The first public demonstration of the new Virtu Quantum wide-format digital ink-jet printer from Switzerland-based manufacturer Polytype will take place at drupa in May, it has been announced.

The UV-curable Virtu Quantum is available in widths of 2.5 and 3.5m and in roll-to-roll and flat-bed modes, and features 10pl print-heads to enable the production of resolutions up to 1,400dpi. It can achieve speeds up to 300sq m/hr in production mode and 150 to 180sq m/hr in photographic mode, Polytype states, after subjecting it to 'rigorous' tests.

Polytype will demonstrate the Virtu Quantum's ability to print to a range of materials at drupa 2012

"Polytype does what other manufacturers dare not do: we will drive a new machine hard in an actual working situation to make sure that we are aware of all of its capabilities," says Sylvia Muhr, sales and marketing director for Polytype's Virtu Business Unit.

"In doing so, we have fine-tuned the Virtu Quantum to deliver an unparalleled combination of speed and quality in its machine category, and visitors to our stand at drupa 2012 will be amongst the first to witness it match its full potential."

The Virtu Quantum can print onto glass as well as a range of common and unusual substrates.