Developing 5X7 film

[5x7shooter]

The BW King 5x7 tanks are very workable daylight tanks. I bought two and they are pretty trouble free and reliable. They're like an upsized 120 metal reel and tank. The only trick that is to be sure that each 5x7 sheet is loaded far enough into its individual groove that the trailing 5" edge catches and is behind the cross-piece on its respective groove so that the film doesn't slip out when agitating. I practiced a bit with some junk 5x7 sheets. Once behind the cross-piece the natural tension of the sheet holds it in place.

 

[jimjm]

jimjim, is that white end cap light 100% light? My understanding is that they aren’t. Or is it grey pvc? I can’t tell for sure from the photo.

I also use homemade 5x7 BTSZ tube for 5x7. I was able to find black abs end caps and used grey pvc electrical conduit because that’s what I had.

Roget

The tubing and caps are ABS, and pretty thick, so no problem with light leaks or developer leaks. I just determined the tube diameter I needed, and Home Depot had all the adapters and caps I needed to fit that size. I did use the appropriate cement for anything that was press-fitted.

 

[Roger Thoms]

JimJim, just noticed your reply, thanks. That's the nice thing about BTZS tubes, easy to make from materials from the hardware/building supply store. My pvc was scrap from a jobsite I was working at and I bought the caps and couplers from my local building supply. I used a universal cement that was compatible with PVC and ABS since mine are a mix.

Roger

 

[freecitizen]

https://www.bounetphoto.com/bounet-shop/bs-developing-reel-5x7

 

[nosmok]

If you have a Nikor metal tank that holds 2 120 film reels, it will hold 3 (maybe 4) 5x7 sheets in the "taco" shape, and the multiple sheets will hold each other under gentle agitation. It uses a lot of chemistry for the amount of film though-- probably better to get a Unidrum in the long run but this'll get one going quick.

 

[scheimfluger_77]

https://www.bounetphoto.com/bounet-shop/bs-developing-reel-5x7

The finger notches are a nice touch.

 

[Kino]

https://www.bounetphoto.com/bounet-shop/bs-developing-reel-5x7

Very nice system! Reminds me of a Nautilus shell!