History - PILLARD FEUERUNGEN GmbH (1957 - 2007)

2007
Pillard puts the new ROTAFLAM ® RV2 into operation in a German cement factory. This newest achievement is specially developed for using the maximum quantity of solid alternative fuel. The operating result from the first half of the year surpasses expectations. Using refused derived fuels (RDF) yields a thermal output in excess of 70%, which in turn results better clinker quality and kiln operation when compared to using comparable primary fuels.

2003
At a customer presentation, “Pillard Aktuell”, Pillard Group presents its further developed rotary burner, ROTAFLAM ® WF, to an interested clientele. This type of burner can be operated using up to 7 different liquid as well as solid alternative fuels at the same time. Substitution rates of up to 100 % are reached. Consequently, more than 50% of the full amount of alternative fuels in operation can be solid.

2001
Pillard Feuerungen GmbH converts the entire old plant at the cement factory in Yanbu, Saudi Arabia from using crude oil to heavy fuel oil. The project is completed to the fullest satisfaction of the customer and, with its price tag of €5,5million, becomes the biggest order in the company's history.

1998
Mr Ernst Kirchhoff takes over the management of Pillard Feuerungen GmbH. Through the establishment of a new sales division for boiler firing product line, the company extends its market position successfully. Activities for this product are increased and significantly intensified.

1993
Various production and warehouse facilities are concentrated in Taunusstein-Bleidenstadt.

1989
The ROTAFLAM ® rotary kiln burner is registered for a patent. In the following years it is continuously further developed to suit the needs of customers and the market in general. Today there are more than 800 ROTAFLAM ® burners in operation worldwide.

1982
Pillard Feuerungen GmbH celebrates its silver jubilee. By this time, the company delivered more than 700 units of rotary kiln burners alone.

1979
Being a technological market leader is our highest priority. Our product portfolio is widened to enable the use of practically any kind of fuel for industrial combustion. Based on this, the company decids to change its name to “Pillard Feuerungen GmbH”. Because of the energy crisis that resulted in sharply higher gas and oil prices, the industry starts to switch back to coal. Dr. Eckelmann develops the three-channel-burner for pulverized, liquid and gaseous fuels. His invention is submitted for a patent on February 15th. Following a serious car accident, Dr Eckelmann dies on 24.09.1981.

1972
Sales are going up. Relocation is necessary. The company relocates to Taunusstein-Hahn, 12 km north of Wiesbaden.

1965
In the mid 60s, ever more companies switch from coal to oil. In the region of Beckum – Erwitte – Paderborn many small cement factories opted for oil burners. Pillard receives nearly all contracts. The number of rotary kiln burners put in operation leads to an impressive reference list and at the same time provides valuable experience to Pillard. This competitive advantage is fully exploited to strengthen the market position of the company and also to (further) develop the application of natural gas and coal powder.

1963
Dr. Eckelmann is appointed as second in charge of the company. Three years later Mr Louis resigns for health reasons, but continues to provide consulting services. Dr. Eckelmann takes full control of the company. In July 1963, Pillard is awarded a major contract by Buderus in Wetzlar to deliver rotary kiln burners and additional equipment. In spite of the very short delivery deadline, the order was filled successfully. From here on, Pillard is acknowledged as a reliable company in the cement, clay and lime industry having good technical products. By this time, the company has 18 employees.

1957
The founding documents for ‘Pillard Ölfeuerung GmbH' are signed in Wiesbaden on the 23rd of May. Entry in the commercial registry followed on the 28th of September. The first general manager and shortly thereafter a partner in the business was Mr Rene Louis. With a small group of employees the company is operated successfully in the often difficult initial years. At this time the product range consists mainly of heavy oil burners for various branches of industry. Pillard delivers the first heavy oil burner with a 2-3% primary air intake and commissions it successfully. Mr. Louis develops the two-channel-burner, Type VR, for various fuels which sets the technical standard for a long time.