Variation in the properties of medium density fiberboard

Medium density fiberboard (MDF), 1.5 inches thick, is specified by the American National Standards Institute Standard B175.1 as the test medium for the measurement of kickback response of gasoline-powered chain saws. This unusual use of MDF led to a detailed investigation of the general properties of MDF as related to kickback response of chain saws. MDF material was procured from three domestic manufacturers. Physical properties evaluated included internal bond, hardness, hardness modulus, screw withdrawal, and moduli of elasticity and rupture in bending. Density profiles were measured for all kickback samples to relate density at the location of the kickback test to kickback results. Large variations in internal bond (almost 100%) and in most other properties were found for one manufacturer. A regression analysis was used to relate physical properties to kickback response. Internal bond was the material property most correlated (r = 0.83) to chain saw kickback response. Large variation in the kickback energy test results was not accounted for by the MDF material properties measured. A summary of physical property data, kickback test results, and regression analysis is presented.

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