Core Laboratories (CLB) 10-Q 25 Oct 17 2017 Q3 Quarterly report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - shares	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Oct. 23, 2017
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name	CORE LABORATORIES N V
Entity Central Index Key	1,000,229
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-Q
Document Period End Date	Sep. 30, 2017
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,017
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q3
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		44,147,365

Consolidated Balance Sheets Sta

Consolidated Balance Sheets Statement - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
CURRENT ASSETS:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 13,780	$ 14,764
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $3,050 and $3,139 at 2017 and 2016, respectively	129,656	114,329
Inventories	34,499	33,720
Prepaid expenses	10,019	10,711
Income taxes receivable	8,801	6,426
Other current assets	6,374	6,511
TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS	203,129	186,461
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, net	124,120	129,882
INTANGIBLES, net	9,533	9,936
GOODWILL	179,044	179,044
DEFERRED TAX ASSETS, net	15,574	20,605
OTHER ASSETS	51,344	47,124
TOTAL ASSETS	582,744	573,052
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Accounts payable	34,904	33,720
Accrued payroll and related costs	25,576	19,411
Taxes other than payroll and income	7,275	5,816
Unearned revenue	14,297	15,690
Income taxes payable	1,223	15,718
Other current liabilities	9,863	13,668
TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES	93,138	104,023
LONG-TERM DEBT, net	233,864	216,488
DEFERRED COMPENSATION	51,286	46,251
DEFERRED TAX LIABILITIES, net	5,099	6,277
OTHER LONG-TERM LIABILITIES	46,060	44,716
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Note 6)
Preference shares, EUR 0.02 par value; 6,000,000 shares authorized, none issued or outstanding	0	0
Common shares, EUR 0.02 par value; 200,000,000 shares authorized, 44,796,252 issued and 44,147,284 outstanding at 2017 and 44,796,252 issued and 44,151,261 outstanding at 2016	1,148	1,148
Additional paid-in capital	61,768	52,850
Retained earnings	176,446	187,957
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	(9,510)	(9,828)
Treasury shares (at cost), 648,968 at 2017 and 644,991 at 2016	(80,481)	(80,773)
Total Core Laboratories N.V. shareholders' equity	149,371	151,354
Non-controlling interest	3,926	3,943
TOTAL EQUITY	153,297	155,297
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY	$ 582,744	$ 573,052

Consolidated Balance Sheets Bal

Consolidated Balance Sheets Balance Sheet Parenthetical $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2017USD ($)shares	Sep. 30, 2017€ / shares	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)shares	Dec. 31, 2016€ / shares
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current | $	$ 3,050		$ 3,139
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share | € / shares		€ 0.02		€ 0.02
Common Stock, Shares Authorized	200,000,000		200,000,000
Common Stock, Shares, Issued	44,796,252		44,796,252
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding	44,147,284		44,151,261
Treasury Stock, Shares	648,968		644,991
Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share | € / shares		€ 0.02		€ 0.02
Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized	6,000,000		6,000,000
Preferred Stock, Shares Issued	0		0
Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding	0		0

Consolidated Statements of Oper

Consolidated Statements of Operations Statement - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
REVENUE:
Services	$ 117,550	$ 114,137	$ 355,725	$ 355,079
Product sales	48,697	29,346	132,232	90,120
Total revenue	166,247	143,483	487,957	445,199
OPERATING EXPENSES:
Cost of services, exclusive of depreciation expense shown below	83,807	80,419	247,839	249,062
Cost of product sales, exclusive of depreciation expense shown below	37,083	26,734	104,741	80,904
General and administrative expense, exclusive of depreciation expense shown below	11,887	8,406	35,743	30,595
Depreciation	5,841	6,548	18,136	19,706
Amortization	250	176	684	616
Other (income) expense, net	(97)	(288)	752	(339)
OPERATING INCOME	27,476	21,488	80,062	64,655
Interest expense	2,707	2,569	8,017	9,024
Income before income tax expense	24,769	18,919	72,045	55,631
Income tax expense	3,716	2,081	10,601	7,141
Net income	21,053	16,838	61,444	48,490
Net income (loss) attributable to non-controlling interest	(33)	108	10	54
Net income attributable to Core Laboratories N.V.	$ 21,086	$ 16,730	$ 61,434	$ 48,436
EARNINGS PER SHARE INFORMATION:
Basic earnings per share attributable to Core Laboratories N.V. (in dollars per share)	$ 0.48	$ 0.38	$ 1.39	$ 1.12
Diluted earnings per share attributable to Core Laboratories N.V. (in dollars per share)	0.48	0.38	1.39	1.11
Cash dividends per share (in dollars per share)	$ 0.55	$ 0.55	$ 1.65	$ 1.65
WEIGHTED AVERAGE COMMON SHARES OUTSTANDING:
Basic	44,141	44,110	44,155	43,265
Diluted	44,332	44,320	44,335	43,450

Consolidated Statement of Other

Consolidated Statement of Other Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Net income	$ 21,053	$ 16,838	$ 61,444	$ 48,490
Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Fair Value Hedging Instruments	(47)	199	(244)	(2,221)
Interest rate swap amounts reclassified to interest expense	112	207	419	631
Income taxes on derivatives	(23)	(150)	(61)	585
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax	42	256	114	(1,005)
Amortization to net income of prior service cost	20	20	58	58
Amortization to net income of actuarial loss	110	148	330	444
Income taxes on pension and other postretirement benefit plans	(22)	(32)	(68)	(96)
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax	68	96	204	290
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	110	352	318	(715)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract]
Comprehensive income	21,163	17,190	61,762	47,775
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	(33)	108		54
Comprehensive income attributable to Core Laboratories N.V.	$ 21,196	$ 17,082	$ 61,752	$ 47,721

Consolidated Statement of Cash

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows Statement - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income	$ 61,444	$ 48,490
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Stock-based compensation	17,323	16,762
Depreciation and amortization	18,820	20,322
Changes to value of life insurance policies	(4,541)	(505)
Deferred income taxes	3,914	(3,910)
Other non-cash items	(696)	(1,226)
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable	(15,488)	37,610
Inventories	(796)	2,995
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	(1,545)	4,029
Other assets	1,960	(128)
Accounts payable	2,307	(3,023)
Accrued expenses	(10,676)	(13,017)
Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Revenue	(1,393)	(1,111)
Other long-term liabilities	7,722	1,396
Net cash provided by operating activities	78,355	108,684
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Capital expenditures	(14,264)	(7,740)
Patents and other intangibles	(282)	(205)
Business acquisition, net of cash acquired	0	(1,242)
Proceeds from sale of assets	643	705
Premiums on life insurance	(1,351)	(2,015)
Net cash used in investing activities	(15,254)	(10,497)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Repayment of debt borrowings	(89,000)	(290,226)
Proceeds from debt borrowings	106,000	63,000
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation	0	(187)
Non-controlling interest - dividend	(27)	(211)
Payments of Dividends	(72,861)	(70,883)
Repurchase of common shares	(8,197)	(2,157)
Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues	0	197,202
Net cash used in financing activities	(64,085)	(103,462)
NET CHANGE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS	(984)	(5,275)
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, beginning of period	14,764	22,494
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, end of period	$ 13,780	$ 17,219

Basis of Presentation

Basis of Presentation	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Core Laboratories N.V. and its subsidiaries for which we have a controlling voting interest and/or a controlling financial interest. These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with United States ("U.S.") generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") for interim financial information using the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, these financial statements do not include all of the information and footnote disclosures required by U.S. GAAP and should be read in conjunction with the audited financial statements and the summary of significant accounting policies and notes thereto included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016 (the " 2016 Annual Report"). Core Laboratories N.V. uses the equity method of accounting for investments in which it has less than a majority interest and over which it does not exercise control but does exert significant influence. We use the cost method to record certain other investments in which we own less than 20% of the outstanding equity and do not exercise control or exert significant influence. Non-controlling interests have been recorded to reflect outside ownership attributable to consolidated subsidiaries that are less than 100% owned. In the opinion of management, all adjustments considered necessary for a fair statement of the results for the interim periods presented have been included in these financial statements. Furthermore, the operating results presented for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017 may not necessarily be indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending December 31, 2017 . Core Laboratories N.V.'s balance sheet information for the year ended December 31, 2016 was derived from the 2016 audited consolidated financial statements but does not include all disclosures in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Core Lab's continuing efforts to streamline its business has led to a simplification of its reporting structure and as of January 1, 2017, the Company presents its operating results in two reporting segments: Reservoir Description and Production Enhancement. For more detail about our segments, see Note 13 - Segment Reporting . Certain reclassifications were made to prior period amounts in order to conform to the current period presentation. These reclassifications had no impact on the reported net income or cash flows for the three or nine months ended September 30, 2016 . References to "Core Lab", the "Company", "we", "our" and similar phrases are used throughout this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and relate collectively to Core Laboratories N.V. and its consolidated subsidiaries.

Inventories

Inventories	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Inventories	Inventories consisted of the following (in thousands): September 30, December 31, Finished goods $ 21,777 $ 21,635 Parts and materials 11,143 11,185 Work in progress 1,579 900 Total inventories $ 34,499 $ 33,720 We include freight costs incurred for shipping inventory to our clients in the Cost of product sales caption in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Acquisitions (Notes)

Acquisitions (Notes)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Acquisitions [Abstract]
Mergers, Acquisitions and Dispositions Disclosures [Text Block]	We had no significant acquisitions during the nine months ended September 30, 2017 .

Debt and Capital Lease Obligati

Debt and Capital Lease Obligations	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Debt and Capital Lease Obligations [Abstract]
Debt and Capital Lease Obligations	We have no capital lease obligations. Long-term debt is as follows (in thousands): September 30, December 31, Senior notes $ 150,000 $ 150,000 Credit facility 85,000 68,000 Total long-term debt 235,000 218,000 Less: Debt issuance costs (1,136 ) (1,512 ) Long-term debt, net $ 233,864 $ 216,488 We have two series of senior notes outstanding with an aggregate principal amount of $150 million ("Senior Notes") issued in a private placement transaction. Series A consists of $75 million in aggregate principal amount of notes that bear interest at a fixed rate of 4.01% and are due in full on September 30, 2021 . Series B consists of $75 million in aggregate principal amount of notes that bear interest at a fixed rate of 4.11% and are due in full on September 30, 2023 . Interest on each series of the Senior Notes is payable semi-annually on March 30 and September 30. We maintain a revolving credit facility ("Credit Facility") that allows for an aggregate borrowing capacity of $400 million . The Credit Facility also provides an option to increase the commitment under the Credit Facility by an additional $50 million to bring the total borrowings available to $450 million if certain prescribed conditions are met by the Company. The Credit Facility bears interest at variable rates from LIBOR plus 1.25% to a maximum of LIBOR plus 2.00% . Any outstanding balance under the Credit Facility is due August 29, 2019 , when the Credit Facility matures. Our available capacity at any point in time is reduced by borrowings outstanding at the time and outstanding letters of credit which totaled $17.5 million at September 30, 2017 , resulting in an available borrowing capacity under the Credit Facility of $297.5 million . In addition to those items under the Credit Facility, we had $14.6 million of outstanding letters of credit and performance guarantees and bonds from other sources as of September 30, 2017 . The terms of the Credit Facility and Senior Notes require us to meet certain covenants, including, but not limited to, an interest coverage ratio (consolidated EBITDA divided by interest expense) and a leverage ratio (consolidated net indebtedness divided by consolidated EBITDA), where consolidated EBITDA (as defined in each agreement) and interest expense are calculated using the most recent four fiscal quarters. The Credit Facility has the more restrictive covenants with a minimum interest coverage ratio of 3.0 to 1.0 and a maximum leverage ratio of 2.5 to 1.0. We believe that we are in compliance with all such covenants contained in our credit agreements. Certain of our material, wholly-owned subsidiaries are guarantors or co-borrowers under the Credit Facility and Senior Notes. In 2014, we entered into two interest rate swap agreements for a total notional amount of $50 million . See Note 11 - Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities . The estimated fair value of total debt at September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016 approximated the book value of total debt. The fair value was estimated using Level 2 inputs by calculating the sum of the discounted future interest and principal payments through the date of maturity.

Pensions and Other Postretireme

Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits	Defined Benefit Plan We provide a noncontributory defined benefit pension plan covering substantially all of our Dutch employees ("Dutch Plan") who were hired prior to 2007. The pension benefit is based on years of service and final pay or career average pay, depending on when the employee began participating. The benefits earned by the employees are immediately vested. The following table summarizes the components of net periodic pension cost under the Dutch Plan (in thousands): Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30, September 30, 2017 2016 2017 2016 Service cost $ 401 $ 364 $ 1,142 $ 1,097 Interest cost 295 332 838 1,001 Expected return on plan assets (249 ) (279 ) (709 ) (841 ) Amortization of prior service cost (20 ) (20 ) (58 ) (58 ) Amortization of actuarial loss 110 148 330 444 Net periodic pension cost $ 537 $ 545 $ 1,543 $ 1,643 During the nine months ended September 30, 2017 , we contributed $1.6 million to fund the estimated 2017 premiums on investment contracts held by the Dutch Plan.

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	We have been and may from time to time be named as a defendant in legal actions that arise in the ordinary course of business. These include, but are not limited to, employment-related claims and contractual disputes or claims for personal injury or property damage which occur in connection with the provision of our services and products. Management does not currently believe that any of our pending contractual, employment-related, personal injury or property damage claims and disputes will have a material effect on our future results of operations, financial position or cash flow.

Equity

Equity	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Equity [Abstract]
Equity	During the three months ended September 30, 2017 , we repurchased 8,404 of our common shares for $0.8 million . These consisted of rights to shares that were surrendered to us pursuant to the terms of a stock-based compensation plan in consideration of the participants' tax burdens that may result from the issuance of common shares under that plan. During the nine months ended September 30, 2017 , we repurchased 77,832 of our common shares for $8.2 million ; included in this total were rights to 22,832 shares valued at $2.5 million surrendered to us pursuant to the terms of a stock-based compensation plan in consideration of the participants' tax burdens that may result from the issuance of common shares under that plan. Such common shares, unless canceled, may be reissued for a variety of purposes such as future acquisitions, non-employee director stock awards or employee stock awards. We distributed 27,453 and 73,855 treasury shares upon vesting of stock-based awards during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017 , respectively. In February, May and August 2017, we paid quarterly dividends of $0.55 per share of common stock. In addition, on October 10, 2017 , we declared a quarterly dividend of $0.55 per share of common stock for shareholders of record on October 20, 2017 and payable on November 21, 2017 . The following table summarizes our changes in equity for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 (in thousands): Common Shares Additional Paid-In Capital Retained Earnings Accumulated Treasury Stock Non-Controlling Interest Total Equity December 31, 2016 $ 1,148 $ 52,850 $ 187,957 $ (9,828 ) $ (80,773 ) $ 3,943 $ 155,297 Adoption of ASU 2016-09 (see note 14) — 84 (84 ) — — — — Stock based-awards — 8,834 — — 8,489 — 17,323 Repurchase of common shares — — — — (8,197 ) — (8,197 ) Dividends paid — — (72,861 ) — — — (72,861 ) Non-controlling interest dividends — — — — — (27 ) (27 ) Amortization of deferred pension costs, net of tax — — — 204 — — 204 Interest rate swaps, net of tax — — — 114 — — 114 Net income — — 61,434 — — 10 61,444 September 30, 2017 $ 1,148 $ 61,768 $ 176,446 $ (9,510 ) $ (80,481 ) $ 3,926 $ 153,297 Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) consisted of the following (in thousands): September 30, December 31, Prior service cost $ 556 $ 600 Unrecognized net actuarial loss (9,521 ) (9,769 ) Fair value of derivatives, net of tax (545 ) (659 ) Total accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) $ (9,510 ) $ (9,828 )

Earnings per Share

Earnings per Share	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings per Share	We compute basic earnings per common share by dividing net income attributable to Core Laboratories N.V. by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per common and potential common shares include additional shares in the weighted average share calculations associated with the incremental effect of dilutive restricted stock awards and contingently issuable shares, as determined using the treasury stock method. The following table summarizes the calculation of weighted average common shares outstanding used in the computation of diluted earnings per share (in thousands): Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30, September 30, 2017 2016 2017 2016 Weighted average basic common shares outstanding 44,141 44,110 44,155 43,265 Effect of dilutive securities: Performance shares 159 147 148 119 Restricted stock 32 63 32 66 Weighted average diluted common and potential common shares outstanding 44,332 44,320 44,335 43,450

Other (Income) Expense, Net

Other (Income) Expense, Net	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Other Income and Expenses [Abstract]
Other (Income) Expense, Net	The components of Other (income) expense, net, were as follows (in thousands): Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30, September 30, 2017 2016 2017 2016 Sale of assets $ (12 ) $ (56 ) $ (314 ) $ (544 ) Results of non-consolidated subsidiaries (112 ) (126 ) (287 ) (450 ) Foreign exchange 105 220 559 1,432 Rents and royalties (99 ) (105 ) (329 ) (304 ) Severance, compensation and other charges — — 1,145 — Other, net 21 (221 ) (22 ) (473 ) Total other (income) expense, net $ (97 ) $ (288 ) $ 752 $ (339 ) Foreign exchange gains and losses are summarized in the following table (in thousands): Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30, September 30, (Gains) losses by currency 2017 2016 2017 2016 British Pound (27 ) 39 (82 ) 514 Canadian Dollar (153 ) (6 ) (230 ) (54 ) Euro 431 45 1,266 215 Russian Ruble (26 ) 21 (151 ) (73 ) Other currencies, net (120 ) 121 (244 ) 830 Total (gain) loss, net $ 105 $ 220 $ 559 $ 1,432

Income Tax Expense

Income Tax Expense	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Tax Expense	The effective tax rates for the three months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016 were 15.0% and 11.0% , respectively. The effective tax rates for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016 were 14.7% and 12.8% , respectively. Income tax expense of $3.7 million in the third quarter of 2017 increased by $1.6 million compared to $2.1 million in the same period in 2016 , due to the result of several items discrete to each quarter, along with changes in activity levels in jurisdictions with differing tax rates. On March 29, 2017, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom ("UK") formally notified the European Council of the UK's intention to withdraw from the European Union ("EU") under Article 50 of the Treaty of Lisbon. The UK's formal withdrawal may impact tax exemptions and reliefs on intra-European transactions between our UK affiliates and EU companies. In addition, it may impact transactions between our UK affiliates and non-EU based companies as EU tax treaties may no longer apply to these transactions. Due to the uncertainty involved in evaluating the effect of the loss of tax exemptions and reliefs, we are unable to estimate the impact of these changes, if any, at this time. We will continue to monitor developments in this area.

Derivative Instruments (Notes)

Derivative Instruments (Notes)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block]	11 . DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES We are exposed to market risks related to fluctuations in interest rates. To mitigate these risks, we utilize derivative instruments in the form of interest rate swaps. We do not enter into derivative transactions for speculative purposes. Interest Rate Risk Our Credit Facility bears interest at variable rates from LIBOR plus 1.25% to a maximum of LIBOR plus 2.00% . As a result of two interest rate swap agreements, we are subject to interest rate risk on debt in excess of $50 million drawn on our Credit Facility. In 2014, we entered into two interest rate swap agreements for a total notional amount of $50 million to hedge changes in the variable rate interest expense on $50 million of our existing or replacement LIBOR-priced debt. Under the first swap agreement of $25 million , we have fixed the LIBOR portion of the interest rate at 1.73% through August 29, 2019 , and under the second swap agreement of $25 million , we have fixed the LIBOR portion of the interest rate at 2.5% through August 29, 2024 . Each swap is measured at fair value and recorded in our Consolidated Balance Sheet as a liability. They are designated and qualify as cash flow hedging instruments and are highly effective. Unrealized losses are deferred to shareholders' equity as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss and are recognized in income as an increase to interest expense in the period in which the related cash flows being hedged are recognized in expense. At September 30, 2017 , we had fixed rate long-term debt aggregating $200 million and variable rate long-term debt aggregating $35 million , after taking into account the effect of the swaps. The fair values of outstanding derivative instruments are as follows: Fair Value of Derivatives September 30, 2017 December 31, 2016 Balance Sheet Classification Derivatives designated as hedges: 5 year interest rate swap $ 62 $ 211 Other long-term liabilities 10 year interest rate swap 809 835 Other long-term liabilities $ 871 $ 1,046 The fair value of all outstanding derivatives was determined using a model with inputs that are observable in the market (Level 2) or can be derived from or corroborated by observable data. The effect of the interest rate swaps on the Consolidated Statement of Operations was as follows: Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 2016 2017 2016 Income Statement Classification Derivatives designated as hedges: 5 year interest rate swap $ 31 $ 79 $ 136 $ 242 Increase to interest expense 10 year interest rate swap 81 128 283 389 Increase to interest expense $ 112 $ 207 $ 419 $ 631

Financial Instruments (Notes)

Financial Instruments (Notes)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]	12 . FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS The Company's only financial assets and liabilities which are measured at fair value on a recurring basis relate to certain aspects of the Company's benefit plans and our derivative instruments. We use the market approach to value certain assets and liabilities at fair value using significant other observable inputs (Level 2) with the assistance of a third-party specialist. We do not have any assets or liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis using quoted prices in an active market (Level 1) or significant unobservable inputs (Level 3). Gains and losses related to the fair value changes in the deferred compensation assets and liabilities are recorded in General and administrative expense in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Gains and losses related to the fair value of the interest rate swaps are recorded in Other comprehensive income. The following table summarizes the fair value balances (in thousands): Fair Value Measurement at September 30, 2017 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets: Deferred compensation trust assets (1) $ 27,880 $ — $ 27,880 $ — Liabilities: Deferred compensation plan $ 35,528 $ — $ 35,528 $ — 5 year interest rate swap 62 — 62 — 10 year interest rate swap 809 — 809 — $ 36,399 $ — $ 36,399 $ — Fair Value Measurement at December 31, 2016 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets: Deferred compensation trust assets (1) $ 25,350 $ — $ 25,350 $ — Liabilities: Deferred compensation plan $ 31,672 $ — $ 31,672 $ — 5 year interest rate swap 211 — 211 — 10 year interest rate swap 835 — 835 — $ 32,718 $ — $ 32,718 $ — (1) Trust assets consist of the cash surrender value of life insurance policies and are intended to assist in the funding of the deferred compensation agreements.

Segment Reporting

Segment Reporting	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Reporting	Core Laboratories has taken steps to streamline its business by realigning its reporting structure into two reporting segments. These complementary segments provide different services and products and utilize different technologies for improving reservoir performance and increasing oil and gas recovery from new and existing fields. In connection with the realignment of our reporting structure, amounts previously reported in our Reservoir Management segment are now presented within our Reservoir Description and Production Enhancement segments, and prior periods have been revised to conform to the current presentation. • Reservoir Description: Encompasses the characterization of petroleum reservoir rock, fluid and gas samples to increase production and improve recovery of oil and gas from our clients' reservoirs. We provide laboratory based analytical and field services to characterize properties of crude oil and petroleum products to the oil and gas industry. We also provide proprietary and joint industry studies based on these types of analysis. • Production Enhancement: Includes services and products relating to reservoir well completions, perforations, stimulations and production. We provide integrated diagnostic services to evaluate and monitor the effectiveness of well completions and to develop solutions aimed at increasing the effectiveness of enhanced oil recovery projects. Results for these segments are presented below. We use the same accounting policies to prepare our segment results as are used to prepare our Consolidated Financial Statements. All interest and other non-operating income (expense) is attributable to Corporate & Other and is not allocated to specific segments. Summarized financial information concerning our segments is shown in the following table (in thousands): Reservoir Description Production Enhancement Corporate & Other 1 Consolidated Three Months Ended September 30, 2017 Revenue from unaffiliated clients $ 101,442 $ 64,805 $ — $ 166,247 Inter-segment revenue 54 87 (141 ) — Segment operating income (loss) 14,621 12,972 (117 ) 27,476 Total assets (at end of period) 315,346 207,186 60,212 582,744 Capital expenditures 2,930 1,605 367 4,902 Depreciation and amortization 4,383 1,190 518 6,091 Three Months Ended September 30, 2016 Revenue from unaffiliated clients $ 105,427 $ 38,056 $ — $ 143,483 Inter-segment revenue 533 563 (1,096 ) — Segment operating income (loss) 21,274 118 96 21,488 Total assets (at end of period) 322,222 190,479 49,437 562,138 Capital expenditures 2,020 318 100 2,438 Depreciation and amortization 4,647 1,429 648 6,724 Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 Revenue from unaffiliated clients $ 310,650 $ 177,307 $ — $ 487,957 Inter-segment revenue 275 537 (812 ) — Segment operating income (loss) 49,231 31,132 (301 ) 80,062 Total assets 315,346 207,186 60,212 582,744 Capital expenditures 7,605 5,394 1,265 14,264 Depreciation and amortization 13,531 3,732 1,557 18,820 Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016 Revenue from unaffiliated clients $ 321,129 $ 124,070 $ — $ 445,199 Inter-segment revenue 1,579 1,167 (2,746 ) — Segment operating income (loss) 60,011 4,615 29 64,655 Total assets 322,222 190,479 49,437 562,138 Capital expenditures 6,376 856 508 7,740 Depreciation and amortization 13,914 4,518 1,890 20,322 (1) "Corporate & Other" represents those items that are not directly related to a particular segment and eliminations.

Recent Accounting Pronouncement

Recent Accounting Pronouncements	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract]
Recent Accounting Pronouncements	Pronouncements Adopted in 2017 In July 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-11 ("Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory") to require the measurement of inventory at the lower of cost and net realizable value. Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal, and transportation. We adopted this standard on January 1, 2017. The adoption of this standard had no effect on our Consolidated Balance Sheets, Consolidated Statements of Operations and Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09 ("Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting") to simplify the accounting for share-based payment transactions, including accounting for forfeitures, excess tax benefit/expense, and tax withholding requirements. Under this new guidance, (1) companies have the option to estimate how many shares in a grant will be forfeited or to elect to recognize forfeitures as they occur; (2) all excess tax benefit and expense is recognized as income tax benefit or expense in the income statement as a discrete item to the quarter, and the accumulated benefits in additional paid-in capital ("APIC") are eliminated; and (3) companies are able to withhold share amounts up to the statutory maximum and the award will still be classified as equity. We adopted this standard on January 1, 2017 and have elected to recognize forfeitures as they occur. This resulted in a reclassification between retained earnings and additional paid-in-capital of $84 thousand for the estimated forfeitures on unvested shares as of January 1, 2017. The adoption of this standard will result in periodic adjustments in the recognition of stock compensation expense associated with forfeitures in the period in which they occur. In addition to the income statement treatment of including the excess tax benefit/expense as a discrete income tax item each quarter, this has been removed from the Cash from financing activities section of the Statement of Cash Flows. Pronouncements Not Yet Effective In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09 ("Revenue from Contracts with Customers"), which provides guidance on revenue recognition. The core principle of this guidance is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. This guidance requires entities to apply a five-step method to (1) identify the contract(s) with customers; (2) identify the performance obligation(s) in the contract; (3) determine the transaction price; (4) allocate the transaction price to the performance obligation(s) in the contract; and (5) recognize revenue when (or as) the entity satisfies a performance obligation. This pronouncement is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2017 (on July 9, 2015, the FASB deferred the implementation date for one year). We are currently analyzing the standard's impact on our revenues by looking at all of our revenue streams to determine the impact on our Consolidated Balance Sheets, Consolidated Statements of Operations and Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. At this point, we do not anticipate any material changes to our revenue recognition policies and procedures nor to our financial statements, but extensive additional disclosures will be required. Upon adoption we expect to utilize the modified retrospective approach, which requires a cumulative adjustment to retained earnings and no adjustments to prior periods. In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02 ("Leases"), which introduces the recognition of lease assets and lease liabilities by lessees for those leases classified as operating leases under previous guidance. The new standard establishes a right-of-use ("ROU") model that requires a lessee to record an ROU asset and a lease liability on the balance sheet for all leases with terms longer than 12 months. The new standard is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018 and interim periods within those fiscal years with early adoption permitted. We anticipate the adoption of this standard will have a material impact on our Consolidated Balance Sheets, increasing both asset balances and liability balances; however, there should not be a material impact to our Consolidated Statement of Operations. In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13 ("Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments") which replaces the incurred loss impairment methodology in current GAAP with a methodology that reflects expected credit losses and requires consideration of a broader range of reasonable and supportable information to inform credit loss estimates. The new standard is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods within those fiscal years with early adoption permitted in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years. We are evaluating the impact that the adoption of this standard will have on our consolidated financial statements.

Inventories (Tables)

Inventories (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block]	September 30, December 31, Finished goods $ 21,777 $ 21,635 Parts and materials 11,143 11,185 Work in progress 1,579 900 Total inventories $ 34,499 $ 33,720

Debt and Capital Lease Obliga22

Debt and Capital Lease Obligations (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Debt and Capital Lease Obligations [Abstract]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments	(in thousands): September 30, December 31, Senior notes $ 150,000 $ 150,000 Credit facility 85,000 68,000 Total long-term debt 235,000 218,000 Less: Debt issuance costs (1,136 ) (1,512 ) Long-term debt, net $ 233,864 $ 216,488

Pensions and Other Postretire23

Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Net Benefit Costs	The following table summarizes the components of net periodic pension cost under the Dutch Plan (in thousands): Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30, September 30, 2017 2016 2017 2016 Service cost $ 401 $ 364 $ 1,142 $ 1,097 Interest cost 295 332 838 1,001 Expected return on plan assets (249 ) (279 ) (709 ) (841 ) Amortization of prior service cost (20 ) (20 ) (58 ) (58 ) Amortization of actuarial loss 110 148 330 444 Net periodic pension cost $ 537 $ 545 $ 1,543 $ 1,643

Equity (Tables)

Equity (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Equity [Abstract]
Schedule of Stockholders Equity	The following table summarizes our changes in equity for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 (in thousands): Common Shares Additional Paid-In Capital Retained Earnings Accumulated Treasury Stock Non-Controlling Interest Total Equity December 31, 2016 $ 1,148 $ 52,850 $ 187,957 $ (9,828 ) $ (80,773 ) $ 3,943 $ 155,297 Adoption of ASU 2016-09 (see note 14) — 84 (84 ) — — — — Stock based-awards — 8,834 — — 8,489 — 17,323 Repurchase of common shares — — — — (8,197 ) — (8,197 ) Dividends paid — — (72,861 ) — — — (72,861 ) Non-controlling interest dividends — — — — — (27 ) (27 ) Amortization of deferred pension costs, net of tax — — — 204 — — 204 Interest rate swaps, net of tax — — — 114 — — 114 Net income — — 61,434 — — 10 61,444 September 30, 2017 $ 1,148 $ 61,768 $ 176,446 $ (9,510 ) $ (80,481 ) $ 3,926 $ 153,297
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) consisted of the following (in thousands): September 30, December 31, Prior service cost $ 556 $ 600 Unrecognized net actuarial loss (9,521 ) (9,769 ) Fair value of derivatives, net of tax (545 ) (659 ) Total accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) $ (9,510 ) $ (9,828 )

Earnings per Share (Tables)

Earnings per Share (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Schedule of Weighted Average Number of Shares	The following table summarizes the calculation of weighted average common shares outstanding used in the computation of diluted earnings per share (in thousands): Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30, September 30, 2017 2016 2017 2016 Weighted average basic common shares outstanding 44,141 44,110 44,155 43,265 Effect of dilutive securities: Performance shares 159 147 148 119 Restricted stock 32 63 32 66 Weighted average diluted common and potential common shares outstanding 44,332 44,320 44,335 43,450

Other (Income) Expense, Net (Ta

Other (Income) Expense, Net (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Other Income and Expenses [Abstract]
Foreign Currency Gains Losses By Currency	Foreign exchange gains and losses are summarized in the following table (in thousands): Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30, September 30, (Gains) losses by currency 2017 2016 2017 2016 British Pound (27 ) 39 (82 ) 514 Canadian Dollar (153 ) (6 ) (230 ) (54 ) Euro 431 45 1,266 215 Russian Ruble (26 ) 21 (151 ) (73 ) Other currencies, net (120 ) 121 (244 ) 830 Total (gain) loss, net $ 105 $ 220 $ 559 $ 1,432
Schedule of Other Operating Cost and Expense, by Component	The components of Other (income) expense, net, were as follows (in thousands): Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30, September 30, 2017 2016 2017 2016 Sale of assets $ (12 ) $ (56 ) $ (314 ) $ (544 ) Results of non-consolidated subsidiaries (112 ) (126 ) (287 ) (450 ) Foreign exchange 105 220 559 1,432 Rents and royalties (99 ) (105 ) (329 ) (304 ) Severance, compensation and other charges — — 1,145 — Other, net 21 (221 ) (22 ) (473 ) Total other (income) expense, net $ (97 ) $ (288 ) $ 752 $ (339 )

Derivative Instruments (Tables)

Derivative Instruments (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Schedule of Derivative Liabilities at Fair Value [Table Text Block]	The fair values of outstanding derivative instruments are as follows: Fair Value of Derivatives September 30, 2017 December 31, 2016 Balance Sheet Classification Derivatives designated as hedges: 5 year interest rate swap $ 62 $ 211 Other long-term liabilities 10 year interest rate swap 809 835 Other long-term liabilities $ 871 $ 1,046

Derivative Instruments Derivati

Derivative Instruments Derivative Instruments Gain Loss Table (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block]	The effect of the interest rate swaps on the Consolidated Statement of Operations was as follows: Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 2016 2017 2016 Income Statement Classification Derivatives designated as hedges: 5 year interest rate swap $ 31 $ 79 $ 136 $ 242 Increase to interest expense 10 year interest rate swap 81 128 283 389 Increase to interest expense $ 112 $ 207 $ 419 $ 631

Financial Instruments (Tables)

Financial Instruments (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements [Table Text Block]	Fair Value Measurement at September 30, 2017 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets: Deferred compensation trust assets (1) $ 27,880 $ — $ 27,880 $ — Liabilities: Deferred compensation plan $ 35,528 $ — $ 35,528 $ — 5 year interest rate swap 62 — 62 — 10 year interest rate swap 809 — 809 — $ 36,399 $ — $ 36,399 $ — Fair Value Measurement at December 31, 2016 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets: Deferred compensation trust assets (1) $ 25,350 $ — $ 25,350 $ — Liabilities: Deferred compensation plan $ 31,672 $ — $ 31,672 $ — 5 year interest rate swap 211 — 211 — 10 year interest rate swap 835 — 835 — $ 32,718 $ — $ 32,718 $ — (1) Trust assets consist of the cash surrender value of life insurance policies and are intended to assist in the funding of the deferred compensation agreements.

Segment Reporting (Tables)

Segment Reporting (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment	Summarized financial information concerning our segments is shown in the following table (in thousands): Reservoir Description Production Enhancement Corporate & Other 1 Consolidated Three Months Ended September 30, 2017 Revenue from unaffiliated clients $ 101,442 $ 64,805 $ — $ 166,247 Inter-segment revenue 54 87 (141 ) — Segment operating income (loss) 14,621 12,972 (117 ) 27,476 Total assets (at end of period) 315,346 207,186 60,212 582,744 Capital expenditures 2,930 1,605 367 4,902 Depreciation and amortization 4,383 1,190 518 6,091 Three Months Ended September 30, 2016 Revenue from unaffiliated clients $ 105,427 $ 38,056 $ — $ 143,483 Inter-segment revenue 533 563 (1,096 ) — Segment operating income (loss) 21,274 118 96 21,488 Total assets (at end of period) 322,222 190,479 49,437 562,138 Capital expenditures 2,020 318 100 2,438 Depreciation and amortization 4,647 1,429 648 6,724 Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 Revenue from unaffiliated clients $ 310,650 $ 177,307 $ — $ 487,957 Inter-segment revenue 275 537 (812 ) — Segment operating income (loss) 49,231 31,132 (301 ) 80,062 Total assets 315,346 207,186 60,212 582,744 Capital expenditures 7,605 5,394 1,265 14,264 Depreciation and amortization 13,531 3,732 1,557 18,820 Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016 Revenue from unaffiliated clients $ 321,129 $ 124,070 $ — $ 445,199 Inter-segment revenue 1,579 1,167 (2,746 ) — Segment operating income (loss) 60,011 4,615 29 64,655 Total assets 322,222 190,479 49,437 562,138 Capital expenditures 6,376 856 508 7,740 Depreciation and amortization 13,914 4,518 1,890 20,322

Inventories (Details)

Inventories (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Finished goods	$ 21,777	$ 21,635
Parts and materials	11,143	11,185
Work in progress	1,579	900
Total inventories	$ 34,499	$ 33,720

Debt and Capital Lease Obliga32

Debt and Capital Lease Obligations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, current borrowing capacity	$ 400,000
Line of Credit Facility, Extension Capacity	50,000
Line of credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity	450,000
Performance bonds under credit facility	17,500
Line of credit facility, remaining borrowing capacity	297,500
Performance bonds	14,600
Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities	233,864	$ 216,488
Senior Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Debt	150,000	150,000
Face amount	150,000
Line of Credit [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Debt	$ 85,000	68,000
Maturity date	Aug. 29, 2019
Senior Notes Series A [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage	4.01%
Face amount	$ 75,000
Maturity date	Sep. 30, 2021
Senior Notes Series B [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage	4.11%
Face amount	$ 75,000
Maturity date	Sep. 30, 2023
Total debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount	$ 235,000	218,000
Debt issuance costs [Domain]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt acquisition costs	$ (1,136)	$ (1,512)
Minimum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis Spread on Variable Rate	1.25%
Maximum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis Spread on Variable Rate	2.00%
Interest Rate Swap [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Derivative, Notional Amount	$ 50,000

Pensions and Other Postretire33

Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Service cost	$ 401	$ 364	$ 1,142	$ 1,097
Interest cost	295	332	838	1,001
Expected return on plan assets	(249)	(279)	(709)	(841)
Amortization of prior service cost	(20)	(20)	(58)	(58)
Amortization of actuarial loss	110	148	330	444
Net periodic pension cost	$ 537	$ 545	1,543	$ 1,643
Contributions by employer			$ 1,600

Equity (Narrative) (Details)

Equity (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016
Equity [Abstract]
Treasury shares, acquired, tax burden	8,404		22,832
Treasury shares, acquired, value, tax burden	$ 800		$ 2,500
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired			77,832
Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method			$ 8,200
Treasury Stock, Value	$ 80,481		$ 80,481		$ 80,773
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Treasury Stock Reissued	27,453		73,855
Cash dividends per share (in dollars per share)	$ 0.55	$ 0.55	$ 1.65	$ 1.65
Dividends declared (in dollars per share)	$ 0.55

Equity (Details)

Equity (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Effect of Adoption, Quantification			$ 0
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance			155,297
Stock based-awards			17,323
Repurchase of common shares			(8,197)
Dividends paid			(72,861)
Non-controlling interest dividends			(27)
Amortization of deferred pension costs, net of tax			204
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax	$ 42	$ 256	114	$ (1,005)
Net income	21,053	$ 16,838	61,444	$ 48,490
Ending balance	153,297		153,297
Common Shares [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Effect of Adoption, Quantification			0
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance			1,148
Stock based-awards			0
Repurchase of common shares			0
Dividends paid			0
Non-controlling interest dividends			0
Amortization of deferred pension costs, net of tax			0
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax			0
Net income			0
Ending balance	1,148		1,148
Additional Paid-In Capital [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Effect of Adoption, Quantification			84
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance			52,850
Stock based-awards			8,834
Repurchase of common shares			0
Dividends paid			0
Non-controlling interest dividends			0
Amortization of deferred pension costs, net of tax			0
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax			0
Net income			0
Ending balance	61,768		61,768
Retained Earnings [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Effect of Adoption, Quantification			(84)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance			187,957
Stock based-awards			0
Repurchase of common shares			0
Dividends paid			(72,861)
Non-controlling interest dividends			0
Amortization of deferred pension costs, net of tax			0
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax			0
Net income			61,434
Ending balance	176,446		176,446
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Effect of Adoption, Quantification			0
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance			(9,828)
Stock based-awards			0
Repurchase of common shares			0
Dividends paid			0
Non-controlling interest dividends			0
Amortization of deferred pension costs, net of tax			204
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax			114
Net income			0
Ending balance	(9,510)		(9,510)
Treasury Stock [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Effect of Adoption, Quantification			0
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance			(80,773)
Stock based-awards			8,489
Repurchase of common shares			(8,197)
Dividends paid			0
Non-controlling interest dividends			0
Amortization of deferred pension costs, net of tax			0
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax			0
Net income			0
Ending balance	(80,481)		(80,481)
Non-Controlling Interests [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Effect of Adoption, Quantification			0
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance			3,943
Stock based-awards			0
Repurchase of common shares			0
Dividends paid			0
Non-controlling interest dividends			(27)
Amortization of deferred pension costs, net of tax			0
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax			0
Net income			10
Ending balance	$ 3,926		$ 3,926

Equity (Comprehensive Income) (

Equity (Comprehensive Income) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Equity [Abstract]
Prior service cost	$ 556	$ 600
Unrecognized net actuarial loss	(9,521)	(9,769)
Derivative, Fair Value, Net	(545)	(659)
Total accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	$ (9,510)	$ (9,828)

Earnings per Share (Details)

Earnings per Share (Details) - shares shares in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Weighted average basic common shares outstanding	44,141	44,110	44,155	43,265
Performance shares (in shares)	159	147	148	119
Restricted stock (in shares)	32	63	32	66
Weighted average diluted common and potential common shares outstanding	44,332	44,320	44,335	43,450

Other (Income) Expense, Net (De

Other (Income) Expense, Net (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Income Statement Location [Line Items]
Total other (income) expense, net	$ (97)	$ (288)	$ 752	$ (339)
Other Income [Member]
Income Statement Location [Line Items]
Total other (income) expense, net	21	(221)	(22)	(473)
Rents and Royalties Income (Loss) [Member]
Income Statement Location [Line Items]
Total other (income) expense, net	(99)	(105)	(329)	(304)
Severance and other charges [Member]
Income Statement Location [Line Items]
Total other (income) expense, net	0	0	1,145	0
Investment Income [Member]
Income Statement Location [Line Items]
Total other (income) expense, net	(112)	(126)	(287)	(450)
gain loss on sale of asset [Member]
Income Statement Location [Line Items]
Total other (income) expense, net	(12)	(56)	(314)	(544)
Foreign Currency Gain (Loss) [Member]
Income Statement Location [Line Items]
Total other (income) expense, net	$ 105	$ 220	$ 559	$ 1,432

Other (Income) Expense, Net (Fo

Other (Income) Expense, Net (Foreign Currency (Gain ) Loss by Currency) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Foreign exchange	$ 105	$ 220	$ 559	$ 1,432
British Pound [Member]
Foreign exchange	(27)	39	(82)	514
Canadian Dollar [Member]
Foreign exchange	(153)	(6)	(230)	(54)
Euro [Member]
Foreign exchange	431	45	1,266	215
Russian Ruble [Member]
Foreign exchange	(26)	21	(151)	(73)
Other Currencies Net [Member]
Foreign exchange	$ (120)	$ 121	$ (244)	$ 830

Income Tax Expense (Details)

Income Tax Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]
Change in income tax expense	$ 1,600
Effective income tax rate	15.00%	11.00%	14.70%	12.80%
Income tax expense	$ 3,716	$ 2,081	$ 10,601	$ 7,141

Derivative Instruments (Details

Derivative Instruments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Interest Rate Swap [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Interest Rate Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value	$ 871	$ 1,046
Derivative, Notional Amount	50,000
Interest Rate Swap No. 1 [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Interest Rate Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value	809	835
Derivative, Notional Amount	$ 25,000
Derivative, Fixed Interest Rate	2.50%
Derivative, Maturity Date	Aug. 29, 2024
Interest Rate Swap No. 2 [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Interest Rate Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value	$ 62	211
Derivative, Notional Amount	$ 25,000
Derivative, Fixed Interest Rate	1.73%
Derivative, Maturity Date	Aug. 29, 2019
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Interest Rate Swap No. 1 [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Interest Rate Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value	$ 809	835
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Interest Rate Swap No. 2 [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Interest Rate Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value	$ 62	$ 211

Derivative Instruments Long-ter

Derivative Instruments Long-term debt (Details) $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2017USD ($)
Debt Disclosure in Derivatives Footnote [Abstract]
Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Variable Interest, Amount	$ 35
Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Fixed Interest, Amount	$ 200

Derivative Instruments Deriva43

Derivative Instruments Derivative gain loss table (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Interest Rate Swap [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) Reclassified to Earnings, Net	$ 112	$ 207	$ 419	$ 631
Interest Rate Swap No. 1 [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) Reclassified to Earnings, Net	81	128	283	389
Interest Rate Swap No. 2 [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) Reclassified to Earnings, Net	$ 31	$ 79	$ 136	$ 242

Financial Instruments FInancial

Financial Instruments FInancial Instruments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	$ 27,880	$ 25,350
Deferred Compensation Liability, Current and Noncurrent	35,528	31,672
Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure	36,399	32,718
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Deferred Compensation Liability, Current and Noncurrent	0	0
Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	27,880	25,350
Deferred Compensation Liability, Current and Noncurrent	35,528	31,672
Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure	36,399	32,718
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Deferred Compensation Liability, Current and Noncurrent	0	0
Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Interest Rate Swap No. 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Interest Rate Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value	62	211
Interest Rate Swap No. 2 [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Interest Rate Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value	0	0
Interest Rate Swap No. 2 [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Interest Rate Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value	62	211
Interest Rate Swap No. 2 [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Interest Rate Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value	0	0
Interest Rate Swap No. 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Interest Rate Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value	809	835
Interest Rate Swap No. 1 [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Interest Rate Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value	0	0
Interest Rate Swap No. 1 [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Interest Rate Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value	809	835
Interest Rate Swap No. 1 [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Interest Rate Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value	$ 0	$ 0

Segment Reporting (Details)

Segment Reporting (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue from unaffiliated clients	$ 166,247	$ 143,483	$ 487,957	$ 445,199
Inter-segment revenue	0	0	0	0
Segment operating income (loss)	27,476	21,488	80,062	64,655
Total assets (at end of period)	582,744	562,138	582,744	562,138	$ 573,052
Capital expenditures	4,902	2,438	14,264	7,740
Depreciation and amortization	6,091	6,724	18,820	20,322
Operating Segments [Member] | Reservoir Description [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue from unaffiliated clients	101,442	105,427	310,650	321,129
Inter-segment revenue	54	533	275	1,579
Segment operating income (loss)	14,621	21,274	49,231	60,011
Total assets (at end of period)	315,346	322,222	315,346	322,222
Capital expenditures	2,930	2,020	7,605	6,376
Depreciation and amortization	4,383	4,647	13,531	13,914
Operating Segments [Member] | Production Enhancement [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue from unaffiliated clients	64,805	38,056	177,307	124,070
Inter-segment revenue	87	563	537	1,167
Segment operating income (loss)	12,972	118	31,132	4,615
Total assets (at end of period)	207,186	190,479	207,186	190,479
Capital expenditures	1,605	318	5,394	856
Depreciation and amortization	1,190	1,429	3,732	4,518
Corporate & Other [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue from unaffiliated clients	0	0	0	0
Inter-segment revenue	(141)	(1,096)	(812)	(2,746)
Segment operating income (loss)	(117)	96	(301)	29
Total assets (at end of period)	60,212	49,437	60,212	49,437
Capital expenditures	367	100	1,265	508
Depreciation and amortization	$ 518	$ 648	$ 1,557	$ 1,890