Is there any way, besides the expensive JOBO system, to get cheap, mechanized rotary processing done for 8x10 sheet film? I notice several print drum processors on the market (Dev Tec, Adorama), but they don't seem to accept film. Currently am using BTZS, but prefer a mechanical method.

-- Mike H. (HeathMG@state.gov), December 10, 1999

Answers

Unicolor print drums on the Unicolor roller work very well for 8x10 film. These are only available used now.

You can use a single 8x10 drum for one sheet or an 11x14 drum for two sheets. Presumably a 16x20 drum could be used for four sheets but I haven't had the nerve to try it.

The Unicolor drums have ribs that allow solutions to bathe the base side of the film, thus removing sensitizing dyes etc; if you use a smooth-walled drum or one that has few ribs you'll need to remove the wet film from the drum for a second fixer rinse, HCA etc for dye removal.

If you buy Unicolor drums, check around the upper edge for sharp spots and remove any roughness or mold flashing with an emery board.

Also, when buying used Unicolor drums, be sure you can return any that have serious leaks; they all dribble a little but well-used ones have compressed rubber seals, worn gaskets etc. I've heard of worn gaskets being replaced by truck oil-filter gaskets but haven't had to try that yet.

The Unicolor drums are of course not temperature-regulated; if you really need precise high-temperature regulation then you'll have to go with Jobo.

-- John Hicks (jbh@magicnet.net), December 10, 1999.

I have a JOBO processor and I still use the BTZS tubes. I rarely need six or 10 sheets of film to be developed at the same average gradient. I use the BTZS tubes for developing and stop or water bath and then move the film into the JOBO for fixing and the start of the wash.

-- Jeff White (zonie@computer-concepts.com), December 10, 1999.

I use the Unicolor set-up and love it. I have drums to 16x20 but use the 8x10 and 11x14 for my 8x10 film. They work great. James

-- james (james_mickelson@hotmail.com), December 11, 1999.

Thanks for the responses. Any idea if the Unicolor is conducive to pyro development (i.e any special pre-soak for the film required, or will the grooves take care of it?)

-- Mike H. (HeathMG@state.gov), December 12, 1999.