Cutting mdf

cwag, Oct 3, 2:21am
I need to cut a sheet of mdf that has a gloss finish. What is the best way to avoid chipping it when cutting?
docsportello, Oct 3, 2:39am
Depending on thickness and material anything from a router with a guide/fence and striaght cutter, to a fine tooth (high number of teeth on the circumference) circular saw - possibly negetive rake on the teeth. If tightly curved shape required, then a jigsaw blade with honed flat sharp teeth (zero set). But without seeing it, or trying it, it sounds like some chipping will occur regardless
crazynana, Oct 3, 2:53am
cwag. you could try taking it to a local joinery and asking them to cut it for you. It may cost a few dollars or beers but may be worth it in the long run as their saws are used for that purpose. My husband used to do this for people when we had our Joinery but he is retired now.
zak410, Oct 3, 2:57am
Skill saw with a sharp blade and a straight edge can do it, but cutting a couple of mm larger and finishing with an electric plane is best.

Remember if cutting with a skill saw, the underside of the board will be the tidiest.
daves, Oct 3, 3:06am
I would personally use a router. I wouldn't however recommend that anyone use a router to do what you want to do, without having already had some experience/practise. I certainly would be reluctant to recommend that you use a router for this if it would be your first time.

Otherwise I would suggest you do as others have recommended, go visit a local joinery and talk to them.
atom.ant, Oct 3, 3:35am
put tape over the cut line as well. It helps it from chipping
greenfox, Oct 3, 3:55am
score the cut line on both sides with a sharp knife can reduce chipping. Practice on an off cut first.
sparkyz, Oct 3, 5:14am
And wear a dust mask.
zak410, Oct 3, 6:51am
Lol, especially if someone use a router to cut 20mm mdf !
tim41, Oct 3, 7:55am
cut it upside down with a sharp skill saw
happychappy50, Oct 3, 8:25am
A skill saw with a 40 tooth blade should sort it,more teeth the finer the cut
tmenz, Mar 15, 2:58am
When I had a lot of Melamine to cut, the local saw doctor recommended a fine saw blade with negative rake made for cutting aluminium. I fitted one to my table saw and that worked pretty well. I cut with the facing side up and took it slow and steady. There was very fine chipping but not noticeable on the finished product.