High-density fibreboard

High-density fibreboard (HDF) is a very similar product to its better known composite board cousin MDF (medium-density fibreboard), the only difference being, as the name suggest in the density of the board. Whilst MDF is normally produced at a density of 620-750 kg/m³, anything over 750 kg/m³ or normally around 900 kg/m³, might be considered as high density. The increased density tends to make the product more rigid and darker in appearance. HDF might also be called hardboard which is a similarly high density composite board product, although there can be a difference in the way they are manufactured.

High-density fibreboard is normally produced in thinner sheets, as low as around 3mm and up to 8mm. It may be used as a replacement for ply products in furniture, for example as backing boards but is generally used as a component part of laminate flooring because it is harder wearing than lower density products and has a slightly greater resistance to moisture, though as with most fibreboard products moisture can cause expansion and blistering. As with any composite fibre product care should be taken when cutting and appropriate equipment used.

The production of composite board products generally uses one of two processes; a dry process and a wet/dry process. The former uses synthetic binders, often formaldehyde-based agents or glues, to bind the wood fibres under pressure. The latter might use steam and pressure along with increased levels of natural binders to glue or cement the wood fibres together to form a board. There are also a number of variations in between the two processes and the environmental impacts of the two types of process can be significant, so it is worthwhile asking about manufacturing details.

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