6 Processing Options with KODAK EKTACOLOR Chemicals - 125px

DREP OPTION FOR KODAK
EKTACOLOR RA BLEACH
REGENERATOR AND KODAK
EKTACOLOR RA FIXER REGENERATOR
If your processor is set up to use a separate bleach and fixer,
you can reduce labor and save space by using the DRep
option. Using this option eliminates mixing and
regeneration, and the space needed for those operations. It
also reduces the space needed for chemical and replenisher
storage. Effluent discharge levels should not be affected.
Instead of the usual routine of regenerating the bleach and
fixer (collecting overflow, regenerating, adjusting pH, and
transferring the treated solution to replenisher storage),
simply feed the regenerator concentrates directly into the
processor tanks at very low rates. You eliminate all the other
steps, including pH adjustment.
With the DRep option, you should check the pH and
specific gravity of the bleach and fixer tank solutions, and
monitor squeegee wear frequently to maintain an in-control
process.
Equipment and Chemicals
To convert, you need storage tanks of the proper size for the
concentrate, and you must equip the processor with pumps
capable of delivering small volumes of replenisher. Then
adjust the bleach and fixer replenishment rates. These
modifications are relatively simple.
You don’t need to change any of the solutions; this option
uses the same chemicals used for separate bleach and fixer,
but in concentrated form. Flush the lines and prime them
with the chemical concentrates.
You will need the following equipment:
• Two replenisher storage tanks (high-density
polypropylene or Type 316 stainless steel) of a size that
will hold a 2- to 4-week supply of bleach or fixer
concentrate.
• Two pumps that can accurately and precisely meter out
small volumes of replenisher concentrate (pump and valve
seals should be made of EPDM).
• 3 ⁄ 4-inch (20 mm) hard PVC piping, reinforced PVC, or
Teflon hose for replenisher lines from the tanks to the
processor.
Because the replenisher is used in concentrated form, you
don’t need a replenisher storage tank as large as those needed
for standard bleach and fixer replenishment. The tanks
should hold approximately a 2- to 4-week supply of bleach
and fixer concentrate. You can eliminate bleach and fixer
overflow storage tanks and some solution-transfer stations.
If the replenishers supply multiple processors, install
junctions in the lines.
To prevent chemical spills, install a solenoid valve in the
replenisher line near the replenisher supply tanks. Connect
the solenoid valve to the replenisher pump relay so that the
concentrates flow only during replenishment.
You can also replenish directly from the drums of
concentrate. If you do, provide a signal to indicate when the
drum is empty, a way to change drums and transfer residual
concentrate, and a way to bleed air from the replenisher
lines.
6-18 Using KODAK EKTACOLOR RA Chemicals