Cutting:

• The boards can be cut to required sizes using hand/machine saws. In case of hand saw use only fine tooth saw and always keep it at a low angle for cutting to ensure clean sharp edges.
• In case of machine saw, carbide tipped saw is recommended. Poly-crystalline diamond tipped saw should be used for cutting large volumes

Machining and Carving:

• The main advantage of MDF is its excellent and easy surface routing and edge shaping capability. It results in clean, sharp reproduction of designs which are free from fuzz and fibre pull (Provided the tools are well maintained and used correctly.)
• MDF can also be worked with standard hand tools. It must be ensured that blades and cutters are sharp at all times

Fixing and Joining:

Fixing and joining techniques in MDF are similar to methods used in most other wood products. In MDF, for screwing, following methods should be adopted:

• Use only a fully threaded parallel shank
• Drill pilot holes before screwing to avoid splitting
• Do not over-tighten screws as further tightening will reduce the holding power
• Never hammer the screws
• Distance of screw from corner, on surface and edges should be minimum 25 mm and 75 mm respectively

Nailing:

• Nailing can be done for typical applications like upholstery, with nails no thicker than 17 gauge. In case of pneumatic guns for volume production, adjust air pressure to avoid excess penetration of the staple. To achieve best holding power, keep the staple just below the surface
• Distance of screw from corner, on surface and edges should be minimum 25 mm and 75 mm respectively, space of individual nails/staples should be minimum 150 mm c/c

Adhesives:

• It can be glued using most of the branded adhesives available in the market.

Hardware:

• Only fully threaded parallel shank steel screws of proper size should be used
• Dowels made of plastic, metal or bamboo can be used. Diameter of the hole should be slightly larger than the dowel to allow good adhesive coverage and to avoid splitting
• All types of hinges can be used
• Cam and dowel fittings are used for CKD units where right angle joints are required
• All types of locks can be used

Storage:

• Storage area must be dry and well ventilated
• MDF should always be stored in horizontal stacks on a flat surface
• Sheets should be lifted clear off the floor using dry bearers
• Minimum sheet bearers should be provided every 50 boards of same thickness
• Spacing between bearers not to exceed 800 mm c/c
• Bearers supporting successive layers should be in vertical alignment
• Use plastic sheets if extreme damp conditions are expected
• Protect corners and edges during loading/unloading
• Do not slide, drag or drop the boards
• Prior to use, it is recommended that conditioning of the site must be done for minimum of 48-72 hours

Maintenance:

• No edge of the Pre-lam MDF should be naked. Exposed parts should be covered with edge banding tape
• Water retention is not allowed
• Rest care as per General Purpose Laminates