Making History
Richard Klinger, the son of a master builder, had a passion for progress and technology. Even as a young boy, he was an inventive tinkerer, and later went on to study mechanical engineering in Vienna. In 1886, he founded a workshop, laying the foundation for the Klinger family's industrial activities. Today, more than 140 years later, Klinger operates through 45 companies in over 60 countries worldwide.
Throughout all five generations, the family members active in the company have remained committed above all to the development and long-term future of the business.
Visionary through tradition.
The history of KLINGER in Gumpoldskirchen and the company milestones are outlined here.
1886 – 1928
- In the year 1886 Richard Klinger opens up a small workshop in Vienna.
- A mere four years later, he invents the reflex level gauge.
- In 1893 the plant in Gumpoldskirchen is put into operation.
- Creation of the „KLINGERit“, the revolutionary calendared compressed asbestos fibre gasket material.
1928 – 1957
- Karl Klinger takes over the business.
- KLINGERit-1000“, an oil resistant jointing material with wire mesh, is developed for head gaskets in combustion engines.
- The connection to the automotive industry opens up a new market segment – the production of brake pads.
1957 – 1984
- Hubert Klinger-Lohr becomes the new managing director of the Group.
- Expansion of manufacturing sites and build-up of a European distribution network with a 24/7 service.
- Development of PTFE sealing materials and introduction of KLINGERsil, the world’s first asbestos free jointing material.
- Production of large industrial-scale ball valves – Ballostar®.
1984 – 2011
- Merger of the automotive segment with the German market leader Elring.
- Opening of a new, modern production plant for large-scale ball valves as an expansion of the R & D unit in Gumpoldskirchen.
- Introduction of a revolutionary high temperature sealing material, KLINGER QUANTUM.
- Opening of new subsidiaries in Russia, Thailand and China.
Today
- Group management under Daniel Schibli, Christoph Klinger-Lohr and Peter Müller.
- Strategic acquisitions in target segments. Focus on services and organic growth outside of Europe.
- Initialization of Group Innovation and Talent Management programs.
