Metal film development reels?

rayonline_nz · Jan 27, 2021

Just curious. I had a heck of a hard time trying to load my 120 film onto a Paterson plastic reel. I was able to get it on after letting it the film sit in my Paterson tank then at night time I used a wardrobe after the 2nd somewhat lengthy attempt. It's summer here with 24 degrees celsius and using my black nylon changing bag I was sweating so that probably made the film stick onto the plastic reels - I used 3 or 4 reels.

With some moisture do film stick onto metal reels?

Cheers.

bripriuk · Jan 27, 2021

Film doesn't stick when loading stainless steel reels. I usually include a few kitchen towels in the changing bag to keep my hands dry when I use plastic ones.

Brian P

bdial · Jan 27, 2021

It can stick, especially if the film is merely damp rather than actually wet. But damp or wet reels or film is much less of a problem with metal reels. Mainly this is because the film doesn’t need to slide its full length in a groove to load onto the reel.

voceumana · Jan 27, 2021

I've always had trouble loading 120 film onto metal reels without kinking the film; not as much problem with Paterson reels. I have no trouble with 35mm on metal reels, though.

grat · Jan 28, 2021

I use disposable powder-free nitrile gloves to load my film-- any sweat stays inside the glove. Also, look for the "Arista Premium Reel" (also available under other names from other places like Adorama and B&H)-- it has wider tabs, and is much easier for loading 120 film.

Also, consider a changing tent, or put a frame inside your bag-- having an open space to work in is much nicer.

Metal film development reels?

rayonline_nz

bripriuk

bdial

voceumana

grat

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