2026-06-14 - Stainless Steel Developing Tank – 4, 7 + 12'' High

 

Benefits of Stainless Steel Tanks:

·        Temperature Control: The metal body is highly conductive, allowing the tank to respond rapidly to a temperature-controlled water bath.

·        Durability: Unlike plastic tanks, stainless steel won't crack over time and is resistant to chemical staining.

·        Chemical Efficiency: Stainless steel tanks generally require less liquid volume to cover the same number of reels compared to plastic "Super System" designs. 

  

A standard 4-inch high stainless steel developing tank is designed to hold one 35mm film reel. These tanks are a darkroom staple due to their durability and superior temperature conductivity compared to plastic alternatives. 

Key Features:

·        Reel Compatibility: Most stainless steel tanks are sold without reels. You will need to purchase a separate 35mm stainless steel reel to use with a 4-inch tank.

·        Chemistry Volume: A single 35mm reel usually requires ~250ml, and a 120 reel requires ~500ml.

A 7-inch high stainless steel developing tank is a multi-reel or large format tank typically designed to hold up to four 35mm reels or two 120/220 medium format reels.

Key Features:

·        Reel Capacity: Fits approximately four 35mm reels or two 120/220 reels.

·        Chemistry Volume: To fully submerge two 120 reels or four 35mm reels, you generally need roughly 30–32 oz (approx. 900–950ml) of solution.

A 12-inch high stainless steel developing tank is a high-capacity multi-reel tank designed for processing large batches of film simultaneously. While standard tanks typically hold 1 or 2 reels, a tank of this height is generally intended for professionals or high-volume hobbyists.

Key Features:

·        Reel Capacity: Fits eight reels of 35mm film or four reels of 120 or 220 film.

·        Chemistry Volume: To fully submerge all reels, you will need approximately 2 litres (64–68 oz) of chemistry.