What is Compact Density Fiberboard?

We have some customers contacting us and wish to find out if CDF is better than HPL. Compact density fiberboard (CDF) is a type of fiberboard, which is an engineered wood product.

What is CDF?

It is much more denser than particle board and medium-density board. Density of this highly compressed fiberboard is usually above 50 lbs per cubic foot (800 kg/m3). The highest density of this kind of panel can be made up to 1400 kg/m3. Just like HPL compact grade panel, the high dense make it different from normal fiberboard. Bonding of CDF requires no additional materials. It get rid of the issue while most fiberboard has, it will not split or crack after a period time of using. And it appeals to have a black core similar to HPL.

What are the differences between CDF and HPL?

CDF is made of wood fibers and not all CDF are created equal.

CDF has many different grades. Standard grade of CDF board you would find on market has a typical density of 830 g/cm3, 950 g/cm3 and 1450 g/cm3. The higher density CDF has, the better moisture resistant it is. But CDF are still raw board, before it get to use, it needs multiple cover layer to provide different colors and patents.

HPL is made of kraft paper and facade with decorative paper.

HPL don’t have so much types of density as CDF. Density of HPL is no less than 1.35 g/cm3. Once it was finishes, it is ready to use.

How to distinguish a CDF?

So it is hard to distinguish HPL from CDF as both then are heavy and have a black core. What’s more, CDF also has a similar application as HPL! Toilet partitions,lockers and tables. But in fact, they are completely different product. CDF is made of wood fibers while HPL is made of kraft paper. Before you purchase, we highly recommend you to see the data sheet or specification for the material.