What is the best way to avoid the static and shedding problems common in polyester prints?
Opinions and experiences on this topic vary widely; most, however, agree that the following suggestions are at least somewhat helpful for reducing the problems associated with polyester prints; these prints can be identified by their inability to break (for example, by trying to tear off a bit of head or tail leader) and their apparent translucent quality when a reel his held sideways near a light source. Humidity in the booth needs to be kept at a moderate level, in attempt to avoid the static problems which come along with polyester film. Additionally, if using platters, the platters should be grounded and/or made of non- conducting material. As is always the case, the projector gate should be cleaned as often as possible between shows to minimize the scratching and dust effects of shedding prints. As an extreme measure, metal objects (grounded) may be placed near the film path in attempt to drain static away from the film as it runs through the rollers.
