Effects of Mechanical and Chemical Variations in Process ... - Kodak

©Eastman Kodak Company, 2000
Processing EASTMAN
EKTACHROME Color Reversal
Films,
Module 14
Effects of Mechanical &
Chemical Variations in
Process RVNP

Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-1
Process Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-1
Mechanical Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-1
Chemical Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-1
Critical Chemical Analyses, Table 14-1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-2
Checklist For Daily Operation, Figure 14-1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-3
Photographic and Sensitometric Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-4
Correlation of Mechanical, Chemical, and Sensitometric Data . . . . . . . 14-4
Effects of Mechanical and Chemical Variations, Figures 14-2 through 14-14 . . . 14-5
Effects of Contamination, Figure 14-15 through 14-22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-18
DIAGNOSTIC SCHEMES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-26
Verification Process, Figure 14-23. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-27
Problem Sorting, Figure 14-24. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-28
Low First Developer Activity, Figure 14-25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-29
High First Developer Activity, Figure 14-26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-30
Low Color Developer Activity, Figure 14-27. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-31
High Color Developer Activity, Figure 14-28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-32
Retained Silver in Persulfate Bleach, Figure 14-29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-33
Retained Silver Halide, Figure 14-30. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-34
SPECIAL TESTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-35
Retained Silver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-35
Retained Silver Halide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-35
PROCESSED FILM PROBLEMS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-36
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.
-0 Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP

14 Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations
in Process RVNP
INTRODUCTION
Process RVNP provides rapid-access processing of the news
and print films through either of two process sequences. The
two sequences are identified as Sequence P-1 and
Sequence P-2. Process wet time has been reduced from
14:15 in Process VNF-1 to 7:42 in Sequence P-1, and to 7:52
in Sequence P-2 of Process RVNP.
The reduction in process time is accomplished through the
use of:
• Increased machine speed.
Additional decreases in some solution times.
Increased solution temperature.
Reduced safety factor.
Persulfate Bleach and Accelerator in place of Ferricyanide
Bleach.
Process Control
The successful processing of the designated 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 designated films for Process RVNP are:
EASTMAN EKTACHROME Film 7239 (Daylight)
EASTMAN EKTACHROME Film 2239 / ESTAR
Base
EASTMAN EKTACHROME Film 7240 (Tungsten)
EASTMAN EKTACHROME High Speed Film 7250
(Tungsten)
EASTMAN EKTACHROME High Speed Daylight
Film 7251
EASTMAN EKTACHROME High Speed Daylight
Film 2253 / ESTAR Base
EASTMAN EKTACHROME Print Film 5399 / 7399
The philosophy and a recommended system of process
control are given in Module 1, Process Control. The
following sections are specific for Process RVNP.
Mechanical Control
Mechanical control includes items basic to any chemical
reaction, such as temperature, agitation, and time of reaction.
Maintain the Process RVNP developer temperatures tightly
within specifications. Control the temperatures of the other
solutions within specifications also, even if not quite so
critical. Regulate recirculation and replenishment rates to
maintain the required chemical activity of the various
solutions. Pipe turbulated solutions 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.
Check the operating speed of the processing machine
frequently. All such factors, whether regulated automatically
or manually, constitute the physical or mechanical aspects of
control. A checklist for daily operation of a Process RVNP
machine is given in Figure 14-1.
Chemical Control
Maintaining the proper composition of the processing
solutions is one of the most important elements of control.
For satisfactory process control, the chemical composition of
the solutions must be maintained to specifications rather than
to compensate for poor mechanical control.
Analytical Methods recommended in Module 3,
Analytical Procedures determine the chemical composition
of each processing solution. Some of the methods require the
use of a pH meter for the accurately measurement of solution
acidities or alkalinities or for potentiometric titrations. A
spectrophotometer can be useful to measure some
constituents in the processing solutions. With these two
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 14-1 presents all the
analyses and their method numbers that can be performed in
Process RVNP. All fresh chemical mixes, rejuvenated and
reconstituted mixes should be analyzed completely 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 of these solutions. Some factors
evaluated, such as developer pH, are more critical to good
film results than other factors, such as the level of sodium
sulfite, in the developer.
Table 14-1 indicates which of the factors are critical and
should be checked more frequently than the others. During
normal operation, analyze the pH of the color developer
daily, the less critical constituents weekly, and the
noncritical constituents monthly. The schedule of analysis to
be used by a particular installation to keep its process in
chemical control depends on the amount of film processed
and the stability of the process.
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP 14-1

Figure 14-1 Critical Chemical Analyses for Process RVNP
Solution Analyses
Critical Analyses
Tank Replenisher
Method
Number
First Developer pH W, F F ULM-191-2
Specific Gravity M, F F ULM-0002/1
Total Alkalinity M, F F ECR-702J
Sodium Sulfite M, F F ECR-1305L
Hydroquinone W, F F ECR-440B
Phenidone *
W, F F ECR-440B
Potassium Iodide W, F F ECR-929C
Sodium Bromide W, F F D94-0001/1
Sodium Thiocyanate W, F F D94-0003/1
Stop Baths pH W, F F ULM-191-2
Color Developer pH D, F F ULM-191-2
Specific Gravity M, F F ULM-0002/1
Total Alkalinity M, F F ECR-702J
Benzyl Alcohol M, F F ECR-1603E
CD-3 W, F F ECR-125F
Potassium Iodide M, F F ECR-925A
Sodium Sulfite M, F F ECR-1303
Sodium Bromide M, F F ECR-930E
RA-1 W, F F ECR-1470C
Citrazinic Acid W, F F ECR-1611D or ECR-1612
Ethylenediamine W, F F ECR-617B
Accelerator pH M, F F ULM-191-2
(Persulfate Bleach)
Specific Gravity M, F F ULM-0002/1
PBA-1 W, F F ECR-2100B
Sodium Sulfite M, F F ECR-1340A
Buffer Capacity M, F F ECR-755A
Persulfate Bleach pH W, F F, R ULM-191-2
Specific Gravity M, F F, R ULM-0002/1
Sodium Persulfate W, F F, R ECR-1125B
Sodium Chloride W, F F, R ECR-937
Buffer Capacity M, F F, R ECR-754A
Fixer pH M, F F, R ULM-191-2
Specific Gravity M, F F, R ULM-0002/1
Hypo Index M, F F, R ECR-1308J
Sodium Sulfite M, F F, R ECR-1308J
Thiosulfate M, F F, R ECR-1308J
Stabilizer Formalin M, F F ECR-1803G
F=All Fresh Mixes R=Rejuvenated or reconstituted D=Daily W=Weekly M=Monthly
* Phenidone is a trademark of Ilford (Ciba-Geiga Company)
14-2 Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP

Table 14-1 Checklist For Daily Operation
Steps
1. Was shutdown strip in control?
2. Turn on power, air and water supplies, and the exhaust system.
3. Check solution levels
Spec. Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun
* in machine tanks.
4. Check replenisher supply tanks and First Developer
make fresh replenishment solutions
(if necessary).
5. Turn on recirculation pumps.
First Stop
Color Development
Accelerator
Bleach
Fixer
Stabilizer
6. Adjust wash-water flow-meters to proper setting.
7. Turn on and check air supply to squeegees.
8. Turn on temperature controls 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. First Developer
Color Developer
15. Use KODAK Process Thermometer,
Type 3. Check solution temperature. †
First Developer
Color Developer
16. Check recirculation rate.
17. Run control strips.
18. Proceed to production if in control.
First Developer
Color Developer
Accelerator
Bleach
Fixer
19. Check replenisher flow rate. † First Developer
First Stop
First Wash
Color Developer
Second Stop (P2)
Accelerator
Second Wash (P1 Option)
Bleach
Fixer
Final Wash
Stabilizer
* 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.
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP 14-3

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 can
demonstrate how the process behaves photographically, and
it is possible to use such tests for photographic control.
Picture rests are always desirable because quality
evaluations must be determined from the finished picture.
However, it is preferable to use methods that will furnish
quantitative information about the process. A rapid and
accurate means of evaluating the process photographically is
provided by sensitometric strips that greatly simplify the
evaluation and control of the process. These strips can be
included in the process with regular production footage as
often as desired and evaluated visually or, more precisely, by
densitometric methods. The strips can be examined
immediately after processing and the results can be plotted
on charts near those on which the mechanical and chemical
data are recorded. Such information gives an hour-to-hour
check on whether accidents have occurred to move the
process to drift away from normal.
For the convenience of processors, sensitometrically
exposed control strips in 16 and 35 mm are available from
Eastman Kodak Company. KODAK Control Strips,
Process VNF-1 (used for Process RVNP) 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 11 gray-scale
steps at 0.30 log H increments (one camera stop). The
reference strip is exposed exactly as the control strips and is
subsequently processed under well-controlled conditions.
An instruction sheet is included which contains correction
factors that are required to establish customer process aims.
A four-digit code number appearing on the carton, can,
control strips, reference strips, and instruction sheet
identifies each production batch of strips. The procedures for
using control strips are found in Module 1, Process Control.
Correlation of Mechanical, Chemical, and
Sensitometric Data
All results—mechanical, chemical, and photographic—
should be recorded and interpreted to monitor whether the
process is in or out of control. If the process drifts out of
control, the control records should indicate what corrective
action was taken to reestablish control.
As experience is gained with Process RVNP, mechanical,
chemical, and sensitometric data will be accumulated, which
can serve as references to indicate what may be expected in
the photographic results when various mechanical and
chemical changes occur.
Before experience is gained with Process RVNP, it is
important to know generally what photographic effects can
be expected as a result of variations and approximately what
magnitude of change can produce a noticeable photographic
effect. Such information is helpful in diagnosing the cause of
a photographically off-balance condition. Some of the major
photographic effects of mechanical and chemical variations
on EASTMAN EKTACHROME Films are illustrated in
Figures 14-2 through 14-14. Effects caused by
contamination of the first developer and color developer are
illustrated in Figures 14-15 through 14-22. Each plot shows
the effect of a change in a process parameter (horizontal
axis) on the dye density of the final film (vertical axis). The
specifications for the various parameters are represented by
the letter “S” along the horizontal axis. A plot at + 0.10 for
the red density indicates the parameter change caused the red
density to increase by 0.10 densitometric units above the
process aim.
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
parameters are varied, the resulting photographic effect 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. However,
proper bleaching and fixing are also important.
14-4 Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP

Effects of Mechanical and Chemical Variations
Figure 14-2 Effects of Time, Temperature and pH Variations—7240 Film in Process RVNP First Developer
AIM
VALUES
F010_0122EC
D-MAX
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
HD
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
LD
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
D-Min
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.10
+ .05
0
.05
.10
.10
+ .05
0
.05
.10
G
R
G
B
R
B
-18
Time
s
Sec
R G B
R G B
+18
B
G
R
G
R
B
Temperature
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP 14-5
R
G
B
-2
R G B
s
F
R G
R
G
B
B
+2
B
G
R
B
G
R
-0.2
pH
R G B
R G B
s
pH
R G B
B
+0.2
R
G

Figure 14-3 Effects of Hydroquinone and Phenidone Variations—7240 Film in Process RVNP First Developer
AIM
VALUES
F010_0123EC
D-MAX
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
HD
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
LD
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
D-Min
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.10
+ .05
0
.05
.10
.10
+ .05
0
.05
.10
-0.6
Hydroquinone
R
R
G
G
s
g/L
R G B
R G B
B
B
+0.6
Phenidone
14-6 Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP
R G
B
-0.2
s
g/L
R G B
R
R G
G
B
B
B
+0.2
R G

Figure 14-4 Effects of NaCNS and NaBr Variations—7240 Film in Process RVNP First Developer
AIM
VALUES
F010_0124EC
D-MAX
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
HD
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
LD
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
D-Min
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.10
+ .05
0
.05
.10
.10
+ .05
0
.05
.10
R G B
-0.2
NaCNS
s
g/L
R G B
R G B
R G B
+0.2
R
G B
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP 14-7
-0.6
NaBr
R G B
R G B
R G B
R G B
s
g/L
+0.6

Figure 14-5 Effects of Time, Temperature and pH Variations—7240 Film in Process RVNP Color Developer
AIM
VALUES
F010_0125EC
D-MAX
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
HD
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
LD
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
D-Min
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.10
+ .05
0
.05
.10
.10
+ .05
0
.05
.10
R
G
B
R
G B
-60
R
G
Time
B
R
s
Sec
G
R G B
B
+60
G
R
-0.2 s
pH
14-8 Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP
B
R B
G
R
G
-5
B
R B
G
Temperature
R G
B
s
F
R
R B
+5
G
G
R B
G
B
G
R
B
G
R
B
pH
B
G
R R
B
R G
B
+0.2
G
G
G

Figure 14-6 Effects of CD-3, NaBr and RA-1 Variations—7240 Film in Process RVNP Color Developer
AIM
VALUES
RED
GREEN
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
LD
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
D-Min
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
F010_0126EC
D-MAX
BLUE
B/W
HD
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
G
R
B
G
R
B
R G
R
CD-3
B
G
B
B
R
G
G
R
B
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP 14-9
NaBr
R G B
R G B
-1.5 s +1.5 -0.6 s +0.6
g/L
g/L
G
R
B
R G B
B
R
G
R
B
R
G B
B
G
R
RA-1
G
R G B
R G B
G
R
R G B
-0.07 s
g/L
+0.07
B

Figure 14-7 Effects of Citrazinic Acid and Benzyl Alcohol Variations—7240 Film in Process RVNP Color Developer
AIM
VALUES
RED
GREEN
GREEN
B/W
LD
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
D-Min
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
F010_0127EC
D-MAX
BLUE
B/W
HD
RED
BLUE
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
Citrazinic Acid
R
R G
R G
G
B
B
R G
B
B
-0.5 s
g/L
+0.5
Benzyl Alcohol
-1.0 s
mL/L
+1.0
14-10 Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP
G
R
B
G B
R
R G
B
R G B
G
R
B
R G B

Figure 14-8 Effects of Time, Temperature and pH Variations—7399 Film in Process RVNP First Developer
AIM
VALUES
F010_0128EC
D-MAX
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
HD
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
LD
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
D-Min
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.10
+ .05
0
.05
.10
.10
+ .05
0
.05
.10
R
G
R
G
B
G
G B
B
-18
B
Time
R
R
s
Sec
R
+18
B
G
R
R G
B
G
G
R
Temperature
-0.3 s
pH
+0.3
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP 14-11
B
B
-4
s
F
R G B
R G
R G B
R
B
G
+4
B
R
G B
R
G B
R
G B
pH
R G B
G
G
R
G
R
R

Figure 14-9 Effects of Phenidone, Na 2 SO 3 and Hydroquinone Variations—7399 Film in Process RVNP First Developer
AIM
VALUES
RED
GREEN
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
LD
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
D-Min
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
F010_0129EC
D-MAX
BLUE
B/W
HD
RED
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
Phenidone
R G B
R G B
R G B
R G B
R
B
Na2SO3
-0.15 s +0.15 -6.0 s +6.0
g/L
g/L
Hydroquinone
-1.5 s
g/L
+1.5
14-12 Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP
G
R G B
R G B
R G B
R G B
R
G
R G
B
B
R
G B
R
G B
R G B
R G B
R G
R
G

Figure 14-10 Effects of NaCNS, NaBr and KI Variations—7399 Film in Process RVNP First Developer
AIM
VALUES
F010_0130EC
D-MAX
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
HD
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
LD
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
D-Min
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.10
+ .05
0
.05
.10
.10
+ .05
0
.05
.10
-0.5
NaCNS
R G B
R
R
R
s
g/L
G
G
G
B
B
B
+0.5
-13.0 s
mg/L
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP 14-13
B
R G
R G
B
-1.0
NaBr
R G B
R G
B
s
g/L
+1.0
R G
B
B
R G
R
B
G
B
R G
KI
R G B
R G
B
R
B
+13.0

Figure 14-11 Effects of Time, Temperature and pH Variations—7399 Film in Process RVNP Color Developer
AIM
VALUES
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
LD
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
D-Min
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
F010_0131EC
D-MAX
HD
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
R
G B
G
B
R
G
B
R
G
B
R
Time
B
R G
B
G
R
B
G
R
R G B
Temperature
-40 s +40 -6 s +6
Sec
F
14-14 Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP
G B
G
R
R
B
R G
R
B
G
B
G
R B
G B
R
B
R G
R G B
R
G
R
B
G
R
B
G
B
pH
R G B
G
-0.2 s
pH
+0.2

Figure 14-12 Effects of Benzyl Alcohol, Na 2 SO 3 and NaBr Variations—7399 Film in Process RVNP Color Developer
AIM
VALUES
RED
GREEN
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
LD
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
D-Min
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
F010_0132EC
D-MAX
BLUE
B/W
HD
RED
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
R
R
B
G
B
G
B
G
R
Benzyl Alcohol
R G B
B
R
G
B
R G
R G B
2 3 SO Na
-3.0 s +3.0 -3.0 s +3.0
mL/L
g/L
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP 14-15
R
R G
R
G
B
R G B
B
B
G
R
R G
G
B
R
G
R G
B
B
B
NaBr
R G B
R G B
R B G
R G B
-0.6 s
g/L
+0.6

Figure 14-13 Effects of KI, Citrazinic Acid and CD-3 Variations—7399 Film in Process RVNP Color Developer
AIM
VALUES
RED
GREEN
GREEN
B/W
LD
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
D-Min
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
F010_0133EC
D-MAX
BLUE
B/W
HD
RED
BLUE
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
G
B
R
B
G
R
B
R G
R G B
KI
R G B
R G
B
R
B
Citrazinc Acid
-6.0 s +6.0 -0.6 s +0.6
mg/L
g/L
14-16 Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP
G
R G
B
R
R
B
B
R G
B
G
B
R G
B
R G
B
R
G B
CD-3
G G
R
B
G
R G
B
R G
R B
G
R B G
R G B
R
G
R
-3.0 s
g/L
+3.0

Figure 14-14 Effects of Ethylenediamine and RA-1 Variations—7399 Film in Process RVNP Color Developer
AIM
VALUES
RED
GREEN
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
LD
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
D-Min
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
F010_0134EC
D-MAX
BLUE
B/W
HD
RED
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
G
R
R
B
R B
G
Ethylenediamine
G B
R
G
R G
B
R
B
G
B
G
R B
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP 14-17
RA-1
-1.0 s +1.0 -0.06 s +0.06
g/L
g/L
B
R
G
B
R
G
R
R
G
B
G
B
R
G
R
B
R
G
B
R
G
B
G B

Effects of Contamination
Figure 14-15 Effects of Color Developer and Fixer Contamination—7240 Film in Process RVNP First Developer
AIM
VALUES
F010_0152EC
D-MAX
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
HD
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
LD
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
D-Min
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.10
+ .05
0
.05
.10
.10
+ .05
0
.05
B
G
Color Developer
R
.10
0 0.015%
G
R
B
G
B
B
R
R G
14-18 Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP
B
G
Fixer
B
G
R
B
G
0 0.012%
R
R
B
R G
B

Figure 14-16 Effects of Persulfate Bleach and Bleach Accelerator Contamination
—7240 Film in Process RVNP First Developer
AIM
VALUES
RED
GREEN
GREEN
B/W
LD
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
D-Min
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
F010_0136EC
D-MAX
BLUE
B/W
HD
RED
BLUE
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.10
.05
+
0
.05
Persulfate Bleach
G
.10
0 1.0%
R
R
B
G
B
R
B
G
G
R
B
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP 14-19
0
Bleach Accelerator
G
R
B
B
G
R
G
R
G
R
B
1.2%
R G
B

Figure 14-17 Effects of First Developer and Fixer Contamination—7240 Film in Process RVNP Color Developer
AIM
VALUES
RED
GREEN
GREEN
B/W
LD
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
D-Min
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
F010_0153EC
D-MAX
BLUE
B/W
HD
RED
BLUE
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
0
First Developer
B
R
G
G
B
R
G
B
R
R
B
G
1.2%
0
G
G
14-20 Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP
Fixer
R G
R
B
B
R
G
B
B
R
1.2%

Figure 14-18 Effects of Persulfate Bleach and Bleach Accelerator Contamination
—7240 Film in Process RVNP Color Developer
AIM
VALUES
RED
GREEN
GREEN
B/W
LD
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
D-Min
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
F010_0138EC
D-MAX
BLUE
B/W
HD
RED
BLUE
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.10
.05
+
0
.05
Persulfate Bleach
G
B
.10
0 5 %
B
R
G
R
B
G
R
B
G
R
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP 14-21
0
Bleach Accelerator
B
G
R
B
1.2%
R G
B
G
R
B
R
G
B

Figure 14-19 Effects of Color Developer and Fixer Contamination—7399 Film in Process RVNP First Developer
AIM
VALUES
F010_0154EC
D-MAX
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
HD
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
LD
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
D-Min
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.10
+ .05
0
.05
.10
.10
+ .05
0
.05
B
B
Color Developer
B
.10
0 0.015%
R
G
R
G
R
G
R G
B
14-22 Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP
Fixer
R
R
G B
R
G
0 1.2%
G B
R
G B
B

Figure 14-20 Effects of Persulfate Bleach and Bleach Accelerator Contamination
—7399 Film in Process RVNP First Developer
AIM
VALUES
F010_0140EC
D-MAX
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
HD
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
LD
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
D-Min
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.10
+ .05
0
.05
.10
.10
+ .05
0
.05
.10
0
Persulfate Bleach
R
G B
R
G
B
R
G
B
1.0%
G
R B
Bleach Accelerator
0 1.2%
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP 14-23
B
G
R
G
R
G
B
G
R
R
B
B

Figure 14-21 Effects of First Developer and Fixer Contamination—7399 Film in Process RVNP Color Developer
AIM
VALUES
RED
GREEN
GREEN
B/W
LD
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
D-Min
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
F010_0155EC
D-MAX
BLUE
B/W
HD
RED
BLUE
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
0
First Developer
B
R
G
R
B
G
R
1.2%
B G
R
B G
14-24 Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP
0
B
B
Fixer
G
B
G
R
G
R
B
R
1.2%
R G

Figure 14-22 Effects of Persulfate Bleach and Bleach Accelerator Contamination
—7399 Film in Process RVNP Color Developer
AIM
VALUES
F010_0142EC
D-MAX
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
HD
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
LD
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
D-Min
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
RED
GREEN
BLUE
B/W
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.25
.20
.15
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.15
.20
.10
.05
+
0
.05
.10
.10
+ .05
0
.05
.10
.10
+ .05
0
.05
.10
0
Persulfate Bleach
G
R
B
G
B
R
B
R G
B
5%
R G
Bleach Accelerator
0 1.2%
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP 14-25
R
B
B
G
R
G
R
G
R B
G
B
R

DIAGNOSTIC SCHEMES
The flow chart procedures illustrated in Figures 14-23 to
14-30 will aid in determining the source of an out-of-control
situation. There are nine major schemes:
Verification Process, Figure 14-23
Problem Sorting, Figure 14-24
Low First Developer Activity, Figure 14-25
High First Developer Activity, Figure 14-26
Low Color Developer Activity, Figure 14-27
High Color Developer Activity, Figure 14-28
Retained Silver in Persulfate Bleach, Figure 14-29
Retained Silver Halide, Figure 14-30
14-26 Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP

Figure 14-23 Verification Process
Control Strips Show
Apparent Process Problem
F010_0143EC
Do Pictures Agree with
Process Control Strips?
NO YES
Process Another
Control Strip
Reread previously
processed control strip.
Check for fog, fingerprint,
cinch mark, scratch, etc.
Does Deviation
Continue to Show?
Do Densitometered Readings
Continue to Show Deviation?
NO
YES
NO
YES
Continue to process more
control strips until a decision
can be made
Verify Densitometric
Readings "Before"
and "After"
Light leak
Storage
Confirm; Run crossover
test with another batch
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP 14-27
Process Another
Densitometer
Control Strip Problem
Calibration error
Wrong status filters
Plotting error
Dirty Filters
Densitometer malfunction
Does Deviation
Continue to Show?
NO
YES
Process Problem
Verified
Variable
Control Strips
Control Strip
Damage
Go to appropriate
Process Troubleshooting
Diagram
Exposure variability
Storage
Confirm;
Process a 20 strip batch

Figure 14-24 Problem Sorting
Process Problem Verified
B
G
F010_0156EC
High Blue
Low Green
High Green
Low Blue
G
B
Determine Sensitometric Deviation
from Process Control Aim
Lower
Densities
Higher
Densities
Check pH
of Col. Dev.
(too high)
Is it
Retained
Silver?
First Developer Color Developer
High Activity
Low Activity
Is it
Retained
Silver?
14-28 Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP
See Fig. 14-26 See Fig. 14-27
Check pH
of Col. Dev.
(too low)
NO
Check Strip for Opaque
Streaks/Refix Strip to
Verify Problem
See the Retained
Silver Halide Test.
Check IR Density
and/or Rebleach Strip to
Verify Problem
See the Retained
Silver Test.
YES
NO
YES
Color Developer
High Activity
Retained Silver Halide Retained Silver
First Developer
Low Activity
See Fig. 14-28
See Fig. 14-30
See Fig. 14-25
Persulfate
See Fig. 14-29

Figure 14-25 Low First Developer Activity
The resulting photographic effect is opposite of the first
developer activity because this developer controls the
formation of the negative image.
B
G
R
F010_0157EC
Are the chemical analyses of
developer tank off Specs?
Also see Figs.
14-28, -29, -30
NO YES
Are the chemical analyses of
Developer Replenisher off Specs?
YES
NO
Are the developer physical
measurements off Specs?
NO
YES
High exposure level
(low probability)
Replenisher Rate
Too Low
Replenisher Mix
Error
Developer
Contamination
Low Agitation
Time Too Short
Temperature
Control
Malfunctioning or
Set Too Low
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP 14-29
Check Exposure
Level
Check and adjust
Repl. Rate if
necessary
Check Mixing
Procedure
Compare
with fresh
Developer; mix
fresh Developer
Check
Bars/Nozzles for
plugging; Check
Recirculation
Check and Adjust
Parameter if
necessary
Increase Repl.
Rate
Aeration/Oxidation
of Solution (low
sulfite)
Mix a Fresh
Solution
Eliminate Source of
contamination (incl.
recirculation &
replenisher lines)
Check for Air
Leaks/Foaming
Eliminate
Source of
Oxidation

Figure 14-26 High First Developer Activity
B
G
R
The resulting photographic effect is opposite of the first
developer activity because this developer controls the
formation of the negative image.
F010_0158EC
Are the Chemical Analyses of Developer off
Specs? Also see Fig. 14-27
NO YES
Are the Chemical Analyses of
Developer Replenisher off Specs?
Are the Developer Physical
Measurements off Specs?
YES
YES
NO
NO
Low exposure
level (low
probability)
Repl. Rate
Too High
Repl. Mix
Error
Developer
Contamination
High Stop
Bath pH
Temperature
Control
Malfunctioning
or Set Too High
Check Exposure
Level on Print
Stock
Adjust Stop Repl.
Conc. & Repl. Rate
to Maintain Stable
Tank Chemistry;
Check Operation of
crossover
squeegee
14-30 Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP
Check & Adjust
Repl. Rate
Check Mixing
Procedure
Compare with
good Developer:
mix fresh dev.
Check pH
Decrease Repl.
Rate
Eliminate Source
of Contamination
(incl. recirculation
& repl. lines)
Time too long
Adjust Existing
Tank Solution
Mix a Fresh
Solution
Check & Adjust
Parameter if
necessary

Figure 14-27 Low Color Developer Activity
R G B
F010_0159EC
Are the chemical analyses of
developer tank off Specs?
YES
Also see Fig.
14-26
NO
Are the Chemical Analyses of
Developer Replenisher off Specs?
YES NO
Are the developer physical
measurements off Specs?
YES NO
Aeration/Oxidation
of Solution
(low probability)
Temperature
Control
Malfunctioning or
Set Too Low
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP 14-31
Replenisher Rate
Too Low
Replenisher Mix
Error
Developer
Contamination
Time Too Short Low Agitation
Check for Air
Leaks/Foaming
Check and adjust
Repl. Rate if
necessary
Check Mixing
Procedure
Compare
with fresh
Developer
Check
Bars/Nozzles for
plugging; Check
Recirculation
Check and Adjust
Parameter if
necessary
Eliminate Source of
contamination (incl.
recirculation &
replenisher lines)
Mix a Fresh
Solution

Figure 14-28 High Color Developer Activity
B
G
R
F010_0160EC
Are the Chemical Analyses of Developer
Off Specs? Also see Figs. 14-25, -29, -30,
NO YES
Are the Chemical Analyses of
Developer Replenisher off specs?
YES
Are the Developer Physical
Measurements off Specs?
NO
YES
NO
Developer
Contamination
Repl. Rate
Too High
Repl. Mix
Error
Developer
Contamination
High Stop
Bath pH
Temperature
Control
Malfunctioning
or Set Too High
14-32 Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP
Check & Adjust
Repl. Rate
Check Mixing
Procedure
Compare with
good Developer:
mix fresh dev.
Check pH
Eliminate Source
of Contamination
(incl. recirculation
& repl. lines)
Time too Long
Adjust Existing
Tank Solution
Mix a Fresh
Solution
Adjust Stop Repl.
Conc. & Repl. Rate
to Maintain Stable
Tank Chemistry;
Check Operation of
crossover
squeegee
Check & Adjust
Parameter if
necessary

Figure 14-29 Retained Silver in Persulfate Bleach
Retained Silver
F010_0161EC
Are the Chemical Analyses of Accelerator
Tank and Repl. off Specifications?
YES
NO
Old Accel
Mix and/or
Tank
Mix
Reconstitution
Error
Excessive
Aeration of
Accel.
Low
Replenishment
Rate Bleach
or Accel.
Sulfate
Buildup in
Bleach
Reconstitution
Are the Bleach Tank’s Physical
Measurements off Specifications?
Are the Accelerator Tank’s Physical
Measurements off Specifications?
NO YES
NO YES
Keep mixing
and storage
records
Check Mixing
Instructions
Check for air
leaks and
excessive
agitation
Check &
Adjust if
necessary
Check
Sp Gr
Temp. too
low
Time too
short
Bleach
Contam.
(Ferri)
Temp. too
high
Time too
short
Accel.
Contam.
(Hypo)
Mix a
Fresh
Solution
Discard part of
replenisher;
mix fresh
solution
Check & Adjust
Parameter if
necessary
Check & Adjust
parameter if
necessary
Confirmed,
Mix a Fresh
Tank
Solution
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP 14-33

Figure 14-30 Retained Silver Halide
Retained Silver Halide
F010_0151EC
Are the Chemical Analyses of Fixer
Tank off Specifications?
NO YES
Are the Chemical Analyses
of Fixer Replenisher off Specs?
Are the Fixer Physical
Measurements off Specs?
NO YES
NO
YES
Silver
Recovery
Unit
Malfunctioning
Repl. Rate
Too Low
Sulfate
Buildup
Too High
(excessive
aeration)
Mix/
Reconstitution
Error
Fixer
Contam.
Time in
Accelerator
for Persulfate
Bleach
Too Long
PBA-1 in
Accelerator for
Persulfate
Bleach
Too High
Time
Too Short
Temp. Control
Malfunctioning
or Set
Too Low
Low
Agitation
14-34 Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP
Check Unit
Check
Repl. Rate
Check
Specific
Gravity
Check
Mixing/
Reconstitution
Procedure
Check and
Adjust
Parameter if
necessary
Check
Bars/
Nozzles for
Plugging
Check
Recirculation
Correct
Malfunction
Increase
Repl. Rate
Eliminate Air
Leaks in
Recirculation
System
Mix a Fresh
Solution

SPECIAL TESTS
There are verification tests for the suspected problems of
retained silver and retained silver halide.
Retained Silver
Retained silver is the result of ineffective bleaching. The
symptoms are:
1. Increased density in the lower-density areas of the
film, particularly D-min. There may be an increase in
high-density areas because of retained silver, but it
may not be noticed.
2. The infrared density of the D-min patch increases.
Normally, an infrared density (at 1,000 nm) of less
than 0.07 is acceptable. A sound track densitometer is
a suitable instrument for this purpose.
Verification Test:
1. Prepare a small volume of fresh ferricyanide bleach *
or use a known good solution of ferricyanide bleach
replenisher.
2. Immerse the processed film with suspected silver
retention in the bleach for 1 - 2 minutes. Agitate by
moving the film strip manually. Wash the film for
30 - 40 seconds under running water.
3. Fix the strip for 1 - 2 minutes in a small volume of a
fresh fixer solution, again agitating manually. Wash
the film for 30 - 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.
* If you are unable to prepare a fresh ferricyanide bleach, prepare a fresh
persulfate accelerator and bleach. Follow normal times and temperatures.
Retained Silver Halide
Retained silver halide is the result of ineffective fixing. The
symptoms are:
1. 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.
2. 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. A sound track densitometer is
a suitable instrument for this purpose.
3. Opaque streaks are generally visible when the strip is
viewed with reflected light.
Verification Test:
1. Re-fix the processed control strip for 1 - 2 minutes in
a small volume of a fresh fixer replenisher solution.
Agitate by moving the film manually. Wash the film
for 30 - 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.
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP 14-35

PROCESSED FILM PROBLEMS
Problem Appearance Possible Source of Problem Suggestion Corrective Action
Black lines and
comets
Short, black lines and
comets on emulsion
surface. Shiny in
reflected light.
Dirt particles Dark spots and
marks. Easiest to see
under high-intensity
specular lighting.
Dots equally
spaced apart,
repeating
Emulsion
skivings
Yellow particles on
surface.
Showers of dots on
emulsion.
Small particles of
emulsion sheared
from the film edges
and deposited on the
film surface.
Ferrotyping Irregular, shiny areas
on the emulsion
surface.
Fungus or algae
deposits
Light irregular
smears, streaks, and
spots.
Newton’s rings Fuzzy, erratic, faintly
colored lines.
Reticulation Rough emulsion
surface.
Scalloped or
fluted edges
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.
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,
etc.
Low fixer pH causes the formation of sulfur particles
in the fixer.
Soft touch tire pressing on the emulsion during
processing.
Use a 10- to 15-micron filter in the
fixer return line from the cell, or correct
operation of the cell.
Establish and follow good laboratory
cleanliness procedures. For more
information on laboratory cleanliness,
refer to Module 2.
Maintain the fixer pH within
specifications.
Be certain the emulsion does not ride
on spools with soft-touch tires.
Spools improperly aligned, or with burrs. Check the machine spools.
Wet or tacky emulsion at processor 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.
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.
Always allow adequate time for film to
come to room temperature before
using.
A 5 1/4 percent solution of sodium
hypochlorite, available as household
liquid 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.
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 overdried. Adjust drying conditions of preprint
film.
High solution temperatures. Adjust to specifications.
Dryer temperature too high or relative humidity too Adjust to specifications.
low.
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.
14-36 Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP

Problem Appearance Possible Source of Problem Suggestion Corrective Action
Scratches Light lines parallel to
the film edges.
Shoreline Fuzzy contour lines
near the edges of the
film.
Static marks Blue streaks, spots
and dots.
Old, hard, worn, crystal-laden, or maladjusted wiperblade
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 processing machine. Always handle film with care. Examine
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.
Nonuniform drying of the film emulsion. Reduce the temperature, or increase
the relative humidity of the air in the
drying cabinet.
Rapid rewinding or transporting film in low relative
humidity.
Emulsion contact with flat electrophoretic rollers
before processing.
Unprocessed film should not be
rewound at high speed. The relative
humidity in the rewinding area should
be 50 percent or greater.
Only undercut rollers should come in
contact with the emulsion surface. Use
conductive materials on the rewind,
load accumulator, etc., and ground
them.
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 properly 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.
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.
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP 14-37

Processing EASTMAN EKTACHROME Color Reversal Films, Module 14
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical Variations in Process RVNP
Processing EASTMAN
EKTACHROME Color Reversal Films,
Module 14,
Effects of Mechanical & Chemical
Kodak, Ektachrome, Eastman, and Estar are trademarks.
Revised 5/05
Printed in U.S.A.