Ilford FP4+ in HC110 tested. From way to contrasty to normal.

[reneboehmer]

So by chance, when testing my new sensitometer, I discovered that the datasheet dev. times of Ilford Fp4+ in Hc110 result in crazy contrasty negatives. This is most likely because Ilford doesn't really care about contrast and only wants to hit the Box speed. Well if anyone wants to develop FP4 in HC110 with decent results, here are my findings: Goolge Drive Link

The time Ilford recommends is 9 min, ISO 125 in 1+31, this creates a curve with a steepness of about 1.3, which is too steep for me . Following my tests, a good development and sensitivity are about 5 min in 1+47 and approx. ISO 50. This will compress a ~1.5 SBR (Subject luminance range) to ~1.1 DR. (Density range). The Data in my PDF will provide SBR to DR tables for each curve.

I hope this might help some who are struggling with too contrasty FP4 in HC110.

 

[Keith Tapscott.]

5 minutes is a little too short for comfort.
It's probably worthwhile switching to a less energetic developer. D-76 or ID11 diluted 1+1 works very well with FP4 Plus.

 

[koraks]

5 minutes is a little too short for comfort.

Tell that to the people who do ECN2 or C41 at a little over 3 minutes. Seriously, 5 minutes is A-OK. No need to worry.

 

[Keith Tapscott.]

Tell that to the people who do ECN2 or C41 at a little over 3 minutes. Seriously, 5 minutes is A-OK. No need to worry.

Maybe, but I much prefer a longer development time. Not too long to become tedious though.

 

[Vaughn]

Interesting. I use to use HC110, but I am aiming for a DR of 2.5 to 3.0. FP4+ seems to do a great job at that (using Ilford Universal PQ Developer.)

For the records, what was your development regime (tank/reels, constant or intermittent agitation?)

Short development times? That would be nice!