Finishing MDF Arcade Machine

[fabke20]

Hey Guys,

What do you think the best finish would be for an arcade machine. It needs to be reasonably durable, and I guess water/beer resistant. I think ideally a laminate of sorts would be good but don't want to spend the earth.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Cheers

[Trav]

Hi there.

Check out this thread for some info. Redback was making an entertainment unit from MDF.

http://www.woodworkforums.ubeaut.com.au/showthread.php?p=171615#post171615

Good luck

Trav

[Redback]

and the end result is here....
http://www.woodworkforums.ubeaut.com.au/showthread.php?t=20069

however, I will be looking for an alternative to what I did next time.

There are a few other posts on finishing MDF, do a search on them.

I can only really add that, while it has been mentioned, it can't be emphasised enough..... the MDF has to be completely clean before you start finishing. The smallest imperfections sticks out like the proverbial dogs balls once you start painting.

I filled up some imperfections in mine with car body filler (bog). Worked a treat, and sets in no time. Just make sure you sand in back to be dead smooth, even when it feels perfect, it isnt't necessarily so, and as mentioned it will stand out!.

I also believe you can buy pre-laminated boards. Search this forum for a reference, someone has posted a link.

Good luck with it

RB

[echnidna]

I'd be inclined to use laminate on the main surface and paint the other bits.
Used to be able to get Cheap laminate from Robot Trading in Notting Hill.

[fabke20]

Cheers all for the quick response!!!!

Any rough ideas on prices of sheets of laminate in a basic black? I have searched the net and have had no luck in finding prices.

[vinnie]

A melamine laminate should do the job,check laminex industries web site. I visited a factory once that had a high quality lacquered finish. The MDF panel was firstly fine sanded then undercoated. A fine mist of black was then sprayed over the undercoat and then fine sanded until no black spots were visable. the panel was then sprayed with a coloured 2 pack finish. This could be why some finishes look better than others. vinnie

[journeyman Mick]

you can get black liner laminate for around $30 - $40 for a 2400 x 1200 sheet. A sheet of bkack prefinished (melamine) will cost around $90 - $120 depending on whether it's on particleboard or MDF.

Mick

[Trav]

One thing I did to get some black kickboards was to use black contact (like you used to cover school books with). I got it at the hardware store for a couple of bucks a roll. Looks great for skirting boards - not sure how it would go for your project though...

Trav

[echnidna]

I think you need laminate as its less likely to damage than melamine.

[fabke20]

I really do like the idea of laminate. I was just concerned about the price. I think I will go and see Robot Trading on the weekend. Any other places around Melbourne that people can suggest?

Any other good suggestions? I have tried spray painting and wasn't happy with my beginner hand.

[aspectdisplays]

I wouldn't use liner laminate on a surface that is going to get used alot.
It is thinner than normal laminate and meant to be used as it names suggests for back of panels inside cupboards etc. where it doesn't get any wear.
The other problem you have with using laminate of any sort is the edges.
Apart from being time consuming applying and routering off they are always a bit susceptible to chipping. Another alternative is what is called ABS edging it's a plastic edging that is design to be used with matching melamine board.
I don't see any problems with melamine as it is used extensively in the office furniture manufacturing and most video arcade machine cabinets are made this way,and wears well on the surface.
email me if I can help