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 – FLEX is setting new standards with the GE 6 R-EC and GE 6 X-EC, presenting the lightest and most flexible long-neck sanders ever. The GE 6 R-EC, the lightest giraffe sander, is now joined by the GE 6 X-EC, offering unparalleled flexibility with its eccentric sanding motion for gentle sanding on diverse surfaces. These two models deliver new benchmarks in performance, weight, ergonomics, and versatility.
GE 6 R-EC: The Lightest Giraffe Sander of All Time
This represents progress: The GE 6 R-EC long-neck sander from FLEX offers 50 percent less weight and 60 percent more power. These attributes make it the lightest giraffe sander on the market. Featuring a carbon fiber tube, a universal joint for the sanding head, and a 160-degree swivel range, it provides superior ergonomics and efficiency. FLEX Product Manager Ralf Paertmann states, “The most important criteria for a long-neck sander – effective dust extraction, low weight, sanding head flexibility, high material removal rate, and ergonomics – are at the core of our new giraffes. They are the perfect solution for tradespeople who value performance alongside maximum user-friendliness.”
Key Features of GE 6 R-EC:
- 50% less weight, 60% more power
- Carbon fiber tube for reduced weight
- 160-degree swivel range for enhanced ergonomics and efficiency
- Effective dust extraction system
GE 6 X-EC: Eccentric Motion for Gentle Sanding on Diverse Surfaces
Complementing the rotary GE 6 R-EC, FLEX now expands its portfolio with the GE 6 X-EC. Its eccentric sanding motion ensures gentle operation, making it ideal for sanding various surface materials. It offers tradespeople optimized control and is perfect for sensitive surfaces. Weighing just 2.9 kg, this model also sets new standards in the long-neck sander segment.
Key Features of GE 6 X-EC:
- Eccentric sanding motion for gentle surface treatment
- Optimized control for sensitive materials
- Low weight of 2.9 kg
Innovative Sanding Concept
The particularly flat sanding head design with a rim segment and universal joint, combined with the best-in-class 160-degree swivel range, enables exceptionally flexible work. The reduced weight is especially beneficial for overhead work due to leverage principles. The new giraffes feature a carbon fiber tube, significantly reducing weight and greatly improving ergonomics. The entire sanding head assembly was re-engineered by FLEX engineers. The carrier disc was completely redesigned with centering aids for secure attachment of sanding pads. An integrated interface pad made of viscoelastic foam ensures a perfect flush sanding for optimal results by preventing vibrations. This prevents irregularities from being transferred to the wall and reduces vibrations in the user's arms and shoulders. These redesigned components contribute to cleaner work results and improved ergonomics and handling.
Optimized Air-Flow for Ideal Dust Extraction
The optimized air-flow, featuring an air-guiding system that enhances suction power, ensures ideal dust extraction. Eliminating edges within the housing significantly reduces residual dust accumulation. A brush ring further supports dust extraction. “These three elements – abrasive, sanding pad, and carrier disc – must be coordinated to achieve clean, optimal air-flow through this fine-tuning,” explains FLEX Product Manager Ralf Paertmann.
Ergonomics and User Experience
Beyond the up to 50 percent lighter weight during operation, the new FLEX giraffes offer enhanced ergonomics. A user-facing elastic rubber membrane absorbs vibrations and provides better feedback during sanding, resulting in a cleaner and more uniform sanding pattern. The flexible shaft reduces weight at the sanding head, greatly simplifying handling. Combined with the planetary gearbox, which ensures low-vibration and smooth operation, significant ergonomic improvements have been achieved.
Flexible Shaft for Balanced Handling
FLEX Product Manager Ralf Paertmann explains the improved handling: “A flexible shaft drives the disc, so there is no significant weight on the sanding plate; the drive and weight are close to the user. This ensures much better handling. This balanced weight distribution is crucial for comfortable carrying and application.”
Safety and Quality Through Protected Connections
Further enhancing quality and safety, the connection points for cables and hoses are protected. The suction connection, for example, is routed downwards and protected to prevent the suction hose from kinking. The switch is also protected, and the D-handle provides ergonomic and secure handling.
Innovative Technology for Maximum Efficiency
The new GE 6 X-EC utilizes advanced technology, including a wear-free magnetic eddy current brake. By rotating a metal plate within a magnetic field, eddy currents are induced, generating a magnetic field that brakes the metal plate contactlessly and without wear.
Pricing and Availability
The GE 6 R-EC is available for €829, and the new GE 6 X-EC for €899, both including a transport bag and excluding VAT. Further accessories are available at www.flex-tools.com.
About FLEX
FLEX-Elektrowerkzeuge GmbH, headquartered in Steinheim/Murr, has been a reliable partner for professional users in various industries for over 100 years. FLEX focuses on four key target groups: renovation and refurbishment, metalworking, automotive, and natural stone processing. Through continuous dialogue with users in these areas, FLEX consistently develops innovative solutions that make work more efficient and economical.
FLEX power tools and electric tools are used worldwide in workshops, production halls, and construction sites. A particular focus is placed on the FLEX cordless range, which offers a wide array of cable-free tools for maximum flexibility and performance. This technology enables users to work more efficiently and with greater mobility.
FLEX has been recognized as one of Germany's most innovative companies by CAPITAL and Statista in 2024. In 2022, FLEX was also honored as one of the most innovative companies in the German SME sector with the “TOP 100 Innovator” award and received the “Top Company” seal from kununu for outstanding employer quality. Numerous awards for FLEX products include the German Design Award, the iF Product Design Award, the Red Dot Design Award, and the Plus X Award.
With a global sales network in the trade, FLEX offers innovative tools for the highest demands. Further information is available at www.flex-tools.com.
