How do I decode Ilford's HP5+ batch number?

[AtlantaTerry]

A photographer who is retiring gave me a 100 sheet box of 4x5 Ilford HP5 Plus.

The batch number on the box is: 25DHK1X03/1-7

Can anyone decode that batch number and tell me when the film was made?

Since I don't know when the film was made or how it was stored I just loaded six sheet film holders to shoot some tests. I think I will expose the tests for ISO 400, 320 and 200. Then I will develop them in good old D76 1:1. However, if any experts out there think I should use HC110, I just bought a bottle so could use that.

Any advice is appreciated.

Thanks.

[Martin Dake]

This may help...

http://www.palomarkovic.net/mobile/BatchNumberDecoder/

[Robert Langham]

No matter what the batch number is you'll know more after developing a sheet. Cut one in half and put half in the fix and run the other half. Compare base/plus/fog density. That ought to tell the tale. I like HP5 1:1 in Xtol at 68F for about 8:40 in a tray. Rates at 400 on my Pentax Spot Meter.

West Dike, Shiprock, July, 2013.

East Wall, Shiprock, July, 2013.

[Jerry Bodine]

You could also query Ilford from their website Contact Us. They've always been very helpful whenever I've done that.

http://www.ilfordphoto.com/home.asp

[Sal Santamaura]

...a 100 sheet box of 4x5 Ilford HP5 Plus.

The batch number on the box is: 25DHK1X03/1-7

Can anyone decode that batch number and tell me when the film was made?...

October 2006. The expiration date should be approximately 2 years after that.

See this thread

http://www.apug.org/forums/forum37/8...-mfg-code.html

for decoding instructions.

[AtlantaTerry]

Great. Thanks!

[Jerry Bodine]

October 2006. The expiration date should be approximately 2 years after that.

If there is a date shown, in addition to the batch code, that would be the expiration date according to Ilford's Customer Service. Not sure if they've always shown the date.