FLEX Press Release

Subject: Stronger, Lighter, and Maximally Flexible: The New GE 6 R-EC and GE 6 X-EC Wall and Ceiling Sanders from FLEX

Location: Steinheim, February 2025

FLEX is setting new standards with the introduction of the GE 6 R-EC and GE 6 X-EC, presenting what are claimed to be the lightest and most flexible wall and ceiling sanders ever produced. The GE 6 R-EC is highlighted as the lightest wall and ceiling sander to date, while the GE 6 X-EC offers unparalleled flexibility with its eccentric sanding motion, suitable for gentle sanding on a variety of surfaces. Both models are designed to set new benchmarks in performance, weight, ergonomics, and versatility.

GE 6 R-EC: The Lightest Wall and Ceiling Sander Ever

The GE 6 R-EC represents a significant advancement, being 50 percent lighter and delivering 60 percent higher performance compared to previous models. Its design features a carbon fiber shaft, a universal joint for the sanding head, and a 160-degree pivoting range, making it more ergonomic and efficient than other wall and ceiling sanders. According to Ralf Paertmann, FLEX Product Manager, key criteria for these sanders are effective dust extraction, low weight, a flexible sanding head, high sanding performance, and ergonomics. He states, "These are the perfect solutions for tradespeople who value performance while also being extremely user-friendly."

GE 6 X-EC: Eccentric Motion for Gentle Sanding on Various Surfaces

Complementing the rotary GE 6 R-EC, FLEX introduces the GE 6 X-EC. This model utilizes an eccentric sanding motion for particularly gentle operation, making it ideal for sanding a wide range of material surfaces. It offers tradespeople optimized control and is perfect for sensitive surfaces. Weighing just 2.9 kg, this model also sets new standards in the wall and ceiling sander segment.

A New Way of Sanding

The exceptionally flat sanding head, featuring edge segments and a universal joint, combined with the 160-degree pivoting range (described as best-in-class), significantly enhances ease of use. The reduced weight of the machine is particularly noticeable when working overhead due to the leverage effect. For the first time, the shaft of these new wall and ceiling sanders is made from carbon fiber, resulting in substantial weight reduction and greatly improved ergonomics.

FLEX engineers have redeveloped the entire sanding head to achieve these improvements. The fastening plate has a completely new design. To ensure a central attachment of the sanding discs, the hook-and-loop fastener plate, mounted on a centering ring, is equipped with centering aids. A foam pad ensures perfect surface sanding and optimal sanding results by preventing vibrations. This design helps to avoid unevenness being transferred to the wall, reducing machine vibration and thus sparing the user's arms and shoulders. These redesigned components of the sanding head contribute to better work results while enhancing ergonomics and optimizing handling.

Optimized Airflow for Perfect Dust Extraction

An optimized airflow system ensures perfect dust extraction. By eliminating edges throughout the housing, significantly less dust accumulates in the system. A brush ring further supports the extraction process. Ralf Paertmann explains, "These three elements – abrasive, sanding disc, and fastening plate – must be coordinated to ensure that fine-tuning provides a clean and optimal airflow."

An Ergonomic Advantage

Beyond the machines being up to 50 percent lighter, which improves ergonomics, FLEX has incorporated other features. A mounted, elastic rubber membrane not only absorbs vibrations but also provides better feedback during sanding, resulting in a cleaner and more uniform sanding pattern. The flexible shaft reduces the load on the sanding head, making handling much easier. Combined with the planetary gear, which reduces vibrations and ensures smooth operation, ergonomics have been significantly improved during development.

Flexible Shaft for Balanced Work

FLEX Product Manager Ralf Paertmann elaborates on the improved handling: "A flexible shaft drives the disc so that the front of the sanding disc is not overloaded, but rather the drive unit and the weight are closer to the user. This provides significantly better handling. This balanced working method is important for carrying and user comfort."

Safety and Quality Through Protected Connections

Further advantages in terms of quality and safety include protected connection points for cables and hoses on the new wall and ceiling sanders. For example, the suction connection is protected downwards to prevent the suction hose from kinking. The switch is also designed for protection, and the spade handle ensures ergonomic and safe handling.

Innovative Technology for Maximum Efficiency

The new GE 6 X-EC utilizes the latest technology, including a wear-free magnetic eddy current brake. In this system, a metal plate rotates within a magnetic field, inducing eddy currents that generate a magnetic field. This magnetically brakes the metal plate, and it is wear-free because it is contactless.

For more information, visit www.flex-tools.com.

Image Descriptions:

GE 6 R-EC: The lightest wall and ceiling sander ever. (Image source: FLEX-Elektrowerkzeuge GmbH, free of charge for use)
GE 6 X-EC: Features eccentric motion for gentle sanding on various surfaces. (Image source: FLEX-Elektrowerkzeuge GmbH, free of charge for use)
In Use (GE 6 R-EC): Shows the practical, beveled edge segment on the sanding head, which can be rotated 160 degrees. (Image source: FLEX-Elektrowerkzeuge GmbH, free of charge for use)
Ergonomic Design (GE 6 R-EC): Highlights the ergonomic sanding head with edge segments and universal joint, and the carbon fiber shaft. (Image source: FLEX-Elektrowerkzeuge GmbH, free of charge for use)
Sanding Concept: Illustrates the new sanding concept with multi-hole Flex sandpaper, a foam pad, and a hook-and-loop sanding disc with centering aids, contributing to reduced vibrations and improved suction. (Image source: FLEX-Elektrowerkzeuge GmbH, free of charge for use)
Safety Features (GE 6 R-EC): Shows the protected switch, protected connection points for hoses and cables, ensuring durability and longevity. (Image source: FLEX-Elektrowerkzeuge GmbH, free of charge for use)

Contact Information:

FLEX-Elektrowerkzeuge GmbH
Sebastian Glasner, Head of International Marketing
Bahnhofstraße 15
71711 Steinheim/Murr
Email: press@flex-tools.com

About FLEX:

FLEX-Elektrowerkzeuge GmbH, based in Steinheim/Murr, Germany, has been dedicated to serving craftsmen for over 90 years. As a renowned power tools manufacturer, FLEX is committed to innovation, developing solutions for building sites, workshops, and factories. Through continuous dialogue and extensive experience, FLEX consistently introduces new and more economical working solutions. FLEX products have received numerous awards, including the Plus X Award (2020, 2019, 2014), Red Dot Design Award (2018, 2014), 'Designpreis Deutschland' (2011), and IF product design award (2011). The company currently employs 240 people and distributes its products globally through a network of trade vendors. More information is available at www.flex-tools.com.

Note: The generic masculine is used for readability. Female and other gender identities are included where necessary for the statement.

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