Vacuum Table

<Scott M. Thomas: "What is MDF?">

MDF = Medium Density Fiberboard

Made by turning log/wood into chips, then grinding into fibers, dried
and blended with binder, formed into a mat and compressed under heat
and pressure. Binder is usually urea formaldehyde (UF), which is not
very resistant to water. The MDF tend to swell on exposure to water.
Melamine formaldehyde (MF) is more water resistant but much more
expensive, so often mixed with UF to get a slightly more water
resistant MUF board, but which will still swell on exposure to water.
The board tend to emit a little formaldehyde gas (a probable
carcinogen) but not to be too alarm. Even natural wood emit a little
formaldehyde. Very popular with the furniture manufacturer because it
comes in large panel and have smooth surface, and when
painted/laminated, makes beautiful furniture in the show room, but
which doen't last. Give me solid wood anytime. Further, the MDF will
change dimension with changes in atmospheric humidity.

Because of its relatively poor resistance to water and dimensional
stability, I just wonder if John Kleinbauer have hit upon a better
way of making home-made CNC machines with grey platic, compared with
those like Dave Rigotti, etc. who use MDF. Any opinions CNC old-hands?

Peter