MDO Vs. MDF for CNCd MFT-Like Top

[Basshunter]

I have found a local CNC shop to cut me a MFT like top (4 x 8 sheet).  Having trouble sourcing the high density fiber board and had MDO suggested as an alternative material for the top.

As I am rather new to woodworking and have not yet really used an mft like table, was hoping I could get insight into the use of MDO vs regular MDF?

I understand MDO is lighter and has a paper veneer  Will this hold up better both in terms of the surface and in terms of the hole sides for continued use of clamps and dogs?  This table will be used as a TS out-feed and assembly table.

Any other considerations in making the choice between MDO or MDF?

Cost is not that big a deal assuming they have similar life expectancies...

Thanks in advance!

 

[John H]

The surface of a MDO top will hold up better to moisture, if that is a concern.  The 'paper veneer' is actually a weather resistant resin overlay that is bonded to the plywood.  Like most plywood, I would expect to find an occasional void here and there.

When I made my MFT top, I went back and forth between MDO and a premium MDF.  I ended up using 3/4" MDF for the top and 1/2" MDO for the sides.  I really like working with MDO, but felt the MDF was better suited for the top

How much are they charging to cut out the top (if I may ask)  Also, I would be sure to have some 'dogs' on hand so they know exactly what size to cut the holes - there have been reports that some of thes CNC tops have slightly larger holes than needed

 

[Basshunter]

Yeah - thought about the dog hole thing and already planned to wait until my parf dogs arrive so I can give them a set to use for fit.

Charging $100 to setup and cut the holes on the 4x8 sheet.  That seemed pretty reasonable to me...but have no real basis to know...

 

[rjwz28]

I had one just made for me and the cabinet shop used a product similar to MDF called Medex.  It is used in the sign business.  High quality stuff.

Rob

 

[rvieceli]

Where are you located?

Perhaps some folks here might be interested in joining your project and you might be able to lower your costs.

 

[leer]

Yeah - thought about the dog hole thing and already planned to wait until my parf dogs arrive so I can give them a set to use for fit.

Charging $100 to setup and cut the holes on the 4x8 sheet.  That seemed pretty reasonable to me...but have no real basis to know...

You definitely want the holes fine-tuned to the dogs.  I did mine on a ShopBot at a place I do some part time work, and we did several test holes to get the fit just right.  The nominal size of 20mm was a little too big.  We dialed it back a few thousands of an inch.  (Sorry to mix imperial and metric ...).  [smile]

I used Qwas Dogs since this was a month or so before I had heard about Parf Dogs.  I probably would have had both on hand just to see variances in design .  I own both now and the fit is identical. If the shop can also mill the perimeter for you then you know you will have an absolutely square top.  I bought a 49" x 97" sheet at Home Depot.  I tend not to buy plywood or lumber there, but the MDF was very nice. Our Lowes carries the same brand.

Although not really needed I put a coat of butcher block top conditioner on it (mineral oil and waxes.)

 

[festooltim]

I use MDO for my MFT's on replacement tops. I like it for the moisture resistance and it is lighter. I use mine on site so any way to save weight is a good thing.

 

[Basshunter]

I am in the Twin Cities (MN) - if anyone has any interest - let me know - would be glad to coordinate a group buy...

So people are using both - does not sound like there are any major differences...In terms of weight, lighter is always better, but don't plan to move this around much so not critical...May go with MDF and use the savings to buy another set of dogs or something.

Played around today with a SU model - thinking I am going to go with a top of 36.25 X 48....could get two tops out of one sheet...

Am still interested in any other thoughts or feedback on either type of material if anyone has any...won't be getting this done until next week.