How full should I fill a developing tank

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How full should I fill a developing tank when processing a single roll? I have been filling the tank right up to the top, letting a small amount overflow so that there is virtually no air in the tank. I use a Kinderman pvc tank with Hewes SS reel for 120 and an Adorama SS tank and Kinderman reel for 35mm if that matters.

-- Peter Schauss (schauss@worldnet.att.net), May 15, 2002

Answers

You should leave a small amount of air in the tank. This way, the developer can move when you agitate; if the tank is full, there will be very little movement of the developer, which can lead to agitation related problems.

The easy way to do this is to tilt the tank when filling. When the developer is overflowing while tilted, stop pouring, then turn the tank upright. This will leave just enough air for agitation, without having to worry if the reel is totally covered.

David Carper ILFORD Technical Service

-- David Carper (david.carper@ilford.com), May 15, 2002.


I would advocate measuring how much liquid it takes to cover your spirals and use that as a minimum, but less than the full tank to allow that air gap for good agitation.

-- Nigel Smith (nlandgl@unite.com.au), May 15, 2002.

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