Two-Bath Pyrocat HD: Methods¶

Stock is diluted 1:20 for roll film with continuous agitation and 1:15 for intermittent agitation. Use the times from the CI charts, or about 5 minutes in each solution.

For background on the method, see the overview.

Pre-Soak¶

Pre-soak for three minutes in water at 75°F (24°C), or at the processing temperature. The author reports negligible density differences with or without a pre-soak.

A. Roll Film on Reels, Continuous Agitation¶

1. Pre-soak for 3 minutes at 75°F and drain.
2. Load the film onto reels or hangers and place them in the tank.
3. Mix Solution A at 1:20 with a few drops of Photo-Flo, pour it in and agitate continuously for the total development time.
4. Pour out Solution A and drain for 15 seconds.
5. Mix Solution B at 1:20, pour it in and agitate continuously for the total development time.
6. Follow your normal stop, fix and wash procedures.

B. Roll Film on Reels, Intermittent Agitation¶

1. Pre-soak for 3 minutes at 75°F and drain.
2. Load the reels and place them in the tank.
3. Pour in Solution A at 1:15. Agitate continuously for 1 minute, then for 10 seconds every minute.
4. Pour out and drain for 15 seconds.
5. Pour in Solution B at 1:15. Agitate continuously for 1 minute, then for 5 seconds every 30 seconds, for a total of 3 minutes.
6. Follow your normal stop, fix and wash procedures.

C. Sheet Film in Tubes and Drums, Constant Agitation¶

This suits BTZS-style tubes, motor-base print drums and Jobo processors. Use at least about 100 ml of working solution, mixed at 1:20 for both solutions, and add Photo-Flo to Solution A.

1. Pre-soak for 3 minutes at 75°F and drain.
2. Add Solution A with continuous agitation for 3 minutes. Drain for 15 seconds.
3. Add Solution B with continuous agitation for 3 minutes. Drain for 15 seconds.
4. Follow your normal stop, fix and wash procedures.