LC29 as a good general purpose developer?

[xtolsniffer]

I mainly use Ilford FP4, HP5 and Delta 3200 in both 35mm and 120. I used to use XTOL, but due to temporary problems in getting hold of it, switched to ID-11 for the FP4 and HP5 and Microphen for the Delta 3200. My problem is the I tend to build up films in fits and starts, and usually when I have a few minutes to get into the darkroom I either find that I have no stock solutions made up, or they are way out of date and too risky to use. I usually don't then have the time to mix up a new batch of stock. So I've been thinking of switching to a general purpose liquid developer that can handle all my film types and also has a good long shelf life. Ilfotec LC29 looks like it might fit the bill. Does anyone have any comments or suggestions on this?

Ta!

 

[Jim Noel]

IN a situation like yours I think the simplest solution is HC 110, diluted from the syrup each time. No problem with aging when using this method.

 

[Xmas]

LC29 or microphen would be ok.

 

[John Bragg]

How about Ilfotec HC ? Same as LC29 but more concentrated and Ilford's version of HC-110.

 

[xtolsniffer]

I did wonder about HC but the data sheets suggest opening the bottle of concentrate and then making up stock immediately which will then keep for 6 months. I wondered if keeping LC29 in concentrate form might be better?

 

[miha]

Use Ilfotec HC directly from the bottle as needed. I have been using it as my main developer for many years.

 

[John Bragg]

I did wonder about HC but the data sheets suggest opening the bottle of concentrate and then making up stock immediately which will then keep for 6 months. I wondered if keeping LC29 in concentrate form might be better?

Ignore the sheet and measure HC direct from concentrate like HC-110 with a syringe. Cheaper and lasts forever. 16mil made up to 500 with water is dilution 1:31 and 8mil in 500 is 1:63 ... or as near as makes no difference. Made up stock, as you say, is good for 6 months but the concentrate lasts much much longer as there is no water in the mix. You could of course use Kodak HC-110 in the same manner. My favorite developer of all time !

 

[Gerald C Koch]

My problem is the I tend to build up films in fits and starts,

Use either HC-110 or Rodinal. Their concentrates last a very long time. Any other developer is apt to go off before you can finish them.

 

[miha]

Ilfotec HC lasts just as long.