John R. Turner

A Machine for Cleaning Motion-Picture Film

A machine is described for the cleaning of motion-picture film by the spray application of water containing a detergent. Following the spray wash, rinse sprays and an Ott-type squeegee provide additional cleaning action prior to drying. The film is wet for such a short time that little moisture penetration occurs, and only a brief drying time is necessary. The film is not subjected to physical contact with wipers or buffers, nor are other scratch or abrasion hazards present on the machine. Surface deposits, loose dirt, and embedded dirt normally encountered on motion-picture film are effectively removed. Coatings of some alkali-soluble lacquer used on motion-picture film are effectively removed by the use of alkaline solutions in the sprays in place of the detergent solution. The results of experimental cleaning trials have shown this machine to be particularly satisfactory for color films. Black-and-white films may be subject to density losses when rewetted and dried more than 10 times.