Processing KODAK Motion Picture Films, Module 8
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
ŠEastman Kodak Company, 2005
Table of Contents
-2
PROCESS CONTROL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mechanical Control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chemical Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Photographic and Sensitometric Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Correlation of Mechanical, Chemical, and Sensitometric Data . . . . . . . . . . . Effects of Mechanical and Chemical Variations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Developer Mechanical Factors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Effects of Time and Temperature Variations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Developer Chemical Factors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Effects of pH and CD-3 Variations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Effects of NaBr and AF-2000 Variations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Effects of Na2SO3 and Under–/Over Replenishment Variations . . . . . Effects of Prebath Contamination. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Effects of CD-2 and Stop Bath Contamination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Effects of Bleach Contamination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Effects of F-34a Fixer and FR-1 Final Rinse Contamination . . . . . . . . Effects of KI Contamination and Water Dilution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Effects of Bacterial Na2S and Na2CO3 Contamination. . . . . . . . . . . . .
8-3 8-3 8-3 8-5 8-6 8-6 8-7 8-7 8-8 8-8 8-9 8-10 8-11 8-12 8-13 8-14 8-15 8-16
DIAGNOSTIC SCHEMES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Color Negative Film Diagnostic Charts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Verification Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Problem Sorting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Low Developer Activity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . High Developer Activity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . High D-min (Blue Only). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Retained Silver (Ferricyanide and UL Bleaches) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Retained Silver (Persulfate Bleach) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Retained Silver Halide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8-17 8-17 8-18 8-19 8-20 8-21 8-22 8-23 8-24 8-25
SPECIAL TESTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Retained Silver Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Retained Silver Halide Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cyan Leuco Dye Test. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Solution By-pass Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Process Omitting Prebath Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PROCESSED FILM PROBLEMS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8-26 8-26 8-27 8-27 8-28 8-28 8-29 8-30
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
8
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
PROCESS CONTROL The successful processing of KODAK VISION2 and EASTMAN EXR Color Negative Films requires a good process control system. The essential phases of such a control system include mechanical, chemical, and photographic control, plus correlation and interpretation of results. The philosophy and a recommended system of process control are given in Module 1, Process Control. The following sections are specific for Process ECN-2.
Mechanical Control Mechanical control includes items basic to any chemical reaction, such as temperature, agitation, and time of reaction. The developer temperature for Process ECN-2 should be maintained tightly within specifications. The temperatures of other solutions, while not quite so critical, must nevertheless be carefully controlled. Recirculation and replenishment rates must be regulated to maintain the required chemical activity of the various solutions. Turbulated solutions should be piped through devices that indicate the rates of flow and pressures so that the jetagitation action of the solution at the film surface can be controlled. A method for calibrating and measuring flow rates is given in Module 2, Equipment and Procedures. The operating speed of the processing machine should be checked frequently. All such factors, whether regulated automatically or manually, constitute the physical or mechanical aspects of control. See Table 8-2, Checklist for Daily Operation of a process machine running Process ECN-2.
Chemical Control Maintaining the proper composition of the processing solutions is one of the most important elements of control. Maintain the chemical composition of the solutions within the published tolerances to achieve satisfactory process control. Do not compensate for chemical imbalances by altering mechanical parameters. This action is not good process control procedure and is not recommended. Use the Analytical Methods recommended in Module 3, Analytical Procedures, to determine the chemical composition of each processing solution. Some of the methods require the use of a pH meter to accurately measure solution acidity or alkalinity. An automatic titrator or pH meter is required for potentiometric titrations. A spectrophotometer is required to measure constituents in some processing solutions. With these three instruments plus chemical reagents and the assorted glassware (pipets, burets, hydrometers, beakers, etc,) usually found in analytical laboratories, all of the solutions used in the process can be
analyzed. Table 8-1, Critical Chemical Analyses for Process ECN-2 shows the method number for each analysis that is performed on each Process ECN-2 solution. Table 8-1 Critical Chemical Analyses for Process ECN-2 Solution
Analyses
Tank Replenisher
Method Number
Prebath
pH D, F Specific Gravity W, F
F F
ULM-191-2 ULM-0002/1
Developer
pH Specific Gravity Total Alkalinity CD-3 Bromide Anti-Fog, No. 9 Sulfite
D, F D, F D, F D, F D, F D, F D, F
F F F F F F F
ULM-191-2 ULM-0002/1 ECN-0001/1 ECN-0003/1 ECN-926C ECN-157OC ECN-1305B
Stop
pH
D, F
F
ULM-191-2
Bleach, pH D, F Ferricyanide Specific Gravity W, F Ferricyanide W, F Bromide W, F
F F F F
ULM-191-2 ULM-0002/1 ECN-00021/1 ECN-0004/1
UL Bleach*
pH Specific Gravity Bromide Iron II, III Total Iron
D, F W, F W, F W, F W, F
F F F F F
ULM-191-2 ULM-0002/1 ECN-0022/1 ECN-2-3275 ECN-2-3263
KUL Bleach* pH Specific Gravity Bromide Iron II, III Total Iron
D, F W, F W, F W, F W, F
F F F F F
ULM-191-2 ULM-0002/1 ECN-0005/1 ECN-0007/1 ECN-0006/1
Accelerator pH (Persulfate Specific Gravity Metabisulfite Bleach)* Buffer Capacity PBA-1
D, F W, F W, F W, F W, F
F F F F F
ULM-191-2 ULM-0002/1 ECN-1340 ECN-2-755 ECN-2100B
Bleach Persulfate*
pH Specific Gravity Persulfate Chloride Buffer Capacity
D, F W, F W, F W, F W, F
F F F F F
ULM-191-2 ULM-0002/1 ECN-0024/1 ECN-0009/1 ECN-0019-01
Fixer
pH Specific Gravity Hypo Index Thiosulfate Sulfite
D, F W, F W, F W, F W, F
F F F F F
ULM-191-2 ULM-0002/1 ECN-0002/1 ECN-0002/1 ECN-0002/1
D=Daily W=Weekly F=Each Fresh Mix * Alternate Bleach
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
8-3
Table 8-2 Checklist for Daily Operation Steps
Spec.
Mon
Tues
Wed
Thurs
Fri
Sat
Sun
1.Was shutdown strip in control? 2.Turn on power, air and water supplies, and the exhaust system. 3.Check solution levels* in machine tanks. 4.Check replenisher supply tanks and make fresh replenishment solutions if necessary.
Prebath Developer Stop Accelerator (if used) Bleach Fixer Final Rinse
5.Turn on recirculation pumps. 6.Adjust wash-water flow-meters to proper setting. 7.Turn on and check air supply to squeegees. 8.Turn on temperature control systems. 9.Turn on replenishers. Use leader rates until film is being processed. 10.Turn on dryer fan motor and heater. 11.Start machine and check machine speed. 12.Check final squeegee for cleanliness and adjustment. Make corrections if necessary. 13.Check leader for twists. 14.Check solution time.
Prebath Developer
15.Use KODAK Process Thermometer, Type 3. Check solution temperature.†
Prebath Developer Accelerator (if used)
16.Check recirculation rate.
Prebath Developer Stop Accelerator (if used) Bleach Fixer Final Rinse
17.Run control strips. 18.Proceed to production if in control. 19.Check replenisher flow rate.†
Prebath Developer Stop Wash Accelerator (if used) Bleach Fixer Wash Final Rinse
* Solution levels must be high enough in the weir boxes to prevent air from being drawn into the recirculation systems when recirculator pumps are turned on. † Start-up and every two hours.
8-4
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
Analyze all fresh chemical mixes, as the first defense against mixing errors. The tank solutions should be checked on a regular basis to monitor any changes in the chemical composition. The most useful analysis is pH. It is relatively easy to measure and must be done on a daily basis. A drift in developer pH is usually the first warning of a process about to go out of control. When such drifts are observed, it is important to try to find the cause, rather than to blindly adjust the pH and continue processing. In most cases, this will require a complete developer analysis. Table 8-1, Critical Chemical Analyses for Process ECN-2 indicates a starting point for the frequency of analysis. The schedule of analysis can be customized by a particular installation to keep its process in chemical control. The customized frequency will depend on the amount of film being processed, and the historical stability of the process.
Photographic and Sensitometric Control The chemical reactions involved in processing color films are so complex that it is impossible to evaluate and control the process completely on the basis of mechanical and chemical data alone. The end results are photographic and include the characteristics of the sensitized material and the chemicals of the process. Actual picture tests demonstrate how the process behaves photographically. It is possible, although cumbersome, to use such tests for photographic control. Apart from rigorous photographic control, however, viewing printed picture work off a process is important because it is an indication of the overall photographic condition of the process, both sensitometric and physical. The best process control methods furnish quantitative information about the process. Sensitometric control strips provide a rapid, accurate and greatly simplified means of evaluating the process photographically. Introduce strips into the process with regular production footage every one or two hours. Evaluate visually, or more precisely, by densitometric methods. Examine the strips immediately after processing and plot the results on the same charts where the mechanical and chemical data are recorded. This information gives a time related check on whether accidents have occurred causing the process to drift away from the process aim. See Module 1, Process Control, Figure 1-7 Typical Control Chart for examples. For your convenience, sensitometrically exposed control strips are available from Eastman Kodak Company. KODAK VISION2 Color Negative Control Strips, Process ECN-2, are exposed on KODAK VISION2 200T Color Negative Film 5217. They are packaged in 100-foot rolls containing at least 120 exposures and a processed reference strip. The exposures on the roll are spaced at 9.5-inch intervals. Each exposure has 21 gray-scale steps at 0.20 log H increments (2/3 camera stop). The reference strip is exposed exactly as the control strips and is subsequently processed under well-controlled conditions. The instruction sheet contains correction factors that are required to establish your process aims. A four-digit code number appears on the carton, can, control strips, reference strip, and instruction sheet, identifying each production batch of strips. The procedures for using control strips are found in Module 1, Process Control.
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
8-5
Correlation of Mechanical, Chemical, and Sensitometric Data
Effects of Mechanical and Chemical Variations —5217, 5242 Film in Process ECN-2 Developer
Record and interpret all mechanical, chemical, and photographic results, to monitor whether the process is in or out of control. If the process drifts out of control, your control records should indicate what corrective action was taken to reestablish control. As your experience increases with Process ECN-2, you will accumulate mechanical, chemical, and sensitometric data under many conditions. This reference will indicate what photographic results to expect when various mechanical and chemical changes occur. Until experience is gained with Process ECN-2, it is important to know generally what photographic effects to expect as a result of chemical or mechanical variations, and approximately what magnitude of change produces a noticeable photographic effect. This information can help you diagnose a photographically off-balance condition.
Sample Control Plots The sample control plots in this section illustrate some of the major photographic effects of mechanical and chemical variations on KODAK VISION2 200T Color Negative Film 5217 and KODAK VISION Color Intermediate Film / 5242. Each plot shows the effect of a change in a process variable (horizontal axis), on the dye density of the processed film (vertical axis). These density plots are deviated against the standard level for each variable (i.e. standard level for the variable is represented by zero density). The magnitude of the changes shown in these plots should not be considered to be process control limits. Also, the data presented are qualitative, not quantitative. The plots were derived from experiments using small laboratory machines in which all constituents were held constant except the variable being studied. Hence, the figures should be used only as trend charts and guides. If two or more process variable are changed, the resulting photographic effect illustrated may not be additive. Interactions can occur that produce effects other than those predicted by addition. The plots in this publication are representative only; they do not contain all possible solution problems. Most of the important photographic effects take place in the developer. The Color Negative Film Diagnostic Charts are diagnostic schemes for the process and highlight the importance of not only the developer, but also the stop, bleach and fixer.
8-6
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
Developer Mechanical Factors Figure 8-1 Effects of Time and Temperature Variations—5217, 5242 Film in Process ECN-2 Developer Time AIM VALUES REFERENCE STRIP CODE NO.
0000
HD
5242
5217 .20
B
.15
R G
5242
5217
.25
R G B
R
B G R
B G
.10
GREEN
.05 + 0
BLUE
.05
B/W
.10
RED
Temperature
.15 .20 .25
R G B
G B
R G B
B G
R
R
.20 B
.15
R G
.10
.10
R
.15
G B
.20
h2408_1_V2
B G R
R G B
B G R
R G B
.10 R
R B G
G
.05 + 0
B
R
G B B G R
B .05 .10
B G
G
R
sec
R
R
sec
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
R B G
B G
˚F
110
.10
108
B/W
R G B
B G R
R G B
106
BLUE
B R
104
GREEN
.05
B R G
102
RED
.05 + 0
110
HD-LD
G
.10
108
B/W
G
106
BLUE
R
104
GREEN
G B
.10
BR
G R
R G B
102
RED
R B G
B
B G
220
D-min
.05
R
B R G
200
B/W
.05 + 0
180
BLUE
.10
160
GREEN
G R
340
RED
B G R
B
320
LD
R G B
.05
300
B/W
G
240
BLUE
.05 + 0
220
RED GREEN
R B G
B G R
R B
140
MD
˚F
8-7
Developer Chemical Factors Figure 8-2 Effects of pH and CD-3 Variations—5217, 5242 Film in Process ECN-2 Developer
pH AIM VALUES REFERENCE STRIP CODE NO.
CD-3
5217
5242
5217
5242
.25 .20
0000
HD
.15
GREEN BLUE
.05
B/W
.10 .15
B R
B R G
G
.10 .05 + 0
RED
G B
R
R G B B G R
R G R B
G B
.20
R G
.25
B
.20 B
.10
G R B
.15
R G
.20
.10 R
.05 + 0 .05 .10
H2408_2_V2
8-8
G B
G R B
G B R B G R
R B G
pH
G R
pH
R G B
B G R
B
g/L
4.40
.10
10.05
B/W
R B
G B R
G R B
4.15
BLUE
R G B
B G R
3.90
GREEN
.05
B G R
3.65
RED
.05 + 0
3.40
HD-LD
B G R
5.50
B/W
G
B G R
R G B
.10
10.45
BLUE
G
B G R
R G
B
10.35
GREEN
.10
10.25
RED
G R
B
R B
10.15
D-min
B
10.05
B/W
.05
R G B
10.45
BLUE
B G R
10.35
GREEN
.05 + 0
10.25
RED
.10
10.15
LD
R G B B R G
R G B
4.75
B/W
.05
4.00
BLUE
.05 + 0
3.25
RED
B R G
G R
.10
GREEN
G R
B
2.50
MD
.15
g/L
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
Developer Chemical Factors Figure 8-3 Effects of NaBr and AF-2000 Variations—5217, 5242 Film in Process ECN-2 Developer
NaBr AIM VALUES REFERENCE STRIP CODE NO.
AF-2000 5242
5217
5242
5217
.25 .20
0000
HD
.15
B
.10
G
GREEN
.05 + 0
BLUE
.05
B/W
.10
RED
R G B
R
R G B
R G B
G R B
G R B
G R B
.15 .20 .25 .20
MD RED GREEN BLUE B/W
.15
B
.10
G R
B .05 + 0
G R R G B
R G B
.05 .10
G B R
G R B
B G R
G R B
B R G
G R B
B G R
.15 .20
.10 .10
H2408_4_V2
g/L
g/L
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
ml/L
7.50
G R B
G R B 6.25
.10
G R B
5.00
R G B
.05
R B G
R G B
3.75
B G R
2.50
.05 + 0
0.8
B/W
.05
G R B
7.50
BLUE
R B G
6.25
GREEN
B R G
5.00
RED
R G B
3.75
HD-LD
B G R
2.50
B/W
.05 + 0
1.6
BLUE
.10
1.4
GREEN
G R B
.10
1.2
RED
R G B
1.0
D-Min
.05
0.8
B/W
R B G
1.6
BLUE
B R G
B G R
1.4
GREEN
.05 + 0
1.2
RED
.10
1.0
LD
mL/L
8-9
Developer Chemical Factors Figure 8-4 Effects of Na2SO3 and Under–/Over Replenishment Variations —5217, 5242 Film in Process ECN-2 Developer Under and Over Replenishment
Na SO3 2
AIM VALUES REFERENCE STRIP CODE NO.
5217
5217
5242
5242
.25 .20
0000
HD
.15
GREEN
.05 + 0
BLUE
.05
B/W
.10
RED
B G R
.10 R G
B
R B G
G R B
G R B
B G R G B
R G B
R
.15 .20 .25 .20
MD
.15 .10
RED GREEN BLUE B/W
.05 + 0
G B R
B G R
R B G
G R
.05
B
G
B G R R B
.10
R B
G B R G
.15 .20
R G B
.05
G B R
G B R
B G
R B
R
R G
B
B
G
R G
.10
B G
B R G
R
.05 .10
B
g/L
B R G B
G R
G R
G R G
B
R B R G B +20%
.05 + 0
0.00
.10
-20%
B/W
R B
+20%
BLUE
G
0.00
GREEN
B G R
-20%
RED
.05 + 0
3.0
HD-LD
R B G
R G
.10
2.5
B/W
B
G R
.10
2.0
BLUE
R B G
1.5
RED GREEN
.05
G B R
1.0
D-min
R G B
3.0
B/W
B
G
2.5
BLUE
B R
2.0
GREEN
.05 + 0
1.5
RED
.10
1.0
LD
g/L
H2408_3_V2
8-10
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
Developer Chemical Factors Figure 8-5 Effects of PB-C1 and PB-2 Prebath Contamination—5217, 5242 Film in Process ECN-2 Developer Prebath PB-C1 AIM VALUES REFERENCE STRIP CODE NO.
PB-2
5217
5242
5217
5242
.25 .20
0000
HD
.15 .10
GREEN
.05 + 0
BLUE
.05
R
B/W
.10
B
RED
B G R
G
G B R
R G B
.15 .20 .25 .20
MD
.15 .10
RED GREEN BLUE B/W
.05 + 0
B G
R
.05
G
R G
.10 B
.15
G B R
R B
.20
H2408_5_V2
B
G
G R B
G R
R G B
R GB
B G R
B
.05 .10 .10
mL/L
mL/L
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
mL/L
150.0
100.0
50.0
0.0
200.0
200.0
B R G
R
B G
.10
150.0
.05
100.0
.05 + 0
0.0
B/W
R
50.0
BLUE
B
GR
0.0
RED GREEN
.05 + 0
200.0
HD-LD
R G B
.10
150.0
B/W
B
100.0
BLUE
G R
.10
50.0
RED GREEN
.05
0.0
D-Min
G
200.0
B/W
B R
150.0
BLUE
.05 + 0
100.0
RED GREEN
.10
50.0
LD
mL/L
8-11
Developer Chemical Factors Figure 8-6 Effects of CD-2 and Stop Bath Contamination—5217, 5242 Film in Process ECN-2 Developer
Substitute CD-2 for CD-3 AIM VALUES REFERENCE STRIP CODE NO.
5242
5217 .25
5242
5217
R
B G
R
B G
Stop Bath
.20 0000
HD
.15 .10
GREEN
.05 + 0
BLUE
.05
B/W
.10
RED
R
.15 B G
.20
G B
.25 .20
MD
B G
R
G B
R
R
.15 .10
B/W
.05
R G B
.10 .15 .20
H2408_6_V2
8-12
B G
R
G B
R
.05 + 0
g/L
g/L
mL/L
R
G B 50.0
R 25.0
.10
B
G
0.0
.05
100
B/W
.10
75
BLUE
.10
50
GREEN
B
G
.05
25
RED
R G B
R
0
HD-LD
R
2.0
B/W
G R
B
GB
R
1.5
BLUE
B
G
.05 + 0
1.0
GREEN
.10
0.5
RED
R G
.10
0.0
D-min
B
2.0
B/W
R
.05
1.5
BLUE
BG
R
1.0
GREEN
GB
.05 + 0
0.5
RED
.10
0.0
LD
G R
B
100.0
BLUE
.05 + 0
75.0
RED GREEN
mL/L
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
Developer Chemical Factors Figure 8-7 Effects of Bleach Contamination—5217, 5242 Film in Process ECN-2 Developer UL Bleach AIM VALUES REFERENCE STRIP CODE NO.
5242
5217
.25 .20
0000
HD
.15 .10
GREEN
.05 + 0
BLUE
.05
B/W
.10
RED
G B R
R G B
.15 .20 .25 .20
MD
.15 .10
GREEN
.05 + 0
BLUE
.05
R
B/W
.10
G B
.15
.10
GREEN
.05 + 0
BLUE
.05
HD-LD RED GREEN BLUE B/W
.10 .10 .05 + 0
R
.05 .10
G B R
G B
mL/L
0.75
B/W
R G B
R G B
0.50
RED
.10
0.25
D-Min
.05
0.0
B/W
R G B
R B G
8.0
BLUE
.05 + 0
4.0
GREEN
.10
2.0
RED
.20
0.0
LD
R B G
6.0
RED
mL/L
H2408_7_V2
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
8-13
Developer Chemical Factors Figure 8-8 Effects of F-34a Fixer and FR-1 Final Rinse Contamination—5217, 5242 Film in Process ECN-2 Developer
F-34a Fixer AIM VALUES REFERENCE STRIP CODE NO.
Final Rinse
5217
5242
5217
5242
.25 .20
0000
.15
HD
.10
R
RED GREEN
.05 + 0
G
BLUE
.05
B/W
.10
B R G B
B G R
B G
.15
R
.20 .25 .20
MD
R B
.15 .10
RED GREEN BLUE B/W
.05 + 0
B R
G
G R
G B
.05
B G R
.10 .15 .20
H2408_8_V2
8-14
.10
.10
mL/L
R G B
mL/L
R
mL/L
B G
B G
R
400.0
.05
300.0
R B G
200.0
.05 + 0
100.0
B/W
.10
0.0
BLUE
G R B
.05
100
RED GREEN
B G R
BG R
50
HD-LD
R G B
25
B/W
G B R
0
BLUE
.05 + 0
0.75
GREEN
.10
0.50
RED
B G R
.10
0.25
D-min
.05
0.0
B/W
0.75
BLUE
B R G
R G B
0.50
GREEN
.05 + 0
0.25
RED
.10
0.0
LD
mL/L
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
Developer Chemical Factors Figure 8-9 Effects of KI Contamination and Water Dilution—5217, 5242 Film in Process ECN-2 Developer Kl 5242
5217
AIM VALUES REFERENCE STRIP CODE NO.
Water Dilution 5242
5217
.25 .20 0000
HD
.15 .10
GREEN
.05 + 0
BLUE
.05
B/W
.10
RED
R G
B
R G B
B
B R G
.15
G R
.20 .25 .20
MD
.15 .10
RED GREEN BLUE B/W
B
.05 + 0
R G
.05
B
R G B
G R
B G R
.10 .15 .20
H2408_9_V2
R G
mg/L
mg/L
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
R
G
mL/L
B
G
R B
400.0
B .10
300.0
.05
200.0
R G B
100.0
.05 + 0
0.0
B/W
.10
400.0
BLUE
.10
300.0
RED GREEN
R B G
.05
200.0
HD-LD
B G R
G R
100.0
B/W
R G B
0.0
BLUE
B
.05 + 0
7.5
GREEN
.10
5.0
RED
G B R
.10
2.5
D-min
0.0
B/W
.05
7.5
BLUE
B G R
R G B
GR B
5.0
GREEN
.05 + 0
2.5
RED
.10
0.0
LD
mL/L
8-15
Figure 8-10 Effects of Bacterial Na2S and Na2CO3 Contamination—5217, 5242 Film in Process ECN-2 Developer Bacterial Na S
Na 2 CO3
2
AIM VALUES REFERENCE STRIP CODE NO.
5242
5217 .25
B G
5242
5217
R
.20 0000
HD
.15 .10
GREEN
.05 + 0
BLUE
.05
B/W
.10
RED
G R B
B G R
G R B
.15 .20 .25 .20
MD
R
G B
.15 .10
RED GREEN BLUE B/W
.05 + 0
G R B
B G R
G R B
.05 .10 .15 .20
R G B R
G R B
G R B
mg/L
mg/L
g/L
45.6
35.6
25.6
15.6
.10
5.6
.05 45.6
B/W
G B
.05 + 0
35.6
BLUE
.10
25.6
GREEN
.10
15.6
RED
.05
5.6
HD-LD
R B G
G B R
4.0
B/W
B G R
3.0
BLUE
R
G B
.05 + 0
2.0
GREEN
.10
1.0
RED
.10
0. 0.0
D-min
B G R
G R B
.05
4.0
B/W
3.0
BLUE
R
B G R
2.0
GREEN
B G
.05 + 0
1.0
RED
.10
0.0
LD
g/L
H2408_10_V2
8-16
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
DIAGNOSTIC SCHEMES Color Negative Film Diagnostic Charts The flow chart procedures illustrated in this section will aid in determining the source of an out-of-control process. There are eight major schemes: • Figure 8-11 Verification Process • Figure 8-12 Problem Sorting • Figure 8-13 Low Developer Activity • Figure 8-14 High Developer Activity • Figure 8-15 High D-min (Blue Only) • Figure 8-16 Retained Silver (Ferricyanide and UL Bleaches) • Figure 8-17 Retained Silver (Persulfate Bleach) • Figure 8-18 Retained Silver Halide
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
8-17
8-18 NO
YES
Variable Control Strips
Exposure variability Storage Confirm; Process 20 strips at the same time to check for consistency
Light leak Storage Confirm; Run crossover test with another batch of control strips
Calibration error Wrong status filters Plotting error Dirty Filters Densitometer malfunction
Does Deviation Continue to Show? NO
Densitometer Problem
Go to appropriate Process Troubleshooting Diagram
Process Problem Verified
Verify Densitometric Readings "Before" and "After"
Does Deviation Continue to Show?
Do Densitometered Readings Continue to Show Deviation?
Process Another Control Strip
YES
Process Another Control Strip
YES
Reread previously processed control strip.
Control Strip Damage
YES
Check for fog, fingerprint, cinch mark, scratch, etc.
NO
Do Pictures Agree with Process Control Strips?
Control Strips Show Apparent Process Problem
Continue to process control strips until a decision can be made
NO
Figure 8-11 Verification Process
F002_9010EC
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
See Fig. 8-18
Is it Retained Silver?
NO
Ferricyanide or UL See Fig. 8-16
See Fig. 8-14
Developer High Activity
Check IR Density and/or Rebleach Strip to Verify Problem See the Retained Silver Test
Retained Silver
YES
NO
Persulfate See Fig. 8-17
Retained Silver Halide
YES
Check Strip for Opaque Streaks/Refix Strip to Verify Problem See the Retained Silver Halide Test
Is it Retained Silver Halide?
Higher Densities
Determine Sensitometric Deviation from Process Control Aim
Process Problem Verified
NO
See Fig. 8-13
Developer Low Activity
Lower Densities
R
Cyan Leuco Dye
YES
Rebleach Strip to Verify Problem See the Cyan Leuco Dye Test
Is it Cyan Leuco Dye?
Low D-max (Red Only)
See Fig. 8-15
High D-min (Blue Only)
High D-min (Blue Only)
B
B
Figure 8-12 Problem Sorting
F002_9017EC
8-19
8-20 Time Too Short
Check and Adjust Parameter if Necessary
Temperature Control Malfunctioning or Set Too Low
YES
Compare with Fresh Developer; Run By-Pass Test
Check Bars/Nozzles for Plugging; Check Recirculation
Mix Fresh Solution
Eliminate Source of Contamination (incl. recirculation & replenisher lines)
Developer Contamination
NO
Low Agitation
Are the Developer Physical Measurements Off Specs?
NO
G
B
YES
Adjust Replenisher Mix
Check Mixing Procedure
Replenisher Mix Error
Check Exposure Level on Film Stock
Check and Adjust Repl. Rate if Necessary
Increase Repl. Rate
Large Volume of Film Stock (low probability) Replenisher Rate Too Low
Are the Chemical Analyses of Developer Replenisher Off Specs? YES NO
Are the Chemical Analyses of Developer Tank Off Specs?
R
Figure 8-13 Low Developer Activity
F002_9011EC
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
Check & Adjust Parameter if Necessary
B
Check Mixing Procedure
Compare with Good Developer: Run By-pass Test Mix Fresh Dev.
Check pH
Adjust Stop Repl. Conc. & Repl. Rate to Maintain Stable Tank Chemistry; Check Operation of Crossover Squeegee
Mix a Fresh Solution
Eliminate Source of Contamination (incl. recirculation & repl. lines)
Repl. Mix Error
YES
Developer Contamination
NO
High Stop Bath pH
Time too Long
Temperature Control Malfunctioning or Set Too High
YES
Are the Developer Physical Measurements Off Specs?
NO
G
YES
Adjust Existing Tank Solution
Check & Adjust Repl. Rate
Repl. Rate Too High
NO
Check & Adjust Rem-jet Wash Buffer/Squeegee if Necessary
Dilution from Excessive Carry-in
Are the Chemical Analyses of Developer Replenisher Off specs?
Are the Chemical Analyses of Developer Tank Off Specs.? Also see Figs. 8-16, 8-17 & 8-18
R
Eliminate Source of Oxidation
Check for Air Leaks/Foaming
Aeration/ Oxidation of Solution (low sulfite only)
Decrease Repl. Rate
Check Exposure Level on Film Stock
Large Volume of Underexposed Film Processed
Figure 8-14 High Developer Activity
F002_9012EC
8-21
8-22
Add AF-9 to Repl. and Revise AF-9 Conc. in Replenisher According to Standby Time.
Check Level of AF-9 (tank & repl.)
Low AF-9 Level (Dev)
NO
Viscose Rayon Filters Used
Compare with Good Developer: Run By-pass Test Mix Fresh Dev.
Other
Developer Contamination
Eliminate Source of Contamination (incl. recirculation & repl. lines)
Does Strip Exhibit Normal Blue D-min?
Run Process Omitting Prebath Test
High D-min (Blue Only)
B
Other
Compare with Good Prebath: Run By-pass Test Mix Fresh Prebath
Biological Growth
Prebath Contamination
YES
Viscose Rayon Filters Used
Figure 8-15 High D-min (Blue Only)
F002_9013EC
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
Check Bars/Nozzles for Plugging; Check Recirculation
Low Agitation Time too Short
Check & Adjust Parameter if Necessary
Temp. Control Malfunctioning or Set Too Low
YES
Run By-pass Test
Bleach Contamination
NO
Mix a Fresh Solution
Eliminate Source of Contamination (incl. repl. & recirculation)
Are the Bleach Physical Measurements Off Specs?
NO
Discard a Small Portion of Repl. & Adjust Chemical Levels
Check Specific Gravity
Check Mixing/ Regeneration Procedure
Adjust Replenisher Mix
Sulfate Buildup Too High (regeneration)
Check Repl. & Adjust Rate if Necessary
Repl. Rate Too Low
Are the Chemical Analyses of Bleach Replenisher Off Specs? YES NO
YES
Mix/ Regeneration Error
Are the Chemical Analyses of Bleach Off Specs?
Retained Silver
Figure 8-16 Retained Silver (Ferricyanide and UL Bleaches)
F002_9014EC
8-23
8-24
Accel. Contam. (Hypo)
NO
Confirmed, Mix a Fresh Tank Solution
Eliminate Source of Contam.
Run Bypass Test
Check & Adjust Parameter if Necessary
Time too Short
YES
YES Temp. too High
Are the Accelerator Tank’s Physical Measurements Off Specifications?
NO
Bleach Contam. (Ferri)
NO
YES Temp. too Low
Check & Adjust Parameter if Necessary
Time too Short
YES
Are the Bleach Tank’s Physical Measurements Off Specifications?
Are the Chemical Analyses of Accelerator Tank and Repl. Off Specifications?
Retained Silver
Discard Part of Replenisher; Adjust Solution
Check Sp Gr
Check & Adjust if Necessary
Sulfate Low Buildup in Replenishment Bleach Rate Bleach Reconstitution or Accel.
Check for Air Leaks and Excessive Agitation
Excessive Aeration of Accel
YES
Mix a Fresh Solution
Check Mixing Instructions
Mix Reconstitution Error
Keep Mixing and Storage Records
Old Accel Mix and/or Tank
Figure 8-17 Retained Silver (Persulfate Bleach)
F002_9015EC
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
Check Bars/ Nozzles for Plugging Check Recirculation
Low Agitation
Time Too Short
Check and Adjust Parameter if Necessary
Temp. Control Malfunctioning or Set Too Low
YES
Persulfate Bleach Accelerator PBA-1 Level Too High
Are the Fixer Physical Measurements Off Specs?
NO
Time Too Long in Bleach Accel.
NO
Eliminate Source of Contam.
Run By-pass Test
Fixer Contam.
Mix a Fresh Solution
Check Mixing/ Reconstitution Procedure
Mix/ Reconstitution Error
Are the Chemical Analyses of Fixer Tank Off Specifications?
Retained Silver Halide
Check Repl. Rate
Increase Repl. Rate
Eliminate Air Leaks in Recirculation System
Repl. Rate Too Low
NO
Check Specific Gravity
Sulfate Buildup Too High (excessive aeration)
YES
Are the Chemical Analyses of Fixer Replenisher Off Specs?
YES
Correct Malfunction
Check Unit
Silver Recovery Unit Malfunctioning
Figure 8-18 Retained Silver Halide
F002_9016EC
8-25
SPECIAL TESTS Introduction This section explains how to run the following special tests mentioned at various places in the Diagnostic Charts: • Retained Silver Test • Retained Silver Halide Test • Cyan Leuco Dye Test • Solution By-pass Test • Process Omitting Prebath Test
8-26
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
Retained Silver Test
Retained Silver Halide Test
Retained silver is the result of ineffective bleaching. The symptoms are: • Increased density in the high-density areas of the film, particularly D-max, with no changes in lower densities (such as D-min). It may be seen as increased contrast.
Retained silver halide is the result of ineffective fixing. The symptoms are: • There are large increases in density (i.e., greater than + 0.10 R, G, and B) in both the D-min and D-max steps of the control strip. The overall contrast is only slightly increased.
• The infrared density of the D-max patch increases. Normally, an infrared density (at 1,000 nm) of less than 0.07 is acceptable, between 0.07 and 0.14 is marginal, and greater than 0.14 is unacceptable. A sound track densitometer is a suitable instrument for this measurement. Verification Test: 1. Prepare a small volume of fresh bleach, or use a known good solution of bleach replenisher.
• The infrared density of the D-max patch is normal. Normally, an infrared density (at 1,000 nm) of less than 0.07 is acceptable, between 0.07 and 0.14 is marginal, and greater than 0.14 is unacceptable. A sound track densitometer is a suitable instrument for this measurement. • Opaque streaks are generally visible when the strip is viewed with reflected light.
2. Immerse the processed film with suspected silver retention in the bleach for 1 to 2 minutes. Agitate by moving the film strip manually. Wash the film for 30 to 40 seconds under running water. 3. Fix the strip for 1 to 2 minutes in a small volume of a good fixer solution, again agitating manually. Wash the film for 30 to 40 seconds. 4. Dry the film and reread the infrared density. An infrared density within the acceptable region (which had formerly been marginal or unacceptable) confirms silver retention. Lower optical densities also confirm retained silver.
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
Verification Test: 1. Re-fix the processed control strip for 1 to 2 minutes in a small volume of a fresh fixer replenisher solution or known good fixer replenisher. Agitate by moving the film manually. Wash the film for 30 to 40 seconds under running water. 2. Dry the film and reread the densities. If the D-min and D-max readings are down to normal control levels after refixing and/or the opaque streaks disappear, the problem can be attributed to retained silver halide.
8-27
Cyan Leuco Dye Test
Solution By-pass Test
Cyan leuco dye is a colorless form of cyan dye. The sensitometric effect is exclusively in the red layer, with the red D-max being lowered by as much as 0.30 units. In Process ECN-2, the effect on cyan dye results in artificially low red contrast. Leuco dye can be produced by several fixing or bleaching conditions. Extended fix time (longer than 4 minutes) or high-current density in on-line silver-recovery cells can cause leuco dye in Process ECN-2. The extended fix time is not likely to occur unless the film has been stopped in the fix tank. The leuco dye can be converted into its colored form by reprocessing through a fresh bleach. Verification Test:
Use this test to check out any processing solution when it is suspected of causing a photographic deviation. It is particularly useful in avoiding unnecessary dumping of a suspected processing solution. Although the test is often used with secondary solutions, it can also be used to check out prebath and developer problems if an adequate “sinkline� process (i.e., with a controlled temperature bath) is available. The test procedure is outlined below
1. Re-bleach the suspected strip in a small volume of fresh bleach for 2 to 3 minutes. Agitate by moving the film strip manually. Wash the film for 30 to 40 seconds under running water. 2. Dry the strip and reread the red D-max step. If the red D-max is raised to its normal control level by re-bleaching, the problem is verified since the cyan leuco dye is converted back to its colored form.
1. Obtain a sample of the suspected solution. 2. Mix a fresh sample of the solution in question or use a known good solution of the same type, i.e., from another processing machine. 3. In a sink-line process, run one set of control strips through the suspected solution, and the other set through the known good solution. Use normal processing times and temperatures. If possible, process both sets together at the same time. Use the same solutions for both sets of strips for all other processing steps. Note: For secondary solutions, strips can often be processed in the machine up to the point in question. After cutting out the strip at the crossover, proceed as described above in a sink-line process. The strips may be spliced onto machine leader at the exit of the suspected solution and processed together for the remaining steps. 4. Compare the photographic results from the suspected solution and the known good solution. If the set of strips processed in the suspected solution deviates in the same direction as the actual photographic deviation, the suspected solution is causing the photographic effect. If the results between the two solutions are similar, the test can be repeated checking the other processing solutions, one at a time. Note: Since sink-line tests may not give exactly the same results as machine runs, it is important to look at the difference between the sets of strips, even if they do not exactly match normal control strips.
8-28
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
Process Omitting Prebath Test This test can be used to help indicate the source of development-related high blue D-mins in Process ECN-2. 1. Process a strip of KODAK VISION2 Color Negative Film omitting the prebath. This can be done right on the film processor by skipping the prebath rack. Note: The rem-jet backing can be removed manually either before or after processing, using a plush pad and denatured alcohol. 2. Read the D-min of this film with a densitometer and compare the results with the D-min of a normally processed strip. 3. Results/Action: a.
If high blue D-mins persist, check the developer for contamination.
b.
If high blue D-mins become normal when omitting the prebath, check for prebath contamination.
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
8-29
PROCESSED FILM PROBLEMS Problem
Appearance in the Film
Appearance in Projected Print or Telecine Transfer
Possible Source of Problem
Suggestion Corrective Action
Black lines and comets
Short, black lines and comets on emulsion surface. Shiny in reflected light.
Short, white lines and comets.
Under certain conditions, the electrolytic silver cell in the fixer recirculation systems produces small, flocculent silver flakes. These flakes get into the fixer tank, attach to the emulsion, and then go through the fixer squeegee, where each one is smeared into a line or comet.
Use a 10- to 15-micron filter in the fixer return line from the cell, or correct operation of the cell.
Curtains
Faint vertical streaks of non-uniform density.
Moving curtains in large uniform density areas.
Improper developer turbulation.
Follow specifications for turbulation coverage, pressure, and frequency.
Dirt particles
Dark spots and White spots or marks. Easiest to sparkle. see under highintensity specular lighting.
Dirt may consist of dust, cloth filaments, hair, skin flakes, chemical crystals, scum, etc. Such dirt can come from machine operators, air-conditioning units, incorrect construction materials, lack of solution or dryer air filters, water hardness, poor housekeeping.
Establish and follow good laboratory cleanliness procedures. For more information on laboratory cleanliness, refer to Module 2, Equipment and Procedures.
Yellow particles on surface.
Low fixer pH causes the formation of sulfur Maintain the fixer pH within particles in the fixer. specifications.
Dots equally spaced apart, repeating
White spots.
Film base Repeated showers deformed or of dots in which emulsion marked. individual dots are always the same distance apart.
Soft touch tire riding on the emulsion during processing.
Be certain the emulsion does not ride on spools with soft-touch tires.
Film stopped in the dryer and distorted by heat where touching the tire.
Do not stop film in dryer.
Film twisted before dryer.
Correct twist.
Edge marks
A cyan-edged dark scallop on the film edge. Repeats at frequency of roll circumference, decreasing in size as roll unwinds.
Dropping roll of unexposed film onto hard surface.
Handle film with care.
Emulsion skivings
Small particles of emulsion sheared from the film edges and deposited on the film surface.
Spools improperly aligned, or with burrs.
Check the machine spools.
Ferrotyping
Irregular, shiny areas on the emulsion surface.
Wet or tacky emulsion at windup.
Adjust the dryer to provide adequate film drying.
High windup tension on unprocessed films. Reduce the windup tension. Unwinding and rewinding unprocessed cold film without allowing it to reach room temperature first.
Fine streaks
8-30
Faint vertical streaks.
Always allow adequate time for film to come to room temperature before using in camera or rewinding for inspection.
Sharp-edged Worn or misaligned wiper-blade squeegee. Check and align squeegees. streaks and lines apparent in uniform density areas.
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
Problem
Appearance in the Film
Fungus or algae Irregular smears, deposits streaks, and spots.
Appearance in Projected Print or Telecine Transfer Smears, streaks and spots.
Possible Source of Problem
Suggestion Corrective Action
Fungi and algae tend to form on the inside walls of the wash tanks. Their presence is indicated by a slippery and slimy feel to the tank walls.
A 5 1⁄4 percent solution of sodium hypochlorite, available as household bleach (e.g., Clorox), can be used to clean the tank in order to control the formation of fungi and algae. See “Control of Biological Growths,” in Module 2, Equipment and Procedures.
Fuzzy spots
Faint fuzzy spots. Soft-edged, lowdensity spots in uniform areas of moderate density.
Air bubbles in Process ECN-2 washes, causing nonuniform swelling of the negative emulsion and creating lens-like depressions. Mixing hot and cold water releases air from the cold water, producing very tiny air bubbles.
Allow tempered wash water to stand in a supply tank before use. Add to the top, and remove from the bottom of the wash tanks, or run the tempered wash water through a horizontal coil of very large hose (inner diameter of 2 inches or more) before the wash tank. Any of these measures should reduce the amount of air bubbles in the wash tanks.
Magenta stain
Magenta density increase.
Several rewashings of camera films in RW-1 produces increased magenta density.
Green light printer exposure may have to be adjusted if film has been rewashed.
Stop with low replenishment rate, Maintain recommended stop excessive developer carry-over, or high pH. replenisher rate and pH.
Newton’s rings
Lower borax level to 1-2 g/L.
High or uneven printer gate pressure.
Adjust printer.
Low relative humidity in printing room.
Raise relative humidity to 60 percent.
Preprint film was dried too fast or over dried.
Adjust drying conditions of preprint film.
Green marks.
Pressure on emulsion causing magenta layer fog.
Avoid holding, pinching, buckling, or pressing on the emulsion of unprocessed film.
Blue spots or blotches.
Excessive pressure applied to the emulsion Eliminate all objects that put (e.g., soft-touch tire pressed on film by excessive pressure on the feedstand brake). unprocessed emulsion.
Fuzzy, erratic, faintly colored lines.
Pressure marks Magenta marks.
Yellow spots or blotches. Prussian blue
Excessive concentration of borax used in the bleach to control its pH.
Blue dirt or scum.
Inadequate stop wash, causing low bleach pH (ferricyanide bleach only).
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
Be sure the wash rate is adequate to keep the pH of the final stage of the stop wash above 3.0.
8-31
Problem Rem-jet contamination
Reticulation
Scalloped or fluted edges
8-32
Appearance in the Film
Appearance in Projected Print or Telecine Transfer
Black areas, White images of black flakes, or the negative gray streaks on defects. the film base or emulsion surface.
Rough emulsion surface.
Possible Source of Problem
Suggestion Corrective Action
A prebath that is low in pH, temperature, or Check that prebath meets time less than required. specifications.
Maladjusted spray nozzles in the rem-jet removal equipment.
The pairs of nozzle sprays must strike the film simultaneously from opposite sides so that the water flow is across the film. The scouring action across the base removes the rem-jet backing and suspends it in water, while the spray across the emulsion side prevents any water laden with rem jet from reaching the emulsion surface before it leaves the strand. The nozzle pairs must be balanced in direct opposition, with the correct speed and flow across the strand to prevent the rem jet from migrating around the edge of the film or through the perforations onto the emulsion surface. Rem jet is not easily removed from the emulsion surface.
High solution temperatures.
Adjust to specifications.
High wash temperatures.
Adjust to specifications.
Dryer temperature too high or relative humidity too low.
Adjust to specifications.
Excessive tension on the film strand.
Check the processing machine for excessive tension in the film loops caused by a high rack or improper machine drive. Check for improper threading. Rectify either condition.
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
Problem Scratches
Appearance in the Film
Appearance in Projected Print or Telecine Transfer
Light lines running lengthwise on the film.
Dark lines running length-wise on the film.
Possible Source of Problem
Suggestion Corrective Action
Deposits on rem-jet buffer.
Install a buffer-cleaning nozzle, and replace the buffer roller regularly. Water from the cleaning nozzle must not run onto unsprayed rem jet. KODAK Anti-Calcium, No. 4, or equivalent, in the prebath prevents the precipitation of calcium or magnesium salts.
Old, hard, worn, crystal-laden, or maladjusted wiper-blade squeegees.
Use spring-loaded wiper blade squeegees of 40-durometer hardness or less. Keep them clean, and replace them when worn.
Cinching a roll of film before or after processing.
Be certain that the machine takeup does not jerk the film roll. Train film handlers in proper film rewinding techniques.
Improper loading of camera magazine or processing machine.
Always handle film with care. Examine cameras and equipment for sharp edges, burrs, etc, and eliminate them.
Machine spools that are not rotating freely or are out of line.
Check spools regularly, and replace bearings when necessary.
Chemical crystals or other foreign material on spools.
Spools and racks should be cleaned regularly according to the procedures in the machine maintenance section of this manual.
Improper machine threading (a twist in the film) or improper splices.
These problems should be corrected according to normal processing procedures.
Shoreline
In specular Fuzzy contour lines Nonuniform or too rapid drying of the film reflected light at the sides of emulsion. shoreline appears projection aperture. as lines around perforations and/ or running lengthwise on the film.
Reduce the temperature, or increase the relative humidity of the air in the drying cabinet.
Static marks
Yellow spots and dots.
Rapid rewinding or transporting film in low relative humidity.
Unprocessed film should not be rewound at high speed. The relative humidity in the rewinding area should be 50 percent or greater.
Emulsion contact with flat non-conducting rollers before processing.
Only undercut rollers should come in contact with the emulsion surface. Use conductive materials on the rewind, load accumulator, etc, and ground them.
Blue spots and dots.
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
8-33
Problem
Appearance in the Film
Appearance in Projected Print or Telecine Transfer
Tacky film
Possible Source of Problem
Suggestion Corrective Action
Inadequate final film squeegee action.
Check the air flow, alignment and cleanliness of the final squeegee.
Inadequate drying conditions.
Check the temperature, relative humidity, and flow rate of the air in the dryer cabinet. The heaters or the fan may not be functioning properly, or the air filters may be plugged with dirt. If the dryer uses recirculated air, be sure it is mixed with incoming air. Also check the humidity control of recirculated air. If the film is still tacky after all possible normal corrective measures have been taken, as a temporary measure, increase the temperature of the dryer air. Because increased air temperature can be injurious to the film, such action requires close attention to the physical appearance of the film.
Water spots
Irregular areas on Spots, streaks, and Lines, drops, or puddles of water allowed to emulsion surface run marks. enter the dryer on the film. best seen in specular reflected light.
The final squeegee in the process must be very efficient and must remove virtually all water from the emulsion surface.
Yellow fog
Yellow highlights.
Blue shadows.
A low-level light leak in the dark section of the machine (e.g., from luminous clocks or night lights).
Remove all sources of light that shine directly on unprocessed films.
Yellow stain
Yellow highlights.
Blue shadows.
See Diagnostic Scheme, Figure 8-15 High D-min (Blue Only) for contamination of developer by sodium thiocyanate (VNF-1 first and color developer, or Reversal Agent RA-1).
Use care to avoid developer contamination of any kind.
The information contained herein is furnished by Eastman Kodak Company without any warranty or guarantee whatsoever. While Kodak is unaware of any valid domestic patents of others which would be infringed by the methods, formulas or apparatus described herein, the furnishing of this information is not to be considered as any license for inducement of, or recommendation for any action by any party any such action being a matter for independent investigation and decision by such party.
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Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
MORE INFORMATION For more information on motion picture products, call or write to the Professional Motion Imaging office nearest you. Or access our home page on the Internet, web site address— http://www.kodak.com/go/motion You may want to bookmark our location so you can find us more easily.
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
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Processing KODAK Motion Picture Films, Module 8 Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
Processing KODAK Motion Picture Films, Module 8, Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2
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Revised 12/05 Printed in U.S.A.