| Document and Entity Information | Sep. 04, 2019 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | AMETEK INC/ |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001037868 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Sep. 4, 2019 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 1-12981 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 14-1682544 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 1100 Cassatt Road |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Berwyn |
| Entity Address, State or Province | PA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 19312 |
| City Area Code | (610) |
| Local Phone Number | 647-2121 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock |
| Trading Symbol | AME |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
