2-12. PROCESSING HANGERS
a. Types. There are three general types of processing hangers:
(1) Sheet film hanger. The sheet film hanger holds the x-ray film taut during
processing. It consists of a crossbar and rigid frame to which are attached four clips, two
of which are mounted on a bow spring welded to the crossbar (figure 2-9).
(2) Dental film hanger. The dental film hanger consists of a bar to which film
clips are attached.
(3) Roll film hanger. When it is necessary to process roll film and a special
processing tank is not available, a special adjustable processing hanger may be used. It
will accept 35, 45, 50, 60, and 70 mm film widths and any length up to 11 feet. The outer
frame is approximately the size of a 14 by 17-inch hanger and can be used in the regular
processing tanks. For four by 10-inch short film and 70 mm roll film, there are special
hangers, which will fit the same five-gallon tanks.
Figure 2-9. Processing hangers.
b. Hanger Adjustment. Bow springs of hangers lose tension through prolonged
use and must occasionally be adjusted. To adjust the hanger, place it on the loading
bench. Insert a sheet of cardboard from a film box (of the same size as that for which the
hanger will be used) into the jaws of the lower clips. Bend the bow springs upward until
the lower tips of the clips attached to them are about one-eighth inch from the top edge of
the cardboard.
c. Hanger Maintenance. Metal film hangers and clips tend to accumulate a
spongy deposit of silver with use. Chemicals not washed from these deposits can leak out
and fog film or foul other solutions. Frequent scrubbings with cleansing powder will
prevent this deposit. For really stubborn deposits, there are four possible treatments.
(1) Acetic acid treatment. Soak the hangers or clips for an hour in a tray filled
with a 10-percent solution of acetic acid to nine parts water or one part 28-percent acetic
acid to two parts water). Then wash with clear water and a stiff brush.
MD0954
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