Floatation tank manufacturer rests easy with Spelsberg

In recent years we, as a society, have begun to place much needed emphasis on the importance of mental health and the reduction of stress. We've seen the de-stigmatisation of therapy and rise in popularity of meditation and mindfulness. Spa treatments have also grown in popularity, in particular the practice of 'flotation-REST', whereby the practitioner isolates themselves in a floatation pod as a means to relaxation.

The use of flotation tanks (or sensory deprivation tanks) was first developed in 1954 in the U.S. and began to enjoy commercial success by the early 1970s. Famous practitioners include John Lennon; NFL Superbowl winners, the New England Patriots; and even Sheldon and Amy Cooper in the popular sitcom, The Big Bang Theory.

While the practice started across the pond, its popularity has grown throughout Europe and many of the UK's leading spas now offer float therapy session. In fact, the UK has led the way in the development and design of floatation pods for almost 20 years, thanks to floatation tank specialists, i-sopod Float Tanks.

Tim Strudwick, Director of i-sopod, explains: "The original floatation tanks were rather daunting looking wooden boxes, which didn't have mass appeal. After running a float therapy centre for a few years, I began to realise that I had blueprint of how not to build a float tank.

"I produced a prototype that featured a space age design which appeals much more to first time customers. I also used the opportunity to design a separate control unit that manages the temperature control and filtering systems. This makes repair and maintenance tasks a lot simpler when compared to the original designs, where everything was self-contained."

In addition to the filtering and temperature, the control unit is also responsible for UV sterilisation, pumping the water and also controlling all the additional electrical systems. The low voltage electronics are housed in a Spelsberg TK enclosure, while the RCD breakers for the high voltage systems are accessed via a Spelsberg AK-09 distribution box. The entire experience of the floatation tanks is predicated upon the conditions being perfectly balanced, so the reliability of the control unit is vital.

In addition to being the UK's largest ex stock supplier of non-metallic electrical enclosures, Spelsberg UK offers design support and a full range of customisation services in-house. Spelsberg's design team was able to convert a prototype junction box into an i-sopod approved design, which is saved on file. This means Tim can place orders of any size and quickly receive CNC machined, bespoke units that feature the company's logo printed on the lid.

Tim adds: "The customisation service is an added benefit of ordering from Spelsberg, which contributes to the overall quality and look-and-feel of the product. The popularity of these pods compared to the original designs is largely due to their luxury aesthetic, so it's always been important to me that every last component I specify meets these standards. Further, the availability and short lead times on my orders gives me the confidence that I'll never let down my customers."