The launch of the 3.2x1.6m printer, which carries a price tag of around 205,000 (E300,000), follows recent introductions of entry-level wide-format Nur Tempo and Vutek UltraVu machines.

The Spyder 320, which uses the Sericol Uvijet UV inks already employed on Inca's high-end Eagle and Columbia models, can print at up to 50m per hour with an average speed of 35m per hour.
Substrates up to 30mm thick and weighing as much as 80kg can be handled by the 1,000dpi machine.

Uniquely for an Inca flatbed press, the Spyder features a static vacuum table, which holds the substrate, and a moving print carriage.

Inca managing director Bill Baxter said that the Spyder's high resolution would give print customers "the potential to enter new markets that require close-up viewing, including industrial sectors such as gaming and vending machines and products fabricated from metals and plastics".

The printer also features linear motors and vibration-free air bearings, as well as Spectra print heads. Baxter said that the combination would ensure "an extremely smooth and rapid positioning of the print carriage and uniquely accurate ink drop placement."

The launch comes almost a year after a 1x1.5m prototype of the Spyder was shown at Drupa last May.

The launch of the Spyder and the Columbia Turbo were credited for Inca trebling its profits in 2003/4 to 1m, on turnover of 14.2m.
Baxter added: "We expect the Spyder 320 printer to become our best-selling model during the next 12 months."

Cambridge-based Inca will demonstrate the press for the first time at German print show Fespa, which takes place in Munich from 31 May to 4 June.

The first Spyder in the UK was delivered as a beta machine to The Valley Group in Bingley, West Yorkshire.

In addition, Cardiff large-format specialist Premier Aspects installed a Spyder in December, and also placed an order for a second machine.

Story by Josh Brooks