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John_K
old hand


Reged: 03/09/2006
Posts: 732
Loc: North Yorks
I just can't believe it
      #650359 - 01/05/2008 15:13

I have a Nova processor in which I use Kodak RA4 colour developer. I made the working solution perhaps 6-8 months ago, (I didn't keep a check.) It has been used fairly intensively and replenished when needed up until about 3 months ago.After that did not use it because I had no reason to do colour printing. The lids were all replaced and then the top of the processor was covered with clingfilm whilst it was still warm. As it cooled down it caused a semi vacuum inside.

I have just kickstarted the processor today and the very first print out of the developer was as near as dammit, spot on, colour wise. Saturation was up to scratch as well

Just how good is that for longevity of developing solutions? Truely amazed!


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huwevans
The 'Not Really Here' Dude


Reged: 05/08/2000
Posts: 17161
Loc: Dorset, UK
Re: I just can't believe it [Re: John_K]
      #650448 - 01/05/2008 17:31

Some solutions really are remarkably long-lived, aren't they? I never did much RA4, but my experiences with the Ilfochrome P-5 process were that the dev lasted for aeons, whereas the bleach-fix was exhausted if you just turned your back for a moment. I packed it in in the end - just too much of a problem having to work like a dog while the solution was fresh and then wait until I could justify a new batch, etc.

Never was as much fun as B&W printing anyway. :-)

--------------------
Huw Evans.



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PeteE
addict


Reged: 23/08/2005
Posts: 441
Loc: BRENTWOOD,Essex
Re: I just can't believe it [Re: huwevans]
      #651520 - 04/05/2008 10:40

I also use a Nova 16x12" unit and have just cleaned it out after several months; the developer was quite brown and bleach-fix had some sulphur floating on the surface. I make up the stop-bath from a formula supplied by Champion Photochemistry with 80% Acetic Acid and Sodium Suphite anhydrous to make 5 litres.The developer is Champion and the bleach-fix is from Photomart.

--------------------
Got COMPUTERISED at last and now Digitised but FILM still RULES!


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John_K
old hand


Reged: 03/09/2006
Posts: 732
Loc: North Yorks
Re: I just can't believe it [Re: PeteE]
      #685866 - 02/08/2008 10:13

Sadly I have had to ditch the RA4 because of staining. The developer was still good but the tar build up on the top of the tank was so bad that every print I made was streaked with when I removed the prints.

The tank is now clean and just waiting for a new lot of Ektacolour concentrate to arrive from Firstcall Photographic then I'm back in business.


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taxor



Reged: 09/07/2004
Posts: 730
Loc: Lancaster, UK
Re: I just can't believe it [Re: John_K]
      #686168 - 03/08/2008 17:08

My 16x12 quad has sprung an internal leak in the stop slot and there is maybe another leak from the dev slot. A phone call to the bods at Nova confirmed my suspicion that it was ready for the tip. Anyway, if anyone wants them, there are 4 tubular lids, 2 print clips and 2 heating elements (with temp. controller). Send me a PM if you're interested. T.

--------------------
"I wanna hold your gland". Lemming & McCartney


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PHOTOSHOP ELEMENTS 8
In part four of our guide, we look at the Full Editor mode and explain how to make the best use of the available tools

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