Grade / variant
- Medium-density fiberboard
Catalog characteristics
- visual
- price competitive
- quick lead time
- smooth
Finishing options to review
- Sanding
- Priming
- Spray Painting
- Laminating
- Edge Banding
These catalog details help you compare options. Confirm the exact material condition, feature tolerances and compatible finishing operations for your part before placing an order.
COMPARE THE AVAILABLE GRADES
Related materials in this family
CNC
Solid Hardwood
CNC routed furniture parts, jigs, display pieces, and architectural details. Grain direction and moisture content are called out on the quote.
View material details →
CNC
Plywood / Baltic Birch
Strong nested CNC parts for furniture, crates, fixtures, and large-format panels. Specify face grade and thickness with the RFQ.
View material details →MATERIAL QUESTIONS
Frequently asked questions
What should I include when quoting MDF?
Send the current CAD, quantity and intended use. Add a drawing for critical fits, the required material condition and any finish or inspection requirements. Confirm availability and the delivered specification in the quotation.
Can I use catalog properties as acceptance criteria?
Use the catalog to shortlist a material. Ask for the exact grade data and agreed test conditions before specifying acceptance limits. Geometry, processing and finishing may affect the delivered part.
Why do grain and sheet construction matter?
They influence appearance, edge behavior and dimensional movement. Include visible-face expectations and installation conditions in the brief.
Can a routed internal corner be perfectly square?
A rotating cutter leaves a radius. Consider corner relief or an agreed secondary operation when fitting rectangular mating components.
FROM THE AIHFABS BLOG
Recommended reading for material selection
Sla Design Guide For Printable Parts And Reliable Assembly
Design SLA parts for printing and assembly. Review walls, small features, tolerances, supports, hollow parts, and CAD files before requesting a quote.
Read article →SLA vs Other Manufacturing Processes: How to Choose
Compare SLA with DLP, LCD, FDM, SLS, MJF, SLM, and CNC machining. Shortlist processes by material, geometry, finish, cost, and your part's intended use.
Read article →How to Choose a 3D Printing Process for Cosmetic Prototype Parts
Learn how to choose the right 3D printing process for cosmetic prototype parts. Compare SLA, DLP, FDM, SLS, and MJF for surface quality, detail, fit, and finishing.
Read article →Compare other material families
Choose a material around your part
Upload CAD for a quote, or share the complete requirements for a material and manufacturing review.
