4x5 development

[Hughjb]

Greetings,

I'm in need of some technical assistance here. I'm doing some 4x5 development using a Jobo 2523 tank, with the corresponding holder. Normally with two pieces of film at a time.

The recommended amount of chemistry for 6 sheets is 270 ml.

I'm using 170 ml, which is what I use for a 120 roll on the same tank.

It looks ok, but I was wondering if I should add or decrease the chemistry.

I shoot 100 TMax and 320 TX.

Thanks

Hugh

 

[Bruce Osgood]

There is no need to decrease chemistry from the recommended.

In 270 mL of chemistry you can develop 1 to 6 sheets of 4X5 as you have said. Why use less? I have never developed 6 sheets at once because I choose not to. I do develop 4 max and use 270 mL. for even one.
__________________

 

[Hughjb]

Thanks Bruce

BTW, nice work on your site

Hugh

 

[Nick Zentena]

270ml is the very least you should use with a 2509 reel. That assumes the tank is level. The developer you are using is strong enough.

 

[Hughjb]

Let me ask you this follow up question (may sound stupid), do you use 270 ml for all the chemistry, developer, fixer, etc.

Thanks

Hugh

 

[Nick Zentena]

I use more. My developer needs closer to 600ml because it's diluted. The other stuff is reused so no reason not to put more in the tank.

 

[Hughjb]

Thanks Nick

 

[percepts]

the liquid sits in the bottom of the tank and the film is rotated through it. If you reduce the minumum amount of chemistry then it will not cover the film properly as the film rotates. i.e. the minimum amount is a fixed number and should not be messed with otherwise you will likely get uneven development.