Hello, I'm wondering why most of the CNC build used MDF instead of OSB board. OSB is stiffer & a bit cheaper (at least in europe) and lot more green. Thanks
OSB is cheaper here too, but MDF is flatter, more uniform for cutting into, and better helps absorb vibration than a more rigid material.
Although MDF is better, OSB/Ply works fine too. Just remember to run a surfacing job on it. For the price difference around here, I can get Shutterply (lower quality ply) for about half the price of MDF of the same thickness, so instead I can bump up to the 25mm or 32mm sheet (instead of 19mm) and still save money. I use mine as a proper spoilboard (screw stock down into it, cut through etc) so cheaper means less guilt when it comes time to replace it (about once a year or more)
Yeah. If I were doing a "real" spoilboard, I'd seriously consider going the route of plasma cutters and using a whole bunch of 2x4 studs mounted vertically. Dirt cheap, relatively low on knots, easy to screw into, can add T-nuts for repeatable fixturing, can individually replace them, etc.
MDF is consistent. MDF is probably the most consistent disposable material ever made. MDF can also be used for a pass through vacuum table if you go with the lighter variant.
I use particleboard. It is also consistent and nearly half the price of MDF. But, I am thinking of doing my next top layer of spoilboard as OSB.
