The Story Behind the Protective Rubber Case
When we launched the EPOCH® 6LT ultrasonic flaw detector in June 2017, our goal was to deliver an ultra-portable instrument. And weighing in at only 1.95 lb (890 g), we felt like we succeeded. With almost all the functionality of the EPOCH 650 flaw detector, the 6LT was designed to fit snugly in one hand. Inspectors can take it just about anywhere, know that it has the power to get the job done, and have the confidence that it’ll work as it should.
But something was missing.
Looks Can Be Deceiving
When showing the EPOCH 6LT flaw detector to customers, we always point out its durability and note that it’s designed to pass the same 4-foot drop test used to qualify all our portable ultrasonic flaw detectors. While many customers were impressed, they also told us that it didn’t look or feel tough enough. They asked us to design a rubber protective case like we've made for some of our other flaw detectors and thickness gages. And some customers in high-portability industries, like pipeline inspection, rail, and aircraft maintenance, wanted us to add a folding stand to make the 6LT easier to put down.
The Case for the Case
At first, we were hesitant; after all, we’re confident in the instrument’s durability. What's more, we put a lot of effort into making the EPOCH 6LT the lightest, most compact flaw detector possible, and any case accessory runs the risk of adding weight and bulk to the instrument.
But, we take customer feedback very seriously, so we knew we had to create something that provides added protection and allows you to set the instrument down during inspections, all while maintaining the instrument’s ergonomics and portability. Our product design team got to work and came up with a protective rubber boot with a built-in stand.
Snug and Secure
The protective case is made of black rubber to match the EPOCH 6LT flaw detector’s black and white color scheme. It fits the instrument snugly while providing extra protection to all sides from drops and impacts. The case enables easy access to the adjustment knob, all the instrument’s buttons, and the I/O door. It also comes with a 1/4-20 extender to allow access to the connection point at the base of the instrument. We also added a folding stand to the back of the case to make it easy to put the flaw detector down. Installing the rubber case is quick and easy—you can see how easy in this video. While it does make the instrument a little larger, it’s still comfortable to hold in one hand.
Now customers have a choice—start with a lightweight, ergonomic flaw detector and add a rope access accessory kit that enables you to strap it to your leg or the rubber boot with attached stand for added protection and the ability to easily put it down. The choice is yours!
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