The NEW Build Your Own Arcade Controls

Main => Woodworking => Topic started by: s_busby_uk on May 10, 2014, 08:02:28 am

Title: Reinforcing mdf?
Post by: s_busby_uk on May 10, 2014, 08:02:28 am
I've just routed both sides of my CP to accommodate the joysticks but im a bit worried that the now ~6mm thick exposed mdf that it's bolted into might be a bit fragile. Is there any sort if treatment I can put on it to make sure it doesn't break somewhere down the line from hectic gameplay?
Title: Re: Reinforcing mdf?
Post by: DarakuTenshi on May 11, 2014, 09:14:41 am
That is extremely thin.... Why did you want it that thin?
You might want to get some plexiglas to put on top of your CP. but... You may want to think about cutting a new piece of mdf if your design will allow it.
Title: Re: Reinforcing mdf?
Post by: s_busby_uk on May 12, 2014, 10:07:37 am
I didn't want it that thin - it's just that I've bought Seimitsu sticks with an SS plate, and in order to make room for the microswitch contacts I had to route a bit underneath as well. There seemed to be no other way. The amount I ended up routing may have been too much though.

I've read that coating the wood in wood glue helps reinforce it - either way, I'm going to leave it and see how it lasts. I can always redo it if it's a disaster. I don't find routing that fun so I want to avoid having to do it all again if I can help it...
Title: Re: Reinforcing mdf?
Post by: RandyT on May 12, 2014, 08:31:04 pm

Is the stick bolted into or onto the MDF?  If you are using bolts through the material, the pocket for the stick is only as large as is necessary and you have about 1/4" left from your routing job, it's going to take a lot of intentional abuse to cause any problems.

Title: Re: Reinforcing mdf?
Post by: s_busby_uk on May 13, 2014, 03:32:45 am
It's through the mdf. I think it's fine... but we'll see!