jbj Techniques Limited; exceptional mechanical & fluid power expertise

exceptional mechanical & fluid power expertise

Beyond Starting: Engineering Safer, Smarter Engine Systems.

Air Starters  |  Hydraulic Starters
Engine Flywheel Turners
Air Shut-off Valves  |  Flameproof Alternators

jbj Techniques has an expanded range of GALI engine starting and protection systems, highlighting a systems-led approach to improving reliability, safety and operational control in large engine applications.

Detailed in a newly released technical catalogue, the range combines air and hydraulic starters, flywheel turning mechanisms, air shut-off valves and ATEX compliant alternators into a coordinated solution designed for use across sectors including marine, power generation, oil and gas, and heavy industry.

Rather than focusing solely on engine output, the approach reflects a broader engineering challenge: ensuring consistent performance and protection throughout the full operating cycle, from pre-start checks through to emergency shutdown and onboard power generation.

At the core of the range are high-performance air and hydraulic starters, engineered to deliver high torque and rapid acceleration to ignition speed. Operating directly at pressures of 30 to 40 bar (low pressure, 10 bar options also available), the systems eliminate the need for pressure-reducing valves, simplifying installation while maintaining reliability in harsh operating environments characterised by vibration, temperature variation and high humidity.

The starter portfolio supports engines exceeding 12,000 kW and is designed to accommodate both compact installations and large-scale industrial systems, with an emphasis on durability and reduced maintenance requirements.

Air / Pneumatic Starters

High-speed rotor-technology air starters deliver the fastest starting times available while maintaining simple installation and robust operation.

Gali air starters image
Key features:

» Designed for starting internal combustion engines of any power rating.
» Pre-engaged rotor technology for fast, reliable starts.
» Operating pressures: 10 to 30 bar (150 to 435 psi).
» Engine-specific pinions and mounting flanges.
» Multiple configuration options available.
» ATEX-certified versions for hazardous areas.
» Centralised air starting systems available.
» Simple, durable assembly for long service life.

Hydraulic Starters

Hydraulic starters provide dependable performance in extreme environments and applications where maintenance access is limited.

Gali hydraulic starters image
Key features:

» Suitable for all internal combustion engines.
» Very low maintenance requirements.
» Independent starting system ideal for harsh environmental conditions.
» Unaffected by long periods of inactivity.
» Operating pressures up to 206 bar (3000 psi).
» Manual or automatic activation options.
» Engine-specific pinions and flanges.
» ATEX-approved versions available.
» Central hydraulic starting systems available
Pre-start integrity is addressed through flywheel turning mechanisms, which allow controlled low-speed rotation of the crankshaft for inspection and alignment. This enables early identification of issues such as hydraulic lock or mechanical obstruction, helping to prevent damage to critical components including pistons, connecting rods and bearings. By enabling verification before ignition, the systems support a shift from reactive maintenance to condition-based and preventative strategies.

Engine Flywheel Turners

Flywheel turners allow safe and controlled rotation of the engine during assembly, inspection, and maintenance operations.

Gali engine flywheel turners image
Key features:

» Capable of rotating engines of all sizes.
» Slow crankshaft rotation in both directions.
» Locking mechanism holds the engine securely in any position.
» Typically mounted on the flywheel housing.
» Optional bracket available for temporary installation.
» Pneumatic or electric drive options.
» Self-locking design ensures safe operation
Safety-critical operation is further supported by air shut-off valves (ASOV), designed to mitigate the risk of engine runaway in hazardous environments. By rapidly isolating the engine air intake, the valves provide an effective shutdown method where conventional controls may be insufficient. Designed to operate across temperatures from -20°C to 230°C, they are suited to demanding industrial and process environments where safety and compliance are key considerations.

Air Shut-off Valves

High-speed shutoff valves protect engines by instantly stopping the air intake supply, reducing the risk of overspeed or explosion.

Gali air shut-off valve image
Key features:

» Swing air-gate shut-off design with guillotine mechanism.
» Extremely fast closing times.
» Compact, lightweight construction.
» Operating temperature range: –20°C to 230°C.
» Available sizes: 50.8 mm to 330.2 mm (2" to 13").
» Easy installation and handling.
» Custom configurations available for specific engines or applications.
» ATEX-certified versions available.
The latest addition to the range includes ATEX compliant flameproof alternators, designed for use in hazardous areas where ignition risk must be carefully managed. Engineered for belt-driven operation, the compact units are particularly suited to industrial vehicles and mobile equipment, where space constraints and installation flexibility are critical.The alternators deliver continuous output of up to 595W at 14V and 420W at 28V, with peak performance reaching 840W (14V) and 630W (28V) for up to ten minutes. This enables rapid initial battery charging, supporting reliable system start-up and operation in demanding environments.

Flameproof Alternators

Gali flameproof alternator image
Key features:

» Designed for use in hazardous/explosive atmospheres (gas, vapour, or dust).
» Certified to ATEX / IECEx / UKEX standards for safe operation in classified zones.
» Flameproof enclosure prevents internal ignition from spreading externally.
» Suitable as direct replacement for standard engine-mounted alternators.» Belt-driven units with multiple pulley configuration options.
» Robust, compact construction for harsh industrial environments.
» Can include speed signal output for monitoring and safety systems
» Supplied with certified cable entries/glands for secure electrical connections.

Complete Hydraulic Engine Starting Systems

Gali air shut-off valve image
We design and manufacture fully integrated hydraulic starting packages tailored to each application. From offshore installations in hazardous areas to marine auxiliary generator sets.

System advantages
» Complete engineered packages matched to engine requirements.
» Installation drawings and technical calculations provided.
» Accurate sizing of accumulators based on oil consumption and required number of starts.
» Designed to meet required cracking time and applicable standards (including NFPTA).
» Customised solutions for marine, industrial, and hazardous-area applications.
The integration of starting, inspection, shutdown and power generation technologies reflects a growing emphasis on systems engineering within high-value applications. By ensuring compatibility and coordinated performance between components, the approach aims to improve overall system resilience and reduce operational risk.

In sectors where unplanned downtime carries significant cost and safety implications, such integration supports not only performance, but also predictability and control throughout the lifecycle of the equipment.

The GALI product range is available in the UK through jbj Techniques, with full technical specifications provided in the latest catalogue. Please see technical specification catalogue for details of the range.

Product Catalogue

Click image for full technical specification catalogue.

Need Help Selecting the Correct Unit?

Our engineering team can recommend a tailored solution based on your engine type, operating environment, and performance requirements.
Contact Technical Support
jbj Techniques is thrilled to announce our new partnership with Gali International Products! As an authorized distributor in the UK, we are expanding our product offerings and reinforcing our commitment to delivering high-quality solutions to the wide range of industries we serve across the UK.

Pictured (left to right) are Mike Davis, jbj Managing Director (retired 10 March 2026), Paul Coidan, jbj Sales Manager, and Miguel Cabezón, Commercial Agent from Gali, during our visit to Gali International Products in December 2024.

About Gali International

Gali International is a respected name in industrial engineering. Founded in 1951 by Salvador Gali, the company has built a global reputation for excellence. With headquarters in Barcelona and production facilities in France and Germany, Gali also has operations in Italy, China, Japan and Singapore. For more than seventy years, Gali has led the way in designing and manufacturing robust and precise starting systems. Their focus includes air and hydraulic starters for diesel engines and advanced solutions for explosion protection. These systems are widely used in industries such as oil and gas, mining, marine, transport and power generation where dependable engine starting and operational safety are essential. As jbj Techniques continues to support the UK’s industrial landscape, this new partnership aligns perfectly with our focus on quality and reliability.

What This Means for Our Customers

The distribution agreement between jbj Techniques and Gali gives UK companies direct access to Gali’s extensive range of engineered systems. Customers can now expect faster delivery, technical support and integrated services, all managed by our experienced team in the UK.

Why jbj Techniques and Gali are a perfect match

jbj Techniques has built a strong reputation over five decades by supplying technically complex components, assemblies and engineered systems. We understand the requirements of industrial clients and offer deep application knowledge alongside high-quality products. Gali shares the same dedication to engineering precision and long-term performance. Their systems are well established across global industries and now, with our local support, UK companies can benefit from better availability and technical expertise. We also know that time matters. That is why we will hold key products in stock and provide engineering assistance and documentation in line with UK customer expectations.

Who will benefit

This partnership will be particularly valuable to companies in sectors where engine starting and explosion protection are mission critical.

These include:
» Oil and gas platforms and refineries.
» Underground and surface mining operations.
» Chemical processing plants.
» Marine and defence systems.
» Heavy transport and logistics.
» Power generation including standby and emergency systems.

Whether you are specifying new equipment or upgrading existing systems, jbj Techniques is now your go-to source for Gali International’s full range of solutions.
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