Inside Kodak's Film Manufacturing Process: A Look at How Film is Made

🎥Analog film photography is experiencing a resurgence in popularity.

🎞️Kodak's ESTAR film support is made from polyester polyethylene terephthalate, providing strength and longevity.

🌫️The film manufacturing process involves grinding pellets into a fine powder, drying, and solidifying it.

🔬The film is subjected to rigorous testing to ensure quality, including measuring intrinsic viscosity to determine moisture content.

🔨Collaboration between experienced and younger employees ensures the legacy and future of film manufacturing.

Why is analog film photography making a comeback?

—Analog film photography offers a unique aesthetic and tangible experience that cannot be replicated by digital photography. Many photographers appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship of film photography.

What is ESTAR film support made of?

—ESTAR film support is made from polyester polyethylene terephthalate (P.E.T.), which provides strength, durability, and stability to the film.

What is the process of manufacturing film?

—The process involves grinding pellets into a fine powder, drying it to remove moisture, and solidifying it to create the film support. The film is then subjected to various quality control tests to ensure its integrity.

How is the moisture content of film measured?

—The moisture content of the film is measured using intrinsic viscosity (I.V.) testing, correlating the viscosity to the water content. This ensures that the film meets the required specifications and is free from defects.

What is the role of experienced employees in film manufacturing?

—Experienced employees play a crucial role in mentoring and passing on their knowledge and expertise to the younger generation. This collaboration ensures a seamless transition and the preservation of the legacy of film manufacturing.

00:00Introduction to the resurgence of analog film photography and the manufacturing process of film.

04:46Explanation of Kodak's ESTAR film support and its strength and longevity.

09:14Grinding of pellets into a fine powder to prepare for the manufacturing process.

11:00Control room and reactor overview, including drying and solidifying the film.

12:34Details about fluidized polymer reactors and the process of filling, feeding, and solidifying the film.