Is anybody else on this list using the Lomo UPB-1 (50/100') 8/16mm processing tank?
The Lomo tank is a great tool for DIY filmmakers, but the materials it is constructed from are too brittle, and replacement parts are impossible to get without having to purchase an entire tank. The lower spindle is especially vulnerable. In our program, we've now had a couple of them break. The first time it happened, we were fortunate enough to have somebody on staff with some formidable machining skills. The piece he fabricated only made the tank capable of processing 50' loads, but we had 2 tanks, so it was no problem. Shortly thereafter, the spindle on the other tank broke. We had since lost our machinist, but gained someone with 3D modeling skills, who created a 3D model of the part. So now we can print a new part when we need it. And now so can you! The model is available on Thingiverse at: http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:722187 For free. And if you share it, please credit the design to the UIC Moving Image and New Media programs. One caveat about this part: although it is made to the dimensions of the original piece, the internal threads in the lower spiral can be worn away at the top because the plastic is brittle. In this case, the bolt can be too short to engage the threads. In the near future we will be uploading a revised model to account for this. If the internal threads on the lower spiral on your tank are worn, you may want to wait. 3D printed replacement parts can breathe new life into tanks that have met with tragedy in the darkroom. It's my hope that sharing this part will help to generate interest in an open-source network of Lomo tank users. Maybe there are some other Frameworkers out there with 3D modeling resources at their disposal, who are willing to create other replacement parts? Paul Dickinson Lab Specialist, Moving Image UIC School of Art and Art History University of Illinois-Chicago 312-996-0767
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