Processing in a larger tank

[Steve_Pfost]

If I were to increase my processing from a two reel tank to a three reel tank (35mm) Do I have to adjust anything in my processing as far as time/agitation.

HP5+, my usual processes is EcoPro 1:1, 12 Minutes, four inversions every minute as indicated by Ilford. I read the data sheet but didn't see any information on changing anything in processing.

 

[Chriscrawfordphoto]

No, I use both 2-reel and 4-reel steel tanks and the same agitation and developing times with no difference in results.

 

[Steve_Pfost]

I figured as much. Wonderful. Thank you for your response!

 

[retinax]

The very fact that you feel the need to ask this question has me wonder if you were thinking of diluting the developer further for the larger tank. Don't do that unless the higher dilution is tried and true, and if course that would require longer time.

 

[Steve_Pfost]

No, I would stick 1:1. I just thought I remembered reading sometime in the past that larger tanks may affect developing, where one may have to compensate with a slightly longer developing time, or agitating every 30 seconds as opposed to say every minute. Maybe I just misread it or remember it incorrectly.

After not finding the answer after googling it, I figured I'd ask on here. I'd rather be safe than sorry.

I just have a stock pile of film from the weekend and a three reel tank that I used to use with 120. I figured I would be more efficient and add the extra roll to process a little more swiftly.

 

[mike rosenlof]

I agree with the others. I have a tank that holds 4 120 reels, and I don't adjust. B/W just isn't THAT fussy.

 

[Chriscrawfordphoto]

Kodak gives separate directions for "Small Tank" and "Large Tank" developing in their technical publications. The developing times are usually longer for "Large Tanks" than the times Kodak gives for "Small Tanks."


What they mean by "Large Tanks" is big tanks used in commercial labs and other high-volume darkrooms (like some newspapers in the pre-digital age). These tanks were rectangular and held the film reels in baskets made of stainless steel wire (they were also used for sheet film, with the film held in metal frames that hang from the top of the tank). These allowed one tank to do a lot of film; 10 or 20 rolls at a time. Agitation was done by lifting and dropping the basket. Processing had to be done in total darkness, and the chemicals were usually replenished and used over a long period of time. Separate tanks were used for developer, stop bath, and fixer; the film was moved by simply carrying the whole basket to the next tank.

 

[Steve_Pfost]

Yes! That's where I read it, when I used to shoot tri-X, it was on the data sheet.

Thank you so much for that clarification.