MDF is called MDF because it stands for Medium-Density Fibreboard, a name that originated to distinguish its specific density range from other types of fibreboard. This distinction in densities is the fundamental reason behind its name.
Understanding the "Medium Density"
Fibreboard is an engineered wood product made from wood fibers, typically bonded together with resin under high temperature and pressure. Fibreboards are classified based on their density:
- Low-Density Fibreboard (LDF): Lighter and less dense.
- Medium-Density Fibreboard (MDF): Falling in the middle density range.
- High-Density Fibreboard (HDF): Denser and typically thinner.
The term "Medium-Density" specifically identifies MDF's position within this range. Its density gives it properties that make it popular for furniture, cabinetry, and molding – denser than particleboard, offering a smoother surface, but less dense than hardboard (a type of HDF).
| Type of Fibreboard | Typical Density (kg/m³) | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|
| LDF | < 650 | Internal non-structural elements |
| MDF | 650–800 | Furniture, Cabinets, Moldings |
| HDF | > 800 | Flooring core, Door skins, Backings |
Evolution of the Term
Large-scale production of MDF first began in the 1980s across both North America and Europe. As the material gained popularity, the term "MDF" gradually became a generic name widely used for any dry-process fibreboard, regardless of its specific density. This means while it strictly defines a medium density product, in common usage, "MDF" often refers to the broader category of this type of engineered wood panel.
In essence, the name is a direct description of its physical property – its density relative to other fibreboard types – which was crucial for classification when it was introduced.
