Effects of pressing schedule on formation of vertical density profile for MDF panels

Zhiyong Cai; James H. Muehl; Jerrold Winandy

Treesearch

Effects of pressing schedule on formation of vertical density profile for MDF panels

Informally Refereed

Authors:

Zhiyong Cai, James H. Muehl, Jerrold Winandy

Year:

2006

Type:

Miscellaneous Publication

Station:

Forest Products Laboratory

Source:

40th International Wood Composites Symposium proceedings : April 11-12, 2006, Seattle, Washington. Pullman, Wash : Washington State University, 2006: 11 pages.

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Abstract

A fundamental understanding of mat consolidation during hot pressing will help to optimize the medium-density fiberboard (MDF) manufacturing process by increasing productivity, improving product quality, and enhancing durability. Effects of panel density, fiber moisture content (MC), and pressing schedule on formation of vertical density profile (VDP) during hot pressing were investigated. Different pressing schedules in which the platens were quickly closed to positions of 160%, 140%, 120%, 100%, and 90% of final target thickness then more slowly brought to final target thickness were found to be the most important parameters that affected mat consolidation process. Results indicated that with careful selection of pressing schedule, MDF manufacturers can produce products with designated performances based on VDPs. Results from this study are also needed for eventual verification of various press modeling programs that were recently developed.

Keywords

Composite materials, moisture, mechanical properties, fiberboard, VDP, verticle density profile, hot pressing, moisture content, mats, MDF

Citation

Cai, Zhiyong; Muehl, James H.; Winandy, Jerrold E. 2006. Effects of pressing schedule on formation of vertical density profile for MDF panels. 40th International Wood Composites Symposium proceedings : April 11-12, 2006, Seattle, Washington. Pullman, Wash : Washington State University, 2006: 11 pages.