Today, the market for repair and construction materials is not in short supply. Moreover, sometimes products similar in their characteristics are offered, the consumer properties of which are quite difficult to understand. For example, both laminated chipboard (“LDSP”) and “Medium Density Fibreboard” (“MDF” - “MDF”) - the panels are great for wall cladding and are the main materials in the manufacture of furniture.
Moreover, in recent years, both of these products have been used not only in the production of economy-class furniture products, but have also won their niche in the “premium” segment. Despite the similarity of the appearance of both types of building and finishing products, they have significant differences between them, which allow them to be used in some industries, while in others their use is undesirable.
However, before answering which of these two materials is better, in the production of which products it is better to use chipboard, and where MDF panels are more suitable, it is necessary to understand the raw materials used in the manufacture and production technology.
What is "MDF"
The Russian abbreviation "MDF" is a transliteration of the English abbreviated name "MDF" - "Medium Density Fibreboard". According to the manufacturing technology, it is a wood-fiber board produced by dry pressing, having an average density. The initial component is finely dispersed wood shavings, which are pressed under high pressure and elevated temperature. Used as a binder different kind urea or lignin (non-phenolic) resins modified with melamine.
A patent for the manufacture of this building and finishing material was obtained in the United States in the 60s of the last century, at the same time production began on an industrial scale. In Russia industrial production"MDF" panels were mastered in 1997.
What is "LDSP"
The manufacturing technology of chipboard - “DSP” (“DSTP”) involves hot pressing of wood particles (mainly medium-dispersed chips) based on mineral binders. Today, the production of single-layer and multilayer material has been mastered. The abbreviation "LDSP" means laminated chipboard, for decorative coating which uses melamine film. Manufacturing technology involves laminating the surface simultaneously with pressing the base material (plate). Modern products can have a smooth surface, or they can be embossed, quite accurately imitating the texture of natural wood.
Safety and environmental friendliness
If we carefully consider the manufacturing technology of these two products, then theoretically, MDF panels should contain less environmentally hazardous and harmful substances, which are resin vapors used as binders. In some grades of particle board, formaldehyde-containing resins are used as a binder, which are initially harmful to health, while in the manufacture of "MDF" panels, a more environmentally friendly and healthier urea-melamine resin is used.
Attention!
During long-term operation and when the ambient temperature changes, volatile substances are released from the resins into the atmosphere. Of course, they do not lead to instant poisoning of a person, but with a long stay in a closed room, lined with chipboard, in the absence of ventilation, there is a deterioration in well-being.
Today, manufacturers apply the following safety rating for each of these products, which is widely used in their advertising and description:
- "MDF" - the panel is the most environmentally friendly and safe for health, both in terms of emitted volatile harmful substances and because of the binders used - lignin, which is used in the production process, is absolutely environmentally safe when heating and pressing chips.
- Particleboard "E1" - class for safety for health and environmental friendliness is in second place, and the amount of volatile substances emitted depends on the type of lamination.
- Class E2 "chipboard" is initially harmful to health and poses a certain environmental hazard - in the West its production has been discontinued, and in Russia it is used only for construction and finishing works of non-residential premises, and the production of furniture products from it is prohibited.
Cost indicators
Considering that woodworking waste is used in the production of both types of these building and finishing materials, their final cost will be influenced by:
- manufacturing technology, which for "MDF" panels is more complex and labor-intensive, and, consequently, more expensive;
- brand (manufacturing country) - foreign analogues of the Russian "Medium Density Fibreboard"-plates are more expensive;
- additional properties - fire resistance, moisture resistance, resistance to biological effects, which are determined by a specific brand and production technology;
- type, kind and quality decorative cladding(lamination).
In connection with a large number finishing options, products have a greater price range, which is determined by the type of decorative cladding. However, in general, the cost square meter products are higher than the price of laminated chipboard.
Comparative evaluation and application
It is impossible to answer the question unambiguously - “what is better than MDF or chipboard”. Each of these plates has its own purpose and, accordingly, the scope of use. Panels from "LDSP" class E1 and "MDF"-plates are widely used today in the manufacture of furniture. However, each of these building and finishing products has its own advantages and disadvantages, which to a certain extent limits and narrows the scope of their application.
Today, in the production of furniture for the mass user, the following practice is widespread:
- facades are made of "Medium Density Fibreboard" - panels;
- case elements - bottom walls, top panel and shelves are made of laminated or multilayer-colored chipboard.
The advantages of "MDF" panels in comparison with other types of material include:
- greater moisture resistance, which makes it possible to use in the manufacture of furniture for bathrooms;
- higher strength characteristics, which guarantees a more secure hold furniture fittings;
- the possibility of processing (sawing, grinding, milling) edges and surfaces without chips and delamination;
- the possibility of using as a basis for the production of curved products;
- large quantity species decorative finishes and higher quality lamination.
The disadvantage of this product compared to "LDSP" can be considered less resistance to temperature extremes and to the effects high temperatures.
Various types of laminated chipboard, due to the lower unit cost, are more widely used for decorative cladding of interior surfaces of residential premises.
Choosing sheet products for interior decoration should be carefully considered and its physical and mechanical characteristics.
"LDSP" is divided into:
- moisture resistant, having a special paraffin impregnation, which complements the increased resistance to moisture, guaranteed by the manufacturing technology;
- fire-resistant, impregnated with flame retardant additives that prevent fire.
Video
The video made a comparison of two materials: MDF and chipboard. Watch and find out which is better.
Knowing the characteristics of the materials used in production is important not only for the manufacturers themselves. Buyers who purchase a kitchen set or sofa for the living room should also understand how MDF differs from chipboard, and chenille from velor. This will help to avoid unpleasant surprises in the form of defects that appear over time. Operating conditions play an important role for furniture. And even an inexpensive thing will last a long time if you know the features of the material and properly care for it.
The chipboard, which appeared in the 40s, became a godsend for furniture makers. From it began to produce products of an economy class. In the Soviet Union, the boom came in the early 80s. From chipboard they made bedrooms and kitchens, various children's furniture, including for schools and kindergartens. Desks for chiefs and cabinets in clinics, as well as dozens of other items for public, medical, cultural and sports institutions, were made from these versatile sheets. At that time, there was no mention of the dangers of formaldehyde resins. But most chipboard was produced in class E1, where the presence of formaldehyde was 10 mg per 100 g of dry matter. Now the requirements have become tougher, but the resins are still in the composition of the plates.
The manufacture of chipboard is regulated by the provisions of GOST 10632-89. The material is produced by hot pressing a mixture consisting of wood chips bound with formaldehyde resins. For high-quality chipboard, the following properties are characteristic:
- strength;
- rigidity;
- homogeneity of the structure, absence of voids;
- water resistance;
- ease of processing tools;
- the ability to hold fasteners (nails, staples, screws).
At the same time, repeated screwing of the self-tapping screw into the same place of the plate is no longer possible, since when unscrewing the layers are damaged, and the pressed chips spill out.
There are 3 types of chipboard, absorbing moisture in different ways. Differences are determined by immersing the material in water for a day. The classification is based on the results of absorption:
1. moisture resistant (the sheet swells in thickness by 15%);
2. brand A (up to 22%);
3. grade B (up to 33%).
For furniture, a moisture-resistant plate is used, which shows itself quite well not only in dry rooms, but also in bathrooms. During its manufacture, paraffin is added to the composition of the main mixture.
Comparing brands A and B, it should be noted that the first (A) differs best performance water repellency, bending strength. She has a lower percentage of roughness and warpage.
grade
There are 3 types of chipboard:
1. first;
2. second;
3. sheets without grade.
Quality requirements allow minor flaws even in the first type, but unlike the second-rate material, there are no chips along the edge, spots, depressions, grinding defects on the plates.
Chipboard density:
- small (less than 650 kg/m³);
- medium (650-750);
- high (750-800).
The highest density, as a rule, is in sheets with a thickness of 8-12 mm.
Other types of chipboard classification:
- polished and unpolished;
- extrusion and laminated;
- with a fine-grained, normal and coarse-grained surface.
What is MDF?
The term MDF is deciphered in different ways. From English MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard) is fibreboard medium density. In the Russian version, the first two letters (M and D) are taken from the abbreviation of the word “finely dispersed”, and the third (F) is “fraction”. It is the concept of "fine fractions" that fully reflects the essence MDF production. Wood dust obtained by grinding wood chips is pressed at high pressure and temperature. When heated, the wood releases lignin, which becomes a natural binder. Of course, this method is better than the use of formaldehyde. Accordingly, the material can be used in the furniture industry, including for the manufacture of bedrooms, kitchens, and children's furniture.
Physical indicators for MDF:
- Density - 850-950 kg / m³.
- Swelling in thickness - 20-30% per day.
- Bending strength - 30-36 MPa.
- Humidity - 6%.
- Tensile strength (in the direction perpendicular to the panel) - 0.4 MPa.
Advantages:
- easy installation;
- affordable price;
- a wide choice of colors.
Slab classification
1. Differences in production technologies:
- whole-pressed;
- laminated;
- moisture resistant.
2. View of the outer surface:
- veneered;
- glossy;
- painted.
The difference between solid pressed and laminated panels is only that on front side laminated glued polymer film. This ensures wide range colors, which is important for furniture. Moisture resistant sheets are better in the sense that they are made from more quality wood and prolonged exposure to temperature. They tolerate natural humidity well, not only in kitchens, but also in bathrooms, on loggias and balconies.
Analyzing the differences in the outer surface of MDF boards, a significant difference in technology should be noted:
- for veneered ones, a layer of veneer is applied to the front part natural wood(3 mm);
- for glossy ones, the plane is laminated with a polymer film;
- the dyed ones have paint applied to the front side.
What to choose: chipboard or MDF?
When choosing furniture for a bedroom or nursery, kitchen or bathroom, as well as sheathing balconies and loggias, you should consider the difference between chipboard and MDF. What is good in one room may not be good in another.
MDF positions are preferable for the following parameters:
1. environmental friendliness, safety for the body;
2. moisture resistance;
3. density;
4. bending and tensile strength;
5. aesthetic appearance;
6. perfect front surface;
7. better retention of fasteners.
Chipboard performs better in terms of fire safety and has more low price. The surface of the MDF panel is deformed at temperatures above 70 ºС, the film peels off. Therefore, MDF kitchen furniture should be protected from open fire and heating, that is, install at a distance from stoves, heaters, ovens.
If chipboard sheets can be operated at a humidity of not more than 60%, then for MDF the indicator rises to 80%. Another aspect where the advantage of MDF is manifested is the tendency to be processed on milling machines. On the panel, you can make any curly notches, thereby creating various configurations of facades on furniture.
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The general appearance of the kitchen depends not only on the cladding of walls and floors, the facades of the furniture installed in it play an important role. They must meet special requirements. The choice of their material is not an easy task. Perfect option- solid wood products, but not everyone can afford it. It remains to choose from more available materials. Most in demand in Lately are MDF and chipboard. They are in almost the same price range. The choice of one of them will depend on their characteristics.
Criteria for choosing material for kitchen sets
Each of these materials can be objectively evaluated only by considering their properties and resistance to an aggressive kitchen environment.
You should pay attention to the following points:
- Appearance. The aesthetic perception of the facade plays an important role. Indeed, a lot of time is spent in the kitchen, and if the color is not “to your liking” or the texture does not suit you, then everyday contemplation will only upset you.
- Environmental friendliness. In the area of \u200b\u200bthe stove, high temperature almost constantly prevails, and if the selected material of the furniture facade, when heated, releases harmful substances, this can adversely affect the health of the whole family.
- Fortitude. Unforeseen circumstances regularly arise in the kitchen: oil splashes from a hot frying pan, the constant opening of drawers several times in a short period of time, accidentally falling cutting objects that, flying by, can scratch the surface of the furniture. Given this, the material for the kitchen set must be resistant to chemical, mechanical and thermal influences from the outside.
- Ease of maintenance. Nobody wants to spend their all free time for washing kitchen surfaces, therefore, those that are able to withstand pollution are selected. And in case of scratches or chips, they could be easily restored.
- Price. It is the main argument when choosing any product. But do not chase cheap materials, if you compare the duration of operation, it turns out that it is more profitable to buy facades more expensive. They will be able to stay in the kitchen for a long time, and cheap ones, due to their exposure to various influences, will soon have to be changed.
But this view also has its drawbacks:
- constant moisture can lead to delamination of the material;
- afraid of high temperatures;
- care requires some effort.
All types of MDF are used for facades kitchen sets, from some you can even order the doors to this room or even the floors.
About how to install kitchen apron from mdf can be read
Application of laminated chipboard
This material is often used for the manufacture of cabinet furniture. This is a type of chipboard - chipboard, which has undergone lamination. With good operational characteristics Chipboard can be purchased relatively inexpensively. Thanks to the lamination process, conventional chipboard acquires a number of improvements:
- beautiful view;
- reliability;
- moisture resistance, it is achieved using a special melamine resin, which is pressed directly into the structure;
- resistance to high temperatures;
- limited intake of harmful substances from the material.
How to install film facades for the kitchen can be found in this
In the photo - kitchens from chipboard:
In progress chipboard production formaldehyde resins are used to bond the chips together. They are highly toxic and release harmful substances when exposed to high temperatures.
Chipboard is often used for the manufacture of frames kitchen furniture, its facades and countertops. A reliable option is to use aluminum frames in which this option is placed. This provides him with protection from delamination and swelling. Two material thicknesses are available - 16 and 18 mm. The latter option is preferable, but it is also more expensive. Read more about in the article.
Which difference mdf from hdf can be found in this
The abundance of colors and ease of care, as well as the resistance of the surface of the material to various external influences - these are the main advantages of laminated chipboard. But at the same time: its edges can swell from moisture, fasteners can loosen over time, they have a rustic look compared to MDF, and after a certain period their surfaces begin to be difficult to clean from grease stains and food splashes.
Right choice
Both materials described above are widely used for the manufacture of kitchen facades. Which of them is better to choose to determine for everyone on their own, in order to help a little in this, we will summarize their differences in a table, and then when comparing their properties, you can make the right choice.
| Criteria | MDF | chipboard |
| Structure | soft | hard |
| Environmental friendliness | absolutely harmless, as it is natural | can not be used in children's rooms, medical institutions, is contraindicated for allergy sufferers |
| Color spectrum | only certain colors | a wide range of colors |
| Price | the price is more expensive, as there are few domestic producers | more accessible |
| Weight | heavy compared to similar | low mass |
| moisture resistance | does not react | its edges absorb water, then swell |
| fire resistance | difficult to be affected by fire, but when ignited, it releases harmful substances | ignites quickly but burns slowly |
| The presence of microorganisms and mold | sometimes a fungus may appear on its surface | resistant to both pests |
| Density | has a high rate of this property, is reliable and resistant to any impact | density value below |
After comparing all the characteristics of MDF and laminated chipboard, we can conclude that each of them has found its niche in the kitchen. The first has an attractive appearance, high performance properties, but differs high price and a poor choice of colors. Chipboard, on the contrary, is presented in a wide color scheme, and also has good properties, but is used more as a budget counterpart.
What material for mdf furniture used can be found in this
Chipboard is one of the types of material for the production of furniture. In practice, 80% of cabinet furniture is made from it, and furniture from laminated chipboard is in every home today. Various options economy class and more expensive specimens of this material solve everyday problems in our homes. And if so, then it is worth learning better about this material, its features and scope.
All materials have pros and cons. Before understanding this issue, you need to decide what is chipboard. In fact, these particle boards are made from large hot-pressed chips that bind formaldehyde resin fibers. The surface of the material is coated with a film produced with the participation of thermosetting polymers.
Materials such as particle board in the photo are used to construct the furniture body. Its advantages include:
- low cost.
- ease of processing:
- Chipboard is cut;
- an edge is applied to the ends.
- high level of strength, long service life;
- no negative changes;
- rich palette of colors;
- ease of care.
The laminating covering provides to furniture from LDSP moisture resistance. The reason for the high resistance to moisture is:
- the presence of wood fibers special impregnation, which prevents swelling of the plates from moisture;
- treatment of the material with paraffin emulsion.
With the positive properties of the material, you should know how harmful furniture made of laminated chipboard. Like any material, chipboard has disadvantages:
- the main disadvantages of laminated chipboard include the presence of formaldehyde resins in the composition. At high concentrations, they have a negative impact on health. In this regard, it is unacceptable to use plates that do not have an edge;
- the penetration of moisture into the plate causes it to swell. Therefore, all ends of the boards must be covered with PVC or melamine edging.
Chipboard with decorative coating
Varieties
The material only at first glance seems to be of the same type. In fact, the types of furniture have differences in composition and quality. The classification of chipboard includes the following specifications:
- quantity and type of impurities;
- construction;
- processing level;
- condition of the outer layer;
- grade;
- brand.
Chipboard has the following types of construction:
- single layer;
- multilayer;
- three-layer.
Resistance to high humidity, deformation, strength are the criteria for dividing into grades:
They are different in cladding:
- veneered;
- coated with sulphite and finishing paper;
- laminated;
- not having a decorative coating;
- draft, used for auxiliary work and internal partitions furniture.
In the classification of the upper layer, the following types are distinguished:
- ordinary;
- coarse-grained;
- with fine structure.
Products have quality characteristics and are divided into varieties:
- the first grade includes material made from selected chip material wood of the same species. Their surface is perfectly smooth. There are no scratches or chips on it. The material is covered with veneer or laminating on both sides;
- for the second grade, small surface defects (scratches and chips) are acceptable;
- plates of the third grade have significant imperfections on the surface. They are used for auxiliary work.
Chipboards are divided according to the degree of resistance to aggressive environmental influences:
- the product is resistant to moisture, because during the production process it undergoes a special treatment with an emulsion of paraffin. Wood fibers are impregnated with a special composition that prevents the material from swelling from increased moisture;
- The composition of the material contains flame retardants that prevent its ignition.
Many people who are far from furniture production do not distinguish between wood-based panels (fiberboard, chipboard, MDF). Therefore, the question of which furniture is better from MDF or chipboard is one of the frequently asked questions. There is a difference, but to the untrained eye it is insignificant.
The masters engaged in furniture production are well versed in the differences between these two types of plates. Only they can judge the properties of materials and what is better, MDF or chipboard furniture.
What is the difference between chipboard and MDF? In comparison, it looks like this:
- as for chipboard, for MDF wood waste is used, but smaller sizes;
- instead of formaldehyde resins for bonding wood material paraffin is added, which gives the finished slab properties such as:
- flexibility;
- density;
- environmental friendliness.
When deciding this issue what is better than MDF or chipboard for furniture, you need to take into account the technical characteristics of the materials, their scope. MDF board:
- smoother than chipboard;
- it has the property of deformation, which is used for the manufacture of bent forms;
- paraffin impregnation creates a water-repellent property;
- MDF is used for facades.
Certain tasks are performed by DVP. A plate is made from chips, chips, wood dust by pressing. For adhesion of the material, synthetic resins, rosin, paraffin are added and covered with a laminate. Its thickness reaches about 4 mm. Use fiberboard for the back sides of furniture.
Which of the materials chipboard or mdf is better? Universal is chipboard. It matches with all furniture materials. If the products are properly exploited and competently cared for furniture made of laminated chipboard, it will last a long time.
How to care for furniture to increase its lifespan:
- it is impossible to allow a furniture shelf made of laminated chipboard to be loaded with more than 10-15 kg. This will cause them to deform;
- use of active detergents, since they can cause significant damage to the protective layer;
- it is enough to wipe the furniture during cleaning with a damp cloth.
When assembling furniture with laminated chipboard, the material is the support of the structures. Classic option in the manufacture of furniture, the following is considered:
- facade made of MDF;
- from fiberboard - back wall;
- from chipboard furniture case.
It is difficult to judge which material is better when applied in practice, since each of the materials performs its own functions. In the design of furniture, such an assembly order is adopted and interchangeability is not practiced here.
If the furniture starts to lose appearance or needs restoration, it is easy to restore furniture from chipboard with your own hands, armed with tools for toning, varnishing, decorating the facade. As the main materials for restoration, you will need: paints, varnish, sandpaper, film, wallpaper, fabric and skillful hands.
Color spectrum
Chipboards are a fertile material from which furniture makers create works of art. There are collections of chipboard decors based on a wide range colors. Making furniture using design ideas, makes LDPS an even more popular type of material. The variety of color solutions is divided into groups:
- the surfaces of the plates, decorated with patterns and drawings of extraordinary colors;
- slabs decorated with veneer of various tree species and colors;
- glossy decor options;
- Coatings imitating rare wood species look interesting and natural:
- "cordoba";
- "merano";
- oak "Winchester".
- use of standard wood tones for coating laminated chipboard:
- cherries;
- alder;
- beech.
- creating a design using solid colors:
- aluminum;
- White.
- to cover wood boards smooth solid colors are widely used:
- blue;
- yellow.
The first three groups of colors, given the complexity of the work and the price of the material, are used only for the facade.
What structures are used
Chipboard is widely used in many areas, one of which is the manufacture of furniture. Specialists prefer to work with high-quality chipboard material so that their reputation does not suffer, therefore, to create cabinet furniture, this material is carefully selected and purchased only from reputable manufacturers. Chipboard is used for:
- construction and repair work;
- decorating cultural, commercial facilities, apartments, offices;
- production of functional variants of products.
Chipboard is used for the production of cabinet furniture. It is easy to process, even at home, using the necessary set of tools, you can make furniture from the remnants of chipboard (small shelves, stools), cut out any detail, remove excess material, and process the edges. It is easy to glue, drill, paint. External design plates allows the use of chipboard from the creation simple designs with their own hands to samples of luxury furniture, where the plate is used not only to create a furniture body, but also for its facade.
Chipboard boards have another universal property: furniture made of them attracts with the availability of purchase. The use of various decorative elements makes it even more attractive.
When choosing chipboard, you need to remember that the material has a laminating film that reliably hides its internal composition. In order not to fall into the illiquid, hidden under a shiny shell, you need to know the criteria for evaluating the material when choosing. Not all types of boards are suitable for making furniture. Therefore, when choosing a material, you need to use the following knowledge about evaluating product quality:
- no need to buy material at prices lower than analogues. There must be a reason for this:
- the price is reduced in connection with the action to attract the attention of customers in order to increase consumer demand;
- a product with a defect is offered without explanation of the reasons for the price reduction (such product is suitable for construction works), but not for the manufacture of high-quality cabinet furniture;
- the goods must be carefully inspected for mechanical damage:
- decorative film should not have scratches and cracks;
- The plate surface must be smooth.
- check the condition of the sheet edges. If they are thicker than the thickness of the surface, do not buy such material. This indicates its swelling from excessive moisture. Furniture cannot be made from swollen material: fasteners do not hold in it.
The main advantage of laminated chipboard is its protection from aggressive environmental influences: high humidity, the influence of pathogens and fungi, decay, high resistance to temperature, and a long service life. If imprudence was made in the selection and the material has flaws, protective properties material will be broken over time. This will lead to a reduced lifespan and disappointment in the purchase.
Video
A photo
No matter how beautiful the kitchen furniture is, it does not hurt to ask what it is made of. It is from source material service life, environmental friendliness, operational properties depend. It happens that the names do not tell the curious buyer anything, which is quite normal: a person wants to buy good furniture, but he himself does not understand it, just as a furniture maker does not understand aircraft engines, Lobachevsky geometry, prêt-à-porter and shrimp. We bring clarity to the questions of what it is - MDF, chipboard, chipboard, and how the materials differ from each other.
Let's start with the fact that the abbreviation DSP is unofficial and incorrect. Chipboard is understood as wood-laminated plastic (similar to plywood in structure, made from veneer). In our case, we are talking about chipboard - a chipboard made from small waste (chips, sawdust) of woodworking production. We use the usual definition of chipboard (chipboard), but in order not to mislead anyone, we gave this certificate.
When German inventor Max Himmelheber developed new material, production waste of the furniture industry reached 60%, and with the introduction of the invention, their number was sharply reduced to 10%. Caring for the consumer was not the goal of innovation - production and ecology required savings (60% of wood for waste is an unacceptable waste that is not characteristic of the Germans). Furniture that is affordable to everyone is a secondary advantage.
Chipboard is a composite material made from a mixture of fine wood particles and binder resins (containing formaldehyde) by hot pressing or extrusion. The percentage of wood and resins leaves much to be desired (6–18%).
In water, the plate swells, gaining about 30% of its original volume. In addition to rabies, there is another significant drawback - you can screw a self-tapping screw into the plate only once (the first). It is advisable to do this with jeweler's precision, since there will be no chance to correct the error - the material crumbles, in principle it does not hold fasteners well. Craftsmen “plant” the nails on the glue, but then these nails “come out” of the plate along with the glue and the sawdust (crumb) surrounding it. However, these are all flowers: chipboard is environmentally unsafe because it emits formaldehyde.
The child hung on the door ... the screws can no longer be screwed into these holes, you will have to expand the holes for the fittings and use M5 screws
According to the maximum allowable emission standards for harmful substances, chipboard is divided into two classes - E1 and E2 (Europe). In Russia, this parameter is regulated by GOST. It is extremely difficult to compare standards, because in different countries different methods measurements. One thing is for sure - E2 is forbidden for use in children's furniture. Some countries have long removed it from production, which we would like from Russia: formaldehyde is released with human joy if the chipboard is slightly warmed up, which happens all the time in the kitchen. By the way, GOST is stricter than European ones, but who would comply with it.
Chipboard is used in construction and furniture production. If, thanks to GKL, GVL and OSB, the use of chipboard as a structural material is actively decreasing, then furniture makers are in no hurry to part with a cheap plate, although there is an alternative (though more expensive). The reason, obviously, is demand. People want to buy as cheaply as possible, manufacturers meet them halfway. If people refuse furniture from chipboard (they refuse completely - from chipboard too), they will not make it.
Chipboard classification
Chipboard is classified according to a number of parameters:
- the number of layers;
- brand: subdivided into P1, P2 according to bending and deformation strength, water resistance, warping;
- grade: 1st and 2nd grade or without it, depending on the presence of defects - chips, cracks, spots, depressions and protrusions;
- the outer layer (finely structured, ordinary, coarse-grained plate);
- surface treatment (polished, not polished);
- formaldehyde emission class (E1 -< 10 мг, Е2 - 10–30 мг; в последнее время выпускают плиты класса E0.5, эмиссия в них снижена вдвое относительно E1);
- water resistance (they produce a special waterproof chipboard, in addition to P1 with 33% and P2 with 22% swelling of the original volume);
- fire resistance (treatment with flame retardants);
- density:< 550 кг/м 3 , 550–750 кг/м 3 , >750 kg/m3;
- pressing method (flat, extrusion).
Waterproof chipboard (varies in color)
What is LDSP
Chipboard surface processed to give the material strength, water resistance and other properties provided by the coating. The cheapest, but flimsy option is impregnated paper. The strongest, but expensive option is veneer. Between the two extremes are polymers, films, plastics. The most demanded laminated chipboard - as the most balanced in terms of quality, price, aesthetic properties.
In conditions high pressure and temperatures, a resistant melamine film is applied to the plate - the process resembles the lamination familiar to everyone (the only difference is in the materials). The slab processed in this way acquires high aesthetic and operational properties. Further processing is not required - by lamination they get finished product, but sometimes the surface is additionally varnished ( expensive varieties).
The problem of formaldehyde emission remains in place (the material is made from chipboard with all its characteristics), despite the lamination, but the outer surface of the laminated chipboard is more aesthetic, waterproof and durable, especially if varnished.
What is MDF
MDF, MDF - MediumDensityFibreboard (medium density fibreboard 600–800 kg/m3). The same board made of wood particles, produced by dry pressing under high pressure and temperature. As a binder, urea resins containing formaldehyde are used, but the emission harmful substance much lower than that of chipboard, and comparable to that of natural wood. A significant reduction in emissions is achieved by modifying resins with melamine.
Production of urea resins for MDF
Resin is made in several stages:
- polycondensation in an alkaline medium;
- acid polycondensation;
- additional input of urea and drying to achieve the required viscosity;
- cooling;
- modification.
Synthesis requires compliance temperature regime- 88–94°. The resin is modified at a temperature of 40–50°.
Despite the same raw material, MDF is very different from chipboard (without taking into account the difference in emission values): the material can be milled and deformed, which opens up the possibility of manufacturing carved furniture facades, furniture and other radial-shaped structures.
Varieties of MDF
MDF is divided into four types according to operating conditions (humidity, temperature). The first type is used for the manufacture of office, home cabinet furniture and commercial equipment (normal conditions), the second - kitchen furniture (humidity, steam), the third - structural elements(normal conditions, high load), the fourth - structural elements (high humidity, high load).
In the process of production of plates, they are given fire resistance, water resistance, biostability (protection from fungi, bacteria). MDF needs additional processing front surface. According to the type of this processing, the material is divided into:
- Veneered: a thin natural veneer is glued to the front (sometimes internal) surface; this is an expensive type, and the price varies depending on the value of the wood species used to make the veneer.
- Painted: surfaces (one and both) are covered with paint or enamel
- Laminated: the front side is covered with a PVC film - matte or glossy, imitating various surfaces(wood, natural stone, marble, etc.); The film is applied under pressure at high temperature.
Surface treatment improves the physical and mechanical characteristics of the material, its operational and aesthetic properties.
Painted glossy slab - samples of some shades and curves
All types of MDF are equally in demand - each has its own niche. Material with a natural veneer front surface is used to make a good office furniture and commercial equipment, furniture for kitchens, living rooms, hallways. A cheaper one, laminated with a film that imitates wood, is used in the production of the already listed, but relatively inexpensive mass-market furniture.
Flexible MDF
The material was developed specifically to create curved surfaces, actively used in modern design. MDF can be milled - it is this quality that is used in the manufacture of flexible boards: on the one hand, parallel cuts are made, due to which the panel can be bent to a certain radius (depending on thickness); the other side remains flat. Thus, surfaces of varying complexity are obtained - from a banal circle to a wave-like one with different radii of each wave. Such MDF is called perforated (not to be confused with perforated HDF). The material opens up almost limitless possibilities in furniture design.
Not a single even facade - everything with one or another radius
Differences between chipboard, chipboard and MDF
In the same IKEA, we see furniture made of laminated chipboard and MDF, visually perceiving only the difference in price (with the exception of especially glossy ones - there the differences are obvious to the eye). MDF furniture is much more expensive. Why? What is the difference between chipboard, chipboard and MDF - one particle board from another?
Let's start with the fact that the difference between chipboard and chipboard is lamination. natural veneer no worse than a laminating film, but it is impractical to process chipboard with it, so further we will talk about the difference between chipboard and MDF.
List of differences:
- Chipboard is much less resistant to moisture. It would seem that the water has nowhere to go, but between the edge and the laminating film, the liquid finds (as the proverb says) a microscopic gap and penetrates inside. Inside, it remains (for rapid evaporation, an area is needed, but it is not), bursting chipboard to unimaginable sizes. However, long before a set of extra 20–30% in volume, the sheet will warp, the film or veneer (whatever it is) will crack. A few drops of water that fall into the wrong place can permanently disfigure the countertop. Even the so-called waterproof material still absorbs moisture - such is its structure.
- LDPE is more toxic. It is more toxic, because the information about the complete non-toxicity of fibreboard is incorrect: even if the material emits as much formaldehyde as natural wood, this does not mean that there is no emission at all. It is, but much lower. It happens that they write that there is no formaldehyde in MDF - this is not true (moreover, formaldehyde is everywhere: it is used in medicine, the food industry as E240, used for fumigation of grain, the substance is part of cosmetics, found in the human body - a matter of concentration). Wood fibers are impregnated with carbamide resins containing formaldehyde. Modification helps to reduce emissions.
- MDF is suitable for the manufacture of complex-shaped furniture, which is impossible from chipboard.
- MDF has a higher density - you can mill it, make inclined holes. The material, unlike the example, “holds” the fasteners better.
- There are practically no differences in color solutions, with the exception of glossy MDF(but this is no longer a color) and custom-made - enamel can be tinted in any shade that comes to mind, so MDF wins here too.
- MDF is noticeably more expensive, due to the quality parameters of the material. However, this high cost is apparent, which is understandable to any person who knows how to count: even according to rough estimates, MDF furniture will turn out to be cheaper in the end, because it will last much longer.
No edge - the entire plate is covered with a single layer, which eliminates the gaps between the film and the edge
Chipboard or MDF? MDF loses chipboard only in price, but this cannot be significant, given all the advantages. When purchasing furniture, the decision is made by the buyer, we can only advise you to make an informed choice.
No matter how much you want to save money, it is better to give preference quality material- environmentally friendly, which is really important, because the temperature in the kitchen is often elevated, and the formaldehyde emission increases with heat (we do not understand why E2 is prohibited only in the production of children's furniture - in the kitchen this type of product is even more harmful). We repeat, the savings in the case of choosing furniture from laminated chipboard is illusory. Again, aesthetic properties matter.
MDF kitchens
The ability to bend the panel transforms utilitarian standard kitchens into spaces that are not without personality and more in keeping with their owners. This is especially important when the kitchen is small: there is no way to play on the arrangement of furniture, the introduction of original details - only the form remains, and MDF provides its variability.
These curved facades are not the work of software at all. The doors are made of perforated MDF - a kitchen that is ordinary in all respects with a standard arrangement of furniture looks extraordinary thanks to rounded cabinets. And this is the easiest option of all possible.
What in this kitchen in the photo is made of wood? It's likely nothing. Even a log can turn out to be plastic (or made of polyresin, perfectly imitating any natural materials). floor, ceiling and furniture facades(reminder: the material can be milled) are made of MDF.
And here is the magnificent country music. Either natural wood or MDF can hold glass (especially stained glass) - chipboard will crumble a little faster than instantly. Working with MDF, the master is spared endless trials in search of the only desired shade(LMB, lying down on natural wood, changes color in accordance with the tone and texture of the base), and the customer - from exorbitant spending.
You can make almost any kitchen out of MDF (almost - because there is also stainless steel) - realize a bold idea, create something truly original and enjoy the result every day. Only an array can be better (and even then not always). In our opinion, only an acute shortage of funds and an equally urgent need for furniture can drive it into the framework of chipboard. But this solution will be temporary (furniture will quickly peel off). Make the right choice.