Just recently purchased 1/4" MDF after using just 1/8" for a long time. Trying to set a project to cut without too much charring. Can anyone please offer me some guidance?!
Thanks!
MDF is quite variable. Start with Proofgrade settings for thick draftboard and adjust as needed.
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My best advice is to set the project to cut something other than MDF. There are many folks selling specifically laserable plywood and a variety of prices. There is a variety called Baltic Birch out of Scandinavia (mostly Finland) that has tight legal requirements. A lot of it came from Russia before sanctions which has driven up prices but the enforced quality made it very reliable. Many other varieties of plywood have an MDF core which does not improve the situation much.
The Proofgrade Thick plywood is 1/4" (or very near) and does not use MDF or need finishing, but If I am engraving that takes off any finish anyway. I have purchased 1/4’ oak that was a good price and a 4x8 sheet cut into 19" slices produces 5 - 4’ long slices that work well in a pro but I also did the same with (supposedly Baltic) Birch that was the worst stuff I have ever cut. The stuff called Revolution Ply is closer to 3/16 and has extremely thin skin but has been the lowest price per sqft and way easier to cut than any MDF.
- Oak as a species is about the dirtiest actual species you can use. Only MDF is worse.
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