"Update on the X-Dome/Easton glue issue:
We have made really good progress with Easton to improve their gluing process. Previously the issue was "coverage" where they would squirt some glue into the pole and then add the insert/ferrule. They would try to spin things when they joined them together to coat all the surfaces but sometimes it didn't fully work as the insert might push the glue back and/or the two parts might spin together. The result was sometimes quite low coverage on the surfaces. Now they have an improved new process that applies a greater amount of glue while essentially spraying/misting it on with air pressure to better coat the full surface, and then they have a new spinning process that better locks the insert into place, so you get more reliable spinning as essentially a double check that everything is coated (rather than as the primary mechanism).
The result is greatly improved glue coverage and glue bond strength. We have completely flex testing on this (the joint is repeatedly flexed under load) and the results are improved by over 100x as many cycles. So it is a dramatic improvement in their gluing. This will benefit our tents, and also all poles from tent brands using Easton poles. This new process went into effect for all Easton tent poles recently. While the initial glue issue was unfortunate, we are glad to be able find a solution that will have industry wide benefits across many tent brands.
We are building the replacement polesets now. We don't know exactly when they will be ready but sometime between 6-12 weeks."
Quelle: Dan Durston auf "Durston Gearheads"
