There are two types of processing methods for developing radiographs.They are:
1.Manual processing
a.Visual method.
b.Time-Temperature method.
2.Automatic processing
Manual processing:
a.Visual method:
The visual method of manual processing is carried out in a dark room with safe lighting conditions.In this method,an exposed x-ray film is immersed in the developing solution and periodically viewed under the safelight for the emergence of a clear image.When the image appears on the film,the film is washed and immersed in the fixing solution.
b.Time-Temperature method:
Time-Temperature method is a type of manual processing method in which effective standardisation may be achieved without any automatic aids.This is a simple technique of immersing the film in the developer kept at a constant temperature for a fixed duration of time.
Temperature Development time
65 degrees F 6 minutes
68 degrees F 5 minutes
70 degrees 4 minutes
72 degrees 4 minutes
76 degrees 3 minutes
Though the manual processing has a clear advantage that the action of development is under the direct control of the operator,there is a necessity to handle wet film and the requirement of a dark room.Manual processing is also time consuming.
2.Automatic processing of x-ray films
In automatic processing machines,the exposed film is fed at one end and it passes successively through the developer,fixer,water and drier.In automatic processing,the step of rinsing in water after developing is avoided.As the roller system has a squeezing action,the developing solution absorbed by the gelatin of the emulsion will be less as it is transported from the developer to the fixer.
The automatic processing machines make use of belt- driven roller system for the transport of the film.The temperature of the procesing solution is also maintained.The film comes out through the other end of the processor,processed,dry and ready for viewing.