3D Innovations H-182 (ENG)2 manual Storage, Projection

STORAGE

Choosing a storage facility for cellulose nitrate films depends on the amount of film to be stored.

For short-term storage, you can use approved film cabinets for storing up to 750 pounds of film (equal to 150 1000- foot rolls). Use vaults for longer-term storage of amounts up to 750 pounds. Always store amounts over 750 pounds in vaults. Be sure to segregate cellulose nitrate films from other film storage areas.

For extended-term storage (for preservation of material having permanent value), store in archival cabinets or vaults that contain individual compartments and allow for decomposition gas venting.

Do not exceed 70°F inside the storage vault, and maintain the relative humidity below 50 percent. For long-term storage requirements, store the film at 35°F at 20- to 30-percent relative humidity.

Refer to the design specifications for film cabinets and vaults, including materials of construction, maximum capacity, venting, and sprinkler requirements found in NFPA 40, Chapter 4. You should also check your local fire code for additional film storage requirements.

In addition to cool and dry storage, Molecular Sieves are recommended for storage of all cellulose nitrate films. You can promote extended keeping and preservation of cellulose nitrate films with the placement of Molecular Sieves inside the film storage container. These sieves scavenge and catalytically decompose the gases that are generated during the storage of cellulose nitrate films and retard the degradation reactions. Molecular Sieves are available from FPC,

6677 Santa Monica Boulevard, Los Angeles, California 90038,

(800) 814-1333 or (213) 468-1574.

Exposure to temperatures in excess of 185°F accelerates decomposition of these films. While they deteriorate, nitrate-based films can develop pressure and heat in the film can, especially when the can is taped closed. Contained gases and heat can lead to spontaneous combustion. Therefore, it is recommended that you store cellulose nitrate films in painted or tin-plated metal cans with loose lids. Do not tape the lids or use tight-fitting lids unless you are using Molecular Sieves.

Decomposition gases (powerful oxidizing agents) can also react with nearby acetate and polyester base films, so you will need to store cellulose nitrate films in a separate area. The decomposition gases can also promote decomposition of nearby cellulose nitrate films. If your cellulose nitrate films need to be stored, but have started to deteriorate, you must store them in an area that is separate from other cellulose nitrate film storage areas.

Store cellulose nitrate films in vaults in single or double roll containers or in approved shipping containers. You will need to examine the entire length of nitrate films prior to vault storage. If they are stored with temperature and humidity controls, you should inspect nitrate films on a hand rewind machine annually. Where storage conditions are not controlled, you should examine films every six months, or more frequently in warm climates. Any nitrate films you find in good condition can be returned to the storage vault. Any films that have progressed to the third stage of decomposition need to be destroyed at an approved facility.

PROJECTION

You need to exercise care when attempting to project cellulose nitrate films. Cellulose nitrate motion picture films may be brittle and shrunken. Do not attempt to unroll or project a cellulose nitrate film unless you are thoroughly familiar with its physical characteristics. Improper projection can damage or destroy the film.

Because of the potential fire hazards, the projection of cellulose nitrate films is not a common practice. You should project cellulose nitrate films only in specially designed enclosures using projectors with air cooling systems. (Refer to design specifications in NFPA 40, Chapter 6.) Projection booths in older theaters were typically constructed with thick concrete walls, large steel doors mounted on rolling tracks, and explosion relief panels. Specialized projectors with fire prevention rollers were also used.

Since decomposition is accelerated with high temperatures, projecting cellulose nitrate film without air cooling systems will advance the decomposition stage. Therefore, do not return film that was exposed to high temperatures to your storage vault for long-term storage. You can reprint your film onto safety film and then send the cellulose nitrate film to an authorized facility to be destroyed.

Safe Handling, Storage, and Destruction of Nitrate-Based Motion Picture Films • H-182 (ENG) 3