About us

The Development of KBK Antriebstechnik GmbH

KBK Antriebstechnik GmbH was founded in 2003 by Robert Karpstein and Bernd Brenner. In rented premises at Furtwänglerweg 30 in Trennfurt, they laid the foundation for a company characterized by technical precision, innovative solutions, and sustainable growth. Robert Karpstein contributed extensive expertise and decades of industry experience to the new venture – a solid foundation on which KBK has steadily evolved.

After eight years of continuous growth, the company relocated in 2011 to its current headquarters at Unterlandstraße 46 in Röllfeld. This move was accompanied by an expansion of the machine park, which opened up new production capacities and raised operations to a new level.

In 2013, the company underwent a generational change: Robert Karpstein handed over management to his son, Dipl.-Ing. (FH) Sven Karpstein, who has since led the company with technical expertise, a spirit of innovation, and strategic foresight. The founder remained closely involved as a trusted advisor, contributing his valuable experience.

2017 marked another milestone with the expansion of the company site through the construction of a new warehouse. That same year, Sven Karpstein acquired 50% of the company shares, further increasing his entrepreneurial responsibility. In 2019, KBK launched a new product line: the magnetic coupling, a forward-thinking addition to its portfolio.

In 2020, another significant step followed: a modern office loft was added to the site, greatly enhancing the company's administrative and development capabilities. At the same time, KBK took over the business operations of Merz Antriebstechnik GmbH in the field of measuring gearboxes – a major step toward expanding its competencies.

The following years were marked by ongoing technical development. In 2021, KBK introduced the slit coupling product line, expanding its portfolio with another specialized solution. In 2023, the company responded to increased space requirements by renting additional storage facilities, ensuring efficient handling of growing inventory and production volumes. Most recently, in 2024, KBK launched the newly developed Oldham coupling, once again broadening its product range and reinforcing its position as an innovation-driven manufacturer.

In 2025, Sven Karpstein acquired the remaining 50% of the company shares from co-founder Bernd Brenner, becoming the sole owner of KBK Antriebstechnik GmbH. The company is now fully family owned.

With deep sorrow, we marked the passing of our founder, Robert Karpstein, in April 2025. We remember him with great respect and deep gratitude – for his entrepreneurial vision, his passion for engineering, and his vital contribution to the development of KBK Antriebstechnik GmbH. His legacy continues to live on in everything we do.