Molded Squeegee Blades for Photographic Processing

Molded squeegee blades have been introduced in the photo-finishing trade as final squeegees on paper products to remove surface moisture just prior to drying. They are also being tested as crossover squeegees on paper and film processors to reduce solution carry-out and contamination, and thus reduce replenisher rates. A third use under investigation is the improvement of uniformity by submerged agitation. — The blades have been used on film from 8-mm to 14-in wide and on paper from 3.5- to 10.625-in wide with satisfactory results. No product damage was reported, and the blades have longer life and give better wiping than previous squeegee blades. The blades are a molded resilient solid polyurethane, which has good resistance to tear and abrasion and is compatible with photographic processing solutions. The present rocket shape has a 30° wiping edge, flat sides, and a flared base to fit the standard Kodak Squeegee bracket. — A statistical study was conducted to determine the optimum parameters for blade design and installation. Efficiency studies have shown that properly aligned blades can remove up to 95% of the moisture carried on the surface of photographic film. In addition, the tension increase caused by a pair of squeegee blades on 35mm film is in the range of only one fourth to one-half ounce.

Print ISSN

0361-4573

Published

1970-02

Content type

Original Research

DOI

10.5594/J10741