Processing kodak motion picture films module 8 effects of mechanical & chemical variations in proces

©Eastman Kodak Company, 2005

Processing KODAK Motion Picture Films, Module 8

Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2

Table of ContentsPROCESS CONTROL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3

Mechanical Control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3Chemical Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3Photographic and Sensitometric Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-5Correlation of Mechanical, Chemical, and Sensitometric Data . . . . . . . . . . . 8-6Effects of Mechanical and Chemical Variations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-6

Developer Mechanical Factors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7Effects of Time and Temperature Variations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7

Developer Chemical Factors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8Effects of pH and CD-3 Variations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8Effects of NaBr and AF-2000 Variations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9Effects of Na2SO3 and Under–/Over Replenishment Variations . . . . . 8-10Effects of Prebath Contamination. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-11Effects of CD-2 and Stop Bath Contamination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-12Effects of Bleach Contamination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-13Effects of F-34a Fixer and FR-1 Final Rinse Contamination . . . . . . . . 8-14Effects of KI Contamination and Water Dilution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-15Effects of Bacterial Na2S and Na2CO3 Contamination. . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-16

DIAGNOSTIC SCHEMES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-17Color Negative Film Diagnostic Charts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-17

Verification Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-18Problem Sorting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-19Low Developer Activity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-20High Developer Activity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-21High D-min (Blue Only). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-22Retained Silver (Ferricyanide and UL Bleaches) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-23Retained Silver (Persulfate Bleach) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-24Retained Silver Halide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25

SPECIAL TESTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-26Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-26Retained Silver Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-27Retained Silver Halide Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-27Cyan Leuco Dye Test. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-28Solution By-pass Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-28Process Omitting Prebath Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-29

PROCESSED FILM PROBLEMS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-30

-2 Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2

8 Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2

PROCESS CONTROLThe 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 ControlMechanical 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 jet-agitation 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 ControlMaintaining 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

Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process EC

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 MethodNumber

Prebath pHSpecific Gravity

D, FW, F

FF

ULM-191-2ULM-0002/1

Developer pHSpecific GravityTotal AlkalinityCD-3BromideAnti-Fog, No. 9Sulfite

D, FD, FD, FD, FD, FD, FD, F

FFFFFFF

ULM-191-2ULM-0002/1ECN-0001/1ECN-0003/1ECN-926CECN-157OCECN-1305B

Stop pH D, F F ULM-191-2

Bleach,Ferricyanide

pHSpecific Gravity Ferricyanide Bromide

D, FW, FW, FW, F

FFFF

ULM-191-2ULM-0002/1ECN-00021/1ECN-0004/1

UL Bleach*

* Alternate Bleach

pHSpecific Gravity BromideIron II, IIITotal Iron

D, FW, FW, FW, FW, F

FFFFF

ULM-191-2ULM-0002/1ECN-0022/1ECN-2-3275ECN-2-3263

KUL Bleach* pHSpecific GravityBromideIron II, IIITotal Iron


FFFFF

ULM-191-2ULM-0002/1ECN-0005/1ECN-0007/1ECN-0006/1

Accelerator (Persulfate Bleach)*

pHSpecific GravityMetabisulfiteBuffer CapacityPBA-1


FFFFF

ULM-191-2ULM-0002/1ECN-1340ECN-2-755ECN-2100B

Bleach Persulfate*

pHSpecific GravityPersulfateChlorideBuffer Capacity


FFFFF

ULM-191-2ULM-0002/1ECN-0024/1ECN-0009/1ECN-0019-01

Fixer pHSpecific GravityHypo IndexThiosulfateSulfite


FFFFF

ULM-191-2ULM-0002/1ECN-0002/1ECN-0002/1ECN-0002/1

D=Daily W=Weekly F=Each Fresh Mix

N-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.

* 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.

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.†

† Start-up and every two hours.

Prebath

Developer


16.Check recirculation rate. Prebath

Developer

Stop


Bleach

Fixer

Final Rinse

17.Run control strips.

18.Proceed to production if in control.

19.Check replenisher flow rate.† Prebath

Developer

Stop

Wash


Bleach

Fixer

Wash

Final Rinse

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.

Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN

Photographic and Sensitometric ControlThe 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.

-2 8-5

Correlation of Mechanical, Chemical, and Sensitometric DataRecord 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.

8-6 Effects

Effects of Mechanical and Chemical Variations—5217, 5242 Film in Process ECN-2 DeveloperSample Control PlotsThe 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.

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

HD-LD

D-min

LD

0000

HD

MD

5217

Temperature

102

110

108

104

106

102

˚ F

Time

5217

.20

.10

.15

.25

+.05

0

.05

.15

.20

.25

.10

.20

.10

.15

+.05

0

.10

.05

AIM

STRIPCODE NO.

REFERENCE

VALUES

RED

B/W

BLUE

GREEN

B/W

BLUE

GREEN

RED

340

.15

.10

.20

+0

.05

.05

300

240

.10

+0

.05

220

.05

.10

.10

320

RED

B/W

GREEN

BLUE

RED

GREEN

B/W

BLUE

sec F˚

BLUE

B/W

GREEN

RED

.10

.05

.05

0+

.10

h2408_1_V2

110

108

102

104

106

220

180

200

˚ F

160

140

sec

R

B

RGB

G RGB

RGB

B

RG

R

G

B

GB

R

RGB

RBG

B

R

GB

GR

B

G

BR

RGB

RGB

R

BG

GR

GB

R

R B G

G

B

R

RGB

52425242

R

GB

G

R

RBG

R

BG

G

BR

B

RB

B R

G

BGR

GBR

R

B GR

B

RGB

R

GB

B

RGB

BG

R

G

RG

BG

GB

R

GR

B

B

RG

G

R

Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2 8-7

Developer Chemical Factors

Figure 8-2 Effects of pH and CD-3 Variations—5217, 5242 Film in Process ECN-2 Developer

G

BGR

B

RRB

GRB

G

RGB

BRG

R

RBG

GB

R

GB

R

B

GR

R

BG

RB

G

RGB

BRG

GB

G

BR

RG

B

BGR

B

RG

B

G

G

R

B

R

GB

BGR

R

GR

B

RGB

B

RG

RBG

BGRR

RGB

RGB

RG

B

BGR

RGB

BG

R

BG

R

RGB

G

BR

GB

R

GBR

HD-LD

D-min

LD

0000

HD

MD

52425217

CD-3

5.50

3.25

4.00

4.75

2.50

pH

5217

.20

.10

.15

.25

+.05

.05

0

.10

.20

.15

.25

.15

.20

.05

.10

+0

VALUES

REFERENCE

CODE NO.

AIM

STRIP

GREEN

BLUE

RED

B/W

GREEN

BLUE

RED

.10

.20

.15

.10

+0

.05

.05

.10

.10

+.05

0

.05

10.4

5

10.2

5

10.1

5

10.0

5

10.3

5

.10

B/W

GREEN

RED

B/W

BLUE

B/W

GREEN

BLUE

RED

.05

5242

BLUE

B/W

GREEN

RED

.10

.05

.05

0+

.10

g/LpHH2408_2_V2

4.40

4.15

3.65

3.40

3.90

g/L

10.4

5

10.2

5

10.3

5

10.1

5

10.0

5

pH



Figure 8-3 Effects of NaBr and AF-2000 Variations—5217, 5242 Film in Process ECN-2 Developer

MD

HD

0000

LD

D-Min

HD-LD

5217

AF-2000

7.50

3.75

5.00

6.25

2.50

1.6

1.0

1.2

1.4

0.8

NaBr

5217

.20

.15

.10

.25

+.05

.05

0

.10

.20

.15

.25

.15

.20

.05

.10

+0

VALUES

CODE NO.

REFERENCESTRIP

AIM

BLUE

GREEN

RED

B/W

RED

BLUE

GREEN

.10

.20

.15

.10

+0

.05

.05

.10

.10

+.05

0

.05

g/L

.10

B/W

GREEN

RED

B/W

BLUE

B/W

BLUE

GREEN

RED

.05

ml/L

.10

.05

.05

0+

.10

BLUE

B/W

GREEN

RED

H2408_4_V2g/L

0.8

1.0

1.2

1.6

1.4

5242 5242

mL/L

7.50

3.75

5.00

6.25

2.50

RGB

R

BG

R

BG

B

GR

B

R

BRG

G

BG

RBRG

RBG

RGB

B

GR

GB

R

G

BR

B

RG

BRG

B

GR

B

GR

BRG

BR

G

RG

BR

G

B

RB

G

G

BR

G

BR

G

RB

B

G

R

GR

B

G

B

R

GR

B

RBG

GR

B

GB

R

BGR

BGR

GR

B



Figure 8-4 Effects of Na2SO3 and Under–/Over Replenishment Variations—5217, 5242 Film in Process ECN-2 Developer

ReplenishmentUnder and Over

HD-LD

H2408_3_V2

52175217

.20

.15

.10

.25

+.05

.05

0

.10

.20

.15

.25

.15

.20

.10

.05+

0

AIMVALUES

STRIPCODE NO.

REFERENCE

RED

BLUE

GREEN

B/W

RED

BLUE

GREEN

.10

.15

.20

.10

+0

.05

.05

.10

.10

+.05

0

.05

.10

B/W

RED

GREEN

B/W

BLUE

B/W

RED

GREEN

BLUE

.05

g/L

.10

.05

.05

0+

.10

1.5

1.0

2.0

2.5

3.0

-20%

+20

%

0.00

GREEN

BLUE

B/W

RED

Na SO2 3

MD

HD

0000

LD

D-min

g/L

1.0

2.0

1.5

3.0

2.5

-20% 0.00

+20

%

52425242

GRB

R

RBG

BG

G

R

GB

R

B

G

R

BG

G

GBR

RB

BR

GBR

GRB

B

G

R

G

RBG

B

G

R

B

R

GG

B

B

R

B

R

G

R

R G B

B

G

R

B

G

GR

B

R

GB

BGR

R

GR

B

RG

BBR

G

RB

G

BGR

R

GB

RG

B

R

GB

BGR

R

GB

B

GR

BG

R

RG

B

GB

R

G

BR

G

BR



Figure 8-5 Effects of PB-C1 and PB-2 Prebath Contamination—5217, 5242 Film in Process ECN-2 Developer

MD

HD

0000

LD

D-Min

HD-LD

52425217

Prebath

PB-2

200.

0

150.

0

50.00.0

100.

0

mL/L

200.

0

50.0

100.

0

mL/L

150.

0

0.0

200.

0

100.

0

150.

0

PB-C1

5217

.20

.10

.15

.25

+.05

.05

0

.10

.20

.15

.25

.15

.20

.05

.10

+0

REFERENCE

CODE NO.STRIP

VALUESAIM

GREEN

BLUE

RED

B/W

GREEN

BLUE

RED

.10

.20

.15

.10

+0

.05

.05

.10

.10

+0

.05

.05

50.00.0

200.

0

100.

0

50.0

mL/L

0.0

150.

0

.10

B/W

GREEN

RED

B/W

BLUE

B/W

BLUE

GREEN

RED

.05

mL/L

5242

BLUE

B/W

GREEN

RED

.10

.05

.05

0+

.10

RG

B

GB

R

BG

R

RGB

RG B

R

G

B

R

BG

BRG

RGB

G

B

R

H2408_5_V2

RGB

G

B

R

R

BG

RB

G

R

BG

R

GB

BGR

G

BR

RBG

GRB



Figure 8-6 Effects of CD-2 and Stop Bath Contamination—5217, 5242 Film in Process ECN-2 Developer

HD-LD

D-min

LD

0000

HD

MD

.10

+0

.05RED

.05

.10B/W

BLUE

GREEN

Substitute CD-2 for CD-3

.05

BLUE

GREEN

RED

B/W

BLUE

B/W

GREEN

RED

B/W

.10

1.5

0.0

0.5

g/L

1.0

2.0

.05

.05

0+

.10

.10

.05

.05

0+

.10

.20

.15

.10

GREEN

BLUE

RED

B/W

GREEN

BLUE

RED

REFERENCE

CODE NO.

VALUES

STRIP

AIM

0+.05

.10

.20

.15

.25

.15

.20

.10

0

.05

.05+

.25

.10

.15

.20

5217

0 75

mL/L

5025 100

Stop Bath

5217

H2408_6_V2mL/L

50.00.0

25.0

75.0

100.

0

g/L

0.0

0.5

1.5

1.0

2.0

5242 5242

B G R

BG R

RGB

G BR

BG R

B

G

R

BGR

B RG

BGR

R BG

RGB

R

GB

B RG

GR

B

RG B

RG

B

RG B

B RG

B

RG

BGR



Figure 8-7 Effects of Bleach Contamination—5217, 5242 Film in Process ECN-2 Developer

RGB

RGB

R

GB

RBG

BR

G

G

R

B

R

B

G

R

RGB

BG

G

B

R

HD-LD

D-Min

LD

0000

HD

MD

.10

+0

.05RED

.05

.10B/W

BLUE

GREEN

BLUE

B/W

GREEN

RED

BLUE

GREEN

B/W

RED

.10

.10

.05

.05

0+

.10

.05

.05

0+

.20

.10

.15

RED

BLUE

GREEN

B/W

BLUE

GREEN

B/W

RED

AIMVALUES

CODE NO.

REFERENCESTRIP

.05

.10

0

.05+

.15

.10

.20

.10

.25

.20

.15

.05

0

.05+

.25

.15

.10

.20

H2408_7_V2mL/L

4.0

0.0

2.0

6.0

8.0

mL/L

0.500.

0

0.25

0.75

5217

UL Bleach

5242



Figure 8-8 Effects of F-34a Fixer and FR-1 Final Rinse Contamination—5217, 5242 Film in Process ECN-2 Developer

MD

LD

D-min

HD

0000

HD-LD

52425217

Final Rinse

100

25 500

mL/L

F-34a Fixer

5217

.20

.10

.15

.25

+.05

0

.05

.15

.20

.25

.10

.20

.10

.15

+.05

0

.10

.05

AIM

STRIPCODE NO.

REFERENCE

VALUES

RED

B/W

BLUE

GREEN

B/W

BLUE

GREEN

RED

0.75

.15

.10

.20

+0

.05

.05

0.250.0

.10

+0

.05

.05

.10

.10

0.50

mL/L

RED

B/W

GREEN

BLUE

RED

GREEN

B/W

BLUE

5242

GREEN

BLUE

B/W.10

.05

RED .05

0+

.10

H2408_8_V2

400.

0

300.

0

0.0

100.

0

200.

0

mL/LmL/L

0.500.0

0.25

0.75

R

G

B

G

BR

B

GR

GBR

RGB

BRG

GR

B

R G

RGB

B

G

R

B

R

BG

R

BG RG

B

R

BG

R

BG

RG B

B GR

BG

R

B

R G

RG

B



Figure 8-9 Effects of KI Contamination and Water Dilution—5217, 5242 Film in Process ECN-2 Developer

HD-LD

D-min

LD

0000

HD

MD

.10

+0

.05RED

.05

.10B/W

BLUE

GREEN

.05

RED

GREEN

BLUE

B/W

BLUE

B/W

RED

GREEN

B/W

.10

5.0

mg/L

0.0

2.5

7.5

.05

.05

0+

.10

.10

.05

.05

0+

.10

.15

.20

.10

RED

BLUE

GREEN

B/W

RED

BLUE

GREEN

AIM

STRIP

VALUES

CODE NO.

REFERENCE

0+

.10

.05

.20

.15

.25

.15

.20

.10

0

.05

.05+

.25

.15

.10

.20

5217

Kl

0.0

300.

0

200.

0

mL/L

100.

0

400.

0

Water Dilution

5217

H2408_9_V2

5242

2.5

mg/L

0.0

5.0

7.5

200.

0

mL/L

0.0

100.

0

300.

0

400.

0

5242

R

G

B

RGB

RG

GBR

BR

G

RG

R B G

RGB

B

GR

GR

B

BB

5.0

0.0

2.5

7.5

R

B

GB

RG

B

GR

B

GR

RGB

GR

B

R

BG R

B G

R BG

RGB


Figure 8-10 Effects of Bacterial Na2S and Na2CO3 Contamination—5217, 5242 Film in Process ECN-2 Developer

5217

Na CO2 3

g/L g/L

15.65.6

45.6

35.6

25.6

15.65.6

45.6

35.6

25.6

HD-LD

D-min

LD

MD

HD

0000

2Na SBacterial

5217

.20

.10

.15

.25

+.05

.05

0

.10

.20

.15

.25

.15

.20

.05

.10

+0

REFERENCE

CODE NO.

VALUES

STRIP

AIM

GREEN

BLUE

RED

B/W

GREEN

BLUE

RED

.10

.20

.15

.10

+0

.05

.05

.10

.10

+0

.05

.05

.10

B/W

GREEN

RED

B/W

BLUE

B/W

BLUE

GREEN

RED

.05

mg/L

3.0

0.0

mg/L

1.0

2.0

4.0

0.0

1.0

3.0

2.0

4.0

GREEN

BLUE

B/W.10

.05

RED .05

0+

.10

H2408_10_V2

RGB

RG

RB

B RG

G

B RG

RGB

GBR

GB

R

R

BG

G

RB

B

5242

0.

5242

GRB

GRB

GRB

GR

B

GR

B

G

BR

GRB

G

BR

BR

G

RB

G


DIAGNOSTIC SCHEMESColor Negative Film Diagnostic ChartsThe 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


Figure 8-11 Verification Process

F002_9010EC

of c

ontr

ol s

trip

ste

st w

ith a

noth

er b

atch

Con

firm

; Run

cro

ssov

erS

tora

geLi

ght l

eak

Dam

age

Con

trol

Str

ip

chec

k fo

r co

nsis

tenc

yst

rips

at th

e sa

me

time

toC

onfir

m; P

roce

ss 2

0S

tora

geE

xpos

ure

varia

bilit

y

Con

trol

Str

ips

Var

iabl

e

NO

Con

tinue

to S

how

?D

oes

Dev

iatio

n

YE

S

Pro

cess

Ano

ther

C

ontr

ol S

trip

Pro

blem

Den

sito

met

er

Den

sito

met

er m

alfu

nctio

nD

irty

Filt

ers

Plo

tting

err

orW

rong

sta

tus

filte

rsC

alib

ratio

n er

ror

Con

tinue

to S

how

Dev

iatio

n?D

o D

ensi

tom

eter

ed R

eadi

ngs

NO

YE

S

cinc

h m

ark,

scr

atch

, etc

.C

heck

for

fog,

fing

erpr

int,

proc

esse

d co

ntro

l str

ip.

Rer

ead

prev

ious

ly

NO

YE

S

Dia

gram

Pro

cess

Tro

uble

shoo

ting

Go

to a

ppro

pria

te

Ver

ified

Pro

cess

Pro

blem

deci

sion

can

be

mad

eco

ntro

l str

ips

until

aC

ontin

ue to

pro

cess

and

"Afte

r"R

eadi

ngs

"Bef

ore"

Ver

ify D

ensi

tom

etric

NO

YE

SC

ontin

ue to

Sho

w?

Doe

s D

evia

tion

Con

trol

Str

ipP

roce

ss A

noth

er

Pro

cess

Con

trol

Str

ips?

Do

Pic

ture

s A

gree

with

App

aren

t Pro

cess

Pro

blem

Con

trol

Str

ips

Sho

w


Figure 8-12 Problem Sorting

YE

S

NO

NO

YE

S

YE

SHal

ide

Tes

t

NO

Ret

aine

d S

ilver

Hal

ide

Ret

aine

d S

ilver

Dev

elop

erH

igh

Act

ivity

Dev

elop

erLo

w A

ctiv

ity(B

lue

Onl

y)H

igh

D-m

inB

Hig

h D

-min

(Blu

e O

nly)

B

(Red

Onl

y)Lo

w D

-max

RD

ensi

ties

Low

erH

ighe

rD

ensi

ties

Det

erm

ine

Sen

sito

met

ric D

evia

tion

from

Pro

cess

Con

trol

Aim

Pro

cess

Pro

blem

Ver

ified

Cya

n Le

uco

Dye

Reb

leac

h S

trip

toV

erify

Pro

blem

See

the

Cya

n Le

uco

Dye

Tes

t

Is it

Cya

nLe

uco

Dye

?

and/

or R

eble

ach

Str

ip to

Ver

ify P

robl

emS

ee th

e R

etai

ned

Silv

er T

est

Che

ck IR

Den

sity

Is it

Ret

aine

dS

ilver

?S

ee th

e R

etai

ned

Silv

er

Che

ck S

trip

for

Opa

que

Str

eaks

/Ref

ix S

trip

toV

erify

Pro

blem

Is it

Silv

erR

etai

ned

See

Fig

. 8-1

8

Per

sulfa

teS

ee F

ig. 8

-17

Fer

ricya

nide

or

UL

See

Fig

. 8-1

6

See

Fig

. 8-1

4S

ee F

ig. 8

-13

See

Fig

. 8-1

5

F002_9017EC

Hal

ide?


Figure 8-13 Low Developer Activity

F002_9011EC

Rat

eIn

crea

se R

epl.

Leve

l on

Film

Sto

ckC

heck

Exp

osur

e

(low

pro

babi

lity)

Film

Sto

ckLa

rge

Vol

ume

of

Nec

essa

ryR

epl.

Rat

e if

Che

ck a

nd A

djus

t

Too

Low

Rep

leni

sher

Rat

e

Rep

leni

sher

Mix

Adj

ust

Pro

cedu

reC

heck

Mix

ing

Err

orR

eple

nish

er M

ix

Sol

utio

nM

ix F

resh

Com

pare

Con

tam

inat

ion

Dev

elop

er

Nec

essa

ryP

aram

eter

ifC

heck

and

Adj

ust

BG

R

Con

tam

inat

ion

(incl

.E

limin

ate

Sou

rce

of

reci

rcul

atio

n &

repl

enis

her

lines

)

Dev

elop

er; R

unB

y-P

ass

Tes

t

with

Fre

shB

ars/

Noz

zles

for

Rec

ircul

atio

nP

lugg

ing;

Che

ck

Che

ck

Low

Agi

tatio

nT

ime

Too

Sho

rt

Set

Too

Low

Mal

func

tioni

ng o

rC

ontr

olT

empe

ratu

re

Are

the

Che

mic

al A

naly

ses

ofD

evel

oper

Tan

k O

ff S

pecs

?

Mea

sure

men

ts O

ff S

pecs

?A

re th

e D

evel

oper

Phy

sica

l

NO

YE

S

NO

YE

S

NO

YE

SDev

elop

er R

eple

nish

er O

ff S

pecs

?A

re th

e C

hem

ical

Ana

lyse

s of


Figure 8-14 High Developer Activity

Adj

ust S

top

Rep

l.C

onc.

& R

epl.

Rat

eto

Mai

ntai

n S

tabl

eT

ank

Che

mis

try;

Che

ck O

pera

tion

ofC

ross

over

Squ

eege

e

Are

the

Dev

elop

er P

hysi

cal

Mea

sure

men

ts O

ff S

pecs

?Y

ES

NO

YE

SN

O

RG

B

Hig

h S

top

Bat

h pH

Are

the

Che

mic

al A

naly

ses

of D

evel

oper

Tan

kO

ff S

pecs

.? A

lso

see

Fig

s. 8

-16,

8-1

7 &

8-1

8

Con

tam

inat

ion

Dev

elop

erT

empe

ratu

reC

ontr

olM

alfu

nctio

ning

or S

et T

oo H

igh

Che

ck p

H

Com

pare

with

Goo

d D

evel

oper

:R

un B

y-pa

ss T

est

Mix

Fre

sh D

ev.

Elim

inat

e S

ourc

eof

Con

tam

inat

ion

(incl

. rec

ircul

atio

n&

rep

l. lin

es)

Par

amet

er if

Nec

essa

ry

Che

ck &

Adj

ustTim

e to

o Lo

ng

Rep

l. M

ixE

rror

Rep

l. R

ate

Too

Hig

h

Dev

elop

er R

eple

nish

er O

ff sp

ecs?

Are

the

Che

mic

al A

naly

ses

of

YE

S

Che

ck &

Adj

ust

Rep

l. R

ate

Che

ck M

ixin

gP

roce

dure

Sol

utio

nM

ix a

Fre

shA

djus

t Exi

stin

gT

ank

Sol

utio

n

Dilu

tion

from

Exc

essi

veC

arry

-in

Che

ck &

Adj

ust

Rem

-jet W

ash

Buf

fer/

Squ

eege

eif

Nec

essa

ry

Aer

atio

n/O

xida

tion

ofS

olut

ion

(low

sulfi

te o

nly)

Che

ck fo

r A

irLe

aks/

Foa

min

g

Elim

inat

eS

ourc

e of

Oxi

datio

n

Larg

e V

olum

e of

Und

erex

pose

dF

ilm P

roce

ssed

Che

ck E

xpos

ure

Leve

l on

Film

Sto

ck

Dec

reas

e R

epl.

Rat

e

F002_9012EC

NO


Figure 8-15 High D-min (Blue Only)

F002_9013EC

Add

AF

-9 to

Rep

l. an

d

to S

tand

by T

ime.

Rev

ise

AF

-9 C

onc.

inR

eple

nish

er A

ccor

ding

(tan

k &

rep

l.)C

heck

Lev

el o

f AF

-9

(Dev

)Lo

w A

F-9

Lev

el

lines

)re

circ

ulat

ion

& r

epl.

Con

tam

inat

ion

(incl

.E

limin

ate

Sou

rce

of

Run

By-

pass

Tes

tP

reba

th:

Mix

Fre

sh P

reba

th

Com

pare

with

Goo

d

Mix

Fre

sh D

ev.

Run

By-

pass

Tes

tD

evel

oper

:C

ompa

re w

ith G

ood

Oth

erF

ilter

s U

sed

Vis

cose

Ray

onG

row

thB

iolo

gica

lO

ther

Pre

bath

Con

tam

inat

ion

Dev

elop

er C

onta

min

atio

n

Nor

mal

Blu

e D

-min

?S

trip

Exh

ibit

Doe

s

B

(Blu

e O

nly)

Hig

h D

-min

NO

YE

S

Pre

bath

Tes

tR

un P

roce

ss O

mitt

ing

Filt

ers

Use

dV

isco

se R

ayon


Figure 8-16 Retained Silver (Ferricyanide and UL Bleaches)

F002_9014EC

Dis

card

a S

mal

lP

ortio

n of

Rep

l.&

Adj

ust

Che

mic

al L

evel

s

Rep

l. R

ate

Too

Low

Che

ck S

peci

ficG

ravi

tyA

djus

t Rat

e if

Nec

essa

ry

Che

ck R

epl.

&

Too

Hig

h(r

egen

erat

ion)

Sul

fate

Bui

ldup

Adj

ust

Rep

leni

sher

Mix

Che

ck M

ixin

g/R

egen

erat

ion

Pro

cedu

re

Mix

/R

egen

erat

ion

Err

or

Sol

utio

nM

ix a

Fre

sh

& r

ecirc

ulat

ion)

Con

tam

inat

ion

(incl

. rep

l.E

limin

ate

Sou

rce

of

Tes

tR

un B

y-pa

ss

Con

tam

inat

ion

Ble

ach

Par

amet

er if

Nec

essa

ry

Che

ck &

Adj

ustS

hort

Tim

e to

o

or S

et T

oo L

owM

alfu

nctio

ning

Tem

p. C

ontr

ol

Rec

ircul

atio

nC

heck

for

Plu

ggin

g;B

ars/

Noz

zles

Che

ck

Agi

tatio

nLo

w

of B

leac

h O

ff S

pecs

?A

re th

e C

hem

ical

Ana

lyse

s

Ret

aine

d S

ilver

Mea

sure

men

ts O

ff S

pecs

?A

re th

e B

leac

h P

hysi

cal

NO

YE

S

NO

YE

S

NO

YE

SBle

ach

Rep

leni

sher

Off

Spe

cs?

Are

the

Che

mic

al A

naly

ses

of


Figure 8-17 Retained Silver (Persulfate Bleach)

F002_9015EC

Agi

tatio

n

Mix

a

Sol

utio

nF

resh

Exc

essi

veA

erat

ion

ofA

ccel

Mix

Rec

onst

itutio

nE

rror

Old

Acc

elM

ix a

nd/o

rT

ank

Kee

p M

ixin

gan

d S

tora

geR

ecor

ds

Che

ck M

ixin

gIn

stru

ctio

ns

Che

ck fo

r A

irLe

aks

and

Exc

essi

ve

Che

ck &

Adj

ust i

fN

eces

sary

Che

ckS

p G

r

Rep

leni

sher

; A

djus

t Sol

utio

n

Dis

card

Par

t of

YE

SY

ES

NO

NO

YE

S

Sol

utio

n

Par

amet

er if

Nec

essa

ry

Che

ck &

Adj

ust

Mea

sure

men

ts O

ff S

peci

ficat

ions

?A

re th

e B

leac

h T

ank’

s P

hysi

cal Lo

wT

emp.

too

Sho

rtT

ime

too

Con

tam

.B

leac

h

Con

firm

ed,

Mix

a F

resh

Tan

k

Con

tam

.S

ourc

e of

Elim

inat

e

Run

Byp

ass

Tes

t

Che

ck &

Adj

ust

Par

amet

er if

Nec

essa

ry

Tem

p. to

oH

igh

YE

S Tim

e to

oS

hort

(Hyp

o)C

onta

m.

Acc

el.

Tan

k an

d R

epl.

Off

Spe

cific

atio

ns?

Are

the

Che

mic

al A

naly

ses

of A

ccel

erat

or

Ret

aine

d S

ilver

Mea

sure

men

ts O

ff S

peci

ficat

ions

?A

re th

e A

ccel

erat

or T

ank’

s P

hysi

cal

NO

YE

S

(Fer

ri)

Rec

onst

itutio

n

Sul

fate

Bui

ldup

inB

leac

hor

Acc

el.

Rep

leni

shm

ent

Low

Rat

e B

leac

h


Figure 8-18 Retained Silver Halide

F002_9016EC

Sol

utio

nM

ix a

Fre

sh

Che

ck U

nit

Mal

func

tion

Cor

rect

Rep

l. R

ate

Incr

ease

Che

ckR

epl.

Rat

e

Sys

tem

Rec

ircul

atio

nLe

aks

inE

limin

ate

Air

Che

ckM

ixin

g/R

econ

stitu

tion

Pro

cedu

re

Rep

l. R

ate

Too

Low

Silv

erR

ecov

ery

Uni

tM

alfu

nctio

ning

Che

ckS

peci

ficG

ravi

ty

Bui

ldup

aera

tion)

Sul

fate

Too

Hig

h(e

xces

sive

Mix

/R

econ

stitu

tion

Err

or

Con

tam

.S

ourc

e of

Elim

inat

e

Run

By-

pass

Tes

t

YE

S

Fix

erC

onta

m.

Tim

eT

oo L

ong

inB

leac

hA

ccel

.

Rec

ircul

atio

n

Bar

s/

Che

ck

Che

ck

Noz

zles

for

Plu

ggin

g

Too

Hig

hP

BA

-1 L

evel

Acc

eler

ator

Ble

ach

Per

sulfa

te

Nec

essa

ryP

aram

eter

ifA

djus

tC

heck

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SPECIAL TESTSIntroductionThis 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


Retained Silver TestRetained 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.

• 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.

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.


Retained Silver Halide TestRetained 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 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.

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.

-2 8-27

Cyan Leuco Dye TestCyan 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:

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.

8-28 Effects

Solution By-pass TestUse 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 “sink-line” process (i.e., with a controlled temperature bath) is available. The test procedure is outlined below

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.

of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process ECN-2

Process Omitting Prebath TestThis 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.

-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 marks. Easiest to see under high-intensity spec-ular lighting.

White spots or sparkle.

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.

White spots. Low fixer pH causes the formation of sulfur particles in the fixer.

Maintain the fixer pH within specifications.

Dots equally spaced apart, repeating

Film base deformed or emulsion marked.

Repeated showers of dots in which 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.

Always allow adequate time for film to come to room temperature before using in camera or re-winding for inspection.

Fine streaks Faint vertical streaks.

Sharp-edged streaks and lines apparent in uniform density areas.

Worn or misaligned wiper-blade squeegee. Check and align squeegees.


Fungus or algae deposits

Irregular smears, streaks, and spots.

Smears, streaks and spots.

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, low-density 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, excessive developer carry-over, or high pH.

Maintain recommended stop replenisher rate and pH.

Excessive concentration of borax used in the bleach to control its pH.

Lower borax level to 1-2 g/L.

Newton’s rings Fuzzy, erratic, faintly colored lines.

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.

Pressure marks Magenta marks. Green marks. Pressure on emulsion causing magenta layer fog.

Avoid holding, pinching, buckling, or pressing on the emulsion of unprocessed film.

Yellow spots or blotches.

Blue spots or blotches.

Excessive pressure applied to the emulsion (e.g., soft-touch tire pressed on film by feedstand brake).

Eliminate all objects that put excessive pressure on the unprocessed emulsion.

Prussian blue Blue dirt or scum. Inadequate stop wash, causing low bleach pH (ferricyanide bleach only).

Be sure the wash rate is adequate to keep the pH of the final stage of the stop wash above 3.0.





Rem-jet contamination

Black areas, black flakes, or gray streaks on the film base or emulsion surface.

White images of the negative defects.

A prebath that is low in pH, temperature, or time less than required.

Check that prebath meets 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.

Reticulation Rough 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.

Scalloped or fluted edges

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.





Scratches Light lines running length-wise on the film.

Dark lines running length-wise on the film.

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 take-up 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 reflected light shoreline appears as lines around perforations and/or running lengthwise on the film.

Fuzzy contour lines at the sides of projection aperture.

Nonuniform or too rapid drying of the film emulsion.

Reduce the temperature, or increase the relative humidity of the air in the drying cabinet.

Static marks Yellow spots and dots.

Blue 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.





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.

Tacky film 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 emulsion surface best seen in specular reflected light.

Spots, streaks, and run marks.

Lines, drops, or puddles of water allowed to enter the dryer on the film.

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.





MORE INFORMATIONFor 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/motionYou may want to bookmark our location so you can find

us more easily.

-2 8-35

Revised 12/05Printed in U.S.A.

Processing KODAK Motion Pi cture Films, Module 8Effects 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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Processing kodak motion picture films module 8 effects of mechanical & chemical variations in proces