Handling PET based films

Llamarama · Apr 22, 2014

Hello everyone, I'm tempted to buy some Polypan F because it's so cheap and has BH perforations which i'm slightly obsessed by as of late. However it seems to have a PET base.

I had some AGFA APX400 with this base and had problems with light piping that fogged the emulsion on all 3 rolls despite only loading in the shade. There's a chance it was caused by careless bulk loading by the guy who bulk loaded the film originally, but it could equally be my fault.

Long story short, what are the rules for PET based film regarding camera loading and bulk loading? The "load in subdued light" suggestion is too vauge for me.

Thanks for any tips - Mike

Photo Engineer · Apr 22, 2014

All Kodak films with PET support have been treated to prevent this problem. This is why the film is slightly gray after processing when compared to other films.

So, economy films require more effort by the user to get optimum results.

Best wishes.

PE

AgX · Apr 22, 2014

So, economy films require more effort by the user to get optimum results.

Economy films not necessarily are films of lower quality, but typically designed for another purpose and market and by this can be more economic.

AgX · Apr 22, 2014

Llamarama said:
I had some AGFA APX400 with this base and had problems with light piping that fogged the emulsion on all 3 rolls despite only loading in the shade. There's a chance it was caused by careless bulk loading by the guy who bulk loaded the film originally, but it could equally be my fault.

The worst case reported here was colour cast on the first 9 frames on clear-PET based CN film stored in transparent cannisters.

Xmas · Apr 22, 2014

The APX400S I use regularly had some pipe into frame1 rebates, shoot extra blank and load in coffee shop or pub...

Orwo or Kodaks mono cine is nice poly is difficult to use.

nworth · Apr 22, 2014

If you suspect light piping will be an issue, load the camera in the dark, or at least in very subdued light. PET is very tough. Be careful of things that might cause a film jam because the film may damage your camera before it tears.

Gerald C Koch · Apr 22, 2014

There was a long thread on this film. People either hated or loved it. Sometimes a bargain is not a bargain. In addition to the light piping problem this film also has no anti-halation coating presenting problems when used outdoors or with backlit subjects. BTW, this film has absolutely no connection to any Ilford product although the seller hopes you will make this mistake. There are several good films available at reasonable cost. Shop around before you buy anything.

Gerald C Koch · Apr 23, 2014

Llamarama said:
The "load in subdued light" suggestion is too vauge for me.

This is a standard phrase used in photography. It means avoid direct sunlight or other bright light. Keep the cassette in a light proof container until the last minute. Load the film as quickly as possible indoors or in deep shade. Use your body to provide additional shielding. You can also use a coat as an improvised changing bag if necessary.

darkosaric · Apr 23, 2014

I am a fan of this film, but I would not recommend it to everyone . Right now on Macodirect you can get Ilford Kentmere 400/24 for 2 euros (of you buy 10 or more). This is a great value for the money.

Handling PET based films

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