Anyone Other than Me Using a Drum Dryer for Fiber Prints?

[mshchem]

Curious if anyone out there is still using a Pako or similar drum dryer for Fiber prints? I've been using one for over 30 years. I keep the belt clean, never had any problems. I have always used hypo clear for prints, wash with archival washers. One thing, I need to use a HARDENING fixer, or the prints can stick to the belt.

Very helpful when printing. Dry down changes the density so much on certain papers (Forte Polywarmtone was the worse I experienced).

I never ferrotype, just dry with the emulsion side towards the belt.

Toners can soften the gelatin, I warmed up some Kodak Se toner once to speed up the toning. It sure did speed up the toning. It softened the emulsion and prints really stuck to the canvas. Sometimes I amaze myself at how foolish I can be.

Generally I Selenium tone everything after hardening fixer with no problems, and prints don't stick. I've always been a fanatic about thorough washing .

PS I have an Ilfospeed dryer for RC. Fifteen seconds for an 11x14, Sweet!
Best Mike

 

[Sirius Glass]

I use a 32" wide Arkay Drum Dryer and I face the fiber emulsion towards the apron. I replaced the apron a few years ago. I wax the drum with Turtle wax occasionally. When I use RC papers, I have to speed the drum up.

If I really warn to cause problems I can put the emulsion side towards the drum and spend hours working to clean the melted emulsion and the paper off the drum without scratching the drum. Do not try that at home!