Developing tank

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[edit] Developing Tank

A developing tank is a light tight container used for developing film. A developing tank allows photographic film to be developed in a daylight environment. This is useful because most film is panchromatic and therefore can not to be exposed to any light during processing. A developing tank can hold one roll of film, or it can hold many.

[edit] Film Reel

Stainless steel film reel for 35mm film
Stainless steel film reel for 35mm film

A film reel holds roll films in a spiral shape. The film is held evenly spaced so that the chemicals reach all of the film.

[edit] Types

Developing tanks and film reels for roll films come in two varieties, plastic and stainless steel. With stainless steel reels, the film is clipped to the center, and then gently pinched, while it is turned so that the film falls into the groove. With a plastic reel the film is loaded from the outside.

[edit] Use

The user begins by opening the film and loading it onto a film reel in a darkroom. Care must be taken during this step, as improperly loading the film may result in parts of the film not getting developed. Once the film is on the reel it is put into the developing tank, and then a lid is placed on the developing tank. The rest of the film developing process may be carried out in daylight. The lid of the tank will contain an opening for pouring liquids in and out of the developing tank. A provided cap prevents the contents of the tank from spilling when agitating by inverting the tank.

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