FLEX Introduces the GE 6 R-EC and GE 6 X-EC: The World's Lightest and Most Flexible Long-Neck Sanders
Steinheim, February 2025
Revolutionary Design for Enhanced Performance
FLEX is setting new standards with the GE 6 R-EC and GE 6 X-EC, the lightest and most flexible long-neck sanders ever developed. The GE 6 R-EC, a rotating sander, is the lightest of its kind, while the new GE 6 X-EC offers unparalleled flexibility with its eccentric sanding motion for gentle sanding on diverse surfaces. These models deliver exceptional value, combining power, low weight, ergonomics, and versatility.
GE 6 R-EC: The Lightest Giraffe Sander Ever
Experience the future of sanding with the GE 6 R-EC. This long-neck sander boasts 50% less weight and 60% more power compared to previous models, making it the lightest on the market. Its carbon fiber shaft, universal joint for the sanding head, and a 160-degree swivel range ensure superior ergonomics and efficiency. FLEX Product Manager Ralf Paertmann highlights that key criteria such as effective dust extraction, low weight, head flexibility, high material removal rate, and ergonomics are central to these new giraffes. They are the ideal solution for tradespeople who value performance and user-friendliness.
Key Features of GE 6 R-EC:
- 50% lighter weight
- 60% more power
- Carbon fiber shaft for reduced weight and improved ergonomics
- 160-degree swivel range of the sanding head
- Optimized Air-Flow system for superior dust extraction
GE 6 X-EC: Eccentric Motion for Gentle Sanding
Complementing the rotating GE 6 R-EC, the GE 6 X-EC features an eccentric sanding motion, providing exceptionally gentle sanding suitable for a wide array of surface materials. This model offers tradespeople optimized control and is perfect for sensitive surfaces. Weighing just 2.9 kg, it also sets new benchmarks in the long-neck sander segment.
Key Features of GE 6 X-EC:
- Eccentric sanding motion for gentle finishing
- Optimized control for sensitive surfaces
- Lightweight design at only 2.9 kg
Innovative Sanding Concept and Ergonomics
Both models feature a newly developed sanding head with a flat design, edge segment, and universal joint, facilitating highly flexible work with the extensive 160-degree swivel range. The reduced weight is particularly noticeable when working overhead, thanks to the lever effect. The use of carbon fiber for the shaft significantly reduces overall weight, leading to substantially improved ergonomics.
FLEX engineers have completely redesigned the sanding head structure to achieve these optimizations. The backing pad, mounted in a centering ring, is equipped with centering aids. An integrated interface pad made of special foam rubber ensures a smooth sanding effect by preventing vibrations. This design minimizes irregularities on surfaces and reduces strain on the user's arms and shoulders, resulting in a cleaner finish and enhanced ergonomics.
Optimized Air-Flow for Ideal Dust Extraction
The optimized Air-Flow system, featuring a guiding system that enhances extraction performance, ensures ideal dust removal. By eliminating edges within the housing, residual dust is minimized. A brush ring further supports the extraction process. "These three elements – the abrasive, the sanding pad, and the backing pad – must be perfectly coordinated to achieve precise alignment and result in clean, optimal Air-Flow," explains FLEX Product Manager Ralf Paertmann.
Ergonomic Advantage and User Comfort
The improved ergonomics of the new FLEX giraffes are not solely due to the 50% lighter weight. An elastic rubber membrane placed on the user side absorbs vibrations, providing better feedback during sanding and contributing to a cleaner, more uniform sanding pattern. The flexible shaft reduces the load on the sanding head, making handling significantly easier. Combined with the planetary gear drive, which ensures low-vibration and smooth operation, the ergonomics have been considerably enhanced throughout the development process.
FLEX Product Manager Ralf Paertmann elaborates on the ease of use: "The disc is driven by a flexible shaft, so there is no heavy weight on the front of the sanding plate. Instead, the drive and weight are located close to the user. This significantly improves handling. This balance is crucial for carrying comfort and ease of use."
Safety and Quality Through Secure Connections
Further enhancing quality and safety, the cable and hose connection points on the new giraffes are well-protected. The suction connection has been safely relocated downwards to prevent kinks in the suction hose. The switch has also been redesigned for increased safety, and the spade handle ensures ergonomic and secure operation.
Innovative Technology for Maximum Efficiency
The new GE 6 X-EC utilizes state-of-the-art technology, including a wear-free magnetic eddy current brake. This brake works by inducing eddy currents in a magnetic field as a metal plate rotates within it, magnetically slowing down the metal plate without contact and thus without wear.
Contact Information
FLEX Power Tools B.V.
Rob de Koning, General Director
Sigarenmaker 3A
5521 DJ Eersel
Netherlands
Tel: +31 (0)497-581030
Mail: info@flex-tools.nl
FLEX Power Tools BVBA
Rob de Koning, General Director
Toekomstlaan 4-3
2200 Herentals
Belgium
Tel: +32 (0)14-220569
Mail: info@flex-tools.be
About FLEX
FLEX Power Tools, headquartered in Steinheim a/d Murr, Germany, is dedicated to the needs of professional tradespeople. For over 90 years, the renowned manufacturer of grinding machines and power tools has focused on where its tools are used: on construction sites, in workshops, and factories. Through continuous dialogue and years of experience, FLEX consistently develops new and innovative solutions for better and more efficient work. FLEX products have received numerous awards, including the German Design Award 2011, the iF product design award 2011, the Red Dot Design Award 2014 and 2018, and the Plus X Award 2014, 2019, and 2020. FLEX currently employs approximately 320 people and sells its products through a worldwide distribution network to specialist dealers. More information is available at www.flex-tools.com.
Note: The masculine form is generally used in our texts for better readability. Feminine and other gender identities are explicitly included where necessary for clarity.
