Pyropress Engineering

Pyropress is a leading UK based designer and manufacturer of weatherproof and ATEX/IECEx/AEx certified switches and transmitters.

Our extensive range includes switches and transmitters for measuring pressure, differential pressure, vacuum, temperature, level and flow. For over 60 years we have built a solid and impressive reputation for quality, reliable and durable products which are available with SIL2 certification.

Pyropress is a proud member of the Pyroban Group since 2010 and an integral part of the Pyroban safety product offering.

SOLUTIONS FOR DEMANDING ENVIRONMENTS
Worldwide, Pyropress’ clients work in demanding and challenging environments which require fast, reliable and cost-effective solutions. In partnership we strive to provide quality products and systems on time and to specification to meet these demands.

Our clients work in demanding and challenging environments which require fast, reliable and cost-effective solutions.

By working closely with our clients and understanding their requirements and applications we are able to provide a range of robust and quality products, the majority being available within 2-3 weeks.

The company works at the forefront of technology SENSING THE CHANGE for industry. This is backed by the confidence obtained through 60 years of experience in the design and manufacture of industrial control components and systems.

Our comprehensive range of pressure switches, differential pressure switches, temperature switches, level switches and flow switches incorporate proven design techniques and technology to provide safe and reliable electrical switching of alarm or control circuits within flameproof (Exd), Intrinsically safe (Exia), marine or industrial areas.

Full accreditation and approvals from Lloyds (ISO9001), MoD (UK), EU, ATEX, IECEx, GOST (Russia) are evidence of the Company’s commitment to the highest standards throughout all phases of production.

OUR HISTORY

Read about our history and our journey to become a market leading designer and manufacturer of weatherproof and ATEX certified switches and transmitters

1951 Founded in Bedford by Andrew Thomson and John Clyma Pyropress Engineering identified a market for switch sensors to provide protection and control functions for diesel engines, compressors, pumps and turbines. The range within a few years covered pressure switches, vacuum switches, differential pressure switches, temperature switches, level switches, flow switches and speed switches. The company also manufactured control panels, which in conjunction with the engine mounted sensors provided full engine indication, control, alarm and shutdown functions.

1959 Pyropress worked in conjunction with BICERA (British Internal Combustion Engine Research Association) and designed, tested and released for manufacture a range of crankcase explosion relief valves for use on diesel engines and compressors. These protect the engines from explosions in the event overheating components igniting the oil mist within the crankcase.

1960 – 1970 The main markets were the UK and European marine industry and the power generation industry. Pyropress had various ranges of switches shock and vibration tested by the Ministry of Defence and approved for use on Royal Naval ships and submarines. Over the years they designed their own multi-channel alarm systems and were forerunners in the technology of auto synchronisation and load sharing for multiple diesel generator installations.

1974 As Pyropress grew and needed more factory space they re-located to a purpose built factory in Plymouth as a result of government incentives to bring manufacturing and employment opportunities to the South West of England.

1977 Due to the rapid decline of the marine industry towards the end of the 1970’s Pyropress looked for new markets and identified the growing need for instruments suitable for installation in hazardous areas. The Trojan range was successfully introduced and was adopted by many OEM rotating machinery manufacturers.

1982 The Titan series was added, this was the first switch designed specifically for offshore applications, for the arduous saliferous environments a compact stainless steel housing was offered.

1989 Pyropress obtained BS5750 approval in 1989 following the introduction and accreditation of a quality assurance programme. We currently have Lloyds ISO 9001 accreditation.

2001 The Argus range was launched, it was the first switch on the market to have an engineering polymer enclosure whilst offering Exd and Exia approval. It is also offered with a stainless steel enclosure.

2001 After 50 years it was decided that due to a decline in the requirement for control panels we would close that side of the business and concentrate on markets for switches, valves and transmitters. Comprehensive records of all of the control panels have been retained thus ensuring on going support for these products, i.e. spares supply and offering alternatives should the original component not be available.

2003 Following the release of the ATEX directives Pyropress wanted to stay ahead of the game and had their range of switches fully ATEX compliant and certified 3 years before the mandatory date and well before any competitors.

2009 Titan, Guardian, Argus and Trojan switches were certified by a third party under SIL IEC61508 requirements. Products can be offered for SIL 2 designed systems (simplex configuration) and SIL 3 systems (voted configuration).

2011 Pyropress were acquired by Pyroban Ltd who design and manufacture components enabling diesels engines to be used in hazardous areas. Our addition offered an increased range of instrumentation to their customers.

2011 Series 2000 Smart transmitters introduced covering pressure, vacuum, differential pressure, temperature, level and flow. ATEX and IECEx certification is offered with options of epoxy painted aluminium or stainless steel enclosures.

2012 Caterpillar Inc. acquired Pyroban in a move towards being a leader in diesel engines for hazardous environments.

2016 AEx certification obtained on our Perseus range of switches. First range of Pyropress switches to have the option of Tri-certification.