Paterson 8-reel tank to develop paper?

[ericdan]

I've been thinking about cutting PVC pipes to build a paper development tank for large sheets.
Large for me means 11x14 and above. I then had a look at the Paterson tanks and the diameter and length of the 8-reel tank is exactly what would be needed for 11x14.
Has anyone tried using these tanks to develop paper?
I have very limited space in my darkroom and cannot fit 11x14 trays. I was thinking of doing test strips in my 5x7 trays and then the final print in the pipe tank.

thanks

 

[darkroommike]

Why not just get a paper processing drum? My personal preference is the Simmard, also sold as the Chromega Drum in the USA. Note that all drum processors work best with RC paper but I have tried fiber paper in the Chromega and it works kinda.

 

[ericdan]

I’ve never heard of that but it looks more expensive than $55 for the Paterson tank.
I’m wondering why it wouldn’t work for fiber paper.

 

[mgb74]

Those drums are usually pretty cheap used, though may be hard to find near you.

 

[mshchem]

In the US I've pulled brand new 30 year old color processing drums out of camera shop recycling bins. Visit a older shop and ask around. If you try the Paterson make sure you have the center column in place. I would use a tray before a Paterson tank. If you look on Ebay, Paterson made a hand crank paper processor based on the original system 4 tank.

 

[darkroommike]

RC paper is a bit more rigid when https://www.ebay.com/itm/BESELER-11...m41fc2b6df1:g:HeUAAOSwobJcaHl7&frcectupt=true