Thread: best glue for MDF?

I'm making a box out of MDF and without making it more complicated would prefer to be able to use only glue if it's possible to get a strong enough join with MDF? The side edges are mitred and the base is rebated to hide it in the bottom. Would wood glue alone be strong enough, or should I use a different/better glue? I don't really have the equipment to put in splines or equivalent, and would prefer not to have to put internal reinforcements in place if it can be avoided. Thanks.

I think the yellow wood glues are the best for MDF. They will make a fine bond.

Corey

Spot on. AV180 is recommended for MDF but I think any of the aliphatic (yellow) glues are pretty good.

As someone who isn't that knowledgeable about glues, could you suggest a good brand or two to look out for? The only wood glue I have at present is a PVA glue, which I'm not thinking is the one to use! Thanks.

EDIT: Sorry, I'm assuming that AV180 is a brand type then?

Originally Posted by blue penguin

EDIT: Sorry, I'm assuming that AV180 is a brand type then?

AV180 isn't a brand rather it's a type of glue. I don't remember the brand though. If I remember I'll check tomorrow when I'm back at work...

Originally Posted by AlexS

Spot on. AV180 is recommended for MDF but I think any of the aliphatic (yellow) glues are pretty good.

I concur, have just put together all the carcases and drawers mad from MDF for my router table and it does a great job. I always use the Triton brand glue, but would assume that most yellow aliphatic glues perform the same. Great for biscuit joins too.

AV-180 is made by AV-Syntec, who make a wide range of glues for the cabinetmaking industry.

Mick

A link to Lincoln Sentry AV-180

Link to AV-Syntec

Mick

Originally Posted by djstimber

A link to Lincoln Sentry AV-180

Yep, that's the one. I would've forgotten it tomorrow. Thanks guys...

provided the joinery is reasonably tight, PVA should be fine. I use Aquadhere. The glue joint will be stronger than the MDF.

Without going overboard, ensure there is sufficent glue so the joint isn't "starved", this is because MDF is quite porous, especially on the edges and absorbs thin glue readily.

Good idea to apply too much than not enough, clean up excess with sharp chisel when gelled.

I'd also use any good quality PVA glue.


Cheers.................Sean

Originally Posted by Big Shed

I concur, have just put together all the carcases and drawers mad from MDF for my router table and it does a great job. I always use the Triton brand glue, but would assume that most yellow aliphatic glues perform the same. Great for biscuit joins too.

I went with the Triton glue from Magnet Mart, and will hopefully be able to find the time to put the box together in the next day or two! Thanks for the advice.

Be sure to share a picture when you put it together

Originally Posted by blue penguin

I went with the Triton glue from Magnet Mart.

Yep, that'll work. Looking forward to some pics.