Dover (DOV) 10-Q 17 Oct 13 2013 Q3 Quarterly report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information (USD $)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Oct. 10, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name	DOVER Corp
Entity Central Index Key	29905
Current Fiscal Year End Date	-19
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Public Float			$9,799,921,456
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		170,365,768
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2013
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q3
Document Type	10-Q
Amendment Flag	FALSE
Document Period End Date	30-Sep-13

CONDENSED_CONSOLIDATED_STATEME

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS (unaudited) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Income Statement [Abstract]
Revenue	$2,252,349	$2,097,605	$6,520,685	$6,090,508
Cost of goods and services	1,375,699	1,287,466	4,011,461	3,757,187
Gross profit	876,650	810,139	2,509,224	2,333,321
Selling and administrative expenses	482,284	451,943	1,472,333	1,372,021
Operating earnings	394,366	358,196	1,036,891	961,300
Interest expense, net	30,237	30,399	90,761	90,145
Other expense, net	970	3,706	-1,206	5,855
Earnings before provision for income taxes and discontinued operations	363,159	324,091	947,336	865,300
Provision for income taxes	99,507	90,761	192,343	240,405
Earnings from continuing operations	263,652	233,330	754,993	624,895
Earnings from discontinued operations, net	5,462	7,716	54,173	26,315
Net earnings	$269,114	$241,046	$809,166	$651,210
Earnings per share from continuing operations [Abstract]
Earnings from continuing operations (in dollars per basic share)	$1.55	$1.28	$4.40	$3.41
Earnings from continuing operations (in dollars per diluted share)	$1.53	$1.27	$4.34	$3.37
Earnings per share from discontinued operations: [Abstract]
Earnings from discontinued operations, net (in dollars per basic share)	$0.03	$0.04	$0.32	$0.14
Earnings from discontinued operations, net (in dollars per diluted share)	$0.03	$0.04	$0.31	$0.14
Net earnings per share: [Abstract]
Net earnings (in dollars per basic share)	$1.58	$1.33	$4.71	$3.56
Net earnings (in dollars per diluted share)	$1.56	$1.31	$4.65	$3.51
Dividends paid per common share (in dollars per share)	$0.38	$0.35	$1.07	$0.98

CONDENSED_CONSOLIDATED_STATEME1

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE EARNINGS (unaudited) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net earnings	$269,114	$241,046	$809,166	$651,210
Foreign currency translation adjustments [Abstract]
Foreign currency translation gains during period	61,800	82,802	19,605	33,919
Reclassification of foreign currency translation losses to earnings upon sale of subsidiaries	0	0	2,905	0
Total foreign currency translation	61,800	82,802	22,510	33,919
Pension and other postretirement benefit plans [Abstract]
Actuarial gains (losses) arising during period	80,455	0	80,455	-3,953
Prior service cost arising during period	-121	0	-121	-307
Amortization of actuarial losses included in net periodic pension cost	2,737	6,647	10,491	6,647
Amortization of prior service cost included in net periodic pension cost	1,436	3,928	4,286	3,928
Total pension and other postretirement benefit plans	84,507	10,575	95,111	6,315
Changes in fair value of cash flow hedges [Abstract]
Unrealized net gains arising during period	106	164	200	380
Net gains reclassified into earnings	-401	30	-313	59
Total cash flow hedges	-295	194	-113	439
Other comprehensive income loss other adjustment, net of tax	115	-290	280	263
Other comprehensive earnings, net of tax	146,127	93,281	117,788	40,936
Comprehensive earnings	$415,241	$334,327	$926,954	$692,146

CONDENSED_CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (unaudited) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$739,824	$800,076
Receivables, net of allowances	1,437,513	1,225,898
Inventories, net	949,618	872,841
Prepaid and other current assets	69,857	79,094
Deferred tax assets	66,358	49,935
Total current assets	3,263,170	3,027,844
Property, plant and equipment, net	1,148,784	1,167,052
Goodwill	4,158,710	4,114,650
Intangible assets, net	1,552,751	1,625,420
Other assets and deferred charges	166,215	111,432
Assets of discontinued operations	375,500	397,545
Total assets	10,665,130	10,443,943
Current liabilities:
Notes payable and current maturities of long-term debt	672,135	610,766
Accounts payable	677,994	651,358
Accrued compensation and employee benefits	302,684	334,634
Accrued insurance	106,879	103,318
Other accrued expenses	250,043	255,632
Federal and other taxes on income	8,802	30,920
Total current liabilities	2,018,537	1,986,628
Long-term debt	2,190,156	2,189,350
Deferred income taxes	519,347	462,244
Other liabilities	519,235	677,533
Liabilities of discontinued operations	133,430	208,958
Stockholders' Equity:
Total stockholders' equity	5,284,425	4,919,230
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	$10,665,130	$10,443,943

CONDENSED_CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE1

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (unaudited) (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:
Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable	$20,552	$20,392

CONDENSED_CONSOLIDATED_STATEME2

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (unaudited) (USD $)	Total	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Earnings [Member]	Treasury Stock [Member]
In Thousands
Balance at Dec. 31, 2012	$4,919,230	$254,119	$834,677	$7,199,227	($54,906)	($3,313,887)
Net earnings	809,166	0	0	809,166	0	0
Dividends paid	-184,111	0	0	-184,111	0	0
Common stock issued for the exercise of stock options and SARs	-15,907	1,098	-17,005	0	0	0
Tax benefit from the exercise of stock options	22,737	0	22,737	0	0	0
Stock-based compensation expense	23,384	0	23,384	0	0	0
Common stock acquired	-407,862	0	0	0	0	-407,862
Other comprehensive earnings, net of tax	117,788	0	0	0	117,788	0
Balance at Sep. 30, 2013	$5,284,425	$255,217	$863,793	$7,824,282	$62,882	($3,721,749)

CONDENSED_CONSOLIDATED_STATEME3

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (unaudited) (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Preferred stock, par value per share	$100	$100
Preferred stock, shares authorized	100,000	100,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	0	0
Common stock, par value per share	$1	$1

CONDENSED_CONSOLIDATED_STATEME4

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (unaudited) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Operating Activities of Continuing Operations
Net earnings	$809,166	$651,210
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to cash from operating activities:
Earnings from discontinued operations, net	-54,173	-26,315
Depreciation and amortization	313,565	261,160
Stock-based compensation	23,384	23,589
(Gain) loss on sale of assets	-5,668	714
Cash effect of changes in current assets and liabilities (excluding effects of acquisitions, dispositions and foreign exchange):
Accounts receivable	-193,586	-172,924
Inventories	-71,131	-71,589
Prepaid expenses and other assets	-4,282	-6,833
Accounts payable	32,175	32,087
Accrued compensation and employee benefits	-37,178	24,315
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	-6,166	-12,747
Contributions to domestic employee benefit plans	9,000	13,790
Accrued and deferred taxes, net	-79,239	8,748
Other, net	5,193	-7,124
Net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations	723,060	690,501
Investing Activities of Continuing Operations
Additions to property, plant and equipment	-157,475	-208,849
Acquisitions (net of cash and cash equivalents acquired)	-118,990	-354,270
Proceeds from the sale of property, plant and equipment	13,376	10,792
Proceeds from sale of business	3,756	0
Increase in restricted cash	0	-9,911
Other	-3,207	-5,000
Net cash used in investing activities of continuing operations	-262,540	-567,238
Financing Activities of Continuing Operations
Purchase of common stock	-407,862	-393,487
Proceeds from exercise of stock options and SARs, including tax benefits	6,830	37,973
Dividends paid to stockholders	-184,111	-179,133
Change in notes payable, net	61,308	0
Reduction of long-term debt	0	-599
Net cash used in financing activities of continuing operations	-523,835	-535,246
Cash Flows from Discontinued Operations
Net cash used in operating activities of discontinued operations	8,496	-2,203
Net cash used in investing activities of discontinued operations	-4,518	-5,615
Net cash used in discontinued operations	3,978	-7,818
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	-915	7,145
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents	-60,252	-412,656
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	800,076	1,206,755
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$739,824	$794,099

Basis_of_Presentation

Basis of Presentation	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	1. Basis of Presentation
	The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements, in accordance with Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) rules for interim periods, do not include all of the information and notes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for complete financial statements and should be read in conjunction with the Dover Corporation (“Dover” or the “Company”) Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012, which provides a more complete understanding of the Company’s accounting policies, financial position, operating results, business properties, and other matters.  The year-end condensed consolidated balance sheet was derived from audited financial statements.  Certain amounts in the prior year have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation.
	As discussed in Note 4. Discontinued Operations, the Company is reporting certain businesses that are held for sale at September 30, 2013 as discontinued operations.  Therefore, the Company has classified the results of operations of these businesses as discontinued operations for all periods presented.
	It is the opinion of management that these financial statements reflect all adjustments necessary for a fair statement of the interim results.  The results of operations of any interim period are not necessarily indicative of the results of operations for the full year.

Planned_Spin_Off

Planned Spin Off	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Planned Spin Off [Abstract]
Planned Spin Off	2. Planned Spin Off of Certain Communication Technologies Businesses
	On May 23, 2013, Dover announced that its Board of Directors had approved a plan to spin off certain businesses within its Communication Technologies segment into a standalone, publicly traded company. Upon completion of the spin off, Knowles Corporation ("Knowles") will be an independent, global technology company operating in the communication technologies space. The spin off is expected to allow Knowles to pursue a more aggressive growth strategy as a standalone company, focusing on its customers' distinct product and technology needs.
	Dover anticipates that the transaction will be in the form of a distribution of 100% of the common stock of Knowles, which we expect to be tax-free to Dover and U.S. shareholders, pending receipt of a private letter ruling from the Internal Revenue Service (the "IRS"). Dover currently expects that the transaction will be completed in early 2014. One-time costs associated with the transaction are expected to be in the range of $60,000 to $70,000. Costs incurred to date totaled $10,637 and $13,959 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, respectively. Completion of the planned spin off is subject to final approval by Dover's Board of Directors, as well as other conditions such as the receipt of a favorable ruling from the IRS and the effectiveness of a registration statement filed by Knowles with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The initial registration statement was filed by Knowles on September 30, 2013. The results of operations, financial condition and cash flows for the businesses to be included in the spin off are, and will continue to be, presented within Dover's consolidated financial statements as continuing operations within the Communication Technologies segment, until the spin off becomes effective, upon which the financial presentation of these businesses will be included within Dover's discontinued operations.

Acquisitions

Acquisitions	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Acquisitions	3. Acquisitions
	The following table details the acquisitions made during the nine months ended September 30, 2013.
	2013 Acquisitions
	Date	Type	Company / Product Line Acquired	Location (Near)	Segment
	2-May	Stock	Ebsray Pumps	Brookvale, Australia	Engineered Systems
	Manufacturer of rotary pumps in vane, regenerative turbine, and internal gear technologies.
	7-May	Asset	The Curotto-Can, Inc.	Sonoma, California	Engineered Systems
	Manufacturer of automated front loaders for use in the waste collection industry.
	21-May	Asset	Klaus Enterprise, Ltd.	Alberta, Canada	Energy
	Manufacturer of valves and gas compressor components that specializes in replacing parts designed to optimize the efficiency and reliability of reciprocating compressors.
	30-May	Asset	Source Technologies	Charlotte, North Carolina	Printing & Identification
	Manufacturer of printing devices and software, specializing in thermal stationary barcode printers.
	1-Jul	Asset	RSI Systems	Frederick, Maryland	Printing & Identification
	Manufacturer of thermal ink jet applications ranging from packaging line coding and marking to high-speed product identification, authentication, and tracking systems for serialization.
	19-Sep	Stock	SPIRIT Global Energy Solutions	Midland, Texas	Energy
	Manufacturer of artificial lift tools and technology for oil and gas producers.
	The Company acquired these businesses in six separate transactions for net cash consideration of $118,990. The following presents the allocation of acquisition cost to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, based on their estimated fair values:
	Current assets, net of cash acquired	$	30,191
	Property, plant and equipment	8,555
	Goodwill	48,879
	Intangible assets	53,442
	Other non-current assets	1,082
	Current liabilities	(11,532		)
	Non-current liabilities	(11,627		)
	Net assets acquired	$	118,990
	The amounts assigned to goodwill and major intangible asset classifications for the 2013 acquisitions are as follows:
		Amount allocated				Useful life (in years)
	Goodwill - Tax deductible	$	18,135			na
	Goodwill - Non deductible	30,744				na
	Customer intangibles	41,555				11
	Trademarks	2,896				11
	Patents	7,760				11
	Other intangibles	1,231				2
		$	102,321
	The businesses were acquired to complement and expand upon existing operations within the Fluid Solutions and Refrigeration & Industrial platforms of the Engineered Systems segment, as well as the Energy and Printing & Identification segments. The goodwill identified by these acquisitions reflects the benefits expected to be derived from product line expansion and operational synergies.  Upon consummation of the acquisitions, each of these entities is now wholly-owned by Dover.
	The Company has substantially completed the purchase price allocations for the 2013 acquisitions.  However, if additional information is obtained about these assets and liabilities within the measurement period (not to exceed one year from the date of acquisition), including through asset appraisals and learning more about the newly acquired businesses, the Company will refine its estimates of fair value to allocate the purchase price more accurately; however, any such revisions are not expected to be significant.
	The Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Earnings include the results of these businesses from the dates of acquisition.  The aggregate revenue of the 2013 acquisitions included in the Company’s consolidated revenue totaled $15,461 and $23,123 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, respectively.
	Pro Forma Information
	The following unaudited pro forma information illustrates the effect on the Company’s revenue and earnings from continuing operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, assuming that the 2013 and 2012 acquisitions had taken place at the beginning of the prior year. As a result, the supplemental pro forma earnings for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 reflect adjustments to earnings from continuing operations as reported in the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Earnings to exclude $1,194 and $1,902 for nonrecurring expense related to the fair value adjustments to acquisition-date inventory (after-tax) and $349 and $1,159 of acquisition-related costs (after tax) and to reflect such items in 2012. The 2013 and 2012 supplemental pro forma earnings are also adjusted to reflect the comparable impact of additional depreciation and amortization expense (net of tax) resulting from the fair value measurement of tangible and intangible assets relating to 2013 and 2012 acquisitions.
		Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2013				2012		2013		2012
	Revenue from continuing operations:
	As reported	$	2,252,349			$	2,097,605	$	6,520,685	$	6,090,508
	Pro forma	2,257,473				2,208,107		6,556,075		6,485,833
	Earnings from continuing operations:
	As reported	$	263,652			$	233,330	$	754,993	$	624,895
	Pro forma	266,169				242,135		762,069		654,576
	Basic earnings per share from continuing operations:
	As reported	$	1.55			$	1.28	$	4.4	$	3.41
	Pro forma	1.56				1.33		4.44		3.58
	Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations:
	As reported	$	1.53			$	1.27	$	4.34	$	3.37
	Pro forma	1.54				1.32		4.38		3.53

Discontinued_Operations

Discontinued Operations	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Discontinued Operations	4. Discontinued Operations
	Management evaluates Dover’s businesses periodically for their strategic fit within Dover’s operations. Accordingly, in the fourth quarter of 2012, the Company announced its intention to divest certain non-core businesses within the Printing & Identification segment serving the electronic assembly and test markets, consistent with its long-term focus on strengthening its portfolio and reducing its exposure to cyclical markets. Management expects to sell these businesses in the fourth quarter of 2013 or early 2014. As a result, the Company has reclassified the operations, cash flows, and related assets and liabilities of these businesses, DEK International and Everett Charles Technologies ("ECT"), to discontinued operations for all periods presented.
	Summarized results of the Company’s discontinued operations are as follows:
		Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2013			2012			2013			2012
	Revenue	$	106,974		$	111,174		$	309,900		$	338,337
	(Loss) gain on sale and impairments, net of tax	—			(634		)	(18,668		)	1,226
	Earnings from operations before taxes	7,531			11,531			26,108			29,693
	Benefit from (provision for) income taxes	(2,069		)	(3,181		)	46,733			(4,604		)
	Earnings from operations, net of tax	5,462			8,350			72,841			25,089
	Earnings from discontinued operations, net of tax	$	5,462		$	7,716		$	54,173		$	26,315
	Earnings from discontinued operations of $5,462 and $54,173 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, respectively, reflect net earnings from operations generated by those businesses discontinued in 2012, as well as various expense and accrual adjustments relating to other discontinued operations. The tax benefit for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 includes $1,971 and $54,425, respectively, of discrete tax benefits principally related to the conclusion of certain federal, state and international tax audits.
	In 2013, in connection with a change in goodwill reporting units within discontinued operations resulting from the Company's expected manner of disposing of its electronic test and assembly businesses, the Company was required to allocate goodwill to these individual reporting units based upon relative current fair values. This process resulted in a benefit of $25,520 in the discontinued operations deferred income tax provision for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 as a result of the elimination of certain deferred tax liabilities. The Company recorded a goodwill impairment charge of $54,532 ($44,188 after tax) for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 in connection with the anticipated sale of these businesses. This charge was a write-down of the carrying value to fair value, based on the current estimated sales price. The Company expects to complete the sale of these businesses in the fourth quarter of 2013 or early 2014.
	Earnings from discontinued operations of $7,716 and $26,315 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012, respectively, primarily reflect net earnings from operations of DEK and ECT, as well as adjustments to sale proceeds for businesses sold in prior years.
	Assets and liabilities of discontinued operations are summarized below:
		September 30, 2013			December 31, 2012
	Assets of Discontinued Operations
	Accounts receivable	$	78,272		$	63,229
	Inventories, net	54,170			51,252
	Prepaid and other current assets	15,348			10,263
	Total current assets	147,790			124,744
	Property, plant and equipment, net	35,778			31,935
	Goodwill and intangible assets, net	186,597			238,657
	Other assets and deferred charges	5,335			2,209
	Total assets	$	375,500		$	397,545
	Liabilities of Discontinued Operations
	Accounts payable	$	28,822		$	22,613
	Other current liabilities	35,037			34,592
	Total current liabilities	63,859			57,205
	Deferred income taxes	27,898			64,853
	Other liabilities	41,673			86,900
	Total liabilities	$	133,430		$	208,958
	At September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, the assets and liabilities of discontinued operations relate primarily to the two businesses reclassified to held for sale in the fourth quarter of 2012, coupled with tax-related accruals and unrecognized benefits, as well as other accruals for compensation, legal, environmental, and warranty contingencies, none of which are individually significant, relating to businesses that were sold in prior years.

Inventories

Inventories	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Inventory, Net [Abstract]
Inventory Disclosure	5. Inventories, net
		September 30, 2013			December 31, 2012
	Raw materials	$	426,649		$	386,119
	Work in progress	190,235			182,060
	Finished goods	487,192			453,497
	Subtotal	1,104,076			1,021,676
	Less reserves	(154,458		)	(148,835		)
	Total	$	949,618		$	872,841

Property_Plant_and_Equipment

Property, Plant and Equipment	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure	6. Property, Plant and Equipment, net
		September 30, 2013			December 31, 2012
	Land	$	65,587		$	70,079
	Buildings and improvements	603,962			605,448
	Machinery, equipment and other	2,337,126			2,231,721
		3,006,675			2,907,248
	Less accumulated depreciation	(1,857,891		)	(1,740,196		)
	Total	$	1,148,784		$	1,167,052

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	7. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
	The following table provides the changes in carrying value of goodwill by segment for the nine months ended September 30, 2013:
		Communication Technologies		Energy			Engineered Systems			Printing & Identification		Total
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	1,204,295	$	760,637		$	1,403,381		$	746,337	$	4,114,650
	Acquisitions	—		24,774			19,032			5,073		48,879
	Purchase price adjustments	—		(2,277		)	(9,146		)	—		(11,423		)
	Foreign currency translation	9,026		(3,528		)	757			349		6,604
	Balance at September 30, 2013	$	1,213,321	$	779,606		$	1,414,024		$	751,759	$	4,158,710
	During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, the Company recorded adjustments totaling $11,423 to goodwill relating primarily to the finalization of the purchase price allocation to assets acquired and liabilities assumed for the 2012 acquisitions of Maag Pump Systems, Anthony International, and UPCO, Inc.
	The following table provides the gross carrying value and accumulated amortization for each major class of intangible asset:
		September 30, 2013					December 31, 2012
		Gross Carrying		Accumulated			Gross Carrying			Accumulated
		Amount		Amortization			Amount			Amortization
	Amortized intangible assets:
	Trademarks	$	127,336	$	33,055		$	124,129		$	25,364
	Patents	194,469		116,509			180,427			105,369
	Customer Intangibles	1,635,546		577,602			1,585,041			474,309
	Unpatented Technologies	146,070		97,835			146,025			85,373
	Drawings & Manuals	34,362		10,564			34,120			8,035
	Distributor Relationships	72,514		34,498			72,514			31,650
	Other	31,933		21,293			32,221			20,815
	Total	2,242,230		891,356			2,174,477			750,915
	Unamortized intangible assets:
	Trademarks	201,877					201,858
	Total intangible assets, net	$	1,552,751				$	1,625,420
	Amortization expense totaled $46,894 and $39,502 for the three months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively. For the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, amortization expense was $138,967 and $112,998, respectively.

Restructuring_Activities

Restructuring Activities	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Restructuring [Abstract]
Restructuring and Related Activities Disclosure	8. Restructuring Activities
	The following table details restructuring charges incurred by segment for the periods presented:
		Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2013			2012			2013			2012
	Communication Technologies	$	2,008		$	928		$	14,840		$	2,586
	Energy	124			55			1,299			550
	Engineered Systems	909			3,190			4,288			4,616
	Printing & Identification	1,541			(145		)	2,996			5,415
	Total	$	4,582		$	4,028		$	23,423		$	13,167
	These amounts are classified in the unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Earnings as follows:
	Cost of goods and services	$	239		$	1,454		$	10,566		$	2,440
	Selling and administrative expenses	4,343			2,574			12,857			10,727
	Total	$	4,582		$	4,028		$	23,423		$	13,167
	The restructuring expenses of $4,582 and $23,423 incurred in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, respectively, related to restructuring programs initiated during 2013 and 2012. These programs are designed to better align the Company's operations with current market conditions through targeted facility consolidations, headcount reductions and other measures to further optimize operations. The Company expects full-year 2013 restructuring expenses of approximately $27,500 to $32,500 related to these programs. We expect the programs currently underway to be substantially completed in the next twelve to eighteen months.
	The $4,582 of restructuring charges incurred during the quarter included the items as described below.
	•	The Communication Technologies segment incurred restructuring charges of $2,008 relating principally to a facility consolidation in its capacitor business and headcount reductions in connection with integration activities within its consumer electronics business.
	•	The Energy segment recorded $124 of restructuring charges relating to facility consolidations within the production sector undertaken to optimize cost structure.
	•	The Engineered Systems segment incurred net restructuring charges of $909 in connection with certain facility consolidations and optimizations and headcount reductions undertaken to optimize its cost structure.
	•	The Printing & Identification segment incurred restructuring charges of $1,541 relating to exit plans at targeted facilities, which included certain adjustments and offsets to previously recorded reserves.
	The following table details the Company’s severance and other restructuring accrual activity:
		Severance			Exit			Total
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	5,160		$	2,601		$	7,761
	Restructuring charges	17,640			5,783			23,423
	Payments	(12,853		)	(5,446		)	(18,299		)
	Other, including foreign currency	(76		)	46			(30		)
	Balance at September 30, 2013	$	9,871		$	2,984		$	12,855
	The accrual balance at September 30, 2013 primarily reflects restructuring plans initiated during the year, as well as ongoing lease commitment obligations for facilities closed in earlier periods.

Borrowings

Borrowings	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Borrowings	9. Borrowings
	Borrowings consist of the following:
		September 30, 2013			December 31, 2012
	Short-term
	Current portion of long-term debt	$	3,235		$	3,266
	Commercial paper	668,900			607,500
		$	672,135		$	610,766
		September 30, 2013			December 31, 2012
	Long-term
	4.875% 10-year notes due October 15, 2015	$	299,589		$	299,441
	5.45% 10-year notes due March 15, 2018	348,515			348,268
	4.30% 10-year notes due March 1, 2021	449,806			449,787
	6.60% 30-year notes due March 15, 2038	247,837			247,771
	5.375% 30-year notes due March 1, 2041	345,631			345,511
	6.65% 30-year debentures due June 1, 2028	199,474			199,448
	5.375% 30-year debentures due October 15, 2035	296,486			296,367
	Other	6,053			6,023
	Total long-term debt	2,193,391			2,192,616
	Less current installments	(3,235		)	(3,266		)
		$	2,190,156		$	2,189,350
	The Company maintains a $1 billion unsecured revolving credit facility which expires on November 10, 2016.  The Company primarily uses this facility as liquidity back-up for its commercial paper program and has not drawn down any loans under the $1 billion facility and does not anticipate doing so. The Company generally uses commercial paper borrowings for general corporate purposes, funding of acquisitions and the repurchases of its common stock. Under the credit facility, the Company is required to maintain an interest coverage ratio of EBITDA to consolidated net interest expense of not less than 3.0 to 1.  The Company was in compliance with this covenant and its other long-term debt covenants at September 30, 2013, and it expects to remain in compliance with all of its debt covenants.
	Interest expense and interest income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 were as follows:
		Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2013			2012			2013			2012
	Interest expense	$	31,004		$	31,099		$	92,917		$	94,210
	Interest income	(767		)	(700		)	(2,156		)	(4,065		)
	Interest expense, net	$	30,237		$	30,399		$	90,761		$	90,145
	Letters of Credit
	As of September 30, 2013, the Company had approximately $121,102 outstanding in letters of credit and guarantees with financial institutions, which expire at various dates in the last quarter of 2013 through 2018. These letters of credit are primarily maintained as security for insurance, warranty, and other performance obligations.

Financial_Instruments

Financial Instruments	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure	10. Financial Instruments
	Derivatives
	The Company is exposed to market risk for changes in foreign currency exchange rates due to the global nature of its operations and certain commodity risks. In order to manage this risk the Company has hedged portions of its forecasted sales and purchases, which occur within the next twelve months and are denominated in non-functional currencies, with currency forward or collar contracts designated as cash flow hedges. At September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, the Company had contracts with U.S. dollar equivalent notional amounts of $46,733 and $9,090, respectively, to exchange foreign currencies, principally the U.S. dollar, Canadian dollar, euro, pound sterling, Japanese yen, Chinese yuan, and Malaysian ringgit. The Company believes it is probable that all forecasted cash flow transactions will occur.
	In addition, the Company had outstanding contracts at September 30, 2013 with a total notional amount of $88,321 that are not designated as hedging instruments. These instruments are used to reduce the Company's exposure for operating receivables and payables that are denominated in non-functional currencies.
	The Company also has an outstanding floating-to-floating cross currency swap agreement for a total notional amount of $50,000 in exchange for CHF 65,100, which expires on October 15, 2015. This transaction continues to hedge a portion of the Company’s net investment in CHF-denominated operations. The agreement qualifies as a net investment hedge and the effective portion of the change in fair value is reported within the cumulative translation adjustment section of other comprehensive income. The fair values at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 reflected losses of $22,750 and $22,681, respectively, due to the strengthening of the Swiss franc relative to the U.S. dollar over the term of the arrangement.
	The following table sets forth the fair values of derivative instruments held by the Company as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 and the balance sheet lines in which they are recorded:
		Fair Value Asset (Liability)
		September 30, 2013			December 31, 2012			Balance Sheet Caption
	Foreign currency forward / collar contracts	$	323		$	85		Prepaid / Other assets
	Foreign currency forward / collar contracts	(208		)	(799		)	Other accrued expenses
	Net investment hedge - cross currency swap	(22,750		)	(22,681		)	Other liabilities
	The amount of gains or losses from hedging activity recorded in earnings is not significant and the amount of unrealized gains and losses from cash flow hedges which are expected to be reclassified to earnings in the next twelve months is not significant; therefore, additional tabular disclosures are not presented. There are no amounts excluded from the assessment of hedge effectiveness, and the Company's derivative instruments that are subject to credit risk contingent features were not significant.
	The Company is exposed to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by counterparties to the financial instrument contracts held by the Company; however, nonperformance by these counterparties is considered unlikely as the Company’s policy is to contract with highly-rated, diversified counterparties.
	Fair Value Measurements
	Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 820, “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures,” establishes a fair value hierarchy that requires the Company to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. A financial instrument’s categorization within the hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. ASC 820 establishes three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value.
	Level 1 inputs are quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
	Level 2 inputs include inputs other than Level 1 that are observable, either directly or indirectly, such as quoted prices in active markets for similar assets and liabilities, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of assets or liabilities.
	Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs in which little or no market data exists, therefore requiring an entity to develop its own assumptions.
	The following table presents the Company’s assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012:
		September 30, 2013								December 31, 2012
		Level 1			Level 2			Level 3		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	Assets:
	Foreign currency cash flow hedges	$	—		$	323		$	—	$	—	$	85	$	—
	Liabilities:
	Foreign currency cash flow hedges	—			208			—		—		799		—
	Net investment hedge derivative	—			22,750			—		—		22,681		—
	In addition to fair value disclosure requirements related to financial instruments carried at fair value, accounting standards require interim disclosures regarding the fair value of all of the Company’s financial instruments.
	The estimated fair value of long-term debt at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 was $2,458,592 and $2,680,674, respectively, compared to the carrying value of $2,193,391 and $2,192,616, respectively. The estimated fair value of long-term debt is based on quoted market prices for similar instruments and is, therefore, classified as Level 2 within the valuation hierarchy.
	The carrying values of cash and cash equivalents, trade receivables, accounts payable, and notes payable are reasonable estimates of their fair values as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 due to the short-term nature of these instruments.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	11. Income Taxes
	The effective tax rate for continuing operations for the three months ended September 30, 2013 was 27.4% as compared to 28.0% for the comparable prior year period.  The current quarter rate was impacted by $4,878 of favorable net discrete items, principally related to a favorable court interpretation of tax law, as well as certain cross-border tax consequences. The prior year quarter effective tax rate was impacted by other favorable net discrete items totaling $4,513. Excluding the discrete items, the effective tax rates were 28.7% and 29.4% for the three months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	The effective tax rate for continuing operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 was 20.3% as compared to 27.8% for the prior year period. The current year rate was impacted by $70,880 of favorable net discrete items, principally related to the conclusion of certain U.S. federal, state and international tax audits, a favorable court interpretation of tax law, certain cross-border tax consequences and the effect of the American Tax Relief Act of 2012 signed into law on January 2, 2013. The prior year effective tax rate was not significantly impacted by other favorable net discrete items totaling $2,531. Excluding the discrete items, the effective tax rates were 27.8% and 28.1% for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The current year pre-discrete rate was favorably impacted by reinstatement of the U.S. Research and Experimentation tax credit.
	Dover and its subsidiaries file tax returns in the U.S., including various state and local returns, and in other foreign jurisdictions.  We believe adequate provision has been made for all income tax uncertainties.  The Company is routinely audited by taxing authorities in its filing jurisdictions, and a number of these audits are currently underway.  We believe within the next twelve months that uncertain tax positions may be resolved and statutes of limitations will expire, which could result in a decrease in the gross amount of unrecognized tax benefits of approximately zero to $49 million, of which a portion will be reported as discontinued operations.

Equity_Incentive_Program

Equity Incentive Program	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Equity Incentive Program [Abstract]
Share-based Compensation	12. Equity Incentive Program
	The Company typically grants stock settled appreciation rights (“SARs”) and performance shares annually at its regularly scheduled first quarter Compensation Committee meeting. In the first quarters of 2013 and 2012, the Company issued SARs covering 1,613,884 and 1,719,943 shares, respectively, and 47,032 and 50,416 performance shares, respectively.
	The fair value of each SARs grant was estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The performance share awards are market condition awards and have been assessed at fair value on the date of grant using a Monte Carlo simulation model. The following assumptions were used in determining the fair value of the SARs and performance shares awarded during the respective periods:
		SARs						Performance Shares
		2013			2012			2013			2012
	Risk-free interest rate	1.39		%	1.05		%	0.4		%	0.37		%
	Dividend yield	2.06		%	2.03		%	2.06		%	2.03		%
	Expected life (years)	7.1			5.7			2.9			2.9
	Volatility	33.78		%	36.41		%	30.36		%	34.1		%
	Grant price	$	71.86		$	65.38		n/a			n/a
	Fair value at date of grant	$	20.62		$	18.51		$	80.47		$	71.98
	Stock-based compensation is reported within selling and administrative expenses in the accompanying unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Earnings. The following table summarizes the Company’s compensation expense relating to all stock-based incentive plans:
		Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2013			2012			2013			2012
	Pre-tax compensation expense	$	7,081		$	7,483		$	23,384		$	23,589
	Tax benefit	(2,493		)	(2,643		)	(8,241		)	(8,330		)
	Total stock-based compensation expense, net of tax	$	4,588		$	4,840		$	15,143		$	15,259
	On May 3, 2012, the shareholders approved the Dover Corporation 2012 Equity and Cash Incentive Plan (the "2012 Plan"), to replace the 2005 Equity and Cash Incentive Plan, which otherwise would terminate according to its terms on January 31, 2015, and the 1996 Non-Employee Directors Stock Compensation Plan, which would otherwise terminate according to its terms on December 31, 2012. Officers and other key employees, as well as non-employee directors, are eligible to participate in the 2012 Plan, which has a ten year term and will terminate on May 3, 2022. The 2012 Plan provides for stock options and SARs grants, restricted stock awards, restricted stock unit awards, performance share awards, cash performance awards, directors' shares and deferred stock units. Under the 2012 Plan, a total of 17,000,000 shares of common stock are reserved for issuance, subject to adjustments resulting from stock dividends, stock splits, recapitalizations, reorganizations and other similar changes.

Commitments_and_Contingent_Lia

Commitments and Contingent Liabilities	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingent Liabilities	13. Commitments and Contingent Liabilities
	Litigation
	A few of the Company’s subsidiaries are involved in legal proceedings relating to the cleanup of waste disposal sites identified under federal and state statutes which provide for the allocation of such costs among “potentially responsible parties.” In each instance, the extent of the Company’s liability appears to be very small in relation to the total projected expenditures and the number of other “potentially responsible parties” involved and is anticipated to be immaterial to the Company. In addition, a few of the Company’s subsidiaries are involved in ongoing remedial activities at certain current and former plant sites, in cooperation with regulatory agencies, and appropriate reserves have been established. At September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, the Company has reserves totaling $30,166 and $28,875, respectively, for environmental and other matters that are probable and estimable, with the 2013 increase primarily attributed to environmental contingencies assumed in recent acquisitions.
	The Company and certain of its subsidiaries are also parties to a number of other legal proceedings incidental to their businesses. These proceedings primarily involve claims by private parties alleging injury arising out of use of the Company’s products, exposure to hazardous substances, patent infringement, employment matters, and commercial disputes. Management and legal counsel, at least quarterly, review the probable outcome of such proceedings, the costs and expenses reasonably expected to be incurred and currently accrued to-date, and the availability and extent of insurance coverage. At September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, the Company has reserves totaling $754 and $1,158, respectively, for legal matters that are probable and estimable and not otherwise covered by insurance. While it is not possible at this time to predict the outcome of these legal actions, in the opinion of management, based on the aforementioned reviews, the Company is not currently involved in any legal proceedings which, individually or in the aggregate, could have a material effect on its financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.
	Warranty Accruals
	Estimated warranty program claims are provided for at the time of sale. Amounts provided for are based on historical costs and adjusted new claims. The changes in the carrying amount of product warranties through September 30, 2013 and 2012 are as follows:
		2013			2012
	Beginning Balance, January 1	$	43,759		$	37,739
	Provision for warranties	40,105			34,943
	Settlements made	(37,327		)	(34,523		)
	Other adjustments, including acquisitions and currency translation	(1,194		)	3,313
	Ending balance, September 30	$	45,343		$	41,472

Employee_Benefit_Plans

Employee Benefit Plans	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Defined Benefit Pension Plans and Defined Benefit Postretirement Plans Disclosure [Abstract]
Employee Benefit Plans	14. Employee Benefit Plans
	Retirement Plans
	The Company offers defined contribution retirement plans which cover the majority of its U.S. employees, as well as employees in certain other countries. In addition, the Company sponsors qualified defined benefit pension plans covering certain employees of the Company and its subsidiaries. The plans’ benefits are generally based on years of service and employee compensation.  The Company also provides to certain management employees, through non-qualified plans, supplemental retirement benefits in excess of qualified plan limits imposed by federal tax law.
	In July 2013, the Company announced that, after December 31, 2013, the U.S. qualified and non-qualified defined benefit plans will be closed to new employees. All pension-eligible employees as of December 31, 2013 will continue to earn a pension benefit through December 31, 2023 as long as they remain employed by an operating company participating in the plan. The Company also announced that effective, January 1, 2024, the plan would be frozen to any future benefit accruals.
	As a result of the effective 10-year freeze of these defined benefit plans, pension assets and liabilities were re-measured as of the interim effective date of the change, assuming a discount rate of 4.8%. The Company's discount rate assumption is determined by developing a yield curve based on high-quality corporate bonds with maturities matching the plans' expected benefit payment streams. Accordingly, as of July 31, 2013, this re-measurement resulted in a decrease in current quarter pension expense of $7,348, of which $4,411 reflects a one-time curtailment gain in the Company's non-qualified benefit plan. Due to the recent amendments to the defined benefit plan, the Company is currently reevaluating contribution amounts for full year 2013.
	The following tables set forth the components of the Company’s net periodic expense relating to retirement benefit plans:
	Qualified Defined Benefits
		Three Months Ended September 30,												Nine Months Ended September 30,
		U.S. Plan						Non-U.S. Plans						U.S. Plan						Non-U.S. Plans
		2013			2012			2013			2012			2013			2012			2013			2012
	Service Cost	$	4,088		$	3,602		$	1,471		$	1,079		$	13,290		$	10,804		$	4,387		$	3,147
	Interest Cost	6,247			6,284			2,264			2,231			18,491			18,852			6,748			6,428
	Expected return on plan assets	(10,106		)	(9,744		)	(2,395		)	(2,022		)	(30,011		)	(29,234		)	(7,138		)	(5,810		)
	Amortization:
	Prior service cost	256			260			28			30			769			786			85			89
	Recognized actuarial loss	3,771			3,378			373			130			14,741			10,136			1,112			371
	Transition obligation	—			—			(3		)	(13		)	—			—			(10		)	(36		)
	Settlement loss	—			—			353			—			—			—			353			—
	Other	—			—			39			56			—			—			118			158
	Net periodic expense	$	4,256		$	3,780		$	2,130		$	1,491		$	17,280		$	11,344		$	5,655		$	4,347
	Non-Qualified Supplemental Benefits
		Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2013			2012			2013			2012
	Service Cost	$	1,246		$	1,326		$	4,604		$	3,978
	Interest Cost	1,633			1,979			5,180			5,937
	Amortization:
	Prior service cost	2,045			1,857			6,040			5,569
	Recognized actuarial loss	(32		)	33			52			103
	Settlement and curtailment gain	(4,411		)	—			(4,411		)	—
	Net periodic expense	$	481		$	5,195		$	11,465		$	15,587
	Post-Retirement Plans
	The Company also maintains post retirement benefit plans, although these plans are effectively closed to new entrants. The supplemental and post retirement benefit plans are supported by the general assets of the Company. The following table sets forth the components of the Company’s net periodic expense relating to its post-retirement benefit plans:
		Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2013			2012			2013			2012
	Service Cost	$	59		$	62		$	176		$	186
	Interest Cost	130			149			392			445
	Amortization:
	Prior service cost	(104		)	(104		)	(312		)	(312		)
	Recognized actuarial loss (gain)	34			(5		)	102			(15		)
	Settlement gains	—			—			—			(1,493		)
	Net periodic expense	$	119		$	102		$	358		$	(1,189	)
	The Company purchased life insurance contracts to settle a portion of the post-retirement obligations relating to employees of two businesses that were sold in 2011, resulting in a settlement gain of $1,493, which are included within the results of discontinued operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2012.
	The total amount amortized out of accumulated other comprehensive income into net periodic benefit expense for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 totaled $6,368 and $22,579, respectively.

Other_Comprehensive_Earnings

Other Comprehensive Earnings	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Other Comprehensive Earnings [Abstract]
Other Comprehensive Earnings	15. Other Comprehensive Earnings
	The amounts recognized in other comprehensive earnings were as follows:
		Three Months Ended									Three Months Ended
		30-Sep-13									30-Sep-12
		Pre-tax			Tax			Net of tax			Pre-tax			Tax			Net of tax
	Foreign currency translation adjustments	$	60,802		$	998		$	61,800		$	82,694		$	108		$	82,802
	Pension and other postretirement benefit plans	129,959			(45,452		)	84,507			16,268			(5,693		)	10,575
	Changes in fair value of cash flow hedges	(453		)	158			(295		)	298			(104		)	194
	Other	132			(17		)	115			(261		)	(29		)	(290		)
	Total other comprehensive earnings (loss)	$	190,440		$	(44,313	)	$	146,127		$	98,999		$	(5,718	)	$	93,281
		Nine Months Ended									Nine Months Ended
		30-Sep-13									30-Sep-12
		Pre-tax			Tax			Net of tax			Pre-tax			Tax			Net of tax
	Foreign currency translation adjustments	$	22,510		$	—		$	22,510		$	34,181		$	(262	)	$	33,919
	Pension and other postretirement benefit plans	146,170			(51,059		)	95,111			9,952			(3,637		)	6,315
	Changes in fair value of cash flow hedges	(174		)	61			(113		)	675			(236		)	439
	Other	319			(39		)	280			318			(55		)	263
	Total other comprehensive earnings (loss)	$	168,825		$	(51,037	)	$	117,788		$	45,126		$	(4,190	)	$	40,936
	Total comprehensive earnings were as follows:
		Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2013			2012			2013			2012
	Net earnings	$	269,114		$	241,046		$	809,166		$	651,210
	Other comprehensive earnings	146,127			93,281			117,788			40,936
	Comprehensive earnings	$	415,241		$	334,327		$	926,954		$	692,146
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive earnings (loss) to earnings (loss) during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 were as follows:
		Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2013			2012			2013			2012
	Pension & postretirement benefit plans: (1)
	Amortization of actuarial losses	$	4,143		$	10,225		$	15,997		$	10,225
	Amortization of prior service costs	2,225			6,043			6,582			6,043
	Total before tax	6,368			16,268			22,579			16,268
	Tax provision	(2,195		)	(5,693		)	(7,802		)	(5,693		)
	Net of tax	$	4,173		$	10,575		$	14,777		$	10,575
	Cash flow hedges:
	Net (gains) losses reclassified into earnings	$	(617	)	$	47		$	(481	)	$	91
	Tax benefit	216			(17		)	168			(32		)
	Net of tax	$	(401	)	$	30		$	(313	)	$	59
	-1	In the third quarter of 2012, the Company began to reclassify the amortization of actuarial gains and losses and prior service costs from deferred compensation to accumulated other comprehensive income on a quarterly basis. Prior to that date, these amounts were reclassified on an annual basis.
	The Company recognizes net periodic pension cost, which includes amortization of net actuarial losses and prior service costs, in both selling & administrative expenses and cost of goods and services, depending on the functional area of the underlying employees included in the plans.
	Cash flow hedges consist mainly of foreign currency forward and commodity contracts. The Company recognizes the realized gains and losses on its cash flow hedges in the same line item as the hedged transaction, such as revenue, cost of goods and services, or selling & administrative expenses.

Segment_Information

Segment Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Information	16. Segment Information
	For management reporting and performance evaluation purposes, the Company categorizes its operating companies into four distinct reportable segments. Segment financial information and a reconciliation of segment results to consolidated results follows:
		Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2013			2012			2013			2012
	REVENUE:
	Communication Technologies	$	413,608		$	396,470		$	1,187,875		$	1,115,734
	Energy	577,350			562,263			1,712,019			1,632,619
	Engineered Systems	1,004,955			892,121			2,876,783			2,600,368
	Printing & Identification	256,571			246,945			745,094			742,390
	Intra-segment eliminations	(135		)	(194		)	(1,086		)	(603		)
	Total consolidated revenue	$	2,252,349		$	2,097,605		$	6,520,685		$	6,090,508
	EARNINGS FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS:
	Segment earnings:
	Communication Technologies	$	76,076		$	63,706		$	172,073		$	160,584
	Energy	145,494			139,038			417,965			405,089
	Engineered Systems	172,223			144,245			454,841			400,145
	Printing & Identification	42,881			39,502			108,600			94,509
	Total segments	436,674			386,491			1,153,479			1,060,327
	Corporate expense / other (1)	43,278			32,001			115,382			104,882
	Net interest expense	30,237			30,399			90,761			90,145
	Earnings from continuing operations before provision for income taxes and discontinued operations	363,159			324,091			947,336			865,300
	Provision for taxes	99,507			90,761			192,343			240,405
	Earnings from continuing operations	$	263,652		$	233,330		$	754,993		$	624,895
	-1	Certain expenses are maintained at the corporate level and not allocated to the segments. These expenses include executive and functional compensation costs, non-service pension costs, non-operating insurance expenses, and various administrative expenses relating to the corporate headquarters. Corporate expenses also include one-time transaction costs associated with the Knowles spin off of $10,637 and $13,959 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, respectively, as well as a one-time pension curtailment gain of $4,411.

Recent_Accounting_Standards

Recent Accounting Standards	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract]
Recent Accounting Standards	17. Recent Accounting Standards
	Recently Adopted Accounting Standard
	In February 2013, the FASB issued ASU 2013-02 which requires additional disclosures regarding the reporting of reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income. ASU 2013-02 requires an entity to present, either on the face of the statement where net income is presented or in the notes, significant amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by the respective line items of net income but only if the amount reclassified is required under U.S. GAAP to be reclassified to net income in its entirety in the same reporting period. This guidance is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2012. The Company adopted this guidance effective January 1, 2013. The Company's adoption of this standard did not have a significant impact on its consolidated financial statements.
	Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
	In March 2013, the FASB issued ASU 2013-05, which permits an entity to release cumulative translation adjustments into net income when a reporting entity (parent) ceases to have a controlling financial interest in a subsidiary or group of assets that is a business within a foreign entity. Accordingly, the cumulative translation adjustment should be released into net income only if the sale or transfer results in the complete or substantially complete liquidation of the foreign entity in which the subsidiary or group of assets had resided, or, if a controlling financial interest is no longer held. The revised standard is effective for Dover for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2013; however, early adoption is permitted. The Company does not expect adoption of this ASU to significantly impact its consolidated financial statements.
	In July 2012, the FASB issued ASU 2012-02, which allows an entity to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is necessary to perform a quantitative impairment test of an indefinite-lived intangible asset.  Per the terms of this ASU, an entity would not be required to calculate the fair value of an indefinite-lived intangible asset unless the entity determines, based on qualitative assessment, that it is more likely than not that the indefinite-lived intangible asset is impaired.  The revised standard is effective for Dover for its annual and interim impairment tests performed for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2012; however, early adoption is permitted. The Company does not expect adoption of this ASU to significantly impact its consolidated financial statements.

Share_Repurchases

Share Repurchases	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]
Share repurchases	18. Share Repurchases
	Share repurchases during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 were as follows:
		Three Months Ended		Nine Months Ended
		30-Sep-13		30-Sep-13
	Shares repurchased in the open market	649,840		5,455,235
	Shares repurchased from holders of employee stock options	—		5,951
	Total shares repurchased	649,840		5,461,186
	Average price paid per share	$	87.33	$	74.68
	In May 2012, the Board of Directors renewed its standing authorization of the Company's share repurchase program, on terms consistent with its prior five-year authorization which expired at that time. This renewal authorizes the repurchase of up to 10,000,000 shares of the Company's common stock during the five-year period ending May 2017. The Company made no repurchases under this new authorization during the nine months ended September 30, 2013. As of September 30, 2013, the approximate number of shares still available for repurchase under the May 2012 share repurchase authorization was 3,908,289.
	In November 2012, the Board of Directors approved a $1 billion share repurchase program authorizing repurchases of the Company's common shares over the following 12 to 18 months. The Company repurchased 5,455,235 shares under this new program during 2013. As of September 30, 2013, the approximate dollar amount still available for repurchase under this share repurchase program was $342,565.
	Treasury shares increased to 84,862,771 at September 30, 2013 from a balance of 79,401,585 at December 31, 2012.

Earnings_per_Share

Earnings per Share	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings Per Share	19. Earnings per Share
	The following table sets forth a reconciliation of the information used in computing basic and diluted earnings per share:
		Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2013			2012			2013		2012
	Earnings from continuing operations	$	263,652		$	233,330		$	754,993	$	624,895
	Earnings from discontinued operations, net	5,462			7,716			54,173		26,315
	Net earnings	$	269,114		$	241,046		$	809,166	$	651,210
	Basic earnings per common share:
	Earnings from continuing operations	$	1.55		$	1.28		$	4.4	$	3.41
	Earnings from discontinued operations, net	$	0.03		$	0.04		$	0.32	$	0.14
	Net earnings	$	1.58		$	1.33		$	4.71	$	3.56
	Weighted average shares outstanding	170,544,000			181,763,000			171,690,000		183,000,000
	Diluted earnings per common share:
	Earnings from continuing operations	$	1.53		$	1.27		$	4.34	$	3.37
	Earnings from discontinued operations, net	$	0.03		$	0.04		$	0.31	$	0.14
	Net earnings	$	1.56		$	1.31		$	4.65	$	3.51
	Weighted average shares outstanding	172,734,000			183,932,000			173,870,000		185,489,000
	The following table is a reconciliation of the share amounts used in computing earnings per share:
		Three Months Ended September 30,					Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2013		2012			2013		2012
	Weighted average shares outstanding - Basic	170,544,000		181,763,000			171,690,000		183,000,000
	Dilutive effect of assumed exercise of employee stock options and SARs and vesting of performance shares	2,190,000		2,169,000			2,180,000		2,489,000
	Weighted average shares outstanding - Diluted	172,734,000		183,932,000			173,870,000		185,489,000
	Diluted per share amounts are computed using the weighted-average number of common shares and, if dilutive, potential common shares outstanding during the period.  Potential common shares consist of the incremental common shares issuable upon the exercise of stock options and SARs, and vesting of performance shares and restricted shares, as determined using the treasury stock method.  For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012, the weighted average number of anti-dilutive potential common shares excluded from the calculation above totaled 3,128,000 and 2,899,000, respectively. There were no anti-dilutive potential common shares excluded from the calculation above for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013.

Subsequent_Events

Subsequent Events	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events	20. Subsequent Events
	The Company assessed events occurring subsequent to September 30, 2013 for potential recognition and disclosure in the consolidated financial statements. No events have occurred that would require adjustments to the consolidated financial statements.
	In October 2013, the Company acquired two businesses, UK-based Fibrelite and Sweden-based Kungsors Plast AB (KPS), in separate transactions for net cash consideration of approximately $50 million. These businesses were acquired to complement and expand upon existing operations within the Energy segment, particularly for OPW, an operating company that specializes in fluid handling solutions. These acquisitions and the related goodwill identified will be reflected in the Company's consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2013.

Acquisitions_Tables

Acquisitions (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Allocation of acquisition cost	The Company acquired these businesses in six separate transactions for net cash consideration of $118,990. The following presents the allocation of acquisition cost to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, based on their estimated fair values:
	Current assets, net of cash acquired	$	30,191
	Property, plant and equipment	8,555
	Goodwill	48,879
	Intangible assets	53,442
	Other non-current assets	1,082
	Current liabilities	(11,532		)
	Non-current liabilities	(11,627		)
	Net assets acquired	$	118,990
Schedule of acquired intangible assets	The amounts assigned to goodwill and major intangible asset classifications for the 2013 acquisitions are as follows:
		Amount allocated			Useful life (in years)
	Goodwill - Tax deductible	$	18,135		na
	Goodwill - Non deductible	30,744			na
	Customer intangibles	41,555			11
	Trademarks	2,896			11
	Patents	7,760			11
	Other intangibles	1,231			2
		$	102,321
Pro forma results of operations	The following unaudited pro forma information illustrates the effect on the Company’s revenue and earnings from continuing operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, assuming that the 2013 and 2012 acquisitions had taken place at the beginning of the prior year. As a result, the supplemental pro forma earnings for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 reflect adjustments to earnings from continuing operations as reported in the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Earnings to exclude $1,194 and $1,902 for nonrecurring expense related to the fair value adjustments to acquisition-date inventory (after-tax) and $349 and $1,159 of acquisition-related costs (after tax) and to reflect such items in 2012. The 2013 and 2012 supplemental pro forma earnings are also adjusted to reflect the comparable impact of additional depreciation and amortization expense (net of tax) resulting from the fair value measurement of tangible and intangible assets relating to 2013 and 2012 acquisitions.
		Three Months Ended September 30,					Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2013			2012		2013		2012
	Revenue from continuing operations:
	As reported	$	2,252,349		$	2,097,605	$	6,520,685	$	6,090,508
	Pro forma	2,257,473			2,208,107		6,556,075		6,485,833
	Earnings from continuing operations:
	As reported	$	263,652		$	233,330	$	754,993	$	624,895
	Pro forma	266,169			242,135		762,069		654,576
	Basic earnings per share from continuing operations:
	As reported	$	1.55		$	1.28	$	4.4	$	3.41
	Pro forma	1.56			1.33		4.44		3.58
	Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations:
	As reported	$	1.53		$	1.27	$	4.34	$	3.37
	Pro forma	1.54			1.32		4.38		3.53

Discontinued_Operations_Tables

Discontinued Operations (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Results of discontinued operations	Summarized results of the Company’s discontinued operations are as follows:
		Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2013			2012			2013			2012
	Revenue	$	106,974		$	111,174		$	309,900		$	338,337
	(Loss) gain on sale and impairments, net of tax	—			(634		)	(18,668		)	1,226
	Earnings from operations before taxes	7,531			11,531			26,108			29,693
	Benefit from (provision for) income taxes	(2,069		)	(3,181		)	46,733			(4,604		)
	Earnings from operations, net of tax	5,462			8,350			72,841			25,089
	Earnings from discontinued operations, net of tax	$	5,462		$	7,716		$	54,173		$	26,315
Assets and liabilities of discontinued operations	Assets and liabilities of discontinued operations are summarized below:
		September 30, 2013			December 31, 2012
	Assets of Discontinued Operations
	Accounts receivable	$	78,272		$	63,229
	Inventories, net	54,170			51,252
	Prepaid and other current assets	15,348			10,263
	Total current assets	147,790			124,744
	Property, plant and equipment, net	35,778			31,935
	Goodwill and intangible assets, net	186,597			238,657
	Other assets and deferred charges	5,335			2,209
	Total assets	$	375,500		$	397,545
	Liabilities of Discontinued Operations
	Accounts payable	$	28,822		$	22,613
	Other current liabilities	35,037			34,592
	Total current liabilities	63,859			57,205
	Deferred income taxes	27,898			64,853
	Other liabilities	41,673			86,900
	Total liabilities	$	133,430		$	208,958

Inventories_Tables

Inventories (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Inventory, Net [Abstract]
Components of Inventory
		September 30, 2013			December 31, 2012
	Raw materials	$	426,649		$	386,119
	Work in progress	190,235			182,060
	Finished goods	487,192			453,497
	Subtotal	1,104,076			1,021,676
	Less reserves	(154,458		)	(148,835		)
	Total	$	949,618		$	872,841

Property_Plant_and_Equipment_T

Property, Plant and Equipment (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Components of property, plant and equipment, net
		September 30, 2013			December 31, 2012
	Land	$	65,587		$	70,079
	Buildings and improvements	603,962			605,448
	Machinery, equipment and other	2,337,126			2,231,721
		3,006,675			2,907,248
	Less accumulated depreciation	(1,857,891		)	(1,740,196		)
	Total	$	1,148,784		$	1,167,052

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_1

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill	The following table provides the changes in carrying value of goodwill by segment for the nine months ended September 30, 2013:
		Communication Technologies		Energy			Engineered Systems			Printing & Identification		Total
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	1,204,295	$	760,637		$	1,403,381		$	746,337	$	4,114,650
	Acquisitions	—		24,774			19,032			5,073		48,879
	Purchase price adjustments	—		(2,277		)	(9,146		)	—		(11,423		)
	Foreign currency translation	9,026		(3,528		)	757			349		6,604
	Balance at September 30, 2013	$	1,213,321	$	779,606		$	1,414,024		$	751,759	$	4,158,710
Schedule of Intangible Assets	The following table provides the gross carrying value and accumulated amortization for each major class of intangible asset:
		September 30, 2013					December 31, 2012
		Gross Carrying		Accumulated			Gross Carrying			Accumulated
		Amount		Amortization			Amount			Amortization
	Amortized intangible assets:
	Trademarks	$	127,336	$	33,055		$	124,129		$	25,364
	Patents	194,469		116,509			180,427			105,369
	Customer Intangibles	1,635,546		577,602			1,585,041			474,309
	Unpatented Technologies	146,070		97,835			146,025			85,373
	Drawings & Manuals	34,362		10,564			34,120			8,035
	Distributor Relationships	72,514		34,498			72,514			31,650
	Other	31,933		21,293			32,221			20,815
	Total	2,242,230		891,356			2,174,477			750,915
	Unamortized intangible assets:
	Trademarks	201,877					201,858
	Total intangible assets, net	$	1,552,751				$	1,625,420

Restructuring_ActivitiesTables

Restructuring Activities(Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Restructuring [Abstract]
Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs	The following table details restructuring charges incurred by segment for the periods presented:
		Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2013			2012			2013			2012
	Communication Technologies	$	2,008		$	928		$	14,840		$	2,586
	Energy	124			55			1,299			550
	Engineered Systems	909			3,190			4,288			4,616
	Printing & Identification	1,541			(145		)	2,996			5,415
	Total	$	4,582		$	4,028		$	23,423		$	13,167
	These amounts are classified in the unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Earnings as follows:
	Cost of goods and services	$	239		$	1,454		$	10,566		$	2,440
	Selling and administrative expenses	4,343			2,574			12,857			10,727
	Total	$	4,582		$	4,028		$	23,423		$	13,167
Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost	The following table details the Company’s severance and other restructuring accrual activity:
		Severance			Exit			Total
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	5,160		$	2,601		$	7,761
	Restructuring charges	17,640			5,783			23,423
	Payments	(12,853		)	(5,446		)	(18,299		)
	Other, including foreign currency	(76		)	46			(30		)
	Balance at September 30, 2013	$	9,871		$	2,984		$	12,855

Borrowings_Tables

Borrowings (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Short-term Debt	Borrowings consist of the following:
		September 30, 2013			December 31, 2012
	Short-term
	Current portion of long-term debt	$	3,235		$	3,266
	Commercial paper	668,900			607,500
		$	672,135		$	610,766
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments
		September 30, 2013			December 31, 2012
	Long-term
	4.875% 10-year notes due October 15, 2015	$	299,589		$	299,441
	5.45% 10-year notes due March 15, 2018	348,515			348,268
	4.30% 10-year notes due March 1, 2021	449,806			449,787
	6.60% 30-year notes due March 15, 2038	247,837			247,771
	5.375% 30-year notes due March 1, 2041	345,631			345,511
	6.65% 30-year debentures due June 1, 2028	199,474			199,448
	5.375% 30-year debentures due October 15, 2035	296,486			296,367
	Other	6,053			6,023
	Total long-term debt	2,193,391			2,192,616
	Less current installments	(3,235		)	(3,266		)
		$	2,190,156		$	2,189,350
Schedule of Interest expense and interest income	Interest expense and interest income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 were as follows:
		Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2013			2012			2013			2012
	Interest expense	$	31,004		$	31,099		$	92,917		$	94,210
	Interest income	(767		)	(700		)	(2,156		)	(4,065		)
	Interest expense, net	$	30,237		$	30,399		$	90,761		$	90,145

Financial_Instruments_Tables

Financial Instruments (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Fair value of derivative instruments and the balance sheet lines in which they are recorded	The following table sets forth the fair values of derivative instruments held by the Company as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 and the balance sheet lines in which they are recorded:
		Fair Value Asset (Liability)
		September 30, 2013			December 31, 2012			Balance Sheet Caption
	Foreign currency forward / collar contracts	$	323		$	85		Prepaid / Other assets
	Foreign currency forward / collar contracts	(208		)	(799		)	Other accrued expenses
	Net investment hedge - cross currency swap	(22,750		)	(22,681		)	Other liabilities
Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis	The following table presents the Company’s assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012:
		September 30, 2013								December 31, 2012
		Level 1			Level 2			Level 3		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	Assets:
	Foreign currency cash flow hedges	$	—		$	323		$	—	$	—	$	85	$	—
	Liabilities:
	Foreign currency cash flow hedges	—			208			—		—		799		—
	Net investment hedge derivative	—			22,750			—		—		22,681		—

Equity_Incentive_Program_Table

Equity Incentive Program (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Share-based Compensation [Abstract]
Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions	The fair value of each SARs grant was estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The performance share awards are market condition awards and have been assessed at fair value on the date of grant using a Monte Carlo simulation model. The following assumptions were used in determining the fair value of the SARs and performance shares awarded during the respective periods:
		SARs						Performance Shares
		2013			2012			2013			2012
	Risk-free interest rate	1.39		%	1.05		%	0.4		%	0.37		%
	Dividend yield	2.06		%	2.03		%	2.06		%	2.03		%
	Expected life (years)	7.1			5.7			2.9			2.9
	Volatility	33.78		%	36.41		%	30.36		%	34.1		%
	Grant price	$	71.86		$	65.38		n/a			n/a
	Fair value at date of grant	$	20.62		$	18.51		$	80.47		$	71.98
Stock-based incentive plans compensation expense	Stock-based compensation is reported within selling and administrative expenses in the accompanying unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Earnings. The following table summarizes the Company’s compensation expense relating to all stock-based incentive plans:
		Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2013			2012			2013			2012
	Pre-tax compensation expense	$	7,081		$	7,483		$	23,384		$	23,589
	Tax benefit	(2,493		)	(2,643		)	(8,241		)	(8,330		)
	Total stock-based compensation expense, net of tax	$	4,588		$	4,840		$	15,143		$	15,259

Commitments_and_Contingent_Lia1

Commitments and Contingent Liabilities (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Product Warranty Liability [Table Text Block]	Estimated warranty program claims are provided for at the time of sale. Amounts provided for are based on historical costs and adjusted new claims. The changes in the carrying amount of product warranties through September 30, 2013 and 2012 are as follows:
		2013			2012
	Beginning Balance, January 1	$	43,759		$	37,739
	Provision for warranties	40,105			34,943
	Settlements made	(37,327		)	(34,523		)
	Other adjustments, including acquisitions and currency translation	(1,194		)	3,313
	Ending balance, September 30	$	45,343		$	41,472

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Tables

Employee Benefit Plans (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Employee Benefit Plans [Abstract]
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures	The following tables set forth the components of the Company’s net periodic expense relating to retirement benefit plans:
	Qualified Defined Benefits
		Three Months Ended September 30,												Nine Months Ended September 30,
		U.S. Plan						Non-U.S. Plans						U.S. Plan						Non-U.S. Plans
		2013			2012			2013			2012			2013			2012			2013			2012
	Service Cost	$	4,088		$	3,602		$	1,471		$	1,079		$	13,290		$	10,804		$	4,387		$	3,147
	Interest Cost	6,247			6,284			2,264			2,231			18,491			18,852			6,748			6,428
	Expected return on plan assets	(10,106		)	(9,744		)	(2,395		)	(2,022		)	(30,011		)	(29,234		)	(7,138		)	(5,810		)
	Amortization:
	Prior service cost	256			260			28			30			769			786			85			89
	Recognized actuarial loss	3,771			3,378			373			130			14,741			10,136			1,112			371
	Transition obligation	—			—			(3		)	(13		)	—			—			(10		)	(36		)
	Settlement loss	—			—			353			—			—			—			353			—
	Other	—			—			39			56			—			—			118			158
	Net periodic expense	$	4,256		$	3,780		$	2,130		$	1,491		$	17,280		$	11,344		$	5,655		$	4,347
	Non-Qualified Supplemental Benefits
		Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2013			2012			2013			2012
	Service Cost	$	1,246		$	1,326		$	4,604		$	3,978
	Interest Cost	1,633			1,979			5,180			5,937
	Amortization:
	Prior service cost	2,045			1,857			6,040			5,569
	Recognized actuarial loss	(32		)	33			52			103
	Settlement and curtailment gain	(4,411		)	—			(4,411		)	—
	Net periodic expense	$	481		$	5,195		$	11,465		$	15,587
	Post-Retirement Plans
	The Company also maintains post retirement benefit plans, although these plans are effectively closed to new entrants. The supplemental and post retirement benefit plans are supported by the general assets of the Company. The following table sets forth the components of the Company’s net periodic expense relating to its post-retirement benefit plans:
		Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2013			2012			2013			2012
	Service Cost	$	59		$	62		$	176		$	186
	Interest Cost	130			149			392			445
	Amortization:
	Prior service cost	(104		)	(104		)	(312		)	(312		)
	Recognized actuarial loss (gain)	34			(5		)	102			(15		)
	Settlement gains	—			—			—			(1,493		)
	Net periodic expense	$	119		$	102		$	358		$	(1,189	)

Other_Comprehensive_Earnings_T

Other Comprehensive Earnings (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Components of other comprehensive income	The amounts recognized in other comprehensive earnings were as follows:
		Three Months Ended									Three Months Ended
		30-Sep-13									30-Sep-12
		Pre-tax			Tax			Net of tax			Pre-tax			Tax			Net of tax
	Foreign currency translation adjustments	$	60,802		$	998		$	61,800		$	82,694		$	108		$	82,802
	Pension and other postretirement benefit plans	129,959			(45,452		)	84,507			16,268			(5,693		)	10,575
	Changes in fair value of cash flow hedges	(453		)	158			(295		)	298			(104		)	194
	Other	132			(17		)	115			(261		)	(29		)	(290		)
	Total other comprehensive earnings (loss)	$	190,440		$	(44,313	)	$	146,127		$	98,999		$	(5,718	)	$	93,281
		Nine Months Ended									Nine Months Ended
		30-Sep-13									30-Sep-12
		Pre-tax			Tax			Net of tax			Pre-tax			Tax			Net of tax
	Foreign currency translation adjustments	$	22,510		$	—		$	22,510		$	34,181		$	(262	)	$	33,919
	Pension and other postretirement benefit plans	146,170			(51,059		)	95,111			9,952			(3,637		)	6,315
	Changes in fair value of cash flow hedges	(174		)	61			(113		)	675			(236		)	439
	Other	319			(39		)	280			318			(55		)	263
	Total other comprehensive earnings (loss)	$	168,825		$	(51,037	)	$	117,788		$	45,126		$	(4,190	)	$	40,936
Schedule of Comprehensive Income (Loss)	Total comprehensive earnings were as follows:
		Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2013			2012			2013			2012
	Net earnings	$	269,114		$	241,046		$	809,166		$	651,210
	Other comprehensive earnings	146,127			93,281			117,788			40,936
	Comprehensive earnings	$	415,241		$	334,327		$	926,954		$	692,146
Schedule of Amounts Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss to Earnings	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive earnings (loss) to earnings (loss) during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 were as follows:
		Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2013			2012			2013			2012
	Pension & postretirement benefit plans: (1)
	Amortization of actuarial losses	$	4,143		$	10,225		$	15,997		$	10,225
	Amortization of prior service costs	2,225			6,043			6,582			6,043
	Total before tax	6,368			16,268			22,579			16,268
	Tax provision	(2,195		)	(5,693		)	(7,802		)	(5,693		)
	Net of tax	$	4,173		$	10,575		$	14,777		$	10,575
	Cash flow hedges:
	Net (gains) losses reclassified into earnings	$	(617	)	$	47		$	(481	)	$	91
	Tax benefit	216			(17		)	168			(32		)
	Net of tax	$	(401	)	$	30		$	(313	)	$	59
	-1	In the third quarter of 2012, the Company began to reclassify the amortization of actuarial gains and losses and prior service costs from deferred compensation to accumulated other comprehensive income on a quarterly basis. Prior to that date, these amounts were reclassified on an annual basis.

Segment_Information_Tables

Segment Information (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Revenue and Earnings from continuing operations by market segment	Segment financial information and a reconciliation of segment results to consolidated results follows:
		Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2013			2012			2013			2012
	REVENUE:
	Communication Technologies	$	413,608		$	396,470		$	1,187,875		$	1,115,734
	Energy	577,350			562,263			1,712,019			1,632,619
	Engineered Systems	1,004,955			892,121			2,876,783			2,600,368
	Printing & Identification	256,571			246,945			745,094			742,390
	Intra-segment eliminations	(135		)	(194		)	(1,086		)	(603		)
	Total consolidated revenue	$	2,252,349		$	2,097,605		$	6,520,685		$	6,090,508
	EARNINGS FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS:
	Segment earnings:
	Communication Technologies	$	76,076		$	63,706		$	172,073		$	160,584
	Energy	145,494			139,038			417,965			405,089
	Engineered Systems	172,223			144,245			454,841			400,145
	Printing & Identification	42,881			39,502			108,600			94,509
	Total segments	436,674			386,491			1,153,479			1,060,327
	Corporate expense / other (1)	43,278			32,001			115,382			104,882
	Net interest expense	30,237			30,399			90,761			90,145
	Earnings from continuing operations before provision for income taxes and discontinued operations	363,159			324,091			947,336			865,300
	Provision for taxes	99,507			90,761			192,343			240,405
	Earnings from continuing operations	$	263,652		$	233,330		$	754,993		$	624,895
	-1	Certain expenses are maintained at the corporate level and not allocated to the segments. These expenses include executive and functional compensation costs, non-service pension costs, non-operating insurance expenses, and various administrative expenses relating to the corporate headquarters. Corporate expenses also include one-time transaction costs associated with the Knowles spin off of $10,637 and $13,959 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, respectively, as well as a one-time pension curtailment gain of $4,411.

Share_Repurchases_Tables

Share Repurchases (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Share Repurchases [Abstract]
Schedule of Share Repurchases [Table Text Block]	Share repurchases during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 were as follows:
		Three Months Ended		Nine Months Ended
		30-Sep-13		30-Sep-13
	Shares repurchased in the open market	649,840		5,455,235
	Shares repurchased from holders of employee stock options	—		5,951
	Total shares repurchased	649,840		5,461,186
	Average price paid per share	$	87.33	$	74.68

Earnings_per_Share_Tables

Earnings per Share (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Reconciliation of information used in computing basic and diluted earnings per share	The following table sets forth a reconciliation of the information used in computing basic and diluted earnings per share:
		Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2013			2012			2013		2012
	Earnings from continuing operations	$	263,652		$	233,330		$	754,993	$	624,895
	Earnings from discontinued operations, net	5,462			7,716			54,173		26,315
	Net earnings	$	269,114		$	241,046		$	809,166	$	651,210
	Basic earnings per common share:
	Earnings from continuing operations	$	1.55		$	1.28		$	4.4	$	3.41
	Earnings from discontinued operations, net	$	0.03		$	0.04		$	0.32	$	0.14
	Net earnings	$	1.58		$	1.33		$	4.71	$	3.56
	Weighted average shares outstanding	170,544,000			181,763,000			171,690,000		183,000,000
	Diluted earnings per common share:
	Earnings from continuing operations	$	1.53		$	1.27		$	4.34	$	3.37
	Earnings from discontinued operations, net	$	0.03		$	0.04		$	0.31	$	0.14
	Net earnings	$	1.56		$	1.31		$	4.65	$	3.51
	Weighted average shares outstanding	172,734,000			183,932,000			173,870,000		185,489,000
Reconciliation of share amounts used in computing earnings per share	The following table is a reconciliation of the share amounts used in computing earnings per share:
		Three Months Ended September 30,					Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2013		2012			2013		2012
	Weighted average shares outstanding - Basic	170,544,000		181,763,000			171,690,000		183,000,000
	Dilutive effect of assumed exercise of employee stock options and SARs and vesting of performance shares	2,190,000		2,169,000			2,180,000		2,489,000
	Weighted average shares outstanding - Diluted	172,734,000		183,932,000			173,870,000		185,489,000

Planned_Spin_Off_Details

Planned Spin Off (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013
Planned spin off costs incurred to date	$10,637	$13,959
Minimum [Member]
Expected future spin off costs	60,000	60,000
Maximum [Member]
Expected future spin off costs	$70,000	$70,000

Acquisitions_Details

Acquisitions (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Number of businesses acquired				6
Net cash consideration			$118,990
Total goodwill and intangible assets acquired	102,321		102,321
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net [Abstract]
Current assets, net of cash acquired	30,191		30,191
Property, plant and equipment	8,555		8,555
Goodwill	48,879		48,879
Intangible assets	53,442		53,442
Other non-current assets	1,082		1,082
Current liabilities	-11,532		-11,532
Non-current liabilities	-11,627		-11,627
Net assets acquired	118,990		118,990
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Abstract]
Revenue of acquiree since acquisition date	15,461		23,123
Amount of nonrecurring expense, excluded from current period net earnings in pro forma financials, related to the fair value adjustments to acquisition-date inventory	1,194		1,902
Acquisition related costs (after tax)	349		1,159
Revenue from continuing operations [Abstract]
As reported	2,252,349	2,097,605	6,520,685	6,090,508
Pro forma	2,257,473	2,208,107	6,556,075	6,485,833
Net earnings from continuing operations [Abstract]
As reported	263,652	233,330	754,993	624,895
Pro forma	266,169	242,135	762,069	654,576
Basic earnings per share from continuing operations [Abstract]
As reported (in dollars per share)	$1.55	$1.28	$4.40	$3.41
Pro forma (in dollars per share)	$1.56	$1.33	$4.44	$3.58
Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations [Abstract]
As reported (in dollars per share)	$1.53	$1.27	$4.34	$3.37
Pro forma (in dollars per share)	$1.54	$1.32	$4.38	$3.53
Tax Deductible Goodwill [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business Acquisition, Goodwill, Expected Tax Deductible Amount	18,135		18,135
Non Deductible Goodwill [Member]
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net [Abstract]
Goodwill	30,744		30,744
Customer Relationships [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquired finite-lived intangible asset, amount			41,555
Acquired finite-lived intangible assets, weighted average useful life			11 years
Trademarks [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquired finite-lived intangible asset, amount			2,896
Acquired finite-lived intangible assets, weighted average useful life			11 years
Patents [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquired finite-lived intangible asset, amount			7,760
Acquired finite-lived intangible assets, weighted average useful life			11 years
Other Intangible Assets [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquired finite-lived intangible asset, amount			$1,231
Acquired finite-lived intangible assets, weighted average useful life			2 years

Discontinued_Operations_Detail

Discontinued Operations (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Revenue	$106,974	$111,174	$309,900	$338,337
(Loss) gain on sale, net of taxes	0	-634	-18,668	1,226
Earnings from operations before taxes	7,531	11,531	26,108	29,693
Benefit from (provision for) income taxes	-2,069	-3,181	46,733	-4,604
Earnings from operations, net of tax	5,462	8,350	72,841	25,089
Earnings from discontinued operations, net of tax	5,462	7,716	54,173	26,315
Tax benefits recognized	1,971		54,425
Deferred tax benefit recognized			25,520
Goodwill impairment loss, gross			54,532
Goodwill impairment loss, net of tax			44,188
Assets of Discontinued Operations
Accounts receivable	78,272		78,272		63,229
Inventories, net	54,170		54,170		51,252
Prepaid and other current assets	15,348		15,348		10,263
Current assets	147,790		147,790		124,744
Property, plant and equipment, net	35,778		35,778		31,935
Goodwill and intangible assets, net	186,597		186,597		238,657
Other assets and deferred charges	5,335		5,335		2,209
Total assets of discontinued operations	375,500		375,500		397,545
Liabilities of Discontinued Operations
Accounts payable	28,822		28,822		22,613
Other current liabilities	35,037		35,037		34,592
Current liabilities	63,859		63,859		57,205
Deferred income taxes	27,898		27,898		64,853
Other liabilities	41,673		41,673		86,900
Total liabilities of discontinued operations	$133,430		$133,430		$208,958

Inventories_Details

Inventories (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Inventory, Net [Abstract]
Raw materials	$426,649	$386,119
Work in progress	190,235	182,060
Finished Goods	487,192	453,497
Subtotal	1,104,076	1,021,676
Inventory reserves	154,458	148,835
Total	$949,618	$872,841

Property_Plant_and_Equipment_D

Property, Plant and Equipment (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Cost	$3,006,675	$2,907,248
Accumulated depreciation	-1,857,891	-1,740,196
Total	1,148,784	1,167,052
Land [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Cost	65,587	70,079
Buildings and improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Cost	603,962	605,448
Machinery, equipment and other [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Cost	$2,337,126	$2,231,721

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_2

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Goodwill (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance	$4,158,710	$4,114,650
Acquisitions	48,879
Purchase price adjustments	-11,423
Foreign currency translation	6,604
Balance	4,158,710	4,114,650
Communication Technologies Segment [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance	1,213,321	1,204,295
Acquisitions	0
Purchase price adjustments	0
Foreign currency translation	9,026
Balance	1,213,321	1,204,295
Energy Segment [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance	779,606	760,637
Acquisitions	24,774
Purchase price adjustments	-2,277
Foreign currency translation	-3,528
Balance	779,606	760,637
Engineered Systems Segment [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance	1,414,024	1,403,381
Acquisitions	19,032
Purchase price adjustments	-9,146
Foreign currency translation	757
Balance	1,414,024	1,403,381
Printing and Identification Segment [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance	751,759	746,337
Acquisitions	5,073
Purchase price adjustments	0
Foreign currency translation	349
Balance	$751,759	$746,337

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_3

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Intangible Assets and Amortization Expense (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross carrying amount	$2,242,230		$2,242,230		$2,174,477
Accumulated amortization	891,356		891,356		750,915
Amortization expense	46,894	39,502	138,967	112,998
Intangible assets, net	1,552,751		1,552,751		1,625,420
Trademarks [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross carrying amount	127,336		127,336		124,129
Accumulated amortization	33,055		33,055		25,364
Patents [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross carrying amount	194,469		194,469		180,427
Accumulated amortization	116,509		116,509		105,369
Customer Intangibles [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross carrying amount	1,635,546		1,635,546		1,585,041
Accumulated amortization	577,602		577,602		474,309
Unpatented Technologies [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross carrying amount	146,070		146,070		146,025
Accumulated amortization	97,835		97,835		85,373
Drawings and Manuals [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross carrying amount	34,362		34,362		34,120
Accumulated amortization	10,564		10,564		8,035
Distributor Relationships [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross carrying amount	72,514		72,514		72,514
Accumulated amortization	34,498		34,498		31,650
Other Intangible Assets [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross carrying amount	31,933		31,933		32,221
Accumulated amortization	$21,293		$21,293		$20,815

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_4

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Indefinite-lived Intangibles (Details) (Trademarks [Member], USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Trademarks [Member]
Unamortized Intangible Assets [Abstract]
Gross carrying amount	$201,877	$201,858

Restructuring_Activities_Detai

Restructuring Activities (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Charges	$4,582	$4,028	$23,423	$13,167
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Severance and other restructuring reserve, beginning balance			7,761
Provision			23,423
Payments			-18,299
Other, including foreign currency			-30
Severance and other restructuring reserve, ending balance	12,855		12,855
Communication Technologies Segment [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Charges	2,008	928	14,840	2,586
Energy Segment [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Charges	124	55	1,299	550
Engineered Systems Segment [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Charges	909	3,190	4,288	4,616
Printing and Identification Segment [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Charges	1,541	-145	2,996	5,415
Employee Severance [Member]
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Severance and other restructuring reserve, beginning balance			5,160
Provision			17,640
Payments			-12,853
Other, including foreign currency			-76
Severance and other restructuring reserve, ending balance	9,871		9,871
Facility Closing [Member]
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Severance and other restructuring reserve, beginning balance			2,601
Provision			5,783
Payments			-5,446
Other, including foreign currency			46
Severance and other restructuring reserve, ending balance	2,984		2,984
Cost of Sales [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Charges	239	1,454	10,566	2,440
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Charges	4,343	2,574	12,857	10,727
Minimum [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Expected future restructuring charges	27,500		27,500
Maximum [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Expected future restructuring charges	$32,500		$32,500

Borrowings_Details

Borrowings (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012
Interest expense and interest income [Abstract]
Interest expense	$31,004,000	$31,099,000	$92,917,000	$94,210,000
Interest income	-767,000	-700,000	-2,156,000	-4,065,000
Interest expense, net	30,237,000	30,399,000	90,761,000	90,145,000
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount	121,102,000		121,102,000
Short-term borrowings [Abstract]
Current installments	3,235,000		3,235,000		3,266,000
Commercial Paper	668,900,000		668,900,000		607,500,000
Debt, Current	672,135,000		672,135,000		610,766,000
Long-term borrowings [Abstract]
Carrying amount of long-term debt	2,193,391,000		2,193,391,000		2,192,616,000
Long-term debt (noncurrent)	2,190,156,000		2,190,156,000		2,189,350,000
Line of Credit Facility [Abstract]
Line of Credit Facility, Covenant Terms			Under the credit facility, the Company is required to maintain an interest coverage ratio of EBITDA to consolidated net interest expense of not less than 3.0 to 1.
Line of Credit Facility, Covenant Compliance			The Company was in compliance with this covenant and its other long-term debt covenants at SeptemberB 30, 2013, and it expects to remain in compliance with all of its debt covenants.
Note due 2015 [Member]
Long-term borrowings [Abstract]
Long-term debt	299,589,000		299,589,000		299,441,000
Debt instruments, maturity date			15-Oct-15
Debt instrument, stated interest rate (in hundredths)	4.88%		4.88%
Term of debt instrument (in years)			10 years
Note due 2018 [Member]
Long-term borrowings [Abstract]
Long-term debt	348,515,000		348,515,000		348,268,000
Debt instruments, maturity date			15-Mar-18
Debt instrument, stated interest rate (in hundredths)	5.45%		5.45%
Term of debt instrument (in years)			10 years
Note due 2021 [Member]
Long-term borrowings [Abstract]
Long-term debt	449,806,000		449,806,000		449,787,000
Debt instruments, maturity date			1-Mar-21
Debt instrument, stated interest rate (in hundredths)	4.30%		4.30%
Term of debt instrument (in years)			10 years
Note due 2038 [Member]
Long-term borrowings [Abstract]
Long-term debt	247,837,000		247,837,000		247,771,000
Debt instruments, maturity date			15-Mar-38
Debt instrument, stated interest rate (in hundredths)	6.60%		6.60%
Term of debt instrument (in years)			30 years
Note due 2041 [Member]
Long-term borrowings [Abstract]
Long-term debt	345,631,000		345,631,000		345,511,000
Debt instruments, maturity date			1-Mar-41
Debt instrument, stated interest rate (in hundredths)	5.38%		5.38%
Term of debt instrument (in years)			30 years
Debentures due 2028 [Member]
Long-term borrowings [Abstract]
Long-term debt	199,474,000		199,474,000		199,448,000
Debt instruments, maturity date			1-Jun-28
Debt instrument, stated interest rate (in hundredths)	6.65%		6.65%
Term of debt instrument (in years)			30 years
Debenture due 2035 [Member]
Long-term borrowings [Abstract]
Long-term debt	296,486,000		296,486,000		296,367,000
Debt instruments, maturity date			15-Oct-35
Debt instrument, stated interest rate (in hundredths)	5.38%		5.38%
Term of debt instrument (in years)			30 years
Other long term debt instruments [Member]
Long-term borrowings [Abstract]
Long-term debt	6,053,000		6,053,000		6,023,000
Credit Agreement [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Abstract]
Line of Credit Facility, Expiration Date			10-Nov-16
Unsecured revolving credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity	$1,000,000,000		$1,000,000,000
Minimum [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Abstract]
Line of Credit Facility, Expiration Date			31-Dec-13
Maximum [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Abstract]
Line of Credit Facility, Expiration Date			31-Dec-18

Financial_Instruments_Details

Financial Instruments (Details)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]	Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]	Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]	Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member]	Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member]	Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member]	Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member]	Foreign Exchange Forward [Member]	Foreign Exchange Forward [Member]	Foreign Exchange Forward [Member]	Foreign Exchange Forward [Member]
	USD ($)	USD ($)	USD ($)	Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]	Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]	Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]	Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]	Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]	Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]	Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]	Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
				USD ($)	CHF	Other Liabilities [Member]	Other Liabilities [Member]	Prepaid and Other Current Assets [Member]	Prepaid and Other Current Assets [Member]	Other Accrued Expenses [Member]	Other Accrued Expenses [Member]
						USD ($)	USD ($)	USD ($)	USD ($)	USD ($)	USD ($)
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative, Notional Amount	$46,733	$9,090	$88,321	$50,000	65,100
Fair Value - Asset								323	85
Fair Value - Liability						$22,750	$22,681			$208	$799

Financial_Instruments_Balance_

Financial Instruments - Balance Sheet Location (Details) (Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member], USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Assets [Abstract]
Foreign currency cash flow hedges	$0	$0
Liabilities [Abstract]
Foreign currency cash flow hedges	0	0
Derivative Liability	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Assets [Abstract]
Foreign currency cash flow hedges	323	85
Liabilities [Abstract]
Foreign currency cash flow hedges	208	799
Derivative Liability	22,750	22,681
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Assets [Abstract]
Foreign currency cash flow hedges	0	0
Liabilities [Abstract]
Foreign currency cash flow hedges	0	0
Derivative Liability	$0	$0

Financial_Instruments_Fair_Val

Financial Instruments - Fair Value Measurements (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Long-term debt	$2,458,592	$2,680,674
Carrying (Reported) Amount, Fair Value Disclosure [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Long-term debt	2,193,391	2,192,616
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Foreign currency cash flow hedges	0	0
Foreign Currency Contracts, Liability, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Derivative Liability	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Foreign currency cash flow hedges	323	85
Foreign Currency Contracts, Liability, Fair Value Disclosure	208	799
Derivative Liability	22,750	22,681
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Foreign currency cash flow hedges	0	0
Foreign Currency Contracts, Liability, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Derivative Liability	$0	$0

Income_Taxes_Details

Income Taxes (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Effective tax rate (in hundredths)	27.40%	28.00%	20.30%	27.80%
Net discrete items	$4,878,000	$4,513,000	$70,880,000	$2,531,000
Pre-discrete tax rate	28.70%	29.40%	27.80%	28.10%
Significant change in unrecognized tax benefits is reasonably possible, estimated range of change, lower bound	0		0
Significant change in unrecognized tax benefits is reasonably possible, estimated range of change, upper bound	$49,000,000		$49,000,000

Equity_Incentive_Program_Detai

Equity Incentive Program (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares available for grant under 2012 Plan	17,000,000		17,000,000
Stock-based compensation expense [Abstract]
Pre-tax compensation expense	$7,081	$7,483	$23,384	$23,589
Tax benefit	-2,493	-2,643	-8,241	-8,330
Total stock-based compensation expense, net of tax	$4,588	$4,840	$15,143	$15,259
Stock Appreciation Rights [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares issued during period (in shares)			1,613,884	1,719,943
Risk-free interest rate (in hundredths)			1.39%	1.05%
Dividend yield (in hundredths)			2.06%	2.03%
Expected life (in years)			7 years 1 month	5 years 8 months
Volatility (in hundredths)			33.78%	36.41%
Grant price (in dollars per share)			$71.86	$65.38
Fair value at date of grant (in dollars per share)			$20.62	$18.51
Performance Shares [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares issued during period (in shares)			47,032	50,416
Risk-free interest rate (in hundredths)			0.40%	0.37%
Dividend yield (in hundredths)			2.06%	2.03%
Expected life (in years)			2 years 11 months	2 years 11 months
Volatility (in hundredths)			30.36%	34.10%
Fair value at date of grant (in dollars per share)			$80.47	$71.98

Commitments_and_Contingent_Lia2

Commitments and Contingent Liabilities (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies	$30,166		$28,875
Loss Contingency Accrual, at Carrying Value	754		1,158
Movement in Standard and Extended Product Warranty, Increase (Decrease) [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	43,759	37,739
Provision for warranties	40,105	34,943
Settlements made	-37,327	-34,523
Other adjustments, including currency translation	-1,194	3,313
Ending Balance	$45,343	$41,472

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Details

Employee Benefit Plans (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Net periodic benefit cost [Abstract]
Discount used to re-measure plan obligations	4.80%		4.80%
Reduction in current quarter pension expense	$7,348
Total amount amortized out of accumulated other comprehensive income	6,368	16,268	22,579	16,268
U.S. Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Net periodic benefit cost [Abstract]
Service Cost	4,088	3,602	13,290	10,804
Interest Cost	6,247	6,284	18,491	18,852
Expected return on plan assets	-10,106	-9,744	-30,011	-29,234
Prior service cost (income)	256	260	769	786
Recognized actuarial (gain) loss	3,771	3,378	14,741	10,136
Transition obligation	0	0	0	0
Settlement and curtailment loss (gain)	0	0	0	0
Other	0	0	0	0
Net periodic benefit cost	4,256	3,780	17,280	11,344
Foreign Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Net periodic benefit cost [Abstract]
Service Cost	1,471	1,079	4,387	3,147
Interest Cost	2,264	2,231	6,748	6,428
Expected return on plan assets	-2,395	-2,022	-7,138	-5,810
Prior service cost (income)	28	30	85	89
Recognized actuarial (gain) loss	373	130	1,112	371
Transition obligation	-3	-13	-10	-36
Settlement and curtailment loss (gain)	353	0	353	0
Other	39	56	118	158
Net periodic benefit cost	2,130	1,491	5,655	4,347
Supplemental Employee Retirement Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Net periodic benefit cost [Abstract]
Service Cost	1,246	1,326	4,604	3,978
Interest Cost	1,633	1,979	5,180	5,937
Prior service cost (income)	2,045	1,857	6,040	5,569
Recognized actuarial (gain) loss	-32	33	52	103
Settlement and curtailment loss (gain)	-4,411	0	-4,411	0
Net periodic benefit cost	481	5,195	11,465	15,587
Post-Retirement Benefits [Member]
Net periodic benefit cost [Abstract]
Service Cost	59	62	176	186
Interest Cost	130	149	392	445
Prior service cost (income)	-104	-104	-312	-312
Recognized actuarial (gain) loss	34	-5	102	-15
Settlement and curtailment loss (gain)	0	0	0	-1,493
Net periodic benefit cost	$119	$102	$358	($1,189)

Other_Comprehensive_Earnings_D

Other Comprehensive Earnings (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Foreign currency translation adjustments [Abstract]
Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, before Tax	$60,802	$82,694	$22,510	$34,181
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Tax	998	108	0	-262
Total foreign currency translation	61,800	82,802	22,510	33,919
Pension and other postretirement benefit plans [Abstract]
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax	129,959	16,268	146,170	9,952
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Tax	-45,452	-5,693	-51,059	-3,637
Total pension and other postretirement benefit plans	84,507	10,575	95,111	6,315
Changes in fair value of cash flow hedges [Abstract]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, before Tax	-453	298	-174	675
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Tax	158	-104	61	-236
Total cash flow hedges	-295	194	-113	439
Other Comprehensive Income Other Adjustment Net Of Tax [Abstract]
Other Comprehensive Income Loss Adjustment Before Tax	132	-261	319	318
Other Comprehensive Income Loss Other Adjustment Tax	-17	-29	-39	-55
Other comprehensive income loss other adjustment, net of tax	115	-290	280	263
Total other comprehensive earnings [Abstract]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax	190,440	98,999	168,825	45,126
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax	-44,313	-5,718	-51,037	-4,190
Other comprehensive earnings, net of tax	146,127	93,281	117,788	40,936
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Net earnings	269,114	241,046	809,166	651,210
Other comprehensive earnings, net of tax	146,127	93,281	117,788	40,936
Comprehensive earnings	415,241	334,327	926,954	692,146
Other Comprehensive Income Loss Reclassification Adjustment From AOCI Pension And Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Net Of Tax Abstract [Abstract]
Amortization of actuarial losses	4,143	10,225	15,997	10,225
Amortization of prior service costs	-2,225	-6,043	-6,582	-6,043
Total before tax	6,368	16,268	22,579	16,268
Tax provision	-2,195	-5,693	-7,802	-5,693
Net of tax	4,173	10,575	14,777	10,575
Other Comprehensive Income Loss Reclassification Adjustment From AOCI Derivatives Net of Tax [Abstract]
Cash flow hedges	-617	47	-481	91
Tax provision	216	-17	168	-32
Net of tax	($401)	$30	($313)	$59

Segment_Information_Details

Segment Information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
			segments
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of reportable segments			4
Planned spin off costs incurred to date	$10,637		$13,959
Reconciliation from Segment Totals to Consolidated [Abstract]
Revenue	2,252,349	2,097,605	6,520,685	6,090,508
Reconciliation of Earnings from Continuing Operations from Segments to Consolidated [Abstract]
Earnings from continuing operations before provision for income taxes and discontinued operations	363,159	324,091	947,336	865,300
Interest expense, net	30,237	30,399	90,761	90,145
Provision for income taxes	99,507	90,761	192,343	240,405
Earnings from continuing operations	263,652	233,330	754,993	624,895
Communication Technologies Segment [Member]
Reconciliation from Segment Totals to Consolidated [Abstract]
Revenue	413,608	396,470	1,187,875	1,115,734
Reconciliation of Earnings from Continuing Operations from Segments to Consolidated [Abstract]
Earnings from continuing operations before provision for income taxes and discontinued operations	76,076	63,706	172,073	160,584
Energy Segment [Member]
Reconciliation from Segment Totals to Consolidated [Abstract]
Revenue	577,350	562,263	1,712,019	1,632,619
Reconciliation of Earnings from Continuing Operations from Segments to Consolidated [Abstract]
Earnings from continuing operations before provision for income taxes and discontinued operations	145,494	139,038	417,965	405,089
Engineered Systems Segment [Member]
Reconciliation from Segment Totals to Consolidated [Abstract]
Revenue	1,004,955	892,121	2,876,783	2,600,368
Reconciliation of Earnings from Continuing Operations from Segments to Consolidated [Abstract]
Earnings from continuing operations before provision for income taxes and discontinued operations	172,223	144,245	454,841	400,145
Printing and Identification Segment [Member]
Reconciliation from Segment Totals to Consolidated [Abstract]
Revenue	256,571	246,945	745,094	742,390
Reconciliation of Earnings from Continuing Operations from Segments to Consolidated [Abstract]
Earnings from continuing operations before provision for income taxes and discontinued operations	42,881	39,502	108,600	94,509
Intersegment Elimination [Member]
Reconciliation from Segment Totals to Consolidated [Abstract]
Revenue	-135	-194	-1,086	-603
Total segments [Member]
Reconciliation of Earnings from Continuing Operations from Segments to Consolidated [Abstract]
Earnings from continuing operations before provision for income taxes and discontinued operations	436,674	386,491	1,153,479	1,060,327
Corporate expense / other [Member]
Reconciliation of Earnings from Continuing Operations from Segments to Consolidated [Abstract]
Earnings from continuing operations before provision for income taxes and discontinued operations	43,278	32,001	115,382	104,882
Supplemental Employee Retirement Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Settlement and curtailment loss (gain)	($4,411)	$0	($4,411)	$0

Share_Repurchases_Details

Share Repurchases (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Share Repurchases [Line Items]
Shares repurchased	649,840	5,461,186
Average price per share for repurchased shares (in dollars per share)	$87.33	$74.68
Number of treasury shares held	84,862,771	84,862,771	79,401,585
May 2012 Authorization [Member]
Share Repurchases [Line Items]
Number of shares authorized to be repurchased	10,000,000	10,000,000
Remaining number of shares authorized to be repurchased	3,908,289	3,908,289
November 2012 Authorization [Member]
Share Repurchases [Line Items]
Shares repurchased		5,455,235
Authorized dollar amount for share repurchase program	$1,000,000,000
Remaining dollar amount authorized to be repurchased		$342,565,000
Shares repurchased in open market [Member]
Share Repurchases [Line Items]
Shares repurchased	649,840	5,455,235
Shares repurchased from holders of employee stock options [Member]
Share Repurchases [Line Items]
Shares repurchased	0	5,951

Earnings_per_Share_Details

Earnings per Share (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Reconciliation of information used in computing basic and diluted earnings per share [Abstract]
Earnings from continuing operations	$263,652	$233,330	$754,993	$624,895
Earnings from discontinued operations, net	5,462	7,716	54,173	26,315
Net earnings	$269,114	$241,046	$809,166	$651,210
Basic earnings (loss) per common share:
Earnings from continuing operations (in dollars per basic share)	$1.55	$1.28	$4.40	$3.41
Earnings from discontinued operations, net (in dollars per basic share)	$0.03	$0.04	$0.32	$0.14
Net earnings (in dollars per basic share)	$1.58	$1.33	$4.71	$3.56
Weighted average shares outstanding - basic (in shares)	170,544,000	181,763,000	171,690,000	183,000,000
Diluted earnings (loss) per common share:
Earnings from continuing operations (in dollars per diluted share)	$1.53	$1.27	$4.34	$3.37
Earnings from discontinued operations, net (in dollars per diluted share)	$0.03	$0.04	$0.31	$0.14
Net earnings (in dollars per diluted share)	$1.56	$1.31	$4.65	$3.51
Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted (in shares)	172,734,000	183,932,000	173,870,000	185,489,000
Reconciliation Of Share Amounts Used In Computing Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Weighted average shares outstanding - basic (in shares)	170,544,000	181,763,000	171,690,000	183,000,000
Dilutive effect of assumed exercise of employee stock options, SAR's and performance shares (in shares)	2,190,000	2,169,000	2,180,000	2,489,000
Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted (in shares)	172,734,000	183,932,000	173,870,000	185,489,000
Weighted average number of anti-dilutive potential common shares excluded from reconciliation calculations (in shares)	0	3,128,000	0	2,899,000

Subsequent_Events_Details

Subsequent Events (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Payments to acquire businesses subsequent to balance sheet date	$50