Problems with Ilford Hypam Fixer

Hoping to tap into the knowledge base here:

I've been using Ilford Fixer for decades (!?) without a problem, but now something has gone wrong. I'm getting a black precipitate in my storage bottle. Black flakes pour out every time I fill my tray. I've tried changing storage bottles, and when I start a new batch it's fine for a session or two, and then the flakes are back. I've tested the fixer for exhaustion, of course, but this is happening way before it's used up. I'm using Multigrade Fiber, fixer is mixed with New York City tap water. If I've left out any relevant details, let me know. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks.

Its normal, its silver plating out on the sides of the storage bottle, just filter off.

Ian

I've had this with selenium toner - black deposits on the bottom of the storage bottle. I rarely store used fixer, always use fresh solution for each session.

Bill

Dear All,

The precipitate is harmless* to the process and should dissolve with slight agitation ( swirl the bottle around ) if it does remain filter it out.

*Our chemicals are made to the highest QC standards but you can get precipitation at any time, it has various causes but our tech people say it is more common in summer than in winter.

Simon ILFORD Photo / HARMAN technology Limited :

Ilford Hypam

Thanks for your help, everyone. It does seem to happen more in the summer. It's an annoyance, for sure, but it hasn't been a real problem except that occasionally there's a spot of it left on the back of my prints after archival washing. I find that swirling just spreads it around. I'm better off carefully pouring out of my bottle until it starts to get dark

Simon R Galley said:

Dear All,

The precipitate is harmless* to the process and should dissolve with slight agitation ( swirl the bottle around ) if it does remain filter it out.

*Our chemicals are made to the highest QC standards but you can get precipitation at any time, it has various causes but our tech people say it is more common in summer than in winter.

Simon ILFORD Photo / HARMAN technology Limited :

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