for cassettes and exposure holders, storage for hangers, a wastepaper receptacle, and
storage for processing materials. Generalized layouts for a loading bench are shown in
figures 2-4 and 2-5. In figure 2-4, the racks for storing dry film hangers are above the
loading bench and storage compartments are beneath the bench.
b. Loading Area. The length of the loading bench depends on the volume of work
and the space available. The minimum length of the working surface should
accommodate two 14 by 17-inch cassettes, side by side, to permit unloading and
reloading of two cassettes. Preferably, it should be long enough to accommodate at least
four 14 by 17-inch cassettes, side by side, to preclude piling of cassettes. The working
surfaces shown in figures 2-4 and 2-5 require approximately 96 inches, exclusive of
transfer cabinet and dryer space. The bench should be about 36 inches high and 24
inches deep. A strip of one-half by one-inch molding placed lengthwise and six inches
from the back edge of the bench anchors the cassettes while they are being opened and
closed and keeps them at the front of the bench within the working area of maximum
efficiency.
c. Film Bin. It is customary to keep a supply of opened boxes of film sufficient for
immediate needs underneath the loading bench. The most convenient method is to use a
lightproof film bin having compartment in which opened film boxes can be kept upright.
d. Storage Compartments. The ideal way to store cassettes and exposure
holders is in vertical compartment so that they are readily accessible but do not encroach
on the working surface of the bench top.
e. Storage Cabinets. As shown in figures 2-4 and 2-5, closed cupboards for such
items as packaged chemicals, solution-mixing accessories, and towels may be located
either above or below the loading bench.
f. Storage of Hangers. In manual processing, film hangers are usually stored
above or below the loading bench. The hanger should be hung so that the specialist can
remove it from the brackets by grasping one of the bottom corners to avoid unnecessary
turning. Those stored above the bench hang with crossbars up while those below the
bench hang with crossbars down. When hung above the bench, they should clear the
bench by 24 inches.
g. Cassette Transfer Cabinet (Pass boxes). For convenience, the transfer
cabinet should open onto one end of the loading bench. It should open outside into the
central booth or some other place directly accessible to the exposure room.
h. Waste Receptacle. The best arrangement for a wastepaper receptacle is to
incorporate it into the loading bench (figure 2-4). A suitable container will do instead, but it
may interfere with traffic and encourage dumping of dust from other rooms.
MD0954
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