High-frequency and hot-platen curing of medium-density fiberboards

Abstract

The effects of two curing methods- high-frequency heating and hot-platen heating- on the properties of a ure-formaldehyd-bonded medium-density fiberboard prepared with a southern-hardwoods furnish (50% southern red oak, 25% mockernut hickory, and 25% sweetgum) were studied. Boards of three densities- 38, 44, and 50 lb./ft.³- were cured by the two heating methods. IB strength of the high-frequency-cured boards was greater than that of the hot-platen-cured boards at all density levels. Bending properties of the high-frequency-cured boards exceeded those of the hot-platen-cured boards at the highest density level, only. There were no significant differences attributable to the two curing methods in tension parallel to the surface, linear expansion, and thickness swelling.

Citation

Stevens, R.R.; Woodson, G.E. 1977. High-frequency and hot-platen curing of medium-density fiberboards. Forest Products Journal 27(1):46-50