How full should I fill a developing tank

[peter_schauss1]

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.

[david_carper]

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.

 

<p>

 

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.

 

<p>

 

David Carper

ILFORD Technical Service

[nigel_smith2]

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.