The machine factory A. Knoevenagel was founded in 1856 by Albert Knoevenagel in Linden near Hanover. The portfolio initially comprised machine tools, band saws and agricultural equipment. Albert Knoevenagel later added railway supplies and steam engines to the production program. In addition, he built a foundry in Hanover in 1887. The entire facility was relocated there in 1900.

In the 20th century, Knoevenagel became a specialist for the manufacture of aluminum ingot and edge milling machines as well as band-saw plants. In order to supplement the portfolio, Mannesmann Demag took over Knoevenagel in 1992.

In 1999, Mannesmann Demag and SMS Schloemann-Siemag merged to combine the strengths of both companies. The product unit from Knoevenagel became part of SMS Meer and has been represented by SMS group since 2015.