UV alternatives

[Albert.Adderley]

Hi has any one tried to print gum bicromates with the low engery UV tubes that are now available rather than the tubes usually used in this process.
They look to give the same out put for less heat but not sure as I am just about ro start my gum printing.
Al

[Albert.Adderley]

By low energy tubes I mean the type that
Fit in a normal bulb holder was thinking of making up a box with 8 of them in sorry forgot this from last post

[D. Bryant]

By low energy tubes I mean the type that
Fit in a normal bulb holder was thinking of making up a box with 8 of them in sorry forgot this from last post

You need to determine what the peak spectral output the bulbs have. Ideally that will be in the range of 350nm to about 400nm. This is the wavelength range alt processes are sensitive to. It's best to do some research about UV lighting at this point before commiting to a construction project. On the other hand I do know some people have stated these type of spiral bulbs with an Edison base work well when used in a 8 or 12 bulb array. The trick is finding the proper bulb.

Do you have any prior experience gum printing or printing other alt. processes? If not start out by sun printing until you get a feel for the process you are interested in.

Good luck,

Don Bryant

[Albert.Adderley]

Hi thanks don this is my first try atnalt process only done normal darkroom before
Al