Stearman Press SP-445 and Pyrocat-HD (or other staining developers)

[GLS]

Hi all,

I just recently developed a couple of sheets of 4x5 in the SP-445 using Pyrocat-HD for the first time, and noticed that the stain didn't develop in the areas of the film border which were underneath the holding tabs in the tank film holders.

Has anyone else noticed this with the SP-445 and Pyrocat-HD, or another staining developer? It's not really a big deal as it is outside of the image area, and the rest of the film developed normally, but I did find it a little odd (those areas fixed properly, for example, so it doesn't appear to be a solution access issue). I've never seen this happen with 120 rolls in Paterson reels.

Thanks.

 

[Alan9940]

I've probably developed more sheets in the SP-445 using PMK than I have Pyrocat-HD, but I don't remember any issues with the tabs. What version of the film holders do you have? I'm using v4.

 

[GLS]

I've probably developed more sheets in the SP-445 using PMK than I have Pyrocat-HD, but I don't remember any issues with the tabs. What version of the film holders do you have? I'm using v4.

Thanks for the reply. It's the latest v4 with the stippled surfaces.

Probably worth mentioning that I did use 5% IPA by volume in both the pre-wash and the developing solution, but again this is normal practice for me with 120 rolls.

 

[esearing]

Photoflo tends to stick under the tabs, but not sure if alcohol would do the same. I quit using photoflo and have not had the problems of the tabs showing. Otherwise the tabs are in the margin so not really an issue during printing.

 

[Alan9940]

We all work differently, of course, but I never use Photoflo in any tank.

 

[GLS]

Photoflo tends to stick under the tabs, but not sure if alcohol would do the same. I quit using photoflo and have not had the problems of the tabs showing. Otherwise the tabs are in the margin so not really an issue during printing.

If the IPA was causing an issue with the stain it would happen on the entire negative, or at least on other areas of the sheet in contact with the holder plastic, so I can't imagine that is the reason. I only mentioned it for completeness.

It is a strange occurrence.