Fujifilm RA4
Fujifilm RA4
Fujifilm RA4
Process RA4
EnviroChem and CPRA Processing Chemicals
August 2010
version E14 / 08-10
CONTENTS
I.
INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................ 1
II.
III.
IV.
Developer ...................................................................................................................................................... 3
Bleach-Fix ..................................................................................................................................................... 3
Bleach (for separate RA4 bleach and fix process)........................................................................................... 3
Fix (for separate RA4 bleach and fix process)................................................................................................. 3
Wash............................................................................................................................................................. 4
Super Stabilizer ............................................................................................................................................. 4
V.
VI.
VII.
STARTERS.................................................................................................................. 19
1. FOR ENVIROCHEM DEVELOPERS ............................................................................... 19
2. FOR CPRA DEVELOPERS ....................................................................................... 19
3. FOR OTHER SOLUTIONS ......................................................................................... 20
page 2
CHEMICAL REGENERATION........................................................................................ 28
1. DEVELOPER REGENERATION ................................................................................... 28
A. EnviroPrint Developer .................................................................................................................................. 28
2. BLEACH-FIX REGENERATION ................................................................................... 30
A. EnviroPrint Electrolytic Bleach-Fix Regenerator ............................................................................................ 30
B. EnviroPrint Electrolytic Bio-Bleach-Fix Regenerator...................................................................................... 31
C. EnviroPrint Bleach-Fix Regenerator.............................................................................................................. 33
3. BLEACH REGENERATION ........................................................................................ 33
A. EnviroPrint Bio-Bleach ................................................................................................................................. 33
4. FIXER REGENERATION ........................................................................................... 34
A. SUPER UNILEC .................................................................................................... 34
X.
XI.
XII.
C.
I.
page 1
INTRODUCTION
This new issue FH TB/RA4/E14/08-10 of the Technical Bulletin "Process RA4 Envirochem and CPRA Processing
Chemicals" contains all information on FUJIFILM Europes products and brings you up to date on the very latest
product releases.
FUJIFILM Europe has complemented its RA4 product range with more economical and ecological products
in all market segments.
FUJIFILM Europe has been very successful with the introduction of Monopart products in the Minilab
market, with a full range of developers covering replenishment rates from 45 to 160 ml/m available. A
comprehensive list of Monopart bleach-fixes for standard and fast processing conditions with associated
starter EnviroPrint MP Starter AC, are available.
All are homogeneous type, single part products offering important benefits. They are very easy to mix, less risk of
mixing error, requiring less packaging and storage space, only one drum to clean and dispose of. The
EnviroPrint Monopart (MP) developer product range "MP60 AC-MP73 AC-MP108-MP160" runs at 38C
complemented with MP45 AC at 38.5C and offers the unique feature of easy conversion from one type to
another by basically adjusting the replenishment rate only. Which product to run depends on seasonal
production volume.
For use at Large Finisher Laboratories only, EnviroPrint CP48 II Developer and CP48 II Bleach-Fix
Replenisher are available for use in Fuji Frontier 350, 355, 370, 375 and 390 systems as a replacement for the
drop-in Fuji CP48S II and CP48HV II cartridges. These products require connection to an external
replenishment tank system, and require high paper throughput .
The Fuji Hunt EnviroPrint FP range of monopart, Air Control products is also available, fully compatible
with the wide range of Fast Processing minilabs found in the market. EnviroPrint FP Developer MR is a
medium replenishment rate product ideally suited to most makes of minilab under a wide range of usage
conditions. The monopart bleach-fixes, EnviroPrint FP Bleach-Fix MR and EnviroPrint FP Bleach-Fix
HR are the ideal companions to the FP developer.
EnviroPrint K15 Developers MP90 is specialy designed for installation on Photo-Me KIS DKS 15xx
DKS 16xx DKS 17xx series of minilabs and complete the Fast Processing product range. More info can be
found in the Technical Bulletin Minilab Chemical Guide.
The EnviroPrint ADM Paper Cartridge is FUJIFILM Europes alternative for the Agfa easy paper box 110.
The FUJIFILM Europes ADM Paper Cartridge runs under the same standard conditions as the Agfa product and
is designed to be used in the Agfa D-lab.1 and D-Lab.2 series minilabs. Ask your local FUJIFILM Technical
Representative for further details or visit our web site www.fujiflm.eu/feb
To fulfil the requirements of the Professional market, FUJIFILM Europe advises the use of its CPRA Digital
Pro Developer AC. This odour-free developer is designed especially for use in roller transport processors
dedicated to Photo Digital Printers such as Durst Lambda, Theta and Epsilon, Oc Lightjet, ZBE Chromira,
Polielettronica LaserLab, Noritsu LPS24 Pro, etc., but is also suitable for general RA4 processing.
This 2-part, Air Controlled Developer features a high activity, clean working, secured whiteness and considerably
improved Dmax values on Paper and Display material.
CPRA Digital Pro Bleach-Fix AC is a 2-part odour-free bleach-fix designed to complement CPRA Digital
Pro Developer AC. It is designed for use in medium and wide format paper processors, has excellent
resistance to oxidation in low throughput conditions, and guarantees clean whites.
page 2
This Technical Bulletin has been well accepted by the market. It not only tells you a bit more about the individual
process steps and functions, but just as importantly, it guides you in more detail through the FUJIFILM
Europe Process Option chart making it easier for the customer to make his correct choice.
Once you have confirmed the product of your choice by cross-checking the chapter "Process Specifications",
you find all process specifications such as the physical parameters, chemical specifications and mixing
instructions including regeneration procedures in the individual chapters.
Process Monitoring, Chemical Handling and Storage complete this Technical Bulletin.
Even though this Technical Bulletin does contain a lot of important information, we also realize that additional
information may be wanted in your day-to-day operation.
If you have any queries, FUJIFILM has a large and experienced team of Technical Experts available to you.
Do not hesitate to contact your local FUJIFILM representative, he will be most happy to assist you at any time.
Please also note that additional information such as Technical Information Sheets, processing and process
control tips, and the latest information about new products is always available from the FUJIFILM Europe web
site at www.fujifilm.eu/feb.
II.
page 3
PROCESS DESCRIPTION
CPRA processing chemicals are designed for processing any RA4 process-compatible paper. Developers
work at a temperature of 35C and are available for minilab, leader belt and cin-type processors, plus two
special developers for roller transport machines.
The Envirochem range, represents "state of the art" products introduced by FUJIFILM Europe to reduce
photochemical pollution to a minimum. Their use is equally beneficial to minilabs and traditional labs and includes
developers, bleach-fixers, a low replenishment bleach and non-ammonia paper fix. The developers are designed
to work at a temperature of 38C, apart from EnviroPrint Developer Replenisher MP45 AC and
EnviroPrint CP48 II Developer, which runs at 38.5C .
Both product ranges offer you a complete product range Air Control products, eliminating the unpleasant smell
of conventional RA4 chemicals and guaranteeing a pleasant environment for the customer.
III.
A. Developer
The developer produces a silver image in the paper emulsion layers from the latent image produced when the
paper is exposed. At the same time, the developer - which is locally oxidised by this reaction - combines with
couplers incorporated in the emulsion and produces colour dyes. The quantity of dye produced is proportional
to the amount of silver image produced.
B. Bleach-Fix
The bleach-fix acts as a combined bleach and fix bath. The metallic silver image produced during development,
plus all undeveloped silver salts remaining in the paper are removed in this bath as soluble silver salts.
page 4
E. Wash
A water wash, as commonly found in larger processors, works by removing all processing chemicals and byproducts from the paper emulsion. A correct wash water rate and temperature are critical with respect to longterm dye stability.
F. Super Stabilizer
The EnviroPrint Super Stabilizer AC option, commonly used in minilabs in place of a water wash, works
by washing the majority of processing chemicals and by-products from the paper emulsion and then reacting
with any remaining chemicals to form stable, inert compounds and preventing dye fading.
IV.
page 5
PROCESS OPTIONS
1. Developers
A. Developer Replenishers
Two categories of developer replenishers are available:
Envirochem Developers
CPRA Developers
EnviroPrint Developers
The Envirochem range of products has been introduced in order to reduce photochemical pollution to a
minimum. EnviroPrint Developers allow approaching zero overflow from process tanks, greatly reducing
discharge to drain. They are suitable for use in any processors with a reasonable level of throughput, and offer
particular advantages for minilab, leader belt and cin-type and even LVTT processors.
An extremely important benefit of the Envirochem product range is that all developers run at 38C (EnviroPrint
Developer Replenisher MP45 AC and EnviroPrint CP48 II Developer requires 38.5C), so alteration
between these developers is very easy and convenient. You can choose between a low or high replenishment
rate developer, keeping your product always in good condition. This is a very interesting feature as depending on
the season, low or high throughput, your process will always be in good condition. By doing so, you not only
save money, but you will also contribute to a greener environment.
1. EnviroPrint Developer
EnviroPrint Developer is a general-purpose 3-part developer which can also be regenerated (see
section Developer Regenerators page 8).
This developer is a very popular replenisher product (160 ml/m) and is being recommended to those
customers having low to medium throughput production volumes.
page 6
page 7
CPRA Developers
The CPRA-range of products is available to meet a variety of specific needs for the photographic market.
1. CPRA Developer AC
Is a 160 ml/m replenishment rate product designed to be used in either a wash or washless system with
RA4 process compatible paper. This is a standard 35C developer, suitable for use in a wide range of
processors.
This product possesses all the features of our developer Air Control product line, eliminating the unpleasant
smell of the conventional RA4 Developers, guaranteeing a pleasant environment for the customer and has
proven to be much cleaner working under difficult circumstances.
Important:
When converting from conventional CPRA Developer to the CPRA Developer AC, there is no
need to dump your running chemistry, as both products are fully compatible; replenishing
on top is the correct decision.
However, if you make a fresh start up, please use the correct starter and starter volume.
(Enviroprint Developer Starter AC, see Chapter VIII Mixing Instructions page 21).
2. CPRA Developer
Is the conventional 160 ml/m replenishment rate product working at 35C.
For more specific details regarding your preferred choice on one of the above mentioned 2 developers,
please contact your local FUJIFILM representative.
page 8
B. Developer Regenerators
Developer Regeneration is an alternative to low replenishment rate chemistries, as it offers the lowest possible
developer waste generation and important chemical cost savings. RA4 Developer regeneration is very much
practised in the large photofinishing market. The most commonly system used nowadays is "Developer
regeneration without the use of ion exchange resins". Developer overflow is collected and rebuilt with specially
designed developer regenerator parts. Depending on the type of processors installed, squeegee adjustments
and maintenance applied, the volume of collected overflow will differ. In order to regenerate your developer with
EnviroPrint Developer Regeenrator HV, you must be able to recover at least 650ml of developer overflow for
every litre of replenisher added to the processor. No specialised chemical analyses are required, the only control
needed is density and pH-measurement and related correction. Upon request, fully defined chemical
specifications are supplied to support your process.
The recommended developer to be installed when preparing for developer regeneration is EnviroPrint
Developer. However if you are running a different chemistry, your local FUJIFILM representative will assist
you during the conversion period and avoid any unnecessary chemical draining and environmental pollution.
This option is very flexible and rebuild additions can be adjusted according to available developer overflow
volumes.
Important:
When the developer is continually recycled, there is an accumulation of dirt and colour from
sensitising dyes and restrainers, which can cause sensitometric deviations. With the
introduction of leader belt free processors, very low developer carry over volumes can be
achieved, resulting in the collection of larger volumes of developer overflow. Large
Photofinishers have explored this situation to regenerate their overflow at rebuild ratios as
high as 80%, giving an effective replenishment rate of only 32 ml/m. The higher the
rebuild ratio, the higher the accumulation of by-products. Installing a filter and also an
adsorber resin will help with clearing up the colour of the developer and take out some
oxidation products, but it will not remove the high tech restrainers released from the
emulsion. Please be aware of this and pay extreme care, otherwise poor print quality may
become your enemy, resulting in loss of business.
page 9
2. Bleach-Fixers
Two categories of Bleach-Fixer Replenishers are available:
EnviroPrint Bleach-Fix AC
CPRA Bleach-Fix AC
A. Bleach-Fix Replenishers
Fuji Hunt Bleach-Fix Replenishers are partly available as 2-part products, partly available as monopart
products, both being Air Controlled.
These products no longer generate the unpleasant smell of acetic acid. They are now much better buffered
against oxidation. Product stability has been greatly improved and, more importantly, better print whites are
guaranteed.
EnviroPrint Bleach-Fixers AC
1. EnviroPrint Bleach-Fix 215 AC
Is the standard 215 ml/m replenishment rate 2-part product for all types of paper processors. It is equally
suited for use in minilabs, roller transport processors (at high enough throughput), and many other
processors.
It is also the recommended product to be installed when Bleach-Fix regeneration (with or without electrolytic
desilvering) is being considered.
3. EnviroPrint Bleach-Fix 70 AC
Is a 70 ml/m replenishment rate 2-part product suitable for use in any processor with high volume
throughput. This gives greatly reduced overflow volumes and lower cost. Its use is not recommended in
roller transport processors. The higher level of oxidation in these machines would cause sulphurization of the
fixing agent and staining due to excessive quantities of oxidised developer from the carry over.
4. EnviroPrint Bleach-Fix 55 AC
Is designed as low replenishment, non-regenerable bleach-fix for applications in high and medium volume
minilab processors. The recommended replenishment is as low as 55 ml/m and offers the advantage of
greatly reduced overflow volumes and lower cost. EnviroPrint Bleach-Fix 55 AC is a 2-part product.
5. EnviroPrint Bleach-Fix VR AC
Allows you to run your process at a replenishment rate of 55 or 70 ml/m depending on the production
period (medium or high peak sason) you are working in, just by following different mixing instructions.
EnviroPrint Bleach-Fix VR AC is a 2-part product
page 10
6. EnviroPrint Bleach-Fix 35 AC
This innovative extremely low replenishment rate bleach-fix can be used in combination with EnviroPrint
Developer Replenisher MP45 AC. To ensure a constant high product stability, the bleach-fix has been
designed as a two-part product to be mixed with water to make fresh replenisher. The bleach-fix processing
temperature is 38C. EnviroPrint Bleach-Fix 35 AC is a 2-part product.
11.EnviroPrint FP Bleach-Fix MR
EnviroPrint FP Bleach-Fix MR is an Air Controlled odourless monopart bleach-fix designed for use with
EnviroPrint FP Developer MR in fast processing minilabs. This monopart product offers easy and
convenient mixing, and is suitable for minilabs designed to accept a monopart bleach-fix concentrate.
12.EnviroPrint FP Bleach-Fix HR
EnviroPrint FP Bleach-Fix HR is an Air Controlled odourless monopart high replenishment rate bleachfix specially designed for use in Konica NPS 8-series and R1 Super 1400 (PP8610 processor) non-Ecojet
minilabs using the Konica CPK-2-22 (SQA) process. See Product Information Sheet (PIS) and TB Minilab
Chamical Guide for further information.
page 11
CPRA Bleach-Fix AC
1. CPRA Digital Pro Bleach-Fix AC
CPRA Digital Pro Bleach-Fix AC is designed for use with CPRA Digital Pro Developer AC, giving
even better resistance to aerial oxidation and low throughput, and increased resistance to stain formation in
the paper whites all with the standard bleach-fix replenishment rate. Users of the previous CPRA Pro
Bleach-Fix AC product are recommended to switch to CPRA Digital Pro Bleach-Fix AC when stocks of the
Pro bleach-fix are exhausted.
page 12
B. Separate Fixer
Replenished Fixers
1. Super Unilec Fixer
Super Unilec Fixer is the most commonly used fixer, covering many requirements. It can be used as a
non-desilvered replenished fixer. Super Unilec Fixer can also be used in a closed loop continuous
electrolytic desilvering system at a reduced replenishment rate. Super Unilec Fixer replaces Unilec and
Unimatic Fixer, which have been discontinued.
Detailed information can be found in the FUJIFILM Europes Technical Bulletin "Fixing Systems".
Your FUJIFILM technical representative can assist you in making the correct choice of system for your
laboratory.
4. Stabilizers
The main purpose of Super Stabilizers is to remove processing chemicals and unwanted reaction products
from the imaging layers, obtaining optimum whites and guaranteeing long-term image stability. Achieving this
target with the far lower wash volumes applied with Super Stabilizer,, compared to a conventional water
wash, is much more difficult and critical.
Accomplishing this ultimate goal under the different market processing conditions requires well-designed
chemical formulations.
FUJIFILM Europe offers a versatile Super Stabilizer,, which will meet these criteria and meet your most
stringent demands.
1.
page 13
2.
page 14
5. Additives
Even though products have been intensively tested and recognized by the market as giving excellent
performance, even under extreme conditions, it is always possible that local conditions temporarily exceed the
acceptable tolerance.
The water quality entering the lab may suddenly have become extremely hard as it is coming from a different
source, processing throughput may be very low on a particular processor.
When these situations occur, FUJIFILM Europe can supply you with an appropriate additive to help you to
keep your production running under the new circumstances.
The following special additives can be supplied by FUJIFILM Europe to meet special requirements. None of
these additives is required in a normal RA4 process; they have all been introduced to address specific problems,
or to fine-tune the process to meet the requirements of well-controlled professional laboratories. These additives
are only available through your FUJIFILM technical representative.
A.
B.
V.
page 15
PROCESS SPECIFICATIONS
1. Standard Process
Bath
Time
Temperature (C)
45 "
38.0C 0.3C
CPRA Developers
45 "
35.0C 0.3C
Bleach-Fix
45 "
33.0C 3.0C
Wash Water
90 "
35.0C 5.0C
90 "
34.0C 4.0C
EnviroPrint Developers
(1)
or
EnviroPrint Super Stabilizer AC
(1)
EnviroPrint Developer Replenisher MP45 AC and EnviroPrint CP48 II Developer have a processing
temperature of 38.5C 0.3C.
These values are nominal and may need to be altered depending on the requirements of machine and
sensitometric quality.
Note: Wash or EnviroPrint Super Stabilizer AC is used as required. The wash water rate should be in the
range 2-11 L/m, depending on the number of wash tanks. EnviroPrint Super Stabilizer AC replenishment
rate is normally 250 ml/m where four counter-current tanks are used, but it may be necessary to increase this if
only three tanks are fitted. See "Standard Replenishment Rates" on the following pages for further details.
Time
Temperature (C)
Replenishment
Rate
45 "
(1)
(2)
15 "
25C 5C
150 ml/m
Wash
15 "
32C 3C
1.5 L/m
Bleach
75 "
32C 3C
100 ml/m
Wash
45 "
32C 3C
2 L/m
Fixer
45 "
32C 3C
Wash
90 "
32C 3C
Developer
Stop Bath
(3)
55 ml/m
(4)
2 - 5 L/m
3. Fast Processing
Full information is available in the Technical Bulletin Minilab Chemical Guide and Technical Info Sheet RA4 FP
chemistry for Fast Processing. Contact your local FUJIFILM Technical Representative or visit our web site
www.fujifilm.eu/feb if you require further information.
page 16
VI.
1. Developers
Standard Replenishment Rate ml/m
EnviroPrint Developer
(1)
160
160
108
73
60
45
45
EnviroPrint FP Developer MR
See TIS RA4 FP chemistry for Fast Processing and TB Minilab Chemical Guide (5)
CPRA Developer
(2)
CPRA Developer AC
CPRA Pro Developer
160
(2)
160
(3)
250
(4)
215 - 325
(1) When regenerating this developer, the effective replenishment rate can be as low as 48 ml/m when regenerating 70%
of the overflow.
(2) Replenisher amount per 25 x 20 cm (10" x 8") is 8 ml.
(3) The suggested replenishment rate of 250 ml/m for CPRA Pro Developer may be varied within the range 200 - 500
ml/m according to the specific conditions on your processor. Suggested replenisher amount per 25 x 20 cm (10" x 8")
is 12.5 ml; this may be varied within the range 10 - 25 ml.
(4) The suggested replenishment rate for paper processing may be varied within the range 215 325 ml/m according to
the specific conditions on your processor. In times of high productions volumes, resulting in a very high tank turn over (
> 0.75 TTO/week), it can be considered to lower the replenishment rate as low as 180 ml/m for paper. At any time the
standard replenishment rate for display material is 495 ml/m.
(5) Replenishment rate depends on developer time and temperature. See the Technical Information Sheet RA4 FP
chemistry for Fast Processing or the Technical Bulletin Minilab Chemical Guide for more details.
page 17
2. Bleach-Fixers
Standard
EnviroPrint Bleach-Fix Regenerator
(1)
Effective
(1)
215
17 - 21
215
17 - 21
215
215
108
EnviroPrint Bleach-Fix 70 AC
70
EnviroPrint Bleach-Fix 55 AC
55
EnviroPrint Bleach-Fix 35 AC
35
35
35
215
(2)
EnviroPrint FP Bleach-Fix MR
EnviroPrint FP Bleach-Fix HR
(1)
(2)
(3)
(1)
3. Bleaches
Standard
Effective
Replenishment Rate ml/m
EnviroPrint Bio-Bleach
(1)
100
Standard
Effective
4. Fixers
Replenishment Rate ml/m
Super Unilec (1 + 4 Dilution)
Super Unilec (1 + 3 Dilution)
(1)
250 - 300
250 - 300
55
55
290
~11
page 18
5. Stabilizers
The indicated replenishment rates below are valid for EnviroPrint Super Stabilizer AC
# Cascaded tanks
160
200
250
350
page 19
VII. STARTERS
1. For Envirochem Developers
Ensure that the correct starter is used for the following tank solutions:
Developer
Starter
EnviroPrint Developer
EnviroPrint FP Developer MR
Notes::
Never use starters designed for E6 or Negacolor (C41) processes. This would result in having to discard the
developer.
RA4 Quick starter is the correct starter to be used in fast processing. More info can be found in the FUJIFILM
Europe Technical Information Sheet RA4 FP chemistry for Fast Processing and in the Technnical Bulletin
Minilab Chemical Guide.
Developer
Starter
CPRA Developer
CPRA Developer AC
Note::
Never use starters designed for the Ektaprint 2 (EP2), E6 or Negacolor (C41) processes. This would result in
having to discard the developer.
page 20
Bleach-Fix
Starter
EnviroPrint FP Bleach-Fix MR
(1)
EnviroPrint FP Bleach-Fix HR
(1)
Notes::
When preparing a new working tank of Bleach-Fix MP tank-solution, 2 options are available to guarantee the
best possible print quality from the start :
- Option 1: Mix fresh tank solution in combination with EnviroPrint Bleach-Fix MP Starter AC.
- Option 2: Mix fresh tank solution without starter. This option requires 8-12 hours chemistry re-circulation
in the processor to optimise the processing condition.
(1) See the Technical Information Sheet (TIS) RA4 FP chemistry for Fast Processing, or the Technical Bulletin
(TB) Minilab Chemical Guide for further information.
page 21
FUJIFILM Europe supplies chemicals in a variety of pack sizes to suit most requirements. However,
particularly for the smaller user, it may be necessary to split packs to suit specific needs. For this reason, the
information needed to mix intermediate volumes of chemicals is given below.
FUJIFILM Europe does not recommend this as general practice; concentrates are less stable in partially filled
bottles and containers than in full, unopened bottles. If possible, it is always better to purchase chemicals in the
pack size that suits your mixing requirements rather than buying a larger pack and splitting it.
Working or tank solutions must be prepared when initially filling a processor, or when using chemicals on a "oneshot" basis.
They may be prepared by the more convenient of two routes either directly from replenisher concentrates or
from already mixed replenisher. The choice whether to mix directly from concentrates or from mixed replenisher
is a matter from the laboratory; as long as the correct amount of water and/or starter is added, the end result is
the same.
Generally it is necessary to add a starter with developers and some bleaches; other solutions are normally used
either at replenisher strength, or just with simple dilution of the replenisher.
Water
Part A
Part B
Part C
Replenisher
EnviroPrint Univ.
Dev. Starter
TANK
884.5 ml
28 ml
9 ml
38.5 ml
40 ml
REPLENISHER
892.1 ml
40 ml
12.9 ml
55 ml
260 ml
700 ml
40 ml
Water
Conc.
Replenisher
EnviroPrint Univ.
Dev. Starter
TANK
810 ml
140 ml
50 ml
REPLENISHER
800 ml
200 ml
250 ml
700 ml
50 ml
page 22
Water
Conc.
Replenisher
EnviroPrint Univ.
Dev. Starter
TANK
850 ml
100 ml
50 ml
REPLENISHER
800 ml
200 ml
450 ml
500 ml
50 ml
Water
Conc.
Replenisher
EnviroPrint Univ.
Dev. Starter
TANK
830 ml
120 ml
50 ml
REPLENISHER
800 ml
200 ml
350 ml
600 ml
50 ml
*, Note : EnviroPrint Developer Replenisher MP108 is changing with all batches manufactured afrom March
2009 onwards. The previous MP108 product has a batch number xxxxxDR273. The new MP108 from March
2009 onwards has a batch number xxxxxDR332. Please ensure that you follow the correct new working tank
mixing instructions for the chemistry you are using. Replenisher mixing instructions are unchanged.
Conc.
Replenisher
EnviroPrint Dev.
Starter AC
TANK
790 ml
100 ml
110 ml
REPLENISHER
800 ml
200 ml
390 ml
500 ml
110 ml
To make 1 litre
EnviroPrint Developer Replenisher MP73 AC* ( from Sept 2009 batch DR335)
Water
Conc.
Replenisher
EnviroPrint Dev.
Starter AC
TANK
790 ml
100 ml
110 ml
REPLENISHER
800 ml
200 ml
390 ml
500 ml
110 ml
To make 1 litre
*, Note : EnviroPrint Developer Replenisher MP73 AC is changing with all batches manufactured from
September 2010 onwards. The previous MP73 AC product has a batch number xxxxxDR273. The new MP73
AC from March 2009 onwards has a batch number xxxxxDR335. Please ensure that you follow the correct new
working tank mixing instructions for the chemistry you are using. Replenisher mixing instructions are unchanged.
Conc.
Replenisher
EnviroPrint Dev.
Starter AC
TANK
800 ml
80 ml
120 ml
REPLENISHER
800 ml
200 ml
480 ml
400 ml
120 ml
To make 1 litre
page 23
Water
Conc.
Replenisher
EnviroPrint Dev.
Starter AC
TANK
792 ml
78 ml
130 ml
REPLENISHER
740 ml
260 ml
570 ml
300 ml
130 ml
To make 1 litre
Conc.
TANK
REPLENISHER
740 ml
260 ml
Water
Part A
Part B
Part C
Replenisher
EnviroPrint Dev.
Starter AC
TANK
875 ml
30 ml
15 ml
30 ml
50 ml
REPLENISHER
875 ml
50 ml
25 ml
50 ml
350 ml
600 ml
50 ml
Water
Part A
Part B
Part C
Replenisher
EnviroPrint Univ.
Dev. Starter
TANK
890 ml
35 ml
9.94 ml
35 ml
30 ml
REPLENISHER
885.8 ml
50 ml
14.2 ml
50 ml
270 ml
700 ml
30 ml
Water
Part A
Multigen
CD60
Part C
Replenisher
EnviroPrint Univ.
Dev. Starter
TANK
891,7 ml
35 ml
8,3 ml
35 ml
30 ml
REPLENISHER
888,2 ml
50 ml
11,8 ml
50 ml
270 ml
700 ml
30 ml
page 24
To make 1 litre
Water
Part A
Part B
Part C
Replenisher
EnviroPrint Univ.
Dev. Starter
TANK
855 ml
40 ml
40 ml
40 ml
25 ml
REPLENISHER
850 ml
50 ml
50 ml
50 ml
175 ml
800 ml
25 ml
Water
Part A
Part B
Replenisher
EnviroPrint Dev.
Starter AC
TANK
796 ml
84 ml
80 ml
40 ml
REPLENISHER
795 ml
105 ml
100 ml
160 ml
800 ml
40 ml
See chapter "IX Chemical Regeneration" section "1. Developer Regeneration" on page 28 for details on
EnviroPrint developer regeneration.
See the Technical Information Sheet RA4 FP chemistry for Fast Processing for details of mixing and using
EnviroPrint FP Developer Replenisher MR.
page 25
Water
Part A
Part B
760 ml
120 ml
120 ml
EnviroPrint Bleach-Fix & Replenisher 215 AC should be used if fresh (non-regenerated) bleach-fix
replenisher is required for use with the EnviroPrint bleach-fix regeneration processes. For details of EnviroPrint
bleach-fix regeneration, see chapter "IX. Chemical Regeneration Section 2 Bleach-Fix Regeneration" on page
30.
Water
Part A
Part B
Replenisher
TANK
760 ml
120 ml
120 ml
REPLENISHER
670 ml
180 ml
150 ml
334 ml
666 ml
Water
Part A
Part B
Replenisher
TANK
760 ml
120 ml
120 ml
REPLENISHER
600 ml
220 ml
180 ml
445 ml
545 ml
Water
Part A
Part B
Replenisher
TANK
775 ml
125 ml
100 ml
REPLENISHER
550 ml
250 ml
200 ml
500 ml
500 ml
Water
Part A
Part B
Replenisher
TANK
666 ml
167 ml
167 ml
REPLENISHER
330 ml
335 ml
335 ml
500 ml
500 ml
Water
Conc
EnviroPrint BX
Replenisher
MP Starter AC
TANK
730 ml
250 ml
20 ml
REPLENISHER
700 ml
300 ml
147 ml
20 ml
833 ml
page 26
Water
Conc
EnviroPrint BX
Replenisher
MP Starter AC
TANK
700 ml
3000 ml
REPLENISHER
700 ml
300 ml
20 ml
833 ml
To make 1 litre
Water
Conc.
EnviroPrint BX
MP Starter AC
Replenisher
TANK
705 ml
275 ml
20 ml
REPLENISHER
500 ml
500 ml
430 ml
20 ml
550 ml
To make 1 litre
Water
Conc.
EnviroPrint BX
MP Starter AC
Replenisher
TANK
705 ml
275 ml
20 ml
REPLENISHER
500 ml
500 ml
20 ml
550 ml
Water
Part A
Part B
Replenisher
TANK
500 ml
250 ml
250 ml
REPLENISHER
500 ml
500 ml
500 ml
500 ml
Water
Part A
Part B
335 ml
335 ml
Water
Part A
Part B
720 ml
120 ml
160 ml
page 27
See the Technical Information Sheet RA4 FP chemistry for Fast Processing or Technical Bulletin Minilab Chemical Guide
for details of mixing and using EnviroPrint FP Bleach-Fixes..
3. Stop Bath
RA4 Stop Bath
To make 1 litre
Water
988.3 ml
11.7 ml
4. Bleach
EnviroPrint Bio-Bleach
To make 1 litre
Water
Conc.
TANK
835 ml
165 ml
REPLENISHER
748 ml
250 ml
2 ml
For details on bleach regeneration see chapter "IX Chemical Regeneration" section 3 Bleach Regeneration" on page 33.
5. Fixers
Super Unilec Fixer - Closed loop electrolytic silver recovery
To make 1 litre
Water
Conc.
TANK (=1+4)
800 ml
200 ml
REPLENISHER (=1+3)
750 ml
250 ml
Water
Conc.
800 ml
200 ml
See the FUJIFILM Europe Technical Bulletin "Fixing Systems" for full information on the process options
available.
Details of use of Super Unilec fixers in RA4 fixer systems can be found in the FUJIFILM Europe Technical Bulletin
Fixing Systems.
Water
Conc.
990 ml
10 ml
See the Technical Information Sheet RA4 FP chemistry for Fast Processing or Technical Bulletin Minilab Chemical Guide
for details of mixing and using EnviroPrint FP Stabilizer..
page 28
IX.
CHEMICAL REGENERATION
1. Developer Regeneration
It is the policy of FUJIFILM Europe to offer regeneration procedures and products wherever possible with the
intention of reducing chemical effluent and laboratory processing costs as much as possible. Regeneration can
be operated by adding regenerator concentrates to a measured volume of overflow.
No analyses or resin regenerations are necessary.
A. EnviroPrint Developer
EnviroPrint Developer is very easy to regenerate by using EnviroPrint Developer Regenerator HV
concentrates. Parts 1R, Multigen CD60 and 3R are available, with variable addition rates depending on the
volume of overflow recovered. Instead of Multigen CD60, Multigen CD50 can also be used. See instructions on
the next page.
EnviroPrint
Universal Dev.
Starter
55 ml
7.5 ml
38.5 ml
40 ml
28 ml
9 ml
38.5 ml
40 ml
700 ml
40 ml
To make 1 litre
Water
Part A
901 ml
22 ml
10.8 ml
889 ml
18 ml
884.5 ml
260 ml
Part B
Part C
When making replacement working tank solutions from concentrates, standard EnviroPrint Developer
Replenisher kits can be used.
Tank solution can also be prepared from EnviroPrint Developer Regenerator HV part 1R (part A above), Multigen CD60
(part B above) and EnviroPrint Developer Replenisher part C. It is not possible to use EnviroPrint HV part 3R to
prepare fresh developer replenisher solutions. Your are advised to keep a minimum stock of EnviroPrint Developer
Replenisher part C (and EnviroPrint Universal Developer Starter) to allow for emergency retanking and preparation of
fresh replenisher.
page 29
EnviroPrint Developer Regenerator HV allows a substantial volume of developer overflow to be reutilised. The High Ratio (HR) system can be used to rebuild 650 or 700 ml of overflow. This is equivalent to an
effective replenishment rate of just 56 ml/m or 48 ml/m respectively. In this case, EnviroPrint Developer
Regenerator HV Part 1R, Multigen CD60 and EnviroPrint Developer Regenerator HV Part 3R
will be used. Please discuss mixing instructions for rebuilds with less than 650 ml or more than 700 ml overflow
with your local FUJIFILM representative.
Normally it is not necessary to carry out analytical tests whilst rebuilding, but if a laboratory wishes to monitor its
process analytically, operating concentrations of key ingredients can be provided by FUJIFILM Europe. In
particular, the FUJIFILM Europe OASIS Pro chemical and process control system is ideally suited to this
task. The attention of users of EnviroPrint Developer Regenerator HV is drawn on the fact that any
regeneration system is a dynamic balance achieved under the specific conditions of a given processor.
Processors vary from one to another in operating characteristics, in particular carry over on paper and leader
belts. Processors without leader belts may need modified chemical rebuild formulae compared to machines with
leader belts. All formulae for rebuilding specified volumes of overflow are only approximate. More particularly it is
not possible to guarantee the achievement of the correct pH or solution density. It is essential for optimum
photographic quality that adjustments at the rebuilding stage are made by the laboratory to achieve pH and
density within specification. Out of specification rebuilt developer replenisher will certainly give rise to out of
control photographic results.
Water
HV Part 1R
Multigen
CD60
EnviroPrint Developer
Regenerator HV Part 3R
650 ml
315 ml
10.5 ml
6 ml
18 ml
Water
HV Part 1R
Multigen
CD60
EnviroPrint Developer
Regenerator HV Part 3R
700 ml
270 ml
9.5 ml
5.6 ml
15 ml
Caution:
If acid is added to the developer, there will be an effervescence of carbon dioxide due to the carbonate present
in the developer. It is also necessary to control the density within the given specification. This can be achieved by
adjusting the density of the overflow prior to regeneration if automatic blending equipment is used. Do not
change replenishment rate from 160 ml/m.
page 30
2. Bleach-Fix Regeneration
Note: Use of regenerated bleach-fix is not recommended on roller transport processors.
2.
3.
Check pH, and adjust if necessary to within the range 7.8 - 8.1.
4.
5. If necessary aerate desilvered overflow until most of the ferrous iron is converted back to ferric iron (24 hours). The maximum ferrous iron level is 10% of total iron.
6. Add EnviroPrint Electrolytic Bleach-Fix Regenerator Parts B & C, plus acetic acid as
follows:
Part B
Part C
Acetic Acid
60% w/w
Water
860 ml
32 ml
57 ml
13 - 18 ml (1)
To make 1 L
1000 ml
37 ml
66 ml
15 - 21 ml (1)
Makes 1160 ml
(1)
7.
It may be necessary to vary additions of acetic acid to obtain the correct pH. See page 35.
page 31
2. System 2:
1. Collect overflow from bleach-fix tank.
2. Check pH, and adjust to pH range 7.8 - 8.1.
3. Desilver electrolytically to 0.5 - 1.0 g/L silver.
4. If necessary aerate desilvered overflow until most of the ferrous iron is converted back to ferric iron (24 hours). The maximum ferrous iron level is 10% of total iron.
5. Add EnviroPrint Electrolytic Bleach-Fix Regenerator Parts B & C, plus acetic acid as
follows:
Part B
Part C
Acetic Acid
60% w/w
Water
900 ml
24 ml
40 ml
13 - 18 ml (1)
To make 1 L
44 ml
(1)
1000 ml
(1)
27 ml
15 - 21 ml
Makes 1110 ml
It may be necessary to vary additions of acetic acid to obtain the correct pH. See page 35.
Tank solution
Replenisher solution
Water
764 ml
764 ml
112 ml
112 ml
124 ml
124 ml
End volume
1000 ml
1000 ml
In the photographic market, two systems are offered of which system 2 is a so-called "economical and low tech
approach". FUJIFILM Europe is in favor of offering the "high tech" version, guaranteeing a stable chemistry
(system 1). Whenever customers insist on using the "economical, low tech version", your local FUJIFILM
technical representative will give you all support you need.
page 32
(1)
Desilvered,
aerated Overflow
Part A
Part B
Acetic Acid
60% w/w
Water
860 ml
30 ml
35 ml
15 - 20 ml (1)
To make 1 L
1000 ml
35 ml
41 ml
17 - 22 ml (1)
To make 1160 ml
It may be necessary to vary additions of acetic acid to obtain the correct pH. See page 35.
2. System 2:
1. Collect overflow from bleach-fix tank.
2. Check pH and adjust if necessary to within the range 7.8 - 8.1, with ammonia solution or sodium
hydroxide 30%.
3. Desilver electrolytically to 0.5 - 1.0 g/L silver or lower to meet your requirement.
4. Aerate the desilvered overflow until most of the ferrous iron is converted back to ferric iron (2-4 hours).
FUJIFILM Europes advised maximum level of ferrous iron is set at 10% of the total iron.
5. Add EnviroPrint Electrolytic Bio-Bleach-Fix Regenerator Parts A & B, plus acetic acid as
follows:
Part A
Part B
Acetic Acid
60% w/w
Water
900 ml
25 ml
30 ml
15 20 ml (1)
To make 1 L
33 ml
(1)
1000 ml
(1)
28 ml
17 - 22 ml
It may be necessary to vary additions of acetic acid to obtain the correct pH. See page 35.
To make 1110 ml
page 33
Part 1F
Part 2F
Part 3F (2)
(Acetic Acid)
Water
883.3 ml
82 ml
21.2 ml
13.5 ml (1)
to make 1 L
1000 ml
93 ml
24 ml
15.3 ml
(1)
to make 1132
ml
(1)
It is desirable to operate with the lowest density possible in order to reduce chemical waste. Normally a regenerated
overflow with a density of 1.100 will produce acceptable bleaching and fixing. If difficulties are experienced, e.g. retained
silver or leuco-cyan dye, the density should be increased. It should not be allowed to exceed 1.150 in the regenerated
replenisher.
(2) Part 3F is acetic acid. Adjust volume used to achieve a pH within specification. See page 35.
3. Bleach Regeneration
The rebuilding instructions given below are approximate. The volume of the concentrate and acid required to
obtain a rebuilt replenisher within specification, depends on the characteristics of the proces-sing machine.
A. EnviroPrint Bio-Bleach
To regenerate bleach overflow:
EnviroPrint Bio-Bleach
(1)
Overflow
Conc.
942 ml
50 ml
8 ml
1000 ml
53 ml
8.5 ml
(1)
It is essential for this bleach that the density of the tank solution does not drop below the minimum required
value of 1.024 g/cm at 20C. For the correct pH value, see page 35.
page 34
4. Fixer Regeneration
The rebuilding instructions given below are approximate. The volume of the concentrate and acid required to
obtain a rebuilt replenisher within specification, depends on the processor characteristics.
A. Super Unilec
Super Unilec has replaced XL-Rejuvenator for RA4 fixer regeneration, and also has the advantage of minimising
fixer overflow volume. The fixer solution in the processor should be continuously electrolytically desilvered in the
processor or batch-wise before regeneration to a silver concentration of 0.5 - 1.0 g/L. Either Super Unilec or
Unimatic Fixer can be used to fill the processor.
(1)
Fixer overflow
Conc.
1000 ml
27-38 ml (1)
It may be necessary to add more Super Unilec concentrate if there is a high carry over of wash water into the
processor fixer tank.
The pH aim of 6.70 0.50 in the processor tank may need addition of acetic acid (to decrease pH) or ammonia
solution (to increase pH) to the rebuilt overflow.
X.
page 35
Tank
pH 25C
Density (g/cm)20C
Density (g/cm) 25C
10.30 0.05
1.028 0.003
1.027 0.003
10.40 0.05
1.027 0.003
1.026 0.003
10.33 0.05
1.026 0.003
1.025 0.003
10.40 0.05
1.025 0.003
1.024 0.003
10.30 0.05
1.033 0.003
1.032 0.003
10.22 0.05
1.031 0.003
1.030 0.003
10.15 0.05
1.031 0.003
1.030 0.003
See TIS RA4 FP chemistry for Fast Processing
10.25 0.05
1.045 0.003
1.044 0.003
10.20 0.05
1.025 0.003
1.024 0.003
10.30 0.05
1.026 0.003
1.025 0.003
10.30 0.05
1.026 0.003
1.025 0.003
10.35 0.05
1.027 0.003
1.026 0.003
10.35 0.05
1.033 0.003
1.032 0.003
5.80 0.20
5.80 0.20
5.80 0.20
5.80 0.20
5,65 0.20
5,65 0.20
1.067 0.005
1.067 0.005
1.067 0.005
1.067 0.005
1.080 0.005
1.080 0.005
1.066 0.005
1.066 0.005
1.066 0.005
1.066 0.005
1.079 0.005
1.079 0.005
6.00 0.30
1.070 0.005
1.069 0.005
EnviroPrint Bio-Bleach
3.40 0.10
Notes :
(1)
(2)
(3)
1.038 0.003
page 36
EnviroPrint Developer
EnviroPrint Developer MP160
EnviroPrint Developer MP108 (1)
EnviroPrint Developer MP108 (2)
EnviroPrint Developer MP73 AC
EnviroPrint Developer MP60 AC
EnviroPrint Developer MP45 AC
EnviroPrint FP Developer MR
EnviroPrint CP48 II Developer
CPRA Developer AC
CPRA Developer
CPRA Developer (with CD60)
CPRA Pro Developer
CPRA Digital Pro Developer AC
EnviroPrint Bleach-Fix 215 AC
EnviroPrint Bleach-Fix 108 AC
EnviroPrint Bleach-Fix 70 AC
EnviroPrint Bleach-Fix 55 AC
EnviroPrint Bleach-Fix 35 AC
EnviroPrint Bleach-Fix 35 RTU AC
EnviroPrint Bleach-Fix MP215 AC
(option 1 )
EnviroPrint FP Bleach-Fix MR
EnviroPrint FP Bleach-Fix HR
EnviroPrint FP Bleach-Fix MR (3)
EnviroPrint CP48 II Bleach-Fix
CPRA Digital Pro Bleach-Fix AC
EnviroPrint Electrolytic Bio-Bx
Regen.
Replenisher
Density (g/cm
Density (g/cm)
pH 25C
25C
)20C
10.85 0.05
1.031 0.003
1.030 0.003
11.95 0.05
1.028 0.003
1.027 0.003
12.00 0.05
1.034 0.003
1.033 0.003
12.05 0.05
1.029 0.003
1.028 0.003
12.33 0.05
1.036 0.003
1.035 0.003
12.40 0.05
1.037 0.003
1.036 0.003
12.55 0.05
1.043 0.003
1.042 0.003
See TIS RA4 FP chemistry for Fast Processing
12.55 0.05
1.046 0.003
1.045 0.003
10.60 0.05
1.031 0.003
1.030 0.003
10.70 0.05
1.030 0.003
1.029 0.003
10.60 0.05
1.030 0.003
1.029 0.003
10.70 0.05
1.028 0.003
1.027 0.003
10.70 0.05
1.034 0.003
1.033 0.003
5.80 0.20
5.70 0.20
5.60 0.20
5.60 0.20
5.50 0.20
5.50 0.20
1.067 0.005
1.097 0.005
1.118 0.005
1.129 0.005
1.155 0.005
1.155 0.005
1.066 0.005
1.096 0.005
1.117 0.005
1.128 0.005
1.154 0.005
1.154 0.005
5.80 0.30
1.080 0.005
1.079 0.005
1.072 0.005
1.071 0.005
EnviroPrint Bio-Bleach
3.20 0.10
1.059 0.003
1.058 0.003
7.50 0.20
7.50 0.20
1.087 0.010
1.110 0.010
1.086 0.010
1.109 0.010
Notes :
(1)
(2)
(3)
page 37
Seasoned solutions
pH AND DENSITY SPECIFICATIONS FOR SEASONED REPLENISHED SOLUTIONS(1)
Product
Tank
Density (g/cm)
pH
25C
20C
25C
processing
temperature(3)
EnviroPrint Developer
EnviroPrint Developer MP160
EnviroPrint Developer MP108 (1)
EnviroPrint Developer MP108 (2)
EnviroPrint Developer MP73 AC
EnviroPrint Developer MP60 AC
EnviroPrint Developer MP45 AC
EnviroPrint FP Developer MR
EnviroPrint CP48 II Developer
CPRA Developer AC
CPRA Developer
CPRA Developer (with CD60)
CPRA Pro Developer
CPRA Digital Pro Developer AC
10.30 0.05
1.031 0.003
1.030 0.003
1.026 0.003
10.30 0.05
1.033 0.003
1.032 0.003
1.028 0.003
10.27 0.05
1.032 0.003
1.031 0.003
1.027 0.003
12.05 0.05
1.029 0.003
1.028 0.003
1.024 0.003
10.15 0.05
1.040 0.003
1.039 0.003
1.035 0.003
10.25 0.05
1.040 0.003
1.039 0.003
1.035 0.003
10.08 0.05
1.050 0.003
1.049 0.003
1.045 0.003
See TIS RA4 FP chemistry for Fast Processing
10.28 0.05
1.053 0.003
1.052 0.003
1.048 0.003
10.15 0.05
1.032 0.003
1.031 0.003
1.028 0.003
10.20 0.05
1.030 0.003
1.029 0.003
1.026 0.003
10.20 0.05
1.030 0.003
1.029 0.003
1.026 0.003
10.15 0.05
1.032 0.003
1.031 0.003
1.028 0.003
10.20 0.05
1.037 0.003
1.036 0.003
1.032 0.003
6.50 0.20
6.50 0.20
6.70 0.20
6.70 0.20
7.20 0.20
7.20 0.20
1.069 0.010
1.087 0.010
1.097 0.010
1.099 0.010
1.125 0.010
1.125 0.010
1.068 0.010
1.086 0.010
1.096 0.010
1.097 0.010
1.124 0.010
1.124 0.010
1.065 0.010
1.083 0.010
1.093 0.010
1.095 0.010
1.120 0.010
1.120 0.010
6.50 0.20
1.074 0.005
1.073 0.005
1.070 0.005
6.70 0.50
1.089 0.010
1.087 0.010
Notes :
(1)
(2)
(3)
(3)
(4)
page 38
TANK
Density (g/cm)
pH
25C
20C
25C
processing
temperature(2)
10.20 0.05
10.25 0.05
1.041 0.003
1.042 0.003
1.040 0.003
1.041 0.003
1.036 0.003
1.037 0.003
6.60 0.20
6.60 0.20
6.40 0.20
1.115 0.020
1.115 0.020
1.110 0.020
1.114 0.020
1.114 0.20
1.109 0.020
1.111 0.020
1.111 0.020
1.106 0.020
EnviroPrint Bio-Bleach
3.60 0.10
1.027 0.003
1.026 0.003
1.024 0.003
6.70 0.50
1.090 0.020
1.089 0.020
1.087 0.020
(3)
Product
pH
25C
10.75 0.03
10.80 0.03
REPLENISHER
Density (g/cm)
20C
25C
1.040 0.003
1.039 0.003
1.041 0.003
1.040 0.003
6.30 0.20
6.30 0.20
5.80 0.20
1.125 0.020
1.125 0.020
1.120 0.020
1.124 0.020
1.124 0.020
1.119 0.020
EnviroPrint Bio-Bleach
3.20 0.10
1.035 0.003
1.034 0.003
6.70 0.50
1.100 0.020
1.099 0.020
(3)
XI.
page 39
PROCESS MONITORING
It is recommended that the activity level of the chemical baths in each paper processor should be monitored
daily. Pre-exposed control strips should be run at least 2 or 3 times each day; the first strip prior to processing
paper, and then at evenly spaced intervals during production.
FUJIFILM Europe chemicals for the RA4 process are designed to be used with any RA4-compatible paper.
However, it is most important that you monitor your paper process with process control strips from the same
manufacturer who makes your paper. There are quite significant differences between the papers from different
manufacturers.
Whenever corrective action is taken, either to improve process control or to adjust the processing machine, a
control strip should be run to determine the effects of the change. It is wise to adjust the processor only after a
trend has been established, which usually requires at least three control strips to have been run.
It is strongly urged that each photo processing laboratory keeps at least two code numbers or series of strips on
hand as variations between different series can be quite large. A sharp variation with a new code number may
not be the processor, but rather may be the difference between the control strips themselves. It should be
standard practice to process a strip with a new code along with one of the current code numbers to determine
that both strips record the same chemical activity. It is also recommended that the densitometer be re-calibrated
and that reference strips be re-read in case any large deviations are experienced. This procedure will eliminate
erroneous readings due to a problem with the densitometer or strips.
FUJIFILM Europe recommends the plotting of D-max values in addition to the normal control plots of D-min
(Stain), LD (Speed), and HD-LD (Contrast). With the RA4 process, the D-max step can be a considerable aid in
early detection of many processing problems, as this reading is representative of the point at which all of the
chemicals are having to work at their hardest. The D-max step is particularly sensitive to changes in chemical
activity, while the HD-LD step is rarely affected (unlike the C41 or EP2 processes).
page 40
page 41
Probable Cause(s)
1. Developer temperature too low.
Corrective Action(s)
1. Increase developer temperature. It should
not be necessary to exceed +1C above
process specification.
4. Developer underreplenished.
5. Developer oxidised.
added.
Low blue D-max, possibly low
1. Developer
underreplenished.Low
paper).
previously
care
developer.
underreplenished
with
regenerated
developer
page 42
Problem
High value in LD and D-max.
Probable Cause(s)
1. Developer temperature too high.
Corrective Action(s)
1. Decrease developer temperature. It
should not exceed -1C below process
specification.
3. Developer overreplenished.
4. Developer overconcentrated.
washes.
Maximum pH is 4.5.
solution).
3.
low throughput.
4.
Use a higher replenishment rate bleachfix to ensure good tank turnover rates,
use CPRA Digital Pro Bleach-Fix,
or add Ultra Bleach-Fix Extender..
Problem
Low red D-max (reddish
page 43
Probable Cause(s)
1.
Corrective Action(s)
1.
blacks on paper).
2.
2.
3.
3.
super stabilizer.
4.
4.
antioxidant added.
5.
5.
fix.
paper).
underreplenished bleach-fix,
fixer tank.
page 44