Explosion-proof specialist Pyroban Group wants to convert about 800 forklifts this year as it marks 40 years in business in July, following a record year of sales.

"These are record numbers in a niche and specialist field," explains Malcolm Davis, business manager for Pyroban's industrial division. "Over four decades, we have built strong and trusted links with forklift brands all over the world, but we have never seen such high demand."

Pyroban, which converted about 700 trucks for financial year 2011 (6 April, 2010 to 5 April, 2011), says trucks are modified according to manufacturers' approval to prevent any problems with product and public liability, warranty and technical support.

"An important part of our quality process relies on the extensive links we have with certification authorities including SIRA, SEV, INERIS, FM, TUV and CNEX," Davis says. "This allows us to convert almost every type of mobile equipment to ensure full compliance with relevant local safety regulations such as ATEX in Europe or GB19854-2005 in China."

Pyroban converts counterbalance forklifts, VNA, order picking, reach trucks and other warehouse equipment. It is now also getting more business from users of access platforms, cranes, military and mining equipment, and produces explosion-proof solutions for the oil and gas industry.

Founded in Brighton, England, in July 1972, the company grew from a one-man start-up business developing a new market to a multinational group. It claims to be the global market leader. In fiscal 2011, Pyroban reported a record GBP30 million (USD46.7 million) turnover, and expects significant growth in 2012 through new product introductions and extended geographical reach.

"Over the last few years, we have strengthened our product portfolio and geographic coverage through organic growth and acquisition," Davis says.

He boasts that Pyroban's system6000 is already the leading explosion protection system for Zone 2 operations in the world, for both diesel and electric equipment.

The company will hold local events for its staff to celebrate its 40th anniversary. Headquartered in West Sussex, UK, the group, which has factories in the UK, the Netherlands, China and Singapore, became part of Caterpillar Inc in late 2011 (Forkliftaction.com News #531).