Melodie,

FYI-Many of the Kodak acetate base tapes I've encountered over the
years have exhibited rather severe VS. As Mike pointed out, you
definitely want to keep these tapes separated from any other acetate
tapes.

The degree of problems I've encountered with the Kodak stocks varies
widely. If they were not stored in ideal conditions, be prepared to
see a fair amount of shedding, especially if the base is already
cupping. You may also have problems with the oxide peeling from the
base. If this is the case, I would suggest getting some professional
help, as it were.

Depending on the exact condition, there are a few possible solutions
to the problems you might typically encounter, much too long to go
into here. However, there is hope, as long as the oxide is still
adhered to the base.

Scott D. Smith
Chicago Audio Works, Inc.

Quoting "Frances, Melodie" <[log in to unmask]>:

> The box says Kodak and has a sticker that says 'durol base, new high
> strength triacetate' - the reel itself has not additional info and yes,
> it is separate from everything else (probably by accident by thank
> goodness).
>
> Melodie Morgan Frances
> Head of Cataloging
> Graduate Theological Union
> [log in to unmask]
> 510-649-2521
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Association for Recorded Sound Discussion List
> [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Michael Biel
> Sent: Monday, May 11, 2009 2:10 PM
> To: [log in to unmask]
> Subject: Re: [ARSCLIST] vinegar reel to reel - is it safe to play?
>
> From: "Frances, Melodie" <[log in to unmask]>
>> We have some reel to reel, probably early 60s with a strong vinegar
>> smell and some very visible cupping.
>
> Can we have the brand and type data for this tape if you know it? And
> it should be noted that this tape should be kept away from all other
> tape and the machines fully cleaned after playing it.
>
> Mike Biel [log in to unmask]
>