This page describes a laser cutting setting published for MDF at 2 mm, tested on a Mecpow X5 Ultra fitted with a Diode 40W source (445 nm blue diode, 40 W). It states the exact machine, source, material, thickness and operation of the test; power, speed and number of passes are shown with a Premium pass.
Why those four facts matter: a cutting setting that works on MDF at 2 mm does not transfer to another thickness, nor to another source. A 445 nm blue diode rated 40 W does not deposit the same energy as a stronger module, and the speed has to be adjusted accordingly. Copying a number without checking those four points is the first cause of a ruined part.
Published by LaserSettings (estimation). No other workshop has confirmed it yet: treat it as a starting point, and confirm it from your account if you reproduce it.
No photo comes with this setting yet. If you reproduce it, publish yours from your account: a picture of the result is worth more than a line of numbers.
Recommended routine before running the part: clean the lens, redo the focus, engrave a small test grid on an offcut of the same MDF, then adjust the speed rather than the power. Work with fume extraction and air assist, wear glasses rated for 445 nm blue diode, and never leave the machine unattended.
The Mecpow machines listed here are tied to the source actually fitted to them: that source, not the model name, decides which settings apply. Before reusing this page, check your source's power and validate the values on an offcut of the same material.
MDF is homogeneous, cheap and perfectly flat: ideal for jigs, models and anything that will be painted. In exchange, it is the material that dirties a machine the most and demands the best extraction.
MDF is denser than plywood: at the same thickness expect roughly 20 % more power, or a lower speed. Its consistency is a huge advantage: a setting that works on one board works on the next, which is never guaranteed with solid wood.
The edge always comes out dark brown, almost black. That is inherent to the glue: do not try to avoid it by slowing down, you will only widen the burnt zone. Plan a finish instead.
When engraving, MDF gives strong contrast from 20 % power, but it digs in quickly: for a wide fill, several light passes beat one heavy pass.
This is the part not to skip: MDF releases a lot of resin-laden smoke and fine particles. Without effective extraction the workshop becomes unbreathable and lenses fog within tens of minutes, quietly sapping usable power.
Clean the lens and mirror more often than with other materials, and empty the tray: MDF debris is fine, dry and ignites easily.
Avoid moisture-resistant MDF (the green board): its treatment gives off extra fumes and the cut becomes irregular.