methods for sealing/finishing mdf other than laminating?

[lunchmoney]

I've heard line-x truck bedliner works, but haven't figured out how you would DIY.

[sinus]

Hi,
i just finished a fullspectra speaker in MDF pure.
the finish is very nice when the MDF is clear and not a kind of orange.

Chris

[lunchmoney]

sweet!

Are those full range drivers? Or are there tweeters elsewhere?

My concern is for mobile dj'ing, concerned about what happens if it gets wet, hoping for some method of finishing.

[richie00boy]

That looks great, but I think 95% of people's woodworking skills aren't good enough not to need any filler or blemish hiding

If it's for mobile DJ use you should be using plywood anyway as MDF is too heavy and ruins if you drop it or catch it with any bits of kit.

[lunchmoney]

using the mdf partly because it's free, and I'm putting steel corners on it, so not too concerned.

Any methods for finishing?

thanks

[sinus]

re
this are full range drivers (Visaton B200). the finish is a colourless ground coat to cure the surface and then two coats of varnish. i didnt use filler.
no problem for raining

But for PA there is maybee better solution.

Chris

[leadbelly]

Originally posted by lunchmoney
I've heard line-x truck bedliner works, but haven't figured out how you would DIY.

Just buy bed liner spray cans at the store, Wal-mart for instance.

[Cal Weldon]

I would be very concerned about using MDF for DJ work. I would take all steps to avoid it. It is not suited for moving around. Spend money on plywood. Metal corners are only delaying the inevitable.

Back to your question. About the only thing you can use if you still plan on MDF is sheet vinyl. That will protect it better than any coating. Truck bed liner is OK but it's not vinyl.

Cal

[lunchmoney]

I hear ya regarding plywood vs mdf...I'm sure you're right...

But bear in mind that this speaker is only about 12" x 12" x 18", all wood glued with no screws, using tongue and groove joints. This thing will be seriously overbuilt. Not worried. If the cabinet were larger I'd be more concerned.

If it breaks I'll build another one out of plywood and say "damn I should have listened to that guy" . Thanks.

[leadbelly]

Originally posted by lunchmoney
all wood glued with no screws, using tongue and groove joints. This thing will be seriously overbuilt.

Your method is actually WEAKER than just butt joints with screws.

MDF is weaker than plywood in every way: shear, tension, compression. It is much weaker than plywood in shear, so when you cut some of it away to make the tongue & groove joint, you will create a weak point right there in the thinner section that will break when dropped.