Albany International (AIN) 10-K 1 Mar 17 2016 FY Annual report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - USD ($) shares in Millions, $ in Billions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Jan. 31, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Document Type	10-K
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2016
Entity Registrant Name	ALBANY INTERNATIONAL CORP /DE/
Entity Central Index Key	819,793
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,016
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Public Float			$ 1.1
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Common Class A [Member]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		28.9
Common Class B [Member]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		3.2

Consolidated Statements of Inco

Consolidated Statements of Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Statement [Abstract]
Net sales	$ 779,839	$ 709,868	$ 745,345
Cost of goods sold	479,271	431,182	453,710
Gross profit	300,568	278,686	291,635
Selling, general and administrative expenses	160,112	146,192	147,198
Technical, product engineering, and research expenses	40,304	44,753	59,128
Restructuring and other, net	8,376	23,846	5,759
Pension settlement expense			8,190
Operating income	91,776	63,895	71,360
Interest income	(2,077)	(1,857)	(1,541)
Interest expense	15,541	11,841	12,254
Other expense/(income), net	46	2,433	(6,853)
Income before income taxes	78,266	51,478	67,500
Income tax expense/(benefit)	25,454	(5,787)	25,751
Net income	52,812	57,265	41,749
Net income/(loss) attributable to the noncontrolling interest	79	(14)	180
Net income attributable to the Company	$ 52,733	$ 57,279	$ 41,569
Earnings per share attributable to Company shareholders - Basic	$ 1.64	$ 1.79	$ 1.31
Earnings per share attributable to Company shareholders - Diluted	1.64	1.79	1.30
Dividends declared per share, Class A and Class B	$ 0.68	$ 0.67	$ 0.63

Consolidated Statements of Comp

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income/(Loss) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 52,812	$ 57,265	$ 41,749
Other comprehensive income/(loss), before tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(23,967)	(51,177)	(54,850)
Pension/postretirement settlements and curtailments	51	103	8,377
Pension/postretirement plan remeasurement	(5,498)	(700)	(14,707)
Amortization of pension liability adjustments:
Prior service credit	(4,450)	(4,440)	(4,436)
Net actuarial loss	5,102	5,932	5,329
Payments related to interest rate swaps included in earnings	2,400	1,988	1,914
Derivative valuation adjustment	1,297	(2,961)	(1,724)
Income taxes related to items of other comprehensive income/(loss):
Pension/postretirement settlements and curtailments	(6)		(3,210)
Pension/postretirement plan remeasurement	1,104	78	5,442
Amortization of pension liability adjustments	27	(270)	(330)
Payments related to interest rate swaps included in earnings	(912)	(755)	(746)
Derivative valuation adjustment	(493)	1,125	672
Comprehensive income/(loss)	27,467	6,188	(16,520)
Comprehensive income/(loss) attributable to the noncontrolling interest	77	(9)	178
Comprehensive income/(loss) attributable to the Company	$ 27,390	$ 6,197	$ (16,698)

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 181,742	$ 185,113
Accounts receivable, net	171,193	146,383
Inventories	133,906	106,406
Income taxes prepaid and receivable	5,213	2,927
Asset held for sale		4,988
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	9,251	6,243
Total current assets	501,305	452,060
Property, plant and equipment, net	422,564	357,470
Intangibles, net	66,454	154
Goodwill	160,375	66,373
Income taxes receivable and deferred	68,865	108,945
Contract receivables	14,045
Other assets	29,825	24,560
Total assets	1,263,433	1,009,562
Current liabilities:
Notes and loans payable	312	587
Accounts payable	43,305	26,753
Accrued liabilities	95,195	91,785
Current maturities of long-term debt	51,666	16
Income taxes payable	9,531	7,090
Total current liabilities	200,009	126,231
Long-term debt	432,918	265,080
Other noncurrent liabilities	106,827	101,544
Deferred taxes and other liabilities	12,389	14,154
Total liabilities	752,143	507,009
Commitments and Contingencies
Shareholders' Equity
Preferred stock, par value $5.00 per share; authorized 2,000,000 shares; none issued
Additional paid-in capital	425,953	423,108
Retained earnings	522,855	491,950
Accumulated items of other comprehensive income:
Translation adjustments	(133,298)	(108,655)
Pension and postretirement liability adjustments	(51,719)	(48,725)
Derivative valuation adjustment	828	(1,464)
Treasury stock (Class A), at cost; 8,443,444 shares in 2016 and 8,455,293 shares in 2015	(257,136)	(257,391)
Total Company shareholders' equity	507,523	498,863
Noncontrolling interest	3,767	3,690
Total Equity	511,290	502,553
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	1,263,433	1,009,562
Common Class A [Member]
Shareholders' Equity
Common Stock	37	37
Common Class B [Member]
Shareholders' Equity
Common Stock	$ 3	$ 3

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Preferred Stock, par value per share	$ 5	$ 5
Preferred Stock, shares authorized	2,000,000	2,000,000
Preferred Stock, shares issued	0	0
Common Stock, shares outstanding	32,100,000	32,000,000
Treasury stock, shares	8,443,444	8,455,293
Common Class A [Member]
Common Stock, par value per share	$ 0.001	$ 0.001
Common Stock, shares authorized	100,000,000	100,000,000
Common Stock, shares issued	37,319,266	37,238,913
Common Class B [Member]
Common Stock, par value per share	$ 0.001	$ 0.001
Common Stock, shares authorized	25,000,000	25,000,000
Common Stock, shares issued	3,233,998	3,235,048
Common Stock, shares outstanding	3,233,998	3,235,048

Consolidated Statements of Cash

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Operating Activities
Net income	$ 52,812	$ 57,265	$ 41,749
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation	58,106	52,974	56,575
Amortization	9,355	7,140	7,717
Change in other noncurrent liabilities	(6,504)	2,159	(12,246)
Change in deferred taxes and other liabilities	5,889	(29,517)	1,521
Provision for write-off of property, plant and equipment	2,778	867	1,915
Fair value adjustment on available-for-sale assets		3,212
Gain on disposition or involuntary conversion of assets		(1,056)	(1,126)
Excess tax benefit of options exercised	(150)	(624)	(201)
Non-cash interest expense	564
Write-off of pension liability adjustment due to settlement	51	103	8,331
Compensation and benefits paid or payable in Class A Common Stock	2,433	1,707	1,384
Changes in operating assets and liabilities that provide/(use) cash, net of impact of business acquisition:
Accounts receivable	(12,697)	(404)	(6,564)
Inventories	(12,520)	(8,277)	(744)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	(2,595)	1,253	1,318
Income taxes prepaid and receivable	(2,206)	(3,156)	2,566
Contract receivable	(14,045)
Accounts payable	2,108	(6,001)	640
Accrued liabilities	1,312	2,081	(11,042)
Income taxes payable	1,398	9,072	1,535
Other, net	(6,571)	7,139	(9,132)
Net cash provided by operating activities	79,518	95,937	84,196
Investing Activities
Purchase of business, net of cash acquired	(187,000)
Purchases of property, plant and equipment	(71,244)	(48,622)	(58,224)
Purchased software	(2,248)	(1,973)	(649)
Proceeds from sale or involuntary conversion of assets	6,939	2,797	1,126
Net cash used in investing activities	(253,553)	(47,798)	(57,747)
Financing Activities
Proceeds from borrowings	235,907	95,126	13,396
Principal payments on debt	(34,356)	(102,215)	(45,124)
Debt acquisition costs	(1,771)	(1,673)
Swap termination payment	(5,175)
Proceeds from options exercised	517	1,897	773
Excess tax benefit of options exercised	150	624	201
Dividends paid	(21,812)	(21,088)	(19,729)
Net cash provided by/(used in) financing activities	173,460	(27,329)	(50,483)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	(2,796)	(15,499)	(18,830)
(Decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents	(3,371)	5,311	(42,864)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	185,113	179,802	222,666
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	$ 181,742	$ 185,113	$ 179,802

Accounting Policies

Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Accounting Policies	1. Accounting Policies Basis of Consolidation The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Albany International Corp. and its subsidiaries (the Company, Albany, we, us, or our) after elimination of intercompany transactions. We have a 50% interest in an entity in Russia. The consolidated financial statements include our original investment in the entity, plus our share of undistributed earnings or losses, in the account “Other Assets.” The Company owns 90 percent of the common equity of Albany Safran Composites, LLC (ASC) which is reported within the Albany Engineered Composites (AEC) segment. Additional information regarding that entity is included in Note 10. Estimates The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Estimates are used in accounting for, among other things, revenue recognition, contract profitability, allowances for doubtful accounts, rebates and sales allowances, inventory allowances, pension benefits, goodwill and intangible assets, contingencies, income tax related balances, and other accruals. Our estimates are based on historical experience and on various other assumptions, which are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Due to the inherent uncertainty involved in making estimates, actual results reported in future periods may differ from those estimates. Estimates and assumptions are reviewed periodically, and the effects of any revisions are reflected in the consolidated financial statements in the period they are determined to be necessary. Revenue Recognition We record sales when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred, title has been transferred, the selling price is fixed, and collectability is reasonably assured. We include in revenue any amounts invoiced for shipping and handling. The timing of revenue recognition is dependent upon the contractual arrangement with customers. These arrangements, which may include provisions for transfer of title and guarantees of workmanship, are specific to each customer. Some of these contracts provide for a transfer of title upon delivery, or upon reaching a specific date, while other contracts provide for title transfer to occur upon consumption of the product. Products and services provided under long-term contracts represent a significant portion of sales in the Albany Engineered Composites segment. We have a contract with a major customer for which revenue is recognized under a cost plus fixed fee arrangement. We also have fixed price long-term contracts, for which we use the percentage of completion method (actual cost to estimated cost, or units of delivery). Accounting for long-term contracts requires significant judgment and estimation, which could be considerably different if the underlying circumstances were to change. When adjustments in estimated contract revenues or costs are required, any changes from prior estimates are included in earnings in the period the change occurs. In 2015, we recorded a charge of $14.0 million on our BR 725 contract. That charge included the write-off of $10.9 million of deferred contract costs and a reserve of $3.1 million for additional anticipated losses. Changes in estimates on other contracts increased gross profit by $1.5 million in 2016, increased gross profit by $0.4 million in 2015, and reduced gross profit by $0.6 million in 2014. For contracts with anticipated losses at completion, a provision for the entire amount of the estimated remaining loss is charged against income in the period in which the loss becomes known. Contract losses are determined considering all direct and indirect contract costs, exclusive of any selling, general or administrative cost allocations that are treated as period expenses. For programs in which we use the units of delivery method, there are generally two phases: a phase during which the production part is designed and tested, and a phase of supplying production parts. Certain costs are capitalized during the first phase, such as costs for engineering, equipment, and inventory, where recovery is probable. Revenue is recognized during the second phase, as parts are delivered. Accumulated capitalized costs are written off when those costs are determined to be unrecoverable. We limit the concentration of credit risk in receivables by closely monitoring credit and collection policies. We record allowances for sales returns as a deduction in the computation of net sales. Such provisions are recorded on the basis of written communication with customers and/or historical experience. Any value added taxes that are imposed on sales transactions are excluded from net sales. Cost of Goods Sold Cost of goods sold includes the cost of materials, provisions for obsolete inventories, labor and supplies, shipping and handling costs, depreciation of manufacturing facilities and equipment, purchasing, receiving, warehousing, and other expenses. Selling, General, Administrative, Technical, Product Engineering, and Research Expenses Selling, general, administrative, technical, and product engineering expenses are primarily comprised of wages, benefits, travel, professional fees, revaluation of trade foreign currency balances, and other costs, and are expensed as incurred. Selling expense includes provisions for bad debts and costs related to contract acquisition. Research expenses are charged to operations as incurred and consist primarily of compensation, supplies, and professional fees incurred in connection with intellectual property. Total Company research expense was $28.8 million in 2016, $31.7 million in 2015, and $32.4 million in 2014. The Albany Engineered Composites segment participates in both Company-sponsored, and customer-funded research and development. Some customer-funded research and development may be on a cost-sharing basis, in which case amounts charged to the customer are credited against research and development expense. Expenses were reduced by $0.4 million in 2014 as a result of such arrangements, while no such arrangements existed in 2015 or 2016. For customer-funded research and development in which we anticipate funding to exceed expenses, we include amounts charged to the customer in Net sales, while expenses are included in Cost of goods sold. Restructuring Expense We may incur expenses related to restructuring of our operations, which could include employee termination costs, costs to consolidate or close facilities, or costs to terminate contractual relationships. Restructuring expenses may also include impairment of Property, plant and equipment, as described below. Employee termination costs include the severance pay and social costs for periods after employee service is completed. Termination costs related to an ongoing benefit arrangement are recognized when the amount becomes probable and estimable. Termination costs related to a one-time benefit arrangement are recognized at the communication date to employees. Costs related to contract termination, relocation of employees, outplacement and the consolidation or the closure of facilities, are recognized when incurred. Income Taxes Deferred income taxes are recognized for the tax consequences of temporary differences by applying enacted statutory tax rates applicable for future years to differences between existing assets and liabilities for financial reporting and income tax return purposes. The effect of tax rate changes on deferred taxes is recognized in the income tax provision in the period that includes the enactment date. A valuation allowance is established, as needed, to reduce net deferred tax assets to the amount expected to be realized. In the event it becomes more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax asset allowances will not be needed, the valuation allowance will be adjusted. In the ordinary course of business there is inherent uncertainty in quantifying our income tax positions. We assess our income tax positions and record tax benefits for all years subject to examination based upon management's evaluation of the facts, circumstances, and information available at the reporting date. For those tax positions where it is more likely than not that a tax benefit will be sustained, we have determined the amount of the tax benefit to be recognized by estimating the largest amount of tax benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement with a taxing authority that has full knowledge of all relevant information. For those income tax positions where it is not more-likely-than-not that a tax benefit will be sustained, no tax benefit has been recognized in the financial statements. Where applicable, associated interest and penalties have also been recognized. We recognize accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income tax expense. Earnings Per Share Net income or loss per share is computed using the weighted average number of shares of Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock outstanding during each year. Diluted net income per share includes the effect of all potentially dilutive securities. If we report a net loss from continuing operations, the diluted loss is equal to the basic earnings per share calculation. Translation of Financial Statements Assets and liabilities of non-U.S. operations are translated at year-end rates of exchange, and the income statements are translated at average exchange rates. Gains or losses resulting from translating non-U.S. currency financial statements are recorded in other comprehensive income and accumulated in Shareholders’ equity in the caption “Translation adjustments”. Selling, general, and administrative expenses include foreign currency gains and losses resulting from third party balances, such as receivables and payables, which are denominated in a currency other than the entity’s local currency. Gains or losses resulting from cash and short-term intercompany loans and balances denominated in a currency other than the entity’s local currency, and foreign currency options are generally included in Other expense/(income), net. Gains and losses on long-term intercompany loans not intended to be repaid in the foreseeable future are recorded in other comprehensive income. The following table summarizes foreign currency transaction gains and losses recognized in the income statement: (in thousands) 2016 2015 2014 (Gains)/losses included in: Selling, general, and administrative expenses ($381 ) (5,090 ) ($3,931 ) Other (income)/expense, net (3,532 ) 1,496 (6,379 ) Total transaction (gains)/losses ($3,913 ) ($3,594 ) ($10,310 ) The following table presents foreign currency gains and losses on long-term intercompany loans that were recognized in Other comprehensive income: (in thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Gain/(loss) on long-term intercompany loans $3,515 ($5,225 ) $5,317 Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and highly liquid short-term investments with original maturities of three months or less. Accounts Receivable Accounts receivable includes trade receivables and revenue in excess of progress billings on long-term contracts in the Albany Engineered Composites segment. The Company maintains allowances for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of its customers to make required payments. The Company determines the allowance based on historical write-off experience, customer-specific facts and economic conditions. If the financial condition of the Company’s customers were to deteriorate, resulting in an impairment of their ability to make payments, additional allowances may be required. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, Accounts receivable consisted of the following: (in thousands) 2016 2015 Trade and other accounts receivable $146,460 $123,179 Bank promissory notes 15,759 15,845 Revenue in excess of progress billings 15,926 15,889 Allowance for doubtful accounts (6,952) (8,530) Total accounts receivable $171,193 $146,383 In connection with certain sales in Asia Pacific, the Company accepts a bank promissory note as customer payment. The notes may be presented for payment at maturity, which is less than one year. The Company also has Contract receivables representing revenue earned in 2016 which has extended payment terms. The Contract receivable will be invoiced to the customer, with 2% interest, over a 10 year period starting in 2020. Inventories Costs included in inventories are raw materials, labor, supplies and allocable depreciation and overhead. Raw material inventories are valued on an average cost basis. Other inventory cost elements are valued at cost, using the first-in, first out method. The Company writes down inventories for estimated obsolescence, and to the lower of cost or market value based upon assumptions about future demand and market conditions. If actual demand or market conditions are less favorable than those projected by the Company, additional inventory write-downs may be required. Once established, the original cost of the inventory less the related write-down represents the new cost basis of such inventories. The AEC segment has long-term contracts under which we incur engineering and development costs that are allocable to parts that will be delivered over multiple years. These costs are included in Work in process in the table below. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, inventories consisted of the following: (in thousands) 2016 2015 Raw materials $37,691 $27,636 Work in process 58,715 41,823 Finished goods 37,500 36,947 Total inventories $133,906 $106,406 Property, Plant and Equipment Property, plant and equipment are recorded at cost, or if acquired as part of a business combination, at fair value. Depreciation is recorded using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets for financial reporting purposes; in some cases, accelerated methods are used for income tax purposes. Significant additions or improvements extending assets’ useful lives are capitalized; normal maintenance and repair costs are expensed as incurred. The cost of fully depreciated assets remaining in use is included in the respective asset and accumulated depreciation accounts. When items are sold or retired, related gains or losses are included in net income. Computer software purchased for internal use, at cost, is amortized on a straight-line basis over five to eight years, depending on the nature of the asset, after being placed into service, and is included in property, plant, and equipment. We capitalize internal and external costs incurred related to the software development stage. Capitalized salaries, travel, and consulting costs related to the software development amounted to $1.2 million in 2016 and $1.3 million in 2015. We review the carrying value of property, plant and equipment and other long-lived assets for impairment whenever events and circumstances indicate that the carrying value of an asset group may not be recoverable from the estimated future cash flows expected to result from its use and eventual disposition. Goodwill, Intangibles, and Other Assets Goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are not amortized, but are tested for impairment at least annually. Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the net tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired in each business combination. Our reporting units are consistent with our operating segments. See additional information set forth under Note 12. Intangible assets acquired in a business combination are recognized at fair value and amortized to Cost of goods sold or Selling, general and administrative expenses over the estimated useful lives of the assets. We review amortizable intangible asset groups for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the related carrying amounts may not be recoverable. We have an investment in a company in Russia that is accounted for under the equity method of accounting and is included in Other assets amounting to $0.4 million in 2016 and 2015. We perform regular reviews of the financial condition of the investee to determine if our investment is other than temporarily impaired. If the financial condition of the investee were to no longer support their valuation, we would record an impairment provision. Included in Other assets is $7.8 million in 2016 and $10.4 million in 2015 for defined benefit pension plans where plan assets exceed the projected benefit obligations. Other assets also includes financial assets of $6.5 million in 2016 and $0.8 million in 2015 (see Note 15). Stock-Based Compensation We have stock-based compensation plans for key employees. Stock options are accounted for in accordance with applicable guidance for the modified prospective transition method of share-based payments. No options have been granted since 2002. See additional information set forth under Note 18. Derivatives We use derivatives from time to time to reduce potentially large adverse effects from changes in currency exchange rates and interest rates. We monitor our exposure to these risks and evaluate, on an ongoing basis, the risk of potentially large adverse effects versus the costs associated with hedging such risks. We use interest rate swaps in the management of interest rate exposures and foreign currency derivatives in the management of foreign currency exposure related to assets and liabilities (including net investments in subsidiaries located outside the U.S.) denominated in foreign currencies. When we enter into a derivative contract, we make a determination whether the transaction is deemed to be a hedge for accounting purposes. For those contracts deemed to be a hedge, we formally document the relationship between the derivative instrument and the risk being hedged. In this documentation, we specifically identify the asset, liability, forecasted transaction, cash flow, or net investment that has been designated as the hedged item, and evaluate whether the derivative instrument is expected to reduce the risks associated with the hedged item. To the extent these criteria are not met, we do not use hedge accounting for the derivative. All derivative contracts are recorded at fair value, as a net asset or a net liability. For transactions that are designated as hedges, we perform an evaluation of the effectiveness of the hedge. To the extent that the hedge is effective, changes in the fair value of the hedge are recorded, net of tax, in other comprehensive income. We measure the effectiveness of hedging relationships both at inception and on an ongoing basis. The ineffective portion of a hedge, if any, and changes in the fair value of a derivative not deemed to be a hedge, are recorded in Other expense/(income), net. For derivatives that are designated and qualify as hedges of net investments in subsidiaries located outside the United States, changes in the fair value of derivatives are reported in other comprehensive income as part of the Cumulative translation adjustment. Pension and Postretirement Benefit Plans As described in Note 4, we have pension and postretirement benefit plans covering substantially all employees. Our defined benefit pension plan in the United States was closed to new participants as of October 1998 and, as of February 2009, benefits accrued under this plan were frozen. We have liabilities for postretirement benefits in the U.S. and Canada. Substantially all of the liability relates to the U.S. plan. Effective January 2005, our postretirement benefit plan in the U.S. was closed to new participants, except for certain life insurance benefits. In September 2008, we changed the cost sharing arrangement under this program such that increases in health care costs are the responsibility of plan participants and, in August 2013, we reduced the life insurance benefit for retirees and eliminated that benefit for active employees. The pension plans are generally trusteed or insured, and accrued amounts are funded as required in accordance with governing laws and regulations. The annual expense and liabilities recognized for defined benefit pension plans and postretirement benefit plans are developed from actuarial valuations. Inherent in these valuations are key assumptions, including discount rates and expected return on plan assets, which are updated on an annual basis at the beginning of each fiscal year. We consider current market conditions, including changes in interest rates, in making these assumptions. Discount rate assumptions are based on the population of plan participants and a mixture of high-quality fixed-income investments for which the average maturity approximates the average remaining service period of plan participants. The assumption for expected return on plan assets is based on historical and expected returns on various categories of plan assets. Reportable Segments In accordance with applicable disclosure guidance for enterprise segments and related information, the internal organization that is used by management for making operating decisions and assessing performance is used as the basis for our reportable segments. The reportable segments, which are described in more detail in Note 3, are Machine Clothing (MC) and Albany Engineered Composites (AEC). In the determination of segment operating income, we exclude expenses for certain corporate expenses, which consist primarily of corporate headquarters and global information systems costs. Recent Accounting Pronouncements In May 2014, an accounting update was issued that replaces the existing revenue recognition framework regarding contracts with customers. We will adopt the standard on January 1, 2018 and the Company is currently assessing the effects of the new standard. The new standard may result in earlier recognition of revenue in Machine Clothing due to the customized nature of our products. In Albany Engineered Composites, we use the units of delivery method for some contracts, which is considered an output method. Under the new standard, we expect that most of these contracts will be accounted for using an input method, which is expected to result in earlier recognition of revenue. However, we are currently unable to determine the full effect that the new standard will have on our financial statements. The guidance permits two implementation approaches, one requiring retrospective application of the new standard with restatement of prior years, and one requiring prospective application of the new standard with disclosure of results under old standards. The Company is continuing to evaluate the implementation approach to be used. In May 2015, an accounting update was issued which eliminates the requirement to categorize investments in the fair value hierarchy if their fair value is measured at net asset value (NAV) per share. We adopted this provision as of January 1, 2016 and have modified footnote disclosures accordingly. In July 2015, an accounting update was issued simplifying the measurement of inventory from the lower of cost or market to lower of cost or net realizable value. This accounting update eliminates the requirement for consideration of replacement cost or net realizable value less normal profit margin measurements. This accounting update is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. We do not expect the adoption of this update to have a significant effect on our financial statements. In September 2015, an accounting update was issued which eliminates the requirement for an acquirer to retrospectively adjust the financial statements for measurement-period adjustments that occur in periods after a business combination is consummated. This accounting update was adopted January 1, 2016. Measurement period adjustments related to the Company’s 2016 business acquisition are described in Note 2. In January 2016, an accounting update was issued which requires entities to present separately in Other comprehensive income the portion of the total change in the fair value of a liability resulting from a change in the instrument-specific credit risk if the entity has elected to measure the liability at fair value in accordance with the fair value option for financial instruments. This accounting update is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. We have not determined the impact of this update on our financial statements. In February 2016, an accounting update was issued which requires lessees to recognize most leases on the balance sheet. The update may significantly increase reported assets and liabilities. This accounting update is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018. We have not determined the impact of this update on our financial statements. In March 2016, an accounting update was issued which clarifies that a change in counterparty to a derivative contract, through novation, that is part of a hedge accounting relationship does not, by itself, require de-designation of that relationship, as long as all other hedge accounting criteria continue to be met. This accounting update is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. We do not expect the adoption of this update to have a significant effect on our financial statements. In March 2016, an accounting update was issued which simplifies the transition to the equity method of accounting by eliminating the requirement for an investor to retroactively apply the equity method when its increase in ownership interest, or degree of influence, triggers equity method accounting. This accounting update is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. We do not expect the adoption of this update to have a significant effect on our financial statements. In March 2016, an accounting update was issued which simplifies several aspects related to the accounting for share-based payment transactions, including the income tax consequences, statutory tax withholding requirements, and classification of excess tax benefits on the statements of cash flows. This accounting update is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. Early adoption is permitted. Adoption of this accounting update could increase the volatility of income tax expense. However, we do not expect the adoption of this update to have a significant effect on our financial statements. In August 2016, an accounting update was issued in order to reduce diversity in practice in how certain transactions are classified in the statement of cash flows. This accounting update is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted. We do not expect the adoption of this update to have a significant effect on our financial statements. In October 2016, an accounting update was issued which modifies the recognition of income tax effects on intracompany transfers of assets, other than inventory. This accounting update is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. We have not determined the effect of this update on our financial statements. In November 2016, an accounting update was issued which provides clarification of how changes in restricted cash should be reported in the statement of cash flows. This accounting update is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. We do not expect this update to have a material impact on our financial statements. In January 2017, an accounting update was issued which provides the definition of a business for the purposes of business combination accounting. This accounting update is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017 and is to be applied prospectively. Accordingly, there will be no effect on prior business combinations. We have not determined the impact of the update due to the absence of transactions that would be impacted. In January 2017, an accounting update was issued which simplifies the process for determining the amount of goodwill impairment. This accounting update is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2019. Early adoption is permitted. We are presently unable to determine the effect that the update will have on our financial statements.

Business Acquisition

Business Acquisition	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Business Acquisition	2. Business Acquisition On April 8, 2016, the Company acquired the outstanding shares of Harris Corporation’s composite aerostructures business for cash of $187 million, plus the assumption of certain liabilities. The Company funded the cash payable at closing by utilizing proceeds from a $550 million, unsecured credit facility agreement that was completed April 8, 2016 (see Note 14). The acquired entity is part of the Albany Engineered Composites (“AEC”) segment. The following table summarizes the provisional allocation of the purchase price to the fair value of the assets and liabilities acquired: (in thousands) April 8, 2016 Assets acquired Accounts receivable $15,443 Inventories 16,670 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 402 Property, plant and equipment 62,784 Intangibles 71,630 Goodwill 95,730 Total assets acquired $262,659 Liabilities assumed Accounts payable $10,323 Accrued liabilities 2,862 Capital lease obligation 17,560 Deferred income taxes 33,143 Other noncurrent liabilities 11,771 Total liabilities assumed $75,659 Net assets acquired $187,000 In the fourth quarter of 2016, the Company identified certain adjustments to the provisional value of acquired assets and liabilities. The adjustments increased goodwill by $28.7 million, amortizable intangible assets by $12.3 million, noncurrent liabilities by $10.4 million, deferred tax liabilities by $7.8 million and other liabilities by $2.6 million. Property plant and equipment was reduced by $18.9 million and other assets were reduced by $1.3 million. The effect of these adjustments on fourth-quarter 2016 income before income taxes was approximately $0.1 million and the effect on earnings per share was negligible. Deferred income taxes and goodwill in the table above were still provisional as of December 31, 2016, because the Company is waiting for information needed to finalize the amounts. Goodwill of $95.7 million reflects that the acquisition broadens and deepens AEC’s products, experience and manufacturing capabilities, and significantly increases opportunities for future growth. The goodwill is non-deductible for tax purposes. The seller provided representations, warranties and indemnities customary for acquisition transactions, including indemnities for certain customer claims identified before closing. The following table presents operational results of the acquired entity that are included in the Consolidated Statements of Income: (in thousands, except per share amounts) April, 8 to December 31, 2016 Net sales $67,011 Operating loss (1,246 ) Loss before income taxes (2,342 ) Net loss attributable to the Company (1,495 ) Loss per share: Basic ($0.05 ) Diluted: ($0.05 ) The Consolidated Statements of Income reflect operational activity of the acquired business for only the period subsequent to the closing, which affects comparability of results. The following table shows total Company pro forma statements of what results would have been if the 2016 acquisition had occurred as of January 1, 2015. Unaudited - Pro forma (in thousands, except per share amounts) 2016 2015 Combined Net sales $802,023 $786,623 Combined Income before income taxes $80,639 $52,542 Pro forma increase/(decrease) to income before income taxes: Acquisition expenses 5,367 - Interest expense related to purchase price (1,382 ) (5,133 ) Acquisition accounting adjustments: Depreciation and amortization on property, plant and equipment, and intangible assets (1,575 ) (7,875 ) Valuation of contract inventories 1,997 6,908 Interest expense on capital lease obligation 300 1,096 Interest expense on other obligations (133 ) (533 ) Pro forma Income before income taxes $85,213 $47,005 Pro forma Net Income attributable to the Company $57,229 $54,245

Reportable Segments and Geograp

Reportable Segments and Geographic Data	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Reportable Segments and Geographic Data	3. Reportable Segments and Geographic Data In accordance with applicable disclosure guidance for enterprise segments and related information, the internal organization that is used by management for making operating decisions and assessing performance is used as the basis for our reportable segments. The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in Note 1. Corporate expenses include wages and benefits for corporate headquarters personnel, costs related to information systems development and support, and professional fees related to legal, audit, and other activities. These costs are not allocated to the reportable segments because the decision-making for these functions lies outside of the segments. Machine Clothing: The Machine Clothing segment supplies permeable and impermeable belts used in the manufacture of paper, paperboard, nonwovens, fiber cement and several other industrial applications. The Machine Clothing segment also supplies customized, consumable fabrics used in the manufacturing process in the pulp, corrugator, nonwovens, fiber cement, building products, and tannery and textile industries. We sell our Machine Clothing products directly to customer end-users in countries across the globe. Our products, manufacturing processes, and distribution channels for Machine Clothing are substantially the same in each region of the world in which we operate. We design, manufacture, and market paper machine clothing for each section of the paper machine and for every grade of paper. Paper machine clothing products are customized, consumable products of technologically sophisticated design that utilize polymeric materials in a complex structure. Albany Engineered Composites The Albany Engineered Composites (AEC) segment, including Albany Safran Composites, LLC (ASC), in which our customer SAFRAN Group (Safran) owns a 10 percent noncontrolling interest, provides highly engineered, advanced composite structures to customers in the aerospace and defense industries. AEC’s largest program relates to CFM International’s LEAP engine. Under this program, AEC through ASC, is the exclusive supplier of advanced composite fan blades and cases under a long-term supply contract. The manufacturing spaces used for the production of parts under the long-term supply agreement are owned by Safran, and leased to the Company at either a market rent or a minimal cost. All lease expense is reimbursable by Safran to the Company due to the cost-plus nature of the supply agreement. AEC net sales to Safran were $88.9 million in 2016, $58.1 million in 2015, and $46.9 million in 2014. The total of invoiced receivables, unbilled receivables and contract receivables due from Safran amounted to $68.5 million and $29.7 million as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Other significant AEC programs include components for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, fuselage frame components for the Boeing 787, and the fan case for the GE9X engine. In 2016, approximately 30 percent of AEC sales were related to U.S. government contracts or programs. The following tables show data by reportable segment, reconciled to consolidated totals included in the financial statements: (in thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Net Sales Machine Clothing $582,190 $608,581 $655,026 Albany Engineered Composites 197,649 101,287 90,319 Consolidated total $779,839 $709,868 $745,345 Depreciation and amortization Machine Clothing 36,428 39,503 45,066 Albany Engineered Composites 24,211 12,140 10,880 Corporate expenses 6,822 8,471 8,346 Consolidated total $67,461 $60,114 $64,292 Operating income/(loss) Machine Clothing $152,529 $141,311 $136,450 Albany Engineered Composites (15,363 ) (28,478 ) (10,483 ) Corporate expenses (45,390 ) (48,938 ) (54,607 ) Operating income 91,776 63,895 71,360 Reconciling items: Interest income (2,077 ) (1,857 ) (1,541 ) Interest expense 15,541 11,841 12,254 Other expense/(income),net 46 2,433 (6,853 ) Income before income taxes $78,266 $51,478 $67,500 The table below presents pension settlement and restructuring costs by reportable segment (also see Note 5): (in thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Pension settlement expense Corporate expenses $ - $ - $8,190 Restructuring expenses, net Machine Clothing $6,069 $22,211 $4,828 Albany Engineered Composites 2,314 - 931 Corporate expenses (7 ) 1,635 - Consolidated total $8,376 $23,846 $5,759 In the measurement of assets utilized by each reportable segment, we include accounts and contract receivables, inventories, net property, plant and equipment, intangibles and goodwill. Excluded from segment assets are cash, tax related assets, prepaid and other current assets, and certain other assets not directly associated with segment operations. The following table presents assets and capital expenditures by reportable segment: (in thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Segment assets Machine Clothing $454,010 $494,347 $565,853 Albany Engineered Composites 514,527 181,825 175,338 Reconciling items: Cash 181,742 185,113 179,802 Asset held for sale - 4,988 - Income taxes prepaid, receivable and deferred 74,078 111,872 76,283 Other assets 39,076 31,417 32,028 Consolidated total assets $1,263,433 $1,009,562 $1,029,304 Capital expenditures and purchased software Machine Clothing $16,158 $16,010 $23,202 Albany Engineered Composites 59,195 30,378 32,141 Corporate expenses 3,163 4,207 3,530 Consolidated total $78,516 $50,595 $58,873 Total capital expenditures for 2016 includes an increase from 2015 of $5.0 million of purchases that were included in Accounts payable at year-end. The Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows has been adjusted to remove the non-cash transactions. Non-cash transactions for 2015 and 2014 were negligible. In 2016, the Company recorded expense of $5.4 million for cost directly related to the acquisition. These costs are included in Selling, general and administrative expenses of AEC segment. The following table shows data by geographic area. Net sales are based on the location of the operation recording the final sale to the customer. Net sales recorded by our entity in Switzerland are derived from products sold throughout Europe and Asia, and are invoiced in various currencies. (in thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Net sales United States $396,238 $323,399 $324,750 Switzerland 145,479 159,804 184,022 Brazil 60,287 58,846 59,332 China 48,043 48,490 52,822 France 42,862 26,081 26,654 Mexico 27,526 30,581 27,431 Other countries 59,404 62,667 70,334 Consolidated total $779,839 $709,868 $745,345 Property, plant and equipment, at cost, net United States $245,626 $172,372 $168,848 China 65,987 80,786 93,182 France 42,272 28,539 25,091 Korea 15,585 19,095 23,473 United Kingdom 14,591 19,029 22,222 Canada 11,455 12,861 18,236 Other countries 27,048 24,788 44,061 Consolidated total $422,564 $357,470 $395,113

Pensions and Other Postretireme

Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans	4. Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Pension Plans The Company has defined benefit pension plans covering certain U.S. and non-U.S. employees. The U.S. qualified defined benefit pension plan has been closed to new participants since October 1998 and, as of February 2009, benefits accrued under this plan were frozen. As a result of the freeze, employees covered by the pension plan will receive, at retirement, benefits already accrued through February 2009, but no new benefits accrue after that date. Benefit accruals under the U.S. Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan ("SERP") were similarly frozen. The U.S. pension plan accounts for 43 percent of consolidated pension plan assets, and 44 percent of consolidated pension plan obligations. The eligibility, benefit formulas, and contribution requirements for plans outside of the U.S. vary by location. The December 31, 2016 and 2015 benefit obligations for the U.S. pension and postretirement plans were calculated using the RP-2014 with generational projection using scale BB-2D from the 2006 mortality basis. For U.S. pension funding purposes, the Company uses the plan’s IRS-basis current liability as its funding target, which is determined based on mandated assumptions. Weak investment returns and low interest rates could result in higher than expected contributions to pension plans in future years. Other Postretirement Benefits In addition to providing pension benefits, the Company provides various medical, dental, and life insurance benefits for certain retired United States employees. U.S. employees hired prior to 2005 may become eligible for these benefits if they reach normal retirement age while working for the Company. Benefits provided under this plan are subject to change. Retirees share in the cost of these benefits. Effective January 2005, any new employees who wish to be covered under this plan will be responsible for the full cost of such benefits. In September 2008, we changed the cost-sharing arrangement under this program such that increases in health care costs are the responsibility of plan participants. In August 2013, we reduced the life insurance benefit for retirees and eliminated the benefit for active employees. The Company also provides certain postretirement life insurance benefits to retired employees in Canada. As of December 31, 2016, the accrued postretirement liability was $56.5 million in the U.S. and $1.0 million in Canada. The Company accrues the cost of providing postretirement benefits during the active service period of the employees. The Company currently funds the plans as claims are paid. Accounting guidance requires the recognition of the funded status of each defined benefit and other postretirement benefit plan. Each overfunded plan is recognized as an asset and each underfunded plan is recognized as a liability. Company pension plan data for U.S. and non-U.S. plans has been combined for both 2016 and 2015, except where indicated below. The Company’s pension and postretirement benefit costs and benefit obligations are based on actuarial valuations that are affected by many assumptions, the most significant of which are the assumed discount rate, expected rate of return on pension plan assets, and mortality. Each of the assumptions is reviewed and updated annually, as appropriate. The assumed rates of return for pension plan assets are determined for each major asset category based on historical rates of return for assets in that category and expectations of future rates of return based, in part, on simulated future capital market performance. The assumed discount rate is based on yields from a portfolio of currently available high-quality fixed-income investments with durations matching the expected future payments, based on the demographics of the plan participants and the plan provisions. Gains and losses arise from changes in the assumptions used to measure the benefit obligations, and experience different from what had been assumed, including asset returns different than what had been expected. The Company amortizes gains and losses in excess of a “corridor” over the average future service of the plan’s current participants. The corridor is defined as 10 percent of the greater of the plan’s projected benefit obligation or market-related value of plan assets. The market-related value of plan assets is also used to determine the expected return on plan assets component of net periodic cost. The Company’s market-related value for its U.S. plan is measured by first determining the absolute difference between the actual and the expected return on the plan assets. The absolute difference in excess of 5 percent of the expected return is added to the market-related value over two years; the remainder is added to the market-related value immediately. To the extent the Company’s unrecognized net losses and unrecognized prior service costs, including the amount recognized through accumulated other comprehensive income, are not reduced by future favorable plan experience, they will be recognized as a component of the net periodic cost in future years. The following table sets forth the plan benefit obligations: As of December 31, 2016 As of December 31, 2015 (in thousands) Pension plans Other postretirement benefits Pension plans Other postretirement benefits Benefit obligation, beginning of year $199,856 $59,970 $213,110 $64,987 Service cost 2,656 254 2,959 330 Interest cost 7,885 2,443 7,787 2,437 Plan participants' contributions 249 - 304 - Actuarial (gain)/loss 17,676 (395 ) (4,209 ) (2,855 ) Benefits paid (7,057 ) (4,812 ) (6,530 ) (4,758 ) Settlements and curtailments (2,436 ) - (321 ) - Plan amendments and other 36 - (37 ) - Foreign currency changes (8,009 ) 28 (13,207 ) (171 ) Benefit obligation, end of year $210,856 $57,488 $199,856 $59,970 Accumulated benefit obligation $200,790 $- $188,909 $- Weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations, end of year: Discount rate - U.S. plan 4.20% 4.00% 4.54% 4.24% Discount rate - non-U.S. plans 2.98% 3.70% 3.67% 4.00% Compensation increase - U.S. plan - - - - Compensation increase - non-U.S. plans 3.29% 3.00% 3.24% 3.00% The following sets forth information about plan assets: As of December 31, 2016 As of December 31, 2015 (in thousands) Pension plans Other postretirement benefits Pension plans Other postretirement benefits Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year $171,387 $- $183,199 $- Actual return on plan assets, net of expenses 19,740 - 730 - Employer contributions 6,605 4,812 5,287 4,758 Plan participants' contributions 249 72 304 1,068 Benefits paid (7,057 ) (4,884 ) (6,530 ) (5,826 ) Settlements (2,308 ) - (688 ) - Foreign currency changes (7,944 ) - (10,915 ) - Fair value of plan assets, end of year $180,672 $- $171,387 $- The funded status of the plans was as follows: As of December 31, 2016 As of December 31, 2015 (in thousands) Pension plans Other postretirement benefits Pension plans Other postretirement benefits Fair value of plan assets $180,672 $- $171,387 $- Benefit obligation 210,856 57,488 199,856 59,970 Funded status ($30,184 ) ($57,488 ) ($28,469 ) ($59,970 ) Accrued benefit cost, end of year ($30,184 ) ($57,488 ) ($28,469 ) ($59,970 ) Amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheet consist of the following: Noncurrent asset $7,794 $- $10,423 $- Current liability (2,057 ) (4,195 ) (2,110 ) (4,660 ) Noncurrent liability (35,921 ) (53,293 ) (36,782 ) (55,310 ) Net amount recognized ($30,184 ) ($57,488 ) ($28,469 ) ($59,970 ) Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income consist of: Net actuarial loss $72,400 $34,782 $69,896 $37,997 Prior service cost/(credit) 597 (30,899 ) 608 (35,387 ) Net amount recognized $72,997 $3,883 $70,504 $2,610 The composition of the net pension plan funded status as of December 31, 2016 was as follows: Non-U.S. (in thousands) U.S. plan plans Total Pension plans with pension assets ($5,197 ) $5,648 $451 Pension plans without pension assets (7,761 ) (22,874 ) (30,635 ) Total ($12,958 ) ($17,226 ) ($30,184 ) The composition of the net periodic benefit plan cost for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014, was as follows: Pension plans Other postretirement benefits (in thousands) 2016 2015 2014 2016 2015 2014 Components of net periodic benefit cost: Service cost $2,656 $2,959 $3,269 $254 $330 $314 Interest cost 7,885 7,787 9,505 2,443 2,437 2,741 Expected return on assets (8,675 ) (8,630 ) (9,577 ) - - - Amortization of prior service cost/(credit) 38 48 53 (4,488 ) (4,488 ) (4,488 ) Amortization of transition obligation - - - - - - Amortization of net actuarial loss 2,283 2,594 2,421 2,819 3,338 2,908 Settlement 162 103 8,331 - - - Curtailment (gain)/loss (111 ) - (942 ) - - - Special/contractual termination of benefits - 44 - - - - Net periodic benefit cost $4,238 $4,905 $13,060 $1,028 $1,617 $1,475 Weighted average assumptions used to determine net cost: Discount rate - U.S. plan 4.54% 4.18% 5.22% 4.24% 3.90% 4.68% Discount rate - non-U.S. plan 3.67% 3.58% 4.50% 4.00% 3.85% 4.75% Expected return on plan assets - U.S. plan 4.74% 4.43% 5.40% - - - Expected return on plan assets - non-U.S. plans 5.39% 5.52% 5.65% - - - Rate of compensation increase - U.S. plan - - - - - - Rate of compensation increase - non-U.S. plans 3.24% 3.23% 3.39% 3.00% 3.00% 3.00% Health care cost trend rate (U.S. and non-U.S. plans): Initial rate - - - - - - Ultimate rate - - - - - - Years to ultimate - - - - - - Pretax (gains)/losses in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income during 2016 were as follows: Other Pension postretirement (in thousands) plan benefits Settlements/curtailments ($51 ) $ - Asset/liability loss/(gain) 6,519 (395 ) Amortization of actuarial (loss) (2,283 ) (2,819 ) Amortization of prior service (cost)/credit (38 ) 4,488 Amortization of transition (obligation) - - Currency impact (1,655 ) (1 ) Cost in other comprehensive income $2,492 $1,273 Total cost recognized in net periodic benefit cost and other comprehensive income $6,730 $2,301 The estimated amounts that will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net periodic benefit cost in 2017 are as follows: Total Total postretirement (in thousands) pension benefits Actuarial loss $2,578 $2,811 Prior service cost/(benefit) 38 (4,488 ) Total $2,616 ($1,677 ) Investment Strategy Our investment strategy for pension assets differs for the various countries in which we have defined benefit pension plans. Some of our defined benefit plans do not require funded trusts and, in those arrangements, the Company funds the plans on a “pay as you go” basis. The largest of the funded defined benefit plans is the United States plan. United States plan: During 2009, we changed our investment strategy for the United States pension plan by adopting a liability-driven investment strategy. Under this arrangement, the Company seeks to invest in assets that track closely to the discount rate that is used to measure the plan liabilities. Accordingly, the plan assets are primarily debt securities. The change in investment strategy is reflective of the Company’s 2008 decision to freeze benefit accruals under the plan. Non-United States plans: For the countries in which the Company has funded pension trusts, the investment strategy is to achieve a competitive, total investment return, achieving diversification between and within asset classes and managing other risks. Investment objectives for each asset class are determined based on specific risks and investment opportunities identified. Actual allocations to each asset class vary from target allocations due to periodic investment strategy changes, market value fluctuations, the length of time it takes to fully implement investment allocation positions, and the timing of benefit payments and contributions. Fair-Value Measurements The following tables present plan assets as of December 31, 2016, and 2015, using the fair-value hierarchy, which has three levels based on the reliability of inputs used, as described in Note 15. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using net asset value (NAV) as a practical expedient are not required to be categorized in the fair value hierarchy table. The total fair value of these investments is included in the table below to permit reconciliation of the fair value hierarchy to amounts presented in the funded status table above. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, there were no investments expected to be sold at a value materially different than NAV. Assets at Fair Value as of December 31, 2016 Quoted prices Significant other Significant in active markets observable inputs unobservable inputs (in thousands) Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Common Stocks and equity funds $309 $- $- $309 Debt securities - 74,449 - 74,449 Insurance contracts - - 2,238 2,238 Cash and short-term investments 3,401 - - 3,401 Total investments in the fair value hierarchy $3,710 $74,449 $2,238 80,397 Investments at net asset value: Common Stocks and equity funds 35,510 Fixed income funds 59,662 Limited partnerships 5,065 Hedge funds 38 Total plan assets $180,672 Assets at Fair Value as of December 31, 2015 Quoted prices Significant other Significant in active markets observable inputs unobservable inputs (in thousands) Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Common Stocks and equity funds $404 $- $- $404 Debt securities - 71,886 - 71,886 Insurance contracts - - 2,403 2,403 Cash and short-term investments 2,501 - - 2,501 Total investments in the fair value hierarchy $2,905 $71,886 $2,403 77,194 Investments at net asset value: Common Stocks and equity funds 34,709 Fixed income funds 53,616 Limited partnerships 5,676 Hedge funds 192 Total plan assets $171,387 The following tables present a reconciliation of Level 3 assets held during the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015: (in thousands) December 31, 2015 Net realized Net unrealized gains/(losses) Net purchases, issuances and settlements Net transfers December 31, 2016 Insurance contracts $2,403 $- $26 $(191) $- $2,238 Total level 3 assets $2,403 $- $26 ($191) $- $2,238 (in thousands) December 31, 2014 Net realized Net unrealized gains/(losses) Net purchases, issuances and settlements Net transfers December 31, 2015 Insurance contracts $2,133 $- $35 $235 $- $2,403 Total level 3 assets $2,133 $- $35 $235 $- $2,403 The asset allocation for the Company’s U.S. and non-U.S. pension plans for 2015 and 2016, and the target allocation for 2017, by asset category, are as follows: United States Plan Non-U.S. Plans Target Percentage of plan assets Target Percentage of plan assets Allocation at plan measurement date Allocation at plan measurement date Asset category 2017 2016 2015 2017 2016 2015 Equity securities - 2% 3% 32% 33% 35% Debt securities 100% 92% 92% 64% 61% 55% Real estate - 5% 5% - - 4% Other (1) - 1% - 4% 6% 6% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% (1) Other includes hedged equity and absolute return strategies, and private equity. The Company has procedures to closely monitor the performance of these investments and compares asset valuations to audited financial statements of the funds. The targeted plan asset allocation is based on an analysis of the actuarial liabilities, a review of viable asset classes, and an analysis of the expected rate of return, risk, and other investment characteristics of various investment asset classes. At the end of 2016 and 2015, the projected benefit obligation, accumulated benefit obligation, and fair value of plan assets for pension plans with projected benefit obligation and an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets were as follows: Plans with projected benefit obligation in excess of plan assets (in thousands) 2016 2015 Projected benefit obligation $121,600 $120,312 Accumulated benefit obligation 119,753 117,447 Fair value of plan assets 83,622 81,421 Plans with accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets (in thousands) 2016 2015 Projected benefit obligation $121,511 $120,312 Accumulated benefit obligation 119,728 117,447 Fair value of plan assets 83,558 81,421 Information about expected cash flows for the pension and other benefit obligations are as follows: (in thousands) Pension plans Other postretirement benefits Expected employer contributions and direct employer payments in the next fiscal year $3,727 $4,195 Expected benefit payments 2017 $6,625 $4,195 2018 7,013 4,047 2019 7,380 3,913 2020 7,873 3,804 2021 8,473 3,748 2022-2026 50,990 17,983

Restructuring

Restructuring	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Restructuring	5. Restructuring In 2016, the Company announced a plan to discontinue research and development activities at its Machine Clothing production facility in Sélestat, France. We subsequently reached agreement with the Works Council on the restructuring plan and we recorded $2.2 million of restructuring expense in 2016 for severance, outplacement, and the write-off of equipment. Cost savings associated with this action reduced 2016 research and development expenses. AEC restructuring expenses in 2016 were principally related to the consolidation of legacy programs into Boerne, Texas. In 2015, the Company announced a plan to discontinue manufacturing operations at its press fabric manufacturing facility in Göppingen, Germany and manufacturing operations were discontinued during the second quarter. The restructuring program was driven by the Company’s need to balance manufacturing capacity with demand. In 2015, we recorded charges of $11.4 million related to this restructuring, including $3.3 million related to the write down of the land and former manufacturing facility to estimated fair market value, and the property was sold in 2016 at that value. In 2016, we recorded additional restructuring charges of $2.6 million, principally related to the final closure of the plant in Germany. In the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company implemented an early retirement program for certain employees in the United States. Restructuring charges associated with this restructuring program were $8.1 million. 2015 restructuring charges also includes $4.3 million related to the reduction in STG&R employment in Machine Clothing and Corporate. Machine Clothing restructuring costs in 2014 were principally related to restructuring of manufacturing operations in France, where employment was reduced by approximately 200 positions. Albany Engineered Composites restructuring expenses in 2014 were principally related to organizational changes and exiting certain aerospace programs. The following table summarizes charges reported in the Consolidated Statements of Income under “Restructuring and other, net”: Year ended December 31, 2016 Total restructuring costs incurred Termination and other costs Impairment of plant and equipment Benefit plan curtailment/ settlement (in thousands) Machine Clothing $6,069 $5,756 $425 ($112 ) Albany Engineered Composites 2,314 1,502 812 Corporate expenses (7 ) (7 ) Total $8,376 $7,251 $1,237 ($112 ) Year ended December 31, 2015 Total restructuring costs incurred Termination and other costs Impairment of plant and equipment Benefit plan curtailment/ settlement (in thousands) Machine Clothing $22,211 $18,906 $3,305 $- Albany Engineered Composites - - - - Corporate expenses 1,635 1,635 - - Total $23,846 $20,541 $3,305 $- Year ended December 31, 2014 Total restructuring costs incurred Termination and other costs Impairment of plant and equipment Benefit plan curtailment/ settlement (in thousands) Machine Clothing $4,828 $5,769 $- ($941 ) Albany Engineered Composites 931 319 612 - Corporate expenses - - - - Total $5,759 $6,088 $612 ($941 ) We expect that approximately $4.7 million of Accrued liabilities for restructuring at December 31, 2016 will be paid within one year and approximately $0.9 million will be paid the following year. The table below presents the changes in restructuring liabilities for 2016 and 2015, all of which related to termination costs: December 31, Restructuring Currency December 31, (in thousands) 2015 charges accrued Payments translation/other 2016 Total termination and other costs $10,177 $7,251 ($11,800 ) ($69 ) $5,559 December 31, Restructuring Currency December 31, (in thousands) 2014 charges accrued Payments translation/other 2015 Total termination and other costs $1,874 $20,541 ($12,323 ) $85 $10,177

Other Expense_(Income), net

Other Expense/(Income), net	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Other Income and Expenses [Abstract]
Other Expense/(Income), net	6. Other Expense/(Income), net The components of Other Expense/(Income), net, are: (in thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Currency transactions ($3,532 ) $1,496 ($6,379 ) Bank fees and amortization of debt issuance costs 759 916 1,174 Loss due to theft of cash 2,506 - - Gain on sale of investment - (872 ) - Gain on insurance recovery - - (1,126 ) Other 313 893 (522 ) Total $46 $2,433 ($6,853 ) In 2016, the Company had a loss due to theft of cash in Japan, resulting in a loss of $2.5 million. While some of the loss occurred in prior periods, that portion was not material and, accordingly, we have not restated any previously-issued financial statements. In March 2015, the Company sold its total equity investment in an unaffiliated company, resulting in a gain of $0.9 million. The value of the investment had been written off in 2004. In July 2013, the Company’s manufacturing facility in Germany was damaged by severe weather. At that time, the Company expensed the remaining book value of the damaged property, but the value was minimal. The gain recorded in 2014 represents the finalization of the insurance claim.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	7. Income Taxes The following tables present components of income tax expense/(benefit) and income before income taxes on continuing operations: (in thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Income tax based on income from continuing operations, at estimated tax rates of 35%, 32%, and 34%, respectively $27,629 $16,388 $25,703 Pension plan settlements - - (3,194 ) Income tax before discrete items 27,629 16,388 22,509 Discrete tax expense/(benefit): Worthless Stock deduction - (28,553 ) - Repatriation of non-U.S. prior years' earnings - - 2,210 Provision for/resolution of tax audits and contingencies, net (2,856 ) 6,500 744 Adjustments to prior period tax liabilities 769 (867 ) 397 Provision for/adjustment to beginning of year valuation allowances (88 ) 75 (109 ) Enacted tax legislation - 670 - Total income tax expense/(benefit) $25,454 ($5,787 ) $25,751 (in thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Income/(loss) before income taxes: U.S. $8,556 ($7,211 ) $4,993 Non-U.S. 69,710 58,689 62,507 $78,266 $51,478 $67,500 Income tax provision: Current: Federal $3,728 $- $1,874 State 176 1,993 1,102 Non-U.S. 19,979 20,842 17,474 $23,883 $22,835 $20,450 Deferred: Federal $2,138 ($34,135 ) ($1,707 ) State 1,984 (40 ) (495 ) Non-U.S. (2,551 ) 5,553 7,503 $1,571 ($28,622 ) $5,301 Total income tax expense/(benefit) $25,454 ($5,787 ) $25,751 The significant components of deferred income tax expense/(benefit) are as follows: (in thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Net effect of temporary differences $7,214 ($7,615 ) ($1,667 ) Foreign tax credits (6,869 ) (17,874 ) (481 ) Retirement benefits 1,734 1,844 1,438 Net impact to operating loss carryforwards (603 ) (5,722 ) 6,120 Enacted changes in tax laws and rates 183 670 - Adjustments to beginning-of-the-year valuation allowance balance for changes in circumstances (88 ) 75 (109 ) Total $1,571 ($28,622 ) $5,301 A reconciliation of the U.S. federal statutory tax rate to the Company’s effective income tax rate is as follows: 2016 2015 2014 U.S. federal statutory tax rate 35.0 % 35.0 % 35.0 % State taxes, net of federal benefit 2.3 2.4 1.7 Non-U.S. local income taxes 3.5 4.1 4.0 Foreign adjustments 1.6 7.4 3.7 Foreign rate differential (11.3 ) (13.6 ) (13.9 ) Net U.S. tax on non-U.S. earnings and foreign withholdings 5.8 (1.8 ) 8.0 Provision for/resolution of tax audits and contingencies, net (3.4 ) 12.6 1.0 Research and development and other tax credits (1.2 ) (2.4 ) (1.6 ) Adjustment to beginning of year valuation allowances (0.1 ) 0.1 (0.2 ) Worthless stock deduction - (55.5 ) - Other 0.3 0.5 0.4 Effective income tax rate 32.5 % (11.2 )% 38.1 % The Company has operations which constitute a taxable presence in 18 countries outside of the United States. All of these countries had income tax rates that were at or below the United States’ federal tax rate of 35% during the periods reported. The jurisdictional location of earnings is a significant component of our effective tax rate each year. The rate impact of this component is influenced by the specific location of non-U.S. earnings and the level of our total earnings. From period to period, the jurisdictional mix of earnings can vary as a result of operating fluctuations in the normal course of business, as well as the extent and location of other income and expense items, such as pension settlement and restructuring charges. The foreign income tax rate differential that is included above in the reconciliation of the effective tax rate includes the difference between tax expense calculated at the U.S. federal statutory tax rate of 35% and the expense accrued based on lower statutory tax rates that apply in the jurisdictions where the income or loss is earned. During the periods reported, income outside of the U.S. was heavily concentrated within Brazil, China, (both with 25% tax rates), Mexico (30% tax rate) and Switzerland (8% tax rate). As a result, the foreign income tax rate differential was primarily attributable to these tax rate differences. Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of certain assets and liabilities for financial reporting and income tax return purposes. Significant components of the Company’s deferred tax assets and liabilities are as follows: U.S. Non-U.S. 2016 2015 2016 2015 (in thousands) Noncurrent deferred tax assets: Accounts receivable $1,155 $1,392 $1,381 $1,304 Inventories 1,193 897 1,868 1,750 Deferred compensation 7,533 6,714 - - Depreciation and amortization 2,786 10,323 5,030 4,882 Postretirement benefits 26,602 26,475 3,478 4,138 Tax loss carryforwards 1,760 2,682 26,084 27,134 Tax credit carryforwards 50,624 42,851 1,186 1,740 Other 7,828 10,222 2,876 3,503 Noncurrent deferred tax assets before valuation allowance 99,481 101,556 41,903 44,451 Less: valuation allowance - - (22,821 ) (24,439 ) Total noncurrent deferred tax assets 99,481 101,556 19,082 20,012 Total deferred tax assets $99,481 $101,556 $19,082 $20,012 Noncurrent deferred tax liabilities: Unrepatriated foreign earnings $1,602 $1,157 $- $- Depreciation and amortization 43,156 10,309 2,466 3,174 Postretirement benefits - - 1,411 2,003 Deferred gain 7,156 7,559 - - Branch losses subject to recapture - - - 918 Other 2,198 - 2,897 3,245 Total deferred tax liabilities $54,112 19,025 $6,774 9,340 Net deferred tax asset $45,369 $82,531 $12,308 $10,672 Deferred income tax assets, net of valuation allowances, are expected to be realized through the reversal of existing taxable temporary differences and future taxable income. In 2016, the Company recorded the following decreases in its valuation allowance: $0.9 million due to a net reduction in the related deferred tax assets, $0.3 million due to the elimination of previously recorded valuation allowances, and $0.4 million due to the effect of changes in currency translation rates. At December 31, 2016, the Company had available approximately $143 million of net operating loss carryforwards, for which we have a deferred tax asset of $27.8 million, with expiration dates ranging from one year to indefinite, that may be applied against future taxable income. We believe that it is more likely than not that certain benefits from these net operating loss carryforwards will not be realized and, accordingly, we have recorded a valuation allowance of $19.7 million as of December 31, 2016. Included in the net operating loss carryforwards is approximately $23.0 million of state net operating loss carryforwards that are subject to various business apportionment factors and multiple jurisdictional requirements when utilized. In addition, the Company had available a foreign tax credit carryforward of $41.4 million that will begin to expire in 2020, U.S. and non-U.S. research and development credit carryforwards of $7.9 million, and $1.2 million, respectively, that will begin to expire in 2025, and alternative minimum tax credit carryforwards of $1.2 million with no expiration date. The Company reported a U.S. net deferred tax asset of $45.4 million at December 31, 2016, which contained $52.4 million of tax attributes with limited lives. Although the Company is in a cumulative book income position over the evaluation period (three-year period ending December 31, 2016), management has evaluated its ability to utilize these tax attributes during the carryforward period. The Company’s future profits from operations, available tax elections and tax planning opportunities, coupled with the repatriation of non-U.S. earnings will generate income of sufficient character to utilize the remaining tax attributes. Accordingly, no valuation allowance has been established for the remaining U.S. net deferred tax assets. The Company records the residual U.S. and foreign taxes on certain amounts of foreign earnings that have been targeted for repatriation to the U.S. These amounts are not considered to be permanently reinvested, and the Company accrued for the tax cost on these earnings to the extent they cannot be repatriated in a tax-free manner. At December 31, 2016 the Company reported a deferred tax liability of $1.6 million on $24.9 million of non-U.S. earnings that have been targeted for future repatriation to the U.S. Included in these amounts are $1.1 million of tax expense on approximately $14.6 million of foreign earnings that were generated in 2016. The accumulated undistributed earnings of the Company’s foreign operations not targeted for repatriation to the U.S. were approximately $164.0 million, and are intended to remain permanently invested in foreign operations. Accordingly, no taxes have been provided on these earnings at December 31, 2016. If these earnings were distributed, the Company would be subject to both foreign withholding taxes and U.S. income taxes that may not be fully offset by foreign tax credits. Determination of the amount of any unrecognized deferred tax liability on these earnings is not practicable because of the complexities of the hypothetical calculation. The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits, all of which, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate. (in thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Unrecognized tax benefits balance at January 1 $19,606 $19,509 $12,538 Increase in gross amounts of tax positions related to prior years 62 2,315 14,699 Decrease in gross amounts of tax positions related to prior years (2,129 ) (145 ) (67 ) Increase in gross amounts of tax positions related to current year 585 79 1,077 Decrease due to settlements with tax authorities (14,029 ) (42 ) (32 ) Decrease due to lapse in statute of limitations (163 ) (90 ) (6,775 ) Currency translation 251 (2,020 ) (1,931 ) Unrecognized tax benefits balance at December 31 $4,183 $19,606 $19,509 The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits within its global operations as a component of income tax expense. The Company recognized (income)/expense for interest and penalties related to the unrecognized tax benefits noted above of ($0.1) million, ($0.1) million and $1.0 million in the Consolidated Statements of Income in 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. As of December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, the Company had approximately $0.3 million, $0.4 million, and $0.4 million respectively, of accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits. The Company conducts business globally and, as a result, files income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and various state and foreign jurisdictions. In the normal course of business the Company is subject to examination by taxing authorities throughout the world, including major jurisdictions such as the United States, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Mexico, and Switzerland. The open tax years in these jurisdictions range from 2007 to 2016. The Company is currently under audit in non-U.S. tax jurisdictions, including but not limited to Canada, France, and Italy. It is reasonably possible that over the next twelve months the amount of unrecognized tax benefits may change within a range of a net increase of less than $0.1 million to a net decrease of $0.6 million, from the reevaluation of uncertain tax positions arising in examinations, in appeals, or in the courts, or from the closure of tax statutes. In the first quarter of 2016, the Company reached a settlement with the German tax authorities over matters that had been outstanding for a number of years. The German Tax Authority had denied tax positions taken by the Company related to a 1999 reorganization. In 2009, the Company made a payment of $14.5 million in order to appeal the German Tax Authority decision, and that payment was recorded as an income tax receivable. As additional information became available in subsequent years, the receivable was written down by $6.3 million in 2014 and $6.4 million in 2015. In 2016, the Company received $3.7 million representing the final settlement of this matter, which resulted in the recognition of a discrete tax benefit. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, current income taxes prepaid and receivable consisted of the following: (in thousands) 2016 2015 Prepaid taxes $3,914 $2,417 Taxes receivable 1,299 510 Total current income taxes prepaid and receivable $5,213 $2,927 As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, noncurrent income taxes receivable and deferred consisted of the following: (in thousands) 2016 2015 Deferred income taxes $68,865 $105,792 Taxes receivable - 3,153 Total noncurrent income taxes receivable and deferred $68,865 $108,945 As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, current income taxes payable consisted of the following: (in thousands) 2016 2015 Taxes Payable $9,531 $7,090 Total current income taxes payable $9,531 $7,090 As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, noncurrent deferred taxes and other liabilities consisted of the following: (in thousands) 2016 2015 Deferred income taxes $11,188 $12,589 Other liabilities 1,201 1,565 Total noncurrent deferred taxes and other liabilities $12,389 $14,154 Taxes paid, net of refunds, amounted to $23.4 million in 2016, $18.3 million in 2015, and $17.6 million in 2014.

Earnings Per Share

Earnings Per Share	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings Per Share	8. Earnings Per Share The amounts used in computing earnings per share and the weighted average number of shares of potentially dilutive securities are as follows: (in thousands, except market price and earnings per share) 2016 2015 2014 Net income attributable to the Company $52,733 $57,279 $41,569 Weighted average number of shares: Weighted average number of shares used in calculating basic net income per share 32,086 31,978 31,832 Effect of dilutive stock-based compensation plans: Stock options 39 58 99 Long-term incentive plan 45 52 57 Weighted average number of shares used in calculating diluted net income per share 32,170 32,088 31,988 Average market price of common stock used for calculation of dilutive shares $40.25 $36.68 $36.29 Net income per share: Basic $1.64 $1.79 $1.31 Diluted $1.64 $1.79 $1.30 Shares outstanding, net of treasury shares, were 32.1 million as of December 31, 2016, 32.0 million as of December 31, 2015, and 31.9 million as of December 31, 2014.

Accumulated Other Comprehensive

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (AOCI)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Accumulated items of other comprehensive income:
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (AOCI)	9. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (AOCI) The table below presents changes in the components of AOCI from January 1, 2014 to December 31, 2016: (in thousands) Translation adjustments Pension and postretirement liability adjustments Derivative valuation adjustment Total Other Comprehensive Income January 1, 2014 ($138 ) ($48,383 ) ($977 ) ($49,498 ) Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications (55,102 ) 252 (1,052 ) (55,902 ) Pension/postretirement settlements and curtailments 5,167 5,167 Pension/postretirement plan remeasurement (9,265 ) (9,265 ) Interest expense related to swaps reclassified to the Statement of Income, net of tax 1,168 1,168 Pension and postretirement liability adjustments reclassified to Statement of Income, net of tax 563 563 Net current period other comprehensive income (55,102 ) (3,283 ) 116 (58,269 ) December 31, 2014 (55,240 ) (51,666 ) (861 ) (107,767 ) Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications (53,415 ) 2,238 (1,836 ) (53,013 ) Pension/postretirement settlements and curtailments 103 103 Pension/postretirement plan remeasurement (622 ) (622 ) Interest expense related to swaps reclassified to the Statement of Income, net of tax 1,233 1,233 Pension and postretirement liability adjustments reclassified to Statement of Income, net of tax 1,222 1,222 Net current period other comprehensive income (53,415 ) 2,941 (603 ) (51,077 ) December 31, 2015 (108,655 ) (48,725 ) (1,464 ) (158,844 ) Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications (24,643 ) 676 804 (23,163 ) Pension/postretirement settlements and curtailments 45 45 Pension/postretirement plan remeasurement (4,394 ) (4,394 ) Interest expense related to swaps reclassified to the Statement of Income, net of tax 1,488 1,488 Pension and postretirement liability adjustments reclassified to Statement of Income, net of tax 679 679 Net current period other comprehensive income (24,643 ) (2,994 ) 2,292 (25,345 ) December 31, 2016 ($133,298 ) ($51,719 ) $828 ($184,189 ) As part of the Company’s pension de-risking strategy, in 2014, certain U.S. participants received a lump-sum distribution from the pension plan, which led to a pension settlement charge of $8.2 million. Including other 2014 pension plan settlements and curtailments, the amount reclassified from AOCI was $8.4 million before tax, and $5.2 million after tax effects. The components of our Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income that are reclassified to the Statement of Income relate to our pension and postretirement plans and interest rate swaps. The table below presents the expense/(income) amounts reclassified, and the line items of the Statement of Income that were affected for the periods ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014. (in thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Pretax Derivative valuation reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income: Expense related to interest rate swaps included in Income before taxes (a) $2,400 $1,988 $1,914 Income tax effect (912) (755) (746) Effect on net income due to items reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income $1,488 $1,233 $1,168 Pretax pension and postretirement liabilities reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income: Pension/postretirement settlements and curtailments $51 $103 $8,377 Amortization of prior service credit (4,450) (4,440) (4,436) Amortization of net actuarial loss 5,102 5,932 5,329 Total pretax amount reclassified (b) 703 1,595 9,270 Income tax effect 21 (270) (3,540) Effect on net income due to items reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income $724 $1,325 $5,730 (a) Included in Interest expense are payments related to the interest rate swap agreements and amortization of swap buyouts (see Note 15). (b) These accumulated other comprehensive income components are included in the computation of net periodic pension cost (see Note 4).

Noncontrolling Interest

Noncontrolling Interest	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Noncontrolling Interest	10. Noncontrolling Interest Effective October 31, 2013, Safran S.A. (Safran) acquired a 10 percent equity interest in a new Albany subsidiary, Albany Safran Composites, LLC (ASC). Under the terms of the transaction agreements, ASC will be the exclusive supplier to Safran of advanced 3D-woven composite parts for use in aircraft and rocket engines, thrust reversers and nacelles, and aircraft landing and braking systems (the “Safran Applications”). AEC may develop and supply parts other than advanced 3D-woven composite parts for all aerospace applications, as well as advanced 3D-woven composite parts for any aerospace applications that are not Safran Applications (such as airframe applications) and any non-aerospace applications. The agreement provides Safran an option to purchase Albany’s remaining 90 percent interest upon the occurrence of certain bankruptcy or performance default events, or if Albany’s Engineered Composites business is sold to a direct competitor of Safran. The purchase price is based initially on the same valuation of ASC used to determine Safran’s 10% equity interest, and increases over time as LEAP production increases. In accordance with the operating agreement, Albany received a $28 million preferred holding in ASC which includes a preferred return based on the Company’s revolving credit agreement. The common shares of ASC are owned 90 percent by Albany and 10 percent by Safran. The table below presents a reconciliation of income attributable to the noncontrolling interest and noncontrolling equity: (in thousands, except percentages) 2016 2015 Net income of ASC $1,777 $842 Less: Return attributable to the Company's preferred holding 987 978 Net income/(loss) of ASC available for common ownership $790 (136 ) Ownership percentage of noncontrolling shareholder 10% 10% Net income/(loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest $79 ($14 ) Noncontrolling interest, beginning of year $3,690 $3,699 Net income/(loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest 79 (14 ) Changes in other comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest (2 ) 5 Noncontrolling interest, end of year $3,767 $3,690

Property, Plant and Equipment

Property, Plant and Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment	11. Property, Plant and Equipment The table below sets forth the reclassification and components of property, plant and equipment as of December 31, 2016 and 2015: (in thousands) 2016 2015 Estimated useful life Land and land improvements $13,339 $14,307 25 years for improvements Buildings 214,086 211,027 25 to 40 years Assets under capital lease 8,140 - 7 years Machinery and equipment 842,921 828,409 5 to 15 years Furniture and fixtures 7,632 6,074 5 years Computer and other equipment 15,264 14,813 3 to 10 years Software 54,212 52,503 5 to 8 years Capital expenditures in progress 66,900 26,291 Property, plant and equipment, gross 1,222,494 1,153,424 Accumulated depreciation and amortization (799,930 ) (795,954 ) Property, plant and equipment, net $422,564 $357,470 In April 2016, we acquired Harris Corporation’s composite aerostructures business which increased property, plant and equipment by $62.8 million, including $8.1 million for a building under capital lease. We included amortization of the capital lease in depreciation expense. Accumulated amortization of the capital lease was $0.9 million as of December 31, 2016. Expenditures for maintenance and repairs are charged to income as incurred and amounted to $16.6 million in 2016, $16.6 million in 2015, and $17.4 million in 2014. Depreciation expense was $58.1 million in 2016, $53.0 million in 2015, and $56.6 million in 2014. Software amortization is recorded in Selling, general, and administrative expense and was $4.0 million in 2016, $6.5 million in 2015, and $6.2 million in 2014. Capital expenditures, including purchased software, were $78.5 million in 2016, $50.6 million in 2015, and $58.9 million in 2014. Unamortized software cost was $7.2 million and $9.6 million as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Goodwill and Other Intangible A

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	12. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets Goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are not amortized, but are tested for impairment at least annually. Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the net tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired in each business combination. Our reporting units are consistent with our operating segments. Determining the fair value of a reporting unit requires the use of significant estimates and assumptions, including revenue growth rates, operating margins, discount rates, and future market conditions, among others. Goodwill and other long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events, such as significant changes in the business climate, plant closures, changes in product offerings, or other circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. To determine fair value, we utilize two market-based approaches and an income approach. Under the market-based approaches, we utilize information regarding the Company as well as publicly available industry information to determine earnings multiples and sales multiples. Under the income approach, we determine fair value based on estimated future cash flows of each reporting unit, discounted by an estimated weighted-average cost of capital, which reflects the overall level of inherent risk of a reporting unit and the rate of return an outside investor would expect to earn. On April 8, 2016, the Company acquired the outstanding shares of Harris Corporation’s composite aerostructures business. The assets acquired include amortizable intangible assets of $71.6 million and goodwill of $95.7 million. As of December 31, 2016, the amount of goodwill acquired was still provisional because the Company is waiting for information needed to finalize the amount. Prior to the acquisition, the entire balance of goodwill on our books was attributable to the Machine Clothing business. In the second quarter of 2016, the Company applied the qualitative assessment approach in performing its annual evaluation of goodwill and concluded that no impairment provision was required. There were no Machine Clothing amounts at risk due to the large spread between the fair and carrying values. We are continuing to amortize certain patents, trade names, customer contracts and technology assets that have finite lives. The changes in intangible assets and goodwill from December 31, 2014 to December 31, 2016, were as follows: Amortization life Balance at Currency Balance at (in thousands, except for years) in years December 31, 2015 Acquisition Amortization Translation December 31, 2016 Amortized intangible assets: AEC trade names 15 $25 $- ($5 ) $- $20 AEC technology 15 129 - (25 ) - 104 AEC customer contracts 6 - 20,420 (2,561 ) - 17,859 AEC customer relationships 15 - 49,490 (2,481 ) - 47,009 AEC other intangibles 5 - 1,720 (258 ) - 1,462 Total amortized intangible assets $154 $71,630 ($5,330 ) $- $66,454 Unamortized intangible assets: MC Goodwill $66,373 $- $- ($1,728 ) $64,645 AEC Goodwill - 95,730 - - 95,730 Total amortized intangible assets $66,373 $95,730 $- ($1,728 ) $160,375 Balance at Currency Balance at (in thousands) December 31, 2014 Amortization Translation December 31, 2015 Amortized intangible assets: AEC trade names $29 ($4 ) $- $25 AEC customer contracts 202 (202 ) - - AEC technology 154 (25 ) - 129 Total amortized intangible assets $385 ($231 ) $- $154 Unamortized intangible assets: Goodwill $71,680 $- ($5,307 ) $66,373 As of December 31, 2016, the cost and accumulated amortization of amortized intangible assets was $72.1 million and $5.6 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2015, the cost and accumulated amortization of amortized intangible assets was $0.5 million and $0.3 million, respectively. In 2016, amortization expense related to intangible assets was reported in the Consolidated Statements of Income as follows: $2.6 million in Cost of goods sold and $2.7 million in Selling, general and administrative expenses. In 2015 and 2014, all intangible amortization expense was included in Cost of goods sold. Estimated amortization expense of intangibles for the years ending December 31, 2017 through 2021, is as follows: Annual amortization Year (in thousands) 2017 $7,076 2018 7,076 2019 7,076 2020 7,076 2021 6,796

Accrued Liabilities

Accrued Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Accrued Liabilities	13. Accrued Liabilities Accrued liabilities consist of: (in thousands) 2016 2015 Salaries and wages $18,520 $17,621 Accrual for compensated absences 10,181 9,564 Employee benefits 13,277 10,880 Pension liability - current portion 2,057 2,110 Postretirement medical benefits - current portion 4,195 4,660 Returns and allowances 13,714 14,024 Interest 1,218 942 Restructuring costs 4,668 6,856 Dividends 5,458 5,443 Workers' compensation 2,053 2,086 Billings in excess of revenue recognized 2,390 2,903 Professional fees 3,068 2,093 Utilities 991 779 Other 13,405 11,824 Total $95,195 $91,785

Financial Instruments

Financial Instruments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations [Abstract]
Financial Instruments	14. Financial Instruments Long-term debt, principally to banks and noteholders, consists of: (in thousands, except interest rates) 2016 2015 Private placement with a fixed interest rate of 6.84%, due 2017 $50,000 $50,000 Revolving credit agreements with borrowings outstanding at an end of period interest rate of 2.58% in 2016 and 2.27% in 2015 (including the effect of interest rate hedging transactions, as described below), due in 2021 418,000 215,000 Obligation under capital lease, matures 2022 16,584 96 Long-term debt 484,584 265,096 Less: current portion (51,666 ) (16 ) Long-term debt, net of current portion $432,918 $265,080 Principal payments due on long-term debt are: 2018, $1.8 million, 2019, $1.9 million, 2020, $2.0 million, 2021, $420.1 million, and 2022, $7.1 million. Cash payments of interest amounted to $13.7 million in 2016, $12.6 million in 2015, and $13.0 million in 2014. A note agreement and guaranty (“Prudential Agreement”) was originally entered into in October 2005 with the Prudential Insurance Company of America, and certain other purchasers, with interest at 6.84%. The remaining principal under the Prudential Agreement is $50.0 million, and is due on the maturity date of October 25, 2017. At the noteholders’ election, certain prepayments may also be required in connection with certain asset dispositions or financings. The notes may not otherwise be prepaid without a premium, under certain market conditions. The Prudential Agreement contains customary terms, as well as affirmative covenants, negative covenants, and events of default, comparable to those in our current principal credit facility agreement (as described below). The Prudential Agreement has been amended a number of times, most recently in April 2016, in order to maintain terms comparable to our current principal credit facility. For disclosure purposes, we are required to measure the fair value of outstanding debt on a recurring basis. As of December 31, 2016, the fair value of this debt was approximately $52.8 million, and was measured using active market interest rates, which would be considered Level 2 for fair value measurement purposes. On April 8, 2016, we entered into a $550 million unsecured Five-Year Revolving Credit Facility Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) which amended and restated the prior $400 million Agreement, entered into on June 18, 2015 (the “Prior Agreement”). Under the Credit Agreement, $418 million of borrowings were outstanding as of December 31, 2016. The applicable interest rate for borrowings was LIBOR plus a spread, based on our leverage ratio at the time of borrowing. At the time of the last borrowing on December 16, 2016, the spread was 1.500%. The spread was based on a pricing grid, which ranged from 1.250% to 1.750%, based on our leverage ratio. Based on our maximum leverage ratio and our Consolidated EBITDA, and without modification to any other credit agreements, as of December 31, 2016, we would have been able to borrow an additional $132 million under the Agreement. The Credit Agreement contains customary terms, as well as affirmative covenants, negative covenants and events of defaults comparable to those in the Prior Agreement. The Borrowings are guaranteed by certain of the Company’s subsidiaries. Our ability to borrow additional amounts under the Credit Agreement is conditional upon the absence of any defaults, as well as the absence of any material adverse change (as defined in the Credit Agreement). In connection with the 2016 acquisition transaction, the Company has a long-term capital lease obligation for real property in Salt Lake City, Utah. The lease has an implied interest rate of 5.0% and matures in 2022. The following schedule presents future minimum annual lease payments under the capital lease obligation and the present value of the minimum lease payments, as of December 31, 2016. Years ending December 31, (in thousands) 2017 $ 2,696 2018 2,743 2019 2,743 2020 2,790 2021 2,790 Thereafter 7,644 Total minimum lease payments 21,406 Less: Amount representing interest (4,822) Present value of minimum lease payments $ 16,584 On May 6, 2016, we terminated our interest rate swap agreements that had effectively fixed the interest rate on up to $120 million of revolving credit borrowings, in order to enter into a new interest rate swap with a greater notional amount, and the same maturity as the Credit Agreement. We paid $5.2 million to terminate the swap agreements and that cost will be amortized into interest expense through June 2020. On May 9, 2016, we entered into interest rate hedges for the period May 16, 2016 through March 16, 2021. These transactions have the effect of fixing the LIBOR portion of the effective interest rate (before addition of the spread) on $300 million of indebtedness drawn under the Credit Agreement at the rate of 1.245% during the period. Under the terms of these transactions, we pay the fixed rate of 1.245% and the counterparties pay a floating rate based on the one-month LIBOR rate at each monthly calculation date, which on December 16, 2016 was 0.710%, plus the applicable spread, during the swap period. On December 16, 2016, the all-in-rate on the $300 million of debt was 2.745%. These interest rate swaps are accounted for as a hedge of future cash flows, as further described in Note 15 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. No cash collateral was received or pledged in relation to the swap agreements. Under the Credit Agreement and Prudential Agreement, we are currently required to maintain a leverage ratio (as defined in the agreements) of not greater than 3.50 to 1.00 and minimum interest coverage (as defined) of 3.00 to 1.00. As of December 31, 2016, our leverage ratio was 2.30 to 1.00 and our interest coverage ratio was 11.52 to 1.00. We may purchase our Common Stock or pay dividends to the extent our leverage ratio remains at or below 3.50 to 1.00, and may make acquisitions with cash provided our leverage ratio would not exceed 3.50 to 1.00 after giving pro forma effect to the acquisition. Indebtedness under each of the Prudential Agreement and the Credit Agreement is ranked equally in right of payment to all unsecured senior debt. We were in compliance with all debt covenants as of December 31, 2016.

Fair-Value Measurements

Fair-Value Measurements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair-Value Measurements	15. Fair-Value Measurements Fair value is defined as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Accounting principles establish a hierarchy for inputs used in measuring fair value that maximizes the use of observable inputs and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs by requiring that the most observable inputs be used when available. Level 3 inputs are unobservable data points for the asset or liability, and include situations in which there is little, if any, market activity for the asset or liability. In 2015, we reported land and building related to the former manufacturing facility in Germany as Asset held for sale in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets. That property was sold in 2016. The value as of December 31, 2015 was determined based on preliminary offers from active market participants. The following table presents the fair-value hierarchy for our Level 1 and Level 2 financial and non-financial assets and liabilities, which are measured at fair value on a recurring basis, and Level 3 non-financial assets measured at fair value: December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 (in thousands) Quoted Significant Unobservable Quoted Significant Unobservable Fair Value Assets: Cash equivalents $8,468 $- $- $5,189 $- $- Assets held for sale - - - - - 4,988 Other Assets: Common stock of foreign public company 762 (a) - - 819 - - Interest rate swaps - 5,784 (b) - - - - Liabilities: Other noncurrent liabilities: Interest rate swaps - - - - (2,400 ) (c) - (a) Original cost basis $0.5 million. (b) Net of $21.4 million receivable floating leg and $15.6 million liability fixed leg (c) Net of $7.4 million receivable floating leg and $9.8 million liability fixed leg Cash equivalents include short-term securities that are considered to be highly liquid and easily tradable. These securities are valued using inputs observable in active markets for identical securities. The common stock of the unaffiliated foreign public company is traded in an active market exchange. The shares are measured at fair value using closing stock prices and are recorded in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as Other assets. The securities are classified as available for sale, and as a result any unrealized gain or loss is recorded in the Shareholders’ Equity section of the Consolidated Balance Sheets rather than in the Consolidated Statements of Income. When the security is sold or impaired, gains and losses are reported in the Consolidated Statements of Income. Investments are considered to be impaired when a decline in fair value is judged to be other than temporary. We operate our business in many regions of the world, and currency rate movements can have a significant effect on operating results. Foreign currency instruments are entered into periodically, and consist of foreign currency option contracts and forward contracts that are valued using quoted prices in active markets obtained from independent pricing sources. These instruments are measured using market foreign exchange prices and are recorded in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as Other current assets and Accounts payable, as applicable. Changes in fair value of these instruments are recorded as gains or losses within Other (income)/expenses, net. When exercised, the foreign currency instruments are net settled with the same financial institution that bought or sold them. For all positions, whether options or forward contracts, there is risk from the possible inability of the financial institution to meet the terms of the contracts and the risk of unfavorable changes in interest and currency rates, which may reduce the value of the instruments. We seek to control risk by evaluating the creditworthiness of counterparties and by monitoring the currency exchange and interest rate markets while reviewing the hedging risks and contracts to ensure compliance with our internal guidelines and policies. Changes in exchange rates can result in revaluation gains and losses that are recorded in Selling, General and Administrative expenses or Other (income)/expenses, net. Revaluation gains and losses occur when our business units have cash, intercompany (recorded in Other (income)/expenses, net) or third-party trade (recorded in Selling, General and Administrative expenses) receivable or payable balances in a currency other than their local reporting (or functional) currency. Operating results can also be affected by the translation of sales and costs, for each non-U.S. subsidiary, from the local functional currency to the U.S. dollar. The translation effect on the Consolidated Statements of Income is dependent on our net income or expense position in each non-U.S. currency in which we do business. A net income position exists when sales realized in a particular currency exceed expenses paid in that currency; a net expense position exists if the opposite is true. The interest rate swaps are accounted for as hedges of future cash flows. The fair value of our interest rate swaps are derived from a discounted cash flow analysis based on the terms of the contract and the interest rate curve, and is included in Other assets and/or Other noncurrent liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Unrealized gains and losses on the swaps flow through the caption Derivative valuation adjustment in the Shareholders’ equity section of the Consolidated Balance Sheets, to the extent that the hedges are highly effective. As of December 31, 2016, these interest rate swaps were determined to be highly effective hedges of interest rate cash flow risk. Any gains and losses related to the ineffective portion of the hedges will be recognized in the current period in earnings. Amounts accumulated in Other comprehensive income are reclassified as Interest expense, net when the related interest payments (that is, the hedged forecasted transactions), and amortization related to the swap buyouts, affect earnings. Interest expense related to payments under the current swaps totaled $1.7 million in 2016, $2.0 million in 2015 and $1.9 million in 2014. Additionally, Interest expense related to the 2016 swap buyouts totaled $0.6 million in 2016 and is expected to be approximately $0.5 million in 2017. Gains/(losses) related to changes in fair value of derivative instruments that were recognized in Other (income)/expenses, net in the Consolidated Statements of Income were as follows: Years ended December 31, (in thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments Foreign currency options $202 ($121) ($81)

Other Noncurrent Liabilities

Other Noncurrent Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]
Other Noncurrent Liabilities	16. Other Noncurrent Liabilities As of December 31 of each year, Other noncurrent liabilities consists of: (in thousands) 2016 2015 Pension liabilities $35,921 $36,782 Postretirement benefits other than pensions 53,293 55,310 Obligations under license agreement 10,254 - Interest rate swap agreement - 2,400 Incentive and deferred compensation 3,468 3,421 Restructuring 908 3,320 Other 2,983 311 Total $106,827 $101,544

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	17. Commitments and Contingencies Principal leases are for machinery and equipment, vehicles, and real property. Certain leases contain renewal and purchase option provisions at fair values. Total rental expense amounted to $5.2 million in 2016, $3.5 million in 2015, and $4.2 million in 2014. Future rental payments required under operating leases that have initial or remaining non-cancelable lease terms in excess of one year, as of December 31, 2016, are: 2017, $5.6 million; 2018, $3.7 million; 2019, $1.4 million; 2020, $0.8 million, and 2021 and thereafter, $0.3 million. Asbestos Litigation Albany International Corp. is a defendant in suits brought in various courts in the United States by plaintiffs who allege that they have suffered personal injury as a result of exposure to asbestos-containing products that we previously manufactured. We produced asbestos-containing paper machine clothing synthetic dryer fabrics marketed during the period from 1967 to 1976 and used in certain paper mills. Such fabrics generally had a useful life of three to twelve months. We were defending 3,745 claims as of December 31, 2016. The following table sets forth the number of claims filed, the number of claims settled, dismissed or otherwise resolved, and the aggregate settlement amount during the periods presented: Year ended December 31, Opening Number of Claims Dismissed, New Claims Closing Number of Claims Amounts Paid (thousands) to Settle or 2005 29,411 6,257 1,297 24,451 $504 2006 24,451 6,841 1,806 19,416 3,879 2007 19,416 808 190 18,798 15 2008 18,798 523 110 18,385 52 2009 18,385 9,482 42 8,945 88 2010 8,945 3,963 188 5,170 159 2011 5,170 789 65 4,446 1,111 2012 4,446 90 107 4,463 530 2013 4,463 230 66 4,299 78 2014 4,299 625 147 3,821 437 2015 3,821 116 86 3,791 164 2016 3,791 148 102 3,745 $758 We anticipate that additional claims will be filed against the Company and related companies in the future, but are unable to predict the number and timing of such future claims. Exposure and disease information sufficient to meaningfully estimate a range of possible loss of a particular claim is typically not available until late in the discovery process, and often not until a trial date is imminent and a settlement demand has been received. For these reasons, we do not believe a meaningful estimate can be made regarding the range of possible loss with respect to pending or future claims. While we believe we have meritorious defenses to these claims, we have settled certain claims for amounts we consider reasonable given the facts and circumstances of each case. Our insurer, Liberty Mutual, has defended each case and funded settlements under a standard reservation of rights. As of December 31, 2016, we had resolved, by means of settlement or dismissal, 37,489 claims. The total cost of resolving all claims was $10.2 million. Of this amount, almost 100% was paid by our insurance carrier. The Company’s insurer has confirmed that although coverage limits under two (of approximately 23) primary insurance policies have been exhausted, there still remains approximately $2.5 million in coverage limits under other applicable primary policies, and $140 million in coverage under excess umbrella coverage policies that should be available with respect to current and future asbestos claims. Brandon Drying Fabrics, Inc. (“Brandon”), a subsidiary of Geschmay Corp., which is a subsidiary of the Company, is also a separate defendant in many of the asbestos cases in which Albany is named as a defendant. Brandon was defending against 7,706 claims as of December 31, 2016. The following table sets forth the number of claims filed, the number of claims settled, dismissed or otherwise resolved, and the aggregate settlement amount during the periods presented: Year ended December 31, Opening Claims Dismissed, New Claims Closing Amounts 2005 9,985 642 223 9,566 $- 2006 9,566 1,182 730 9,114 - 2007 9,114 462 88 8,740 - 2008 8,740 86 10 8,664 - 2009 8,664 760 3 7,907 - 2010 7,907 47 9 7,869 - 2011 7,869 3 11 7,877 - 2012 7,877 12 2 7,867 - 2013 7,867 55 3 7,815 - 2014 7,815 87 2 7,730 - 2015 7,730 18 1 7,713 - 2016 7,713 7 - 7,706 $- We acquired Geschmay Corp., formerly known as Wangner Systems Corporation, in 1999. Brandon is a wholly owned subsidiary of Geschmay Corp. In 1978, Brandon acquired certain assets from Abney Mills (“Abney”), a South Carolina textile manufacturer. Among the assets acquired by Brandon from Abney were assets of Abney’s wholly owned subsidiary, Brandon Sales, Inc. which had sold, among other things, dryer fabrics containing asbestos made by its parent, Abney. Although Brandon manufactured and sold dryer fabrics under its own name subsequent to the asset purchase, none of such fabrics contained asbestos. Because Brandon did not manufacture asbestos-containing products, and because it does not believe that it was the legal successor to, or otherwise responsible for obligations of Abney with respect to products manufactured by Abney, it believes it has strong defenses to the claims that have been asserted against it. As of December 31, 2016, Brandon has resolved, by means of settlement or dismissal, 9,900 claims for a total of $0.2 million. Brandon’s insurance carriers initially agreed to pay 88.2% of the total indemnification and defense costs related to these proceedings, subject to the standard reservation of rights. The remaining 11.8% of the costs had been borne directly by Brandon. During 2004, Brandon’s insurance carriers agreed to cover 100% of indemnification and defense costs, subject to policy limits and the standard reservation of rights, and to reimburse Brandon for all indemnity and defense costs paid directly by Brandon related to these proceedings. For the same reasons set forth above with respect to Albany’s claims, as well as the fact that no amounts have been paid to resolve any Brandon claims since 2001, we do not believe a meaningful estimate can be made regarding the range of possible loss with respect to these remaining claims. In some of these asbestos cases, the Company is named both as a direct defendant and as the “successor in interest” to Mount Vernon Mills (“Mount Vernon”). We acquired certain assets from Mount Vernon in 1993. Certain plaintiffs allege injury caused by asbestos-containing products alleged to have been sold by Mount Vernon many years prior to this acquisition. Mount Vernon is contractually obligated to indemnify the Company against any liability arising out of such products. We deny any liability for products sold by Mount Vernon prior to the acquisition of the Mount Vernon assets. Pursuant to its contractual indemnification obligations, Mount Vernon has assumed the defense of these claims. On this basis, we have successfully moved for dismissal in a number of actions. Although we do not believe, based on currently available information and for the reasons stated above, that a meaningful estimate of a range of possible loss can be made with respect to such claims, based on our understanding of the insurance policies available, how settlement amounts have been allocated to various policies, our settlement experience, the absence of any judgments against the Company or Brandon, the ratio of paper mill claims to total claims filed, and the defenses available, we currently do not anticipate any material liability relating to the resolution of the aforementioned pending proceedings in excess of existing insurance limits. Consequently, we currently do not anticipate, based on currently available information, that the ultimate resolution of the aforementioned proceedings will have a material adverse effect on the financial position, results of operations, or cash flows of the Company. Although we cannot predict the number and timing of future claims, based on the foregoing factors and the trends in claims against us to date, we do not anticipate that additional claims likely to be filed against us in the future will have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations, or cash flows. We are aware that litigation is inherently uncertain, especially when the outcome is dependent primarily on determinations of factual matters to be made by juries.

Stock Options and Incentive Pla

Stock Options and Incentive Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Stock Options and Incentive Plans	18. Stock Options and Incentive Plans We recognized no stock option expense during 2016, 2015 or 2014 and there are currently no remaining unvested options for which stock-option compensation costs will be recognized in future periods. There have been no stock options granted since November 2002 and we have no stock option plan under which options may be granted, although options may be granted under the Company’s 2011 incentive plan. Options issued under previous plans and still outstanding were exercisable in five cumulative annual amounts beginning twelve months after date of grant. Option exercise prices were normally equal to and were not permitted to be less than the market value on the date of grant. Unexercised options generally terminate twenty years after the date of grant for all plans, and must be exercised within ten years of retirement. Activity with respect to these plans is as follows: 2016 2015 2014 Shares under option January 1 88,773 187,233 228,533 Options canceled - - - Options exercised 26,383 98,460 41,300 Shares under option at December 31 62,390 88,773 187,233 Options exercisable at December 31 62,390 88,773 187,233 The weighted average exercise price is as follows: 2016 2015 2014 Shares under option January 1 $18.67 $18.99 $18.94 Options canceled - - - Options exercised 19.60 19.27 18.71 Shares under option December 31 18.28 18.67 18.99 Options exercisable December 31 18.28 18.67 18.99 As of December 31, 2016, the aggregate intrinsic value of vested options was $1.7 million. The aggregate intrinsic value of options exercised was $0.5 million in 2016, $2.0 million in 2015, and $0.7 million in 2014. Executive Management share-based compensation: In 2011, shareholders approved the Albany International 2011 Incentive Plan. Awards granted to date under these plans provide key members of management with incentive compensation based on achieving certain performance targets over a three year period. Such awards are paid out partly in cash and partly in shares of Class A Common Stock. Participants may elect to receive shares net of applicable income taxes. In March 2016, we issued 26,146 shares and made cash payments totaling $0.8 million. In March 2015, we issued 35,393 shares and made cash payments totaling $1.2 million. In March 2014, we issued 29,321 shares and made cash payments totaling $1.1 million. If a person terminates employment prior to the award becoming fully vested, the person may forfeit all or a portion of the incentive compensation award. The grant date share price is determined when the awards are approved each year and that price is used for measuring the cost for the share-based portion of the award. Expense associated with these awards is recognized over the three year vesting period. In connection with this plan, we recognized expense of $2.7 million in 2016, $3.0 million in 2015 and $2.4 million in 2014. For share-based awards that are dependent on performance after 2016, we expect to record additional compensation expense of approximately $0.7 million in 2017 and $0.6 million in 2018. In 2011, the Board of Directors modified the annual incentive plan for executive management whereby 40 to 50 percent of the earned incentive compensation is payable in the form of shares of Class A Common Stock. Participants may elect to receive shares net of applicable income taxes. In March 2016, the Company issued 26,774 shares and made cash payments totaling $1.9 million as a result of performance in 2015. In March 2015, the Company issued 19,571 shares and made cash payments totaling $1.5 million as a result of performance in 2014. In March 2014, the Company issued 15,910 shares and made cash payments totaling $1.4 million as a result of performance in 2013. The allocation of the award between cash and shares is determined by an average share price after the year of performance. Expense recorded for this plan was $3.3 million in 2016, $3.4 million in 2015, and $2.7 million in 2014. Shares payable under these plans generally vest immediately prior to payment. As of December 31, 2016, there were 235,299 shares of Company stock authorized for the payment of awards under these plans. Information with respect to these plans is presented below: Number of shares Weighted Year-end Shares potentially payable at January 1, 2014 185,564 $27.51 $6,667 Forfeitures - - Payments (75,385 ) $28.60 Shares accrued based on 2014 performance 75,020 $34.65 Shares potentially payable at December 31, 2014 185,199 $30.69 $5,683 Forfeitures - - Payments (95,889 ) $29.09 Shares accrued based on 2015 performance 98,998 $38.01 Shares potentially payable at December 31, 2015 188,308 $35.35 $6,657 Forfeitures - - Payments (86,926 ) $33.43 Shares accrued based on 2016 performance 88,036 $36.78 Shares potentially payable at December 31, 2016 189,418 $36.90 $6,989 Other Management share-based compensation: In 2003, the Company adopted a Restricted Stock Program under which certain key employees were awarded restricted stock units. Company has not awarded new restricted stock units since November 2010 and no expense was recognized in 2016 for this plan. Such units vested over a five-year period and were paid annually in cash based on current market prices of the Company’s stock. The amount of compensation cost attributable to such units was recorded in Selling, general and administrative expenses and was $0.6 million in 2015 and $1.4 million in 2014. In 2012, the Company adopted a Phantom Stock Plan that replaced the Restricted Stock Program. Awards under this program vest over a five-year period and are paid annually in cash based on current market prices of the Company’s stock. Under this program, employees may earn more or less than the target award based on the Company’s results in the year of the award. Expense recognized for this plan amounted to $3.8 million in 2016, $2.6 million in 2015, and $2.2 million in 2014. Based on awards outstanding at December 31, 2016, we expect to record $8.3 million of compensation cost from 2017 to 2020. The weighted average period for recognition of that cost is approximately 2 years. In 2012, the Company granted restricted stock units to two executives. The amount of compensation expense was subject to changes in the market price of the Company’s stock and was recorded in Selling, general, and administrative expenses. The final vesting and payment due under these grants occurred in 2015, resulting in no expense recognized in 2016. Expense recognized for these grants was $0.3 million in 2015, and $0.7 million in 2014. The determination of compensation expense for other management share-based compensation plans is based on the number of outstanding share units, the end-of-period share price, and Company performance. Information with respect to these plans is presented below: Number of Weighted average Cash paid for Share units potentially payable at January 1, 2014 361,189 Grants 91,631 Changes due to performance (8,793 ) Payments (86,840 ) $35.01 $3,040 Forfeitures (9,246 ) Share units potentially payable at December 31, 2014 347,941 Grants 90,065 Changes due to performance 13,966 Payments (167,482 ) $36.08 $6,040 Forfeitures (31,624 ) Share units potentially payable at December 31, 2015 252,866 Grants 118,279 Changes due to performance 18,779 Payments (88,073 ) $33.20 $2,924 Forfeitures (40,706 ) Share units potentially payable at December 31, 2016 261,145 The Company maintains a voluntary savings plan covering substantially all employees in the United States. The Plan, known as the ProsperityPlus Savings Plan, is a qualified plan under section 401(k) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code. The Company matches, in the form of cash, between 50% and 100% of employee contributions up to a defined maximum. The investment of employee contributions to the plan is self-directed. The Company’s cost of the plan amounted to $5.5 million in 2016, $4.8 million in 2015, and $4.3 million in 2014. The Company’s profit-sharing plan covers substantially all employees in the United States. After the close of each year, the Board of Directors determines the amount of the profit-sharing contribution. Company contributions to the plan are in the form of cash. The expense recorded for this plan was $2.9 million in 2016, $2.4 million in 2015, and $1.5 million in 2014.

Shareholders' Equity

Shareholders' Equity	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]
Shareholders' Equity	19. Shareholders’ Equity We have two classes of Common Stock, Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock, each with a par value of $0.001 and equal liquidation rights. Each share of our Class A Common Stock is entitled to one vote on all matters submitted to shareholders, and each share of Class B Common Stock is entitled to ten votes. Class A and Class B Common Stock will receive equal dividends as the Board of Directors may determine from time to time. The Class B Common Stock is convertible into an equal number of shares of Class A Common Stock at any time. At December 31, 2016, 3.3 million shares of Class A Common Stock were reserved for the conversion of Class B Common Stock and the exercise of stock options. In August 2006, we announced that the Board of Directors authorized management to purchase up to 2.0 million additional shares of our Class A Common Stock. The Board’s action authorizes management to purchase shares from time to time, in the open market or otherwise, whenever it believes such purchase to be advantageous to our shareholders, and it is otherwise legally permitted to do so. We have made no share purchases under the August 2006 authorization. Activity in Shareholders’ equity for 2014, 2015, and 2016 is presented below: Class A Class B Additional paid-in capital Retained earnings Accumulated Class A Noncontrolling Interest (in thousands) Shares Amount Shares Amount Shares Amount January 1, 2014 36,996 $37 3,236 $3 $416,728 $434,598 ($49,498) 8,464 ($257,571) $3,482 Net income - - - - - 41,569 - - - 180 Compensation and benefits paid or payable in shares 47 - - - 1,234 - - - - - Conversion of Class B shares to Class A shares 1 - (1) - - - - - - - Changes in equity related to Noncontrolling interest in ASC - - - - (24) - - - - 38 Options exercised 41 - - - 974 - - - - - Shares issued to Directors' - - - - 60 - - (5) 90 - Dividends declared - - - - - (20,062) - - - Cumulative translation adjustments - - - - - - (55,102) - - (1) Pension and postretirement liability adjustments - - - - - - (3,283) - - - Derivative valuation adjustment - - - - - - 116 - - - December 31, 2014 37,085 $37 3,235 $3 $418,972 $456,105 ($107,767) 8,459 ($257,481) $3,699 Net income - - - - - 57,279 - - - (14) Compensation and benefits paid or payable in shares 55 - - - 1,540 - - - - - Options exercised 99 - - - 2,520 - - - - - Shares issued to Directors' - - - - 76 - - (4) 90 - Dividends declared - - - - - (21,434) - - - Cumulative translation adjustments - - - - - - (53,415) - - 5 Pension and postretirement liability adjustments - - - - - - 2,941 - - - Derivative valuation adjustment - - - - - - (603) - - - December 31, 2015 37,239 $37 3,235 $3 $423,108 $491,950 ($158,844) 8,455 ($257,391) $3,690 Net income - - - - - 52,733 - - - 79 Compensation and benefits paid or payable in shares 53 - - - 1,980 - - - - 0 Options exercised 26 - - - 667 - - - - 0 Shares issued to Directors' 1 - (1) - 198 - - (12) 255 - Dividends declared - - - - - (21,828) - - - - Cumulative translation adjustments - - - - - - (24,643) - - (2) Pension and postretirement liability adjustments - - - - - - (2,994) - - - Derivative valuation adjustment - - - - - - 2,292 - - - December 31, 2016 37,319 $37 3,234 $3 $425,953 $522,855 ($184,189) 8,443 ($257,136) $3,767

Quarterly Financial Data

Quarterly Financial Data	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Quarterly Financial Data [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Data	20. Quarterly Financial Data (unaudited) The following table presents certain unaudited quarterly consolidated statement of operations data from continuing operations for each of the quarters in the periods ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014. The information has been derived from our unaudited financial statements, which have been prepared on substantially the same basis as the audited consolidated financial statements contained in this report. We have presented quarterly earnings per share numbers as reported in our earnings releases. The sum of these quarterly results may differ from annual results due to rounding and the impact of the difference in the weighted shares outstanding for the stand-alone periods. The results of operations for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for any future period. (in millions, except per share amounts) 2016 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Total Net sales $172.3 $203.2 $191.3 $213.0 $779.8 Gross profit 72.5 78.3 72.4 77.4 300.6 Net income attributable to the Company 13.5 10.4 13.1 15.8 52.8 Basic earnings per share 0.42 0.32 0.41 0.49 1.64 Diluted earnings per share 0.42 0.32 0.41 0.49 1.64 Cash dividends per share 0.17 0.17 0.17 0.17 0.68 Class A Common Stock prices: High 38.21 41.31 43.78 49.25 Low 31.43 37.27 38.92 38.65 2015 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Total Net sales $181.3 $172.3 $178.8 $177.5 $709.9 Gross profit 76.7 54.6 75.7 71.7 278.7 Net income/(loss) attributable to the Company 12.2 (2.2 ) 9.7 37.6 57.3 Basic earnings per share 0.38 (0.07 ) 0.30 1.18 1.79 Diluted earnings per share 0.38 (0.07 ) 0.30 1.18 1.79 Cash dividends per share 0.16 0.17 0.17 0.17 0.67 Class A Common Stock prices: High 40.31 41.15 40.21 39.25 Low 34.13 39.15 28.28 28.19 2014 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Total Net sales $180.3 $193.5 $179.9 $191.6 $745.3 Gross profit 74.8 75.3 68.6 72.9 291.6 Net income attributable to the Company 10.6 11.2 11.8 8.0 41.6 Basic earnings per share 0.33 0.35 0.37 0.26 1.31 Diluted earnings per share 0.33 0.35 0.37 0.25 1.30 Cash dividends per share 0.15 0.16 0.16 0.16 0.63 Class A Common Stock prices: High 37.59 38.01 38.53 38.15 Low 32.85 33.67 34.04 32.46 In 2016, restructuring charges reduced earnings per share by $0.01 in the first quarter, $0.13 in the second quarter, $0.01 in the third quarter, and $0.01 in the fourth quarter. In 2016, we recorded measurement period adjustments related to the business acquisition that occurred in the second quarter of 2016. Measurement period adjustments decreased earnings per share by $0.03 in the third quarter, and $0.00 in the fourth quarter. Costs related the acquisition transaction reduced earnings per share by $0.03 in the first quarter, $0.08 in the second quarter, $0.00 in the third quarter, and $0.00 in the fourth quarter In 2016, discrete income tax adjustments, increased earnings per share by $0.03 in the first quarter, $0.00 in the second quarter, $0.00 in the third quarter, and $0.04 in the fourth quarter. In 2015, restructuring charges reduced earnings per share by $0.18 in the first quarter, $0.02 in the second quarter, $0.07 in the third quarter, and $0.21 in the fourth quarter. In 2015, discrete income tax adjustments, increased/(decreased) earnings per share by $(0.01) in the first quarter, $0.00 in the second quarter, ($0.15) in the third quarter, and $0.85 in the fourth quarter. The amount recognized in the fourth quarter was principally due to a worthless stock deduction for the Company’s investment in its German subsidiary. In 2015, we recognized a gain related to the sale of investment of $0.02 per share in the first quarter. In 2014, restructuring charges reduced earnings per share by $0.02 in the first quarter, $0.04 in the second quarter, $0.02 in the third quarter, and $0.04 in the fourth quarter. In 2014, we recognized a gain related to the insurance recovery due to damage to a Machine Clothing manufacturing facility, $0.03 per share in the second quarter and $0.01 per share in the third quarter. In 2014, earnings per share included a pension plan settlement charge of $0.16 per share in the fourth quarter. The Company’s Class A Common Stock is traded principally on the New York Stock Exchange. As of December 31, 2016, there were approximately 7,500 beneficial owners of the Company’s common stock, including employees owning shares through the Company’s 401(k) defined contribution plan.

VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUN

VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]
VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS	SCHEDULE II ALBANY INTERNATIONAL CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS (Dollars in thousands) Column A Column B Column C Column D Column E Description Balance at beginning of period Charge to expense Other (A) Balance at end of the period Allowance for doubtful accounts Year ended December 31: 2016 $8,530 $23 ($1,601) $6,952 2015 8,713 744 (927) 8,530 2014 11,274 (341) (2,220) 8,713 Allowance for sales returns Year ended December 31: 2016 $14,024 $10,851 ($11,161) $13,714 2015 17,265 10,640 (13,881) 14,024 2014 22,428 13,879 (19,042) 17,265 Valuation allowance deferred tax assets Year ended December 31: 2016 $24,439 ($88) ($1,530) $22,821 2015 21,860 75 2,504 24,439 2014 49,987 (3,347) (24,780) 21,860 (A) Amounts sold, written off, or recovered, and the effect of changes in currency translation rates, are included in Column D.

Accounting Policies (Policies)

Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of Consolidation	Basis of Consolidation The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Albany International Corp. and its subsidiaries (the Company, Albany, we, us, or our) after elimination of intercompany transactions. We have a 50% interest in an entity in Russia. The consolidated financial statements include our original investment in the entity, plus our share of undistributed earnings or losses, in the account “Other Assets.” The Company owns 90 percent of the common equity of Albany Safran Composites, LLC (ASC) which is reported within the Albany Engineered Composites (AEC) segment. Additional information regarding that entity is included in Note 10.
Estimates	Estimates The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Estimates are used in accounting for, among other things, revenue recognition, contract profitability, allowances for doubtful accounts, rebates and sales allowances, inventory allowances, pension benefits, goodwill and intangible assets, contingencies, income tax related balances, and other accruals. Our estimates are based on historical experience and on various other assumptions, which are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Due to the inherent uncertainty involved in making estimates, actual results reported in future periods may differ from those estimates. Estimates and assumptions are reviewed periodically, and the effects of any revisions are reflected in the consolidated financial statements in the period they are determined to be necessary.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition We record sales when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred, title has been transferred, the selling price is fixed, and collectability is reasonably assured. We include in revenue any amounts invoiced for shipping and handling. The timing of revenue recognition is dependent upon the contractual arrangement with customers. These arrangements, which may include provisions for transfer of title and guarantees of workmanship, are specific to each customer. Some of these contracts provide for a transfer of title upon delivery, or upon reaching a specific date, while other contracts provide for title transfer to occur upon consumption of the product. Products and services provided under long-term contracts represent a significant portion of sales in the Albany Engineered Composites segment. We have a contract with a major customer for which revenue is recognized under a cost plus fixed fee arrangement. We also have fixed price long-term contracts, for which we use the percentage of completion method (actual cost to estimated cost, or units of delivery). Accounting for long-term contracts requires significant judgment and estimation, which could be considerably different if the underlying circumstances were to change. When adjustments in estimated contract revenues or costs are required, any changes from prior estimates are included in earnings in the period the change occurs. In 2015, we recorded a charge of $14.0 million on our BR 725 contract. That charge included the write-off of $10.9 million of deferred contract costs and a reserve of $3.1 million for additional anticipated losses. Changes in estimates on other contracts increased gross profit by $1.5 million in 2016, increased gross profit by $0.4 million in 2015, and reduced gross profit by $0.6 million in 2014. For contracts with anticipated losses at completion, a provision for the entire amount of the estimated remaining loss is charged against income in the period in which the loss becomes known. Contract losses are determined considering all direct and indirect contract costs, exclusive of any selling, general or administrative cost allocations that are treated as period expenses. For programs in which we use the units of delivery method, there are generally two phases: a phase during which the production part is designed and tested, and a phase of supplying production parts. Certain costs are capitalized during the first phase, such as costs for engineering, equipment, and inventory, where recovery is probable. Revenue is recognized during the second phase, as parts are delivered. Accumulated capitalized costs are written off when those costs are determined to be unrecoverable. We limit the concentration of credit risk in receivables by closely monitoring credit and collection policies. We record allowances for sales returns as a deduction in the computation of net sales. Such provisions are recorded on the basis of written communication with customers and/or historical experience. Any value added taxes that are imposed on sales transactions are excluded from net sales.
Cost of Goods Sold	Cost of Goods Sold Cost of goods sold includes the cost of materials, provisions for obsolete inventories, labor and supplies, shipping and handling costs, depreciation of manufacturing facilities and equipment, purchasing, receiving, warehousing, and other expenses.
Selling, General, Administrative, Technical, Product Engineering, and Research Expenses	Selling, General, Administrative, Technical, Product Engineering, and Research Expenses Selling, general, administrative, technical, and product engineering expenses are primarily comprised of wages, benefits, travel, professional fees, revaluation of trade foreign currency balances, and other costs, and are expensed as incurred. Selling expense includes provisions for bad debts and costs related to contract acquisition. Research expenses are charged to operations as incurred and consist primarily of compensation, supplies, and professional fees incurred in connection with intellectual property. Total Company research expense was $28.8 million in 2016, $31.7 million in 2015, and $32.4 million in 2014. The Albany Engineered Composites segment participates in both Company-sponsored, and customer-funded research and development. Some customer-funded research and development may be on a cost-sharing basis, in which case amounts charged to the customer are credited against research and development expense. Expenses were reduced by $0.4 million in 2014 as a result of such arrangements, while no such arrangements existed in 2015 or 2016. For customer-funded research and development in which we anticipate funding to exceed expenses, we include amounts charged to the customer in Net sales, while expenses are included in Cost of goods sold.
Restructuring Expense	Restructuring Expense We may incur expenses related to restructuring of our operations, which could include employee termination costs, costs to consolidate or close facilities, or costs to terminate contractual relationships. Restructuring expenses may also include impairment of Property, plant and equipment, as described below. Employee termination costs include the severance pay and social costs for periods after employee service is completed. Termination costs related to an ongoing benefit arrangement are recognized when the amount becomes probable and estimable. Termination costs related to a one-time benefit arrangement are recognized at the communication date to employees. Costs related to contract termination, relocation of employees, outplacement and the consolidation or the closure of facilities, are recognized when incurred.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes Deferred income taxes are recognized for the tax consequences of temporary differences by applying enacted statutory tax rates applicable for future years to differences between existing assets and liabilities for financial reporting and income tax return purposes. The effect of tax rate changes on deferred taxes is recognized in the income tax provision in the period that includes the enactment date. A valuation allowance is established, as needed, to reduce net deferred tax assets to the amount expected to be realized. In the event it becomes more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax asset allowances will not be needed, the valuation allowance will be adjusted. In the ordinary course of business there is inherent uncertainty in quantifying our income tax positions. We assess our income tax positions and record tax benefits for all years subject to examination based upon management's evaluation of the facts, circumstances, and information available at the reporting date. For those tax positions where it is more likely than not that a tax benefit will be sustained, we have determined the amount of the tax benefit to be recognized by estimating the largest amount of tax benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement with a taxing authority that has full knowledge of all relevant information. For those income tax positions where it is not more-likely-than-not that a tax benefit will be sustained, no tax benefit has been recognized in the financial statements. Where applicable, associated interest and penalties have also been recognized. We recognize accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income tax expense.
Earnings Per Share	Earnings Per Share Net income or loss per share is computed using the weighted average number of shares of Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock outstanding during each year. Diluted net income per share includes the effect of all potentially dilutive securities. If we report a net loss from continuing operations, the diluted loss is equal to the basic earnings per share calculation.
Translation of Financial Statements	Translation of Financial Statements Assets and liabilities of non-U.S. operations are translated at year-end rates of exchange, and the income statements are translated at average exchange rates. Gains or losses resulting from translating non-U.S. currency financial statements are recorded in other comprehensive income and accumulated in Shareholders’ equity in the caption “Translation adjustments”. Selling, general, and administrative expenses include foreign currency gains and losses resulting from third party balances, such as receivables and payables, which are denominated in a currency other than the entity’s local currency. Gains or losses resulting from cash and short-term intercompany loans and balances denominated in a currency other than the entity’s local currency, and foreign currency options are generally included in Other expense/(income), net. Gains and losses on long-term intercompany loans not intended to be repaid in the foreseeable future are recorded in other comprehensive income. The following table summarizes foreign currency transaction gains and losses recognized in the income statement: (in thousands) 2016 2015 2014 (Gains)/losses included in: Selling, general, and administrative expenses ($381 ) (5,090 ) ($3,931 ) Other (income)/expense, net (3,532 ) 1,496 (6,379 ) Total transaction (gains)/losses ($3,913 ) ($3,594 ) ($10,310 ) The following table presents foreign currency gains and losses on long-term intercompany loans that were recognized in Other comprehensive income: (in thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Gain/(loss) on long-term intercompany loans $3,515 ($5,225 ) $5,317
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and highly liquid short-term investments with original maturities of three months or less.
Accounts Receivable	Accounts Receivable Accounts receivable includes trade receivables and revenue in excess of progress billings on long-term contracts in the Albany Engineered Composites segment. The Company maintains allowances for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of its customers to make required payments. The Company determines the allowance based on historical write-off experience, customer-specific facts and economic conditions. If the financial condition of the Company’s customers were to deteriorate, resulting in an impairment of their ability to make payments, additional allowances may be required. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, Accounts receivable consisted of the following: (in thousands) 2016 2015 Trade and other accounts receivable $146,460 $123,179 Bank promissory notes 15,759 15,845 Revenue in excess of progress billings 15,926 15,889 Allowance for doubtful accounts (6,952) (8,530) Total accounts receivable $171,193 $146,383 In connection with certain sales in Asia Pacific, the Company accepts a bank promissory note as customer payment. The notes may be presented for payment at maturity, which is less than one year. The Company also has Contract receivables representing revenue earned in 2016 which has extended payment terms. The Contract receivable will be invoiced to the customer, with 2% interest, over a 10 year period starting in 2020.
Inventories	Inventories Costs included in inventories are raw materials, labor, supplies and allocable depreciation and overhead. Raw material inventories are valued on an average cost basis. Other inventory cost elements are valued at cost, using the first-in, first out method. The Company writes down inventories for estimated obsolescence, and to the lower of cost or market value based upon assumptions about future demand and market conditions. If actual demand or market conditions are less favorable than those projected by the Company, additional inventory write-downs may be required. Once established, the original cost of the inventory less the related write-down represents the new cost basis of such inventories. The AEC segment has long-term contracts under which we incur engineering and development costs that are allocable to parts that will be delivered over multiple years. These costs are included in Work in process in the table below. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, inventories consisted of the following: (in thousands) 2016 2015 Raw materials $37,691 $27,636 Work in process 58,715 41,823 Finished goods 37,500 36,947 Total inventories $133,906 $106,406
Property, Plant and Equipment	Property, Plant and Equipment Property, plant and equipment are recorded at cost, or if acquired as part of a business combination, at fair value. Depreciation is recorded using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets for financial reporting purposes; in some cases, accelerated methods are used for income tax purposes. Significant additions or improvements extending assets’ useful lives are capitalized; normal maintenance and repair costs are expensed as incurred. The cost of fully depreciated assets remaining in use is included in the respective asset and accumulated depreciation accounts. When items are sold or retired, related gains or losses are included in net income. Computer software purchased for internal use, at cost, is amortized on a straight-line basis over five to eight years, depending on the nature of the asset, after being placed into service, and is included in property, plant, and equipment. We capitalize internal and external costs incurred related to the software development stage. Capitalized salaries, travel, and consulting costs related to the software development amounted to $1.2 million in 2016 and $1.3 million in 2015. We review the carrying value of property, plant and equipment and other long-lived assets for impairment whenever events and circumstances indicate that the carrying value of an asset group may not be recoverable from the estimated future cash flows expected to result from its use and eventual disposition.
Goodwill, Intangibles, and Other Assets	Goodwill, Intangibles, and Other Assets Goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are not amortized, but are tested for impairment at least annually. Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the net tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired in each business combination. Our reporting units are consistent with our operating segments. See additional information set forth under Note 12. Intangible assets acquired in a business combination are recognized at fair value and amortized to Cost of goods sold or Selling, general and administrative expenses over the estimated useful lives of the assets. We review amortizable intangible asset groups for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the related carrying amounts may not be recoverable. We have an investment in a company in Russia that is accounted for under the equity method of accounting and is included in Other assets amounting to $0.4 million in 2016 and 2015. We perform regular reviews of the financial condition of the investee to determine if our investment is other than temporarily impaired. If the financial condition of the investee were to no longer support their valuation, we would record an impairment provision. Included in Other assets is $7.8 million in 2016 and $10.4 million in 2015 for defined benefit pension plans where plan assets exceed the projected benefit obligations. Other assets also includes financial assets of $6.5 million in 2016 and $0.8 million in 2015 (see Note 15).
Stock-Based Compensation	Stock-Based Compensation We have stock-based compensation plans for key employees. Stock options are accounted for in accordance with applicable guidance for the modified prospective transition method of share-based payments. No options have been granted since 2002. See additional information set forth under Note 18.
Derivatives	Derivatives We use derivatives from time to time to reduce potentially large adverse effects from changes in currency exchange rates and interest rates. We monitor our exposure to these risks and evaluate, on an ongoing basis, the risk of potentially large adverse effects versus the costs associated with hedging such risks. We use interest rate swaps in the management of interest rate exposures and foreign currency derivatives in the management of foreign currency exposure related to assets and liabilities (including net investments in subsidiaries located outside the U.S.) denominated in foreign currencies. When we enter into a derivative contract, we make a determination whether the transaction is deemed to be a hedge for accounting purposes. For those contracts deemed to be a hedge, we formally document the relationship between the derivative instrument and the risk being hedged. In this documentation, we specifically identify the asset, liability, forecasted transaction, cash flow, or net investment that has been designated as the hedged item, and evaluate whether the derivative instrument is expected to reduce the risks associated with the hedged item. To the extent these criteria are not met, we do not use hedge accounting for the derivative. All derivative contracts are recorded at fair value, as a net asset or a net liability. For transactions that are designated as hedges, we perform an evaluation of the effectiveness of the hedge. To the extent that the hedge is effective, changes in the fair value of the hedge are recorded, net of tax, in other comprehensive income. We measure the effectiveness of hedging relationships both at inception and on an ongoing basis. The ineffective portion of a hedge, if any, and changes in the fair value of a derivative not deemed to be a hedge, are recorded in Other expense/(income), net. For derivatives that are designated and qualify as hedges of net investments in subsidiaries located outside the United States, changes in the fair value of derivatives are reported in other comprehensive income as part of the Cumulative translation adjustment.
Pension and Postretirement Benefit Plans	Pension and Postretirement Benefit Plans As described in Note 4, we have pension and postretirement benefit plans covering substantially all employees. Our defined benefit pension plan in the United States was closed to new participants as of October 1998 and, as of February 2009, benefits accrued under this plan were frozen. We have liabilities for postretirement benefits in the U.S. and Canada. Substantially all of the liability relates to the U.S. plan. Effective January 2005, our postretirement benefit plan in the U.S. was closed to new participants, except for certain life insurance benefits. In September 2008, we changed the cost sharing arrangement under this program such that increases in health care costs are the responsibility of plan participants and, in August 2013, we reduced the life insurance benefit for retirees and eliminated that benefit for active employees. The pension plans are generally trusteed or insured, and accrued amounts are funded as required in accordance with governing laws and regulations. The annual expense and liabilities recognized for defined benefit pension plans and postretirement benefit plans are developed from actuarial valuations. Inherent in these valuations are key assumptions, including discount rates and expected return on plan assets, which are updated on an annual basis at the beginning of each fiscal year. We consider current market conditions, including changes in interest rates, in making these assumptions. Discount rate assumptions are based on the population of plan participants and a mixture of high-quality fixed-income investments for which the average maturity approximates the average remaining service period of plan participants. The assumption for expected return on plan assets is based on historical and expected returns on various categories of plan assets.
Reportable Segments	Reportable Segments In accordance with applicable disclosure guidance for enterprise segments and related information, the internal organization that is used by management for making operating decisions and assessing performance is used as the basis for our reportable segments. The reportable segments, which are described in more detail in Note 3, are Machine Clothing (MC) and Albany Engineered Composites (AEC). In the determination of segment operating income, we exclude expenses for certain corporate expenses, which consist primarily of corporate headquarters and global information systems costs.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements	Recent Accounting Pronouncements In May 2014, an accounting update was issued that replaces the existing revenue recognition framework regarding contracts with customers. We will adopt the standard on January 1, 2018 and the Company is currently assessing the effects of the new standard. The new standard may result in earlier recognition of revenue in Machine Clothing due to the customized nature of our products. In Albany Engineered Composites, we use the units of delivery method for some contracts, which is considered an output method. Under the new standard, we expect that most of these contracts will be accounted for using an input method, which is expected to result in earlier recognition of revenue. However, we are currently unable to determine the full effect that the new standard will have on our financial statements. The guidance permits two implementation approaches, one requiring retrospective application of the new standard with restatement of prior years, and one requiring prospective application of the new standard with disclosure of results under old standards. The Company is continuing to evaluate the implementation approach to be used. In May 2015, an accounting update was issued which eliminates the requirement to categorize investments in the fair value hierarchy if their fair value is measured at net asset value (NAV) per share. We adopted this provision as of January 1, 2016 and have modified footnote disclosures accordingly. In July 2015, an accounting update was issued simplifying the measurement of inventory from the lower of cost or market to lower of cost or net realizable value. This accounting update eliminates the requirement for consideration of replacement cost or net realizable value less normal profit margin measurements. This accounting update is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. We do not expect the adoption of this update to have a significant effect on our financial statements. In September 2015, an accounting update was issued which eliminates the requirement for an acquirer to retrospectively adjust the financial statements for measurement-period adjustments that occur in periods after a business combination is consummated. This accounting update was adopted January 1, 2016. Measurement period adjustments related to the Company’s 2016 business acquisition are described in Note 2. In January 2016, an accounting update was issued which requires entities to present separately in Other comprehensive income the portion of the total change in the fair value of a liability resulting from a change in the instrument-specific credit risk if the entity has elected to measure the liability at fair value in accordance with the fair value option for financial instruments. This accounting update is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. We have not determined the impact of this update on our financial statements. In February 2016, an accounting update was issued which requires lessees to recognize most leases on the balance sheet. The update may significantly increase reported assets and liabilities. This accounting update is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018. We have not determined the impact of this update on our financial statements. In March 2016, an accounting update was issued which clarifies that a change in counterparty to a derivative contract, through novation, that is part of a hedge accounting relationship does not, by itself, require de-designation of that relationship, as long as all other hedge accounting criteria continue to be met. This accounting update is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. We do not expect the adoption of this update to have a significant effect on our financial statements. In March 2016, an accounting update was issued which simplifies the transition to the equity method of accounting by eliminating the requirement for an investor to retroactively apply the equity method when its increase in ownership interest, or degree of influence, triggers equity method accounting. This accounting update is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. We do not expect the adoption of this update to have a significant effect on our financial statements. In March 2016, an accounting update was issued which simplifies several aspects related to the accounting for share-based payment transactions, including the income tax consequences, statutory tax withholding requirements, and classification of excess tax benefits on the statements of cash flows. This accounting update is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. Early adoption is permitted. Adoption of this accounting update could increase the volatility of income tax expense. However, we do not expect the adoption of this update to have a significant effect on our financial statements. In August 2016, an accounting update was issued in order to reduce diversity in practice in how certain transactions are classified in the statement of cash flows. This accounting update is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted. We do not expect the adoption of this update to have a significant effect on our financial statements. In October 2016, an accounting update was issued which modifies the recognition of income tax effects on intracompany transfers of assets, other than inventory. This accounting update is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. We have not determined the effect of this update on our financial statements. In November 2016, an accounting update was issued which provides clarification of how changes in restricted cash should be reported in the statement of cash flows. This accounting update is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. We do not expect this update to have a material impact on our financial statements. In January 2017, an accounting update was issued which provides the definition of a business for the purposes of business combination accounting. This accounting update is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017 and is to be applied prospectively. Accordingly, there will be no effect on prior business combinations. We have not determined the impact of the update due to the absence of transactions that would be impacted. In January 2017, an accounting update was issued which simplifies the process for determining the amount of goodwill impairment. This accounting update is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2019. Early adoption is permitted. We are presently unable to determine the effect that the update will have on our financial statements.

Accounting Policies (Tables)

Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Schedule of Foreign Currency Transaction Gains and Losses	The following table summarizes foreign currency transaction gains and losses recognized in the income statement: (in thousands) 2016 2015 2014 (Gains)/losses included in: Selling, general, and administrative expenses ($381 ) (5,090 ) ($3,931 ) Other (income)/expense, net (3,532 ) 1,496 (6,379 ) Total transaction (gains)/losses ($3,913 ) ($3,594 ) ($10,310 )
Schedule of foreign currency gains and losses on long-term intercompany loans	The following table presents foreign currency gains and losses on long-term intercompany loans that were recognized in Other comprehensive income: (in thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Gain/(loss) on long-term intercompany loans $3,515 ($5,225 ) $5,317
Schedule of Accounts Receivable	As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, Accounts receivable consisted of the following: (in thousands) 2016 2015 Trade and other accounts receivable $146,460 $123,179 Bank promissory notes 15,759 15,845 Revenue in excess of progress billings 15,926 15,889 Allowance for doubtful accounts (6,952) (8,530) Total accounts receivable $171,193 $146,383
Schedule of Inventories	As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, inventories consisted of the following: (in thousands) 2016 2015 Raw materials $37,691 $27,636 Work in process 58,715 41,823 Finished goods 37,500 36,947 Total inventories $133,906 $106,406

Business Acquisition (Tables)

Business Acquisition (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Schedule of Provisional Allocation of Purchase Price of Albany Aerostructures Composites, LLC	The following table summarizes the provisional allocation of the purchase price to the fair value of the assets and liabilities acquired: (in thousands) April 8, 2016 Assets acquired Accounts receivable $15,443 Inventories 16,670 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 402 Property, plant and equipment 62,784 Intangibles 71,630 Goodwill 95,730 Total assets acquired $262,659 Liabilities assumed Accounts payable $10,323 Accrued liabilities 2,862 Capital lease obligation 17,560 Deferred income taxes 33,143 Other noncurrent liabilities 11,771 Total liabilities assumed $75,659 Net assets acquired $187,000
Schedule of Operational Results of Acquired Business	The following table presents operational results of the acquired entity that are included in the Consolidated Statements of Income: (in thousands, except per share amounts) April, 8 to December 31, 2016 Net sales $67,011 Operating loss (1,246 ) Loss before income taxes (2,342 ) Net loss attributable to the Company (1,495 ) Loss per share: Basic ($0.05 ) Diluted: ($0.05 )
Schedule of Proforma Statement of Operations	The following table shows total Company pro forma statements of what results would have been if the 2016 acquisition had occurred as of January 1, 2015. Unaudited - Pro forma (in thousands, except per share amounts) 2016 2015 Combined Net sales $802,023 $786,623 Combined Income before income taxes $80,639 $52,542 Pro forma increase/(decrease) to income before income taxes: Acquisition expenses 5,367 Interest expense related to purchase price (1,382 ) (5,133 ) Acquisition accounting adjustments: Depreciation and amortization on property, plant and equipment, and intangible assets (1,575 ) (7,875 ) Valuation of contract inventories 1,997 6,908 Interest expense on capital lease obligation 300 1,096 Interest expense on other obligations (133 ) (533 ) Pro forma Income before income taxes $85,213 $47,005 Pro forma Net Income attributable to the Company $57,229 $54,245

Reportable Segments and Geogr31

Reportable Segments and Geographic Data (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Schedule of Financial Data by Reporting Segment	The following tables show data by reportable segment, reconciled to consolidated totals included in the financial statements: (in thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Net Sales Machine Clothing $582,190 $608,581 $655,026 Albany Engineered Composites 197,649 101,287 90,319 Consolidated total $779,839 $709,868 $745,345 Depreciation and amortization Machine Clothing 36,428 39,503 45,066 Albany Engineered Composites 24,211 12,140 10,880 Corporate expenses 6,822 8,471 8,346 Consolidated total $67,461 $60,114 $64,292 Operating income/(loss) Machine Clothing $152,529 $141,311 $136,450 Albany Engineered Composites (15,363 ) (28,478 ) (10,483 ) Corporate expenses (45,390 ) (48,938 ) (54,607 ) Operating income 91,776 63,895 71,360 Reconciling items: Interest income (2,077 ) (1,857 ) (1,541 ) Interest expense 15,541 11,841 12,254 Other expense/(income),net 46 2,433 (6,853 ) Income before income taxes $78,266 $51,478 $67,500
Schedule of Restructuring Costs by Reporting Segment	The table below presents pension settlement and restructuring costs by reportable segment (also see Note 5): (in thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Pension settlement expense Corporate expenses $ - $ - $8,190 Restructuring expenses, net Machine Clothing $6,069 $22,211 $4,828 Albany Engineered Composites 2,314 - 931 Corporate expenses (7 ) 1,635 - Consolidated total $8,376 $23,846 $5,759
Schedule of Operating Assets and Capital Expenditures by Reporting Segment	The following table presents assets and capital expenditures by reportable segment: (in thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Segment assets Machine Clothing $454,010 $494,347 $565,853 Albany Engineered Composites 514,527 181,825 175,338 Reconciling items: Cash 181,742 185,113 179,802 Asset held for sale - 4,988 - Income taxes prepaid, receivable and deferred 74,078 111,872 76,283 Other assets 39,076 31,417 32,028 Consolidated total assets $1,263,433 $1,009,562 $1,029,304 Capital expenditures and purchased software Machine Clothing $16,158 $16,010 $23,202 Albany Engineered Composites 59,195 30,378 32,141 Corporate expenses 3,163 4,207 3,530 Consolidated total $78,516 $50,595 $58,873
Schedule of Financial Data by Geographic Area	The following table shows data by geographic area. Net sales are based on the location of the operation recording the final sale to the customer. Net sales recorded by our entity in Switzerland are derived from products sold throughout Europe and Asia, and are invoiced in various currencies. (in thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Net sales United States $396,238 $323,399 $324,750 Switzerland 145,479 159,804 184,022 Brazil 60,287 58,846 59,332 China 48,043 48,490 52,822 France 42,862 26,081 26,654 Mexico 27,526 30,581 27,431 Other countries 59,404 62,667 70,334 Consolidated total $779,839 $709,868 $745,345 Property, plant and equipment, at cost, net United States $245,626 $172,372 $168,848 China 65,987 80,786 93,182 France 42,272 28,539 25,091 Korea 15,585 19,095 23,473 United Kingdom 14,591 19,029 22,222 Canada 11,455 12,861 18,236 Other countries 27,048 24,788 44,061 Consolidated total $422,564 $357,470 $395,113

Pensions and Other Postretire32

Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Plan Benefit Obligations	The following table sets forth the plan benefit obligations: As of December 31, 2016 As of December 31, 2015 (in thousands) Pension plans Other postretirement benefits Pension plans Other postretirement benefits Benefit obligation, beginning of year $199,856 $59,970 $213,110 $64,987 Service cost 2,656 254 2,959 330 Interest cost 7,885 2,443 7,787 2,437 Plan participants' contributions 249 - 304 - Actuarial (gain)/loss 17,676 (395 ) (4,209 ) (2,855 ) Benefits paid (7,057 ) (4,812 ) (6,530 ) (4,758 ) Settlements and curtailments (2,436 ) - (321 ) - Plan amendments and other 36 - (37 ) - Foreign currency changes (8,009 ) 28 (13,207 ) (171 ) Benefit obligation, end of year $210,856 $57,488 $199,856 $59,970 Accumulated benefit obligation $200,790 $- $188,909 $- Weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations, end of year: Discount rate - U.S. plan 4.20% 4.00% 4.54% 4.24% Discount rate - non-U.S. plans 2.98% 3.70% 3.67% 4.00% Compensation increase - U.S. plan - - - - Compensation increase - non-U.S. plans 3.29% 3.00% 3.24% 3.00%
Schedule of Plan Assets	The following sets forth information about plan assets: As of December 31, 2016 As of December 31, 2015 (in thousands) Pension plans Other postretirement benefits Pension plans Other postretirement benefits Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year $171,387 $- $183,199 $- Actual return on plan assets, net of expenses 19,740 - 730 - Employer contributions 6,605 4,812 5,287 4,758 Plan participants' contributions 249 72 304 1,068 Benefits paid (7,057 ) (4,884 ) (6,530 ) (5,826 ) Settlements (2,308 ) - (688 ) - Foreign currency changes (7,944 ) - (10,915 ) - Fair value of plan assets, end of year $180,672 $- $171,387 $-
Schedule of Funded Status of Plans	The funded status of the plans was as follows: As of December 31, 2016 As of December 31, 2015 (in thousands) Pension plans Other postretirement benefits Pension plans Other postretirement benefits Fair value of plan assets $180,672 $- $171,387 $- Benefit obligation 210,856 57,488 199,856 59,970 Funded status ($30,184 ) ($57,488 ) ($28,469 ) ($59,970 ) Accrued benefit cost, end of year ($30,184 ) ($57,488 ) ($28,469 ) ($59,970 ) Amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheet consist of the following: Noncurrent asset $7,794 $- $10,423 $- Current liability (2,057 ) (4,195 ) (2,110 ) (4,660 ) Noncurrent liability (35,921 ) (53,293 ) (36,782 ) (55,310 ) Net amount recognized ($30,184 ) ($57,488 ) ($28,469 ) ($59,970 ) Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income consist of: Net actuarial loss $72,400 $34,782 $69,896 $37,997 Prior service cost/(credit) 597 (30,899 ) 608 (35,387 ) Net amount recognized $72,997 $3,883 $70,504 $2,610
Schedule of composition of the net pension plan funded status	The composition of the net pension plan funded status as of December 31, 2016 was as follows: Non-U.S. (in thousands) U.S. plan plans Total Pension plans with pension assets ($5,197 ) $5,648 $451 Pension plans without pension assets (7,761 ) (22,874 ) (30,635 ) Total ($12,958 ) ($17,226 ) ($30,184 )
Schedule of Net Periodic Benefit Plan Cost	The composition of the net periodic benefit plan cost for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014, was as follows: Pension plans Other postretirement benefits (in thousands) 2016 2015 2014 2016 2015 2014 Components of net periodic benefit cost: Service cost $2,656 $2,959 $3,269 $254 $330 $314 Interest cost 7,885 7,787 9,505 2,443 2,437 2,741 Expected return on assets (8,675 ) (8,630 ) (9,577 ) - - - Amortization of prior service cost/(credit) 38 48 53 (4,488 ) (4,488 ) (4,488 ) Amortization of transition obligation - - - - - - Amortization of net actuarial loss 2,283 2,594 2,421 2,819 3,338 2,908 Settlement 162 103 8,331 - - - Curtailment (gain)/loss (111 ) - (942 ) - - - Special/contractual termination of benefits - 44 - - - - Net periodic benefit cost $4,238 $4,905 $13,060 $1,028 $1,617 $1,475 Weighted average assumptions used to determine net cost: Discount rate - U.S. plan 4.54% 4.18% 5.22% 4.24% 3.90% 4.68% Discount rate - non-U.S. plan 3.67% 3.58% 4.50% 4.00% 3.85% 4.75% Expected return on plan assets - U.S. plan 4.74% 4.43% 5.40% - - - Expected return on plan assets - non-U.S. plans 5.39% 5.52% 5.65% - - - Rate of compensation increase - U.S. plan - - - - - - Rate of compensation increase - non-U.S. plans 3.24% 3.23% 3.39% 3.00% 3.00% 3.00% Health care cost trend rate (U.S. and non-U.S. plans): Initial rate - - - - - - Ultimate rate - - - - - - Years to ultimate - - - - - -
Schedule of Pretax (gains)/Losses Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income	Pretax (gains)/losses in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income during 2016 were as follows: Other Pension postretirement (in thousands) plan benefits Settlements/curtailments ($51 ) $ - Asset/liability loss/(gain) 6,519 (395 ) Amortization of actuarial (loss) (2,283 ) (2,819 ) Amortization of prior service (cost)/credit (38 ) 4,488 Amortization of transition (obligation) - - Currency impact (1,655 ) (1 ) Cost in other comprehensive income $2,492 $1,273 Total cost recognized in net periodic benefit cost and other comprehensive income $6,730 $2,301
Schedule of Amounts That Will Be Amortized from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	The estimated amounts that will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net periodic benefit cost in 2017 are as follows: Total Total postretirement (in thousands) pension benefits Actuarial loss $2,578 $2,811 Prior service cost/(benefit) 38 (4,488 ) Total $2,616 ($1,677 )
Schedule of Fair Value of Plan Assets	The following tables present plan assets as of December 31, 2016, and 2015, using the fair-value hierarchy, which has three levels based on the reliability of inputs used, as described in Note 15. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using net asset value (NAV) as a practical expedient are not required to be categorized in the fair value hierarchy table. The total fair value of these investments is included in the table below to permit reconciliation of the fair value hierarchy to amounts presented in the funded status table above. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, there were no investments expected to be sold at a value materially different than NAV. Assets at Fair Value as of December 31, 2016 Quoted prices Significant other Significant in active markets observable inputs unobservable inputs (in thousands) Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Common Stocks and equity funds $309 $- $- $309 Debt securities - 74,449 - 74,449 Insurance contracts - - 2,238 2,238 Cash and short-term investments 3,401 - - 3,401 Total investments in the fair value hierarchy $3,710 $74,449 $2,238 80,397 Investments at net asset value: Common Stocks and equity funds 35,510 Fixed income funds 59,662 Limited partnerships 5,065 Hedge funds 38 Total plan assets $180,672 Assets at Fair Value as of December 31, 2015 Quoted prices Significant other Significant in active markets observable inputs unobservable inputs (in thousands) Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Common Stocks and equity funds $404 $- $- $404 Debt securities - 71,886 - 71,886 Insurance contracts - - 2,403 2,403 Cash and short-term investments 2,501 - - 2,501 Total investments in the fair value hierarchy $2,905 $71,886 $2,403 77,194 Investments at net asset value: Common Stocks and equity funds 34,709 Fixed income funds 53,616 Limited partnerships 5,676 Hedge funds 192 Total plan assets $171,387
Reconciliation of Level 3 Assets	The following tables present a reconciliation of Level 3 assets held during the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015: (in thousands) December 31, 2015 Net realized Net unrealized gains/(losses) Net purchases, issuances and settlements Net transfers December 31, 2016 Insurance contracts $2,403 $- $26 $(191) $- $2,238 Total level 3 assets $2,403 $- $26 ($191) $- $2,238 (in thousands) December 31, 2014 Net realized Net unrealized gains/(losses) Net purchases, issuances and settlements Net transfers December 31, 2015 Insurance contracts $2,133 $- $35 $235 $- $2,403 Total level 3 assets $2,133 $- $35 $235 $- $2,403
Schedule of Asset Allocation	The asset allocation for the Company’s U.S. and non-U.S. pension plans for 2015 and 2016, and the target allocation for 2017, by asset category, are as follows: United States Plan Non-U.S. Plans Target Percentage of plan assets Target Percentage of plan assets Allocation at plan measurement date Allocation at plan measurement date Asset category 2017 2016 2015 2017 2016 2015 Equity securities - 2% 3% 32% 33% 35% Debt securities 100% 92% 92% 64% 61% 55% Real estate - 5% 5% - - 4% Other (1) - 1% - 4% 6% 6% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% (1) Other includes hedged equity and absolute return strategies, and private equity. The Company has procedures to closely monitor the performance of these investments and compares asset valuations to audited financial statements of the funds.
Schedule of Pension Plans with Projected Benefit Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets and for Pension Plans with an Accumulated Benefit Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets	At the end of 2016 and 2015, the projected benefit obligation, accumulated benefit obligation, and fair value of plan assets for pension plans with projected benefit obligation and an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets were as follows: Plans with projected benefit obligation in excess of plan assets (in thousands) 2016 2015 Projected benefit obligation $121,600 $120,312 Accumulated benefit obligation 119,753 117,447 Fair value of plan assets 83,622 81,421 Plans with accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets (in thousands) 2016 2015 Projected benefit obligation $121,511 $120,312 Accumulated benefit obligation 119,728 117,447 Fair value of plan assets 83,558 81,421
Schedule of Expected Cash Flows	Information about expected cash flows for the pension and other benefit obligations are as follows: (in thousands) Pension plans Other postretirement benefits Expected employer contributions and direct employer payments in the next fiscal year $3,727 $4,195 Expected benefit payments 2017 $6,625 $4,195 2018 7,013 4,047 2019 7,380 3,913 2020 7,873 3,804 2021 8,473 3,748 2022-2026 50,990 17,983

Restructuring (Tables)

Restructuring (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Schedule of Restructuring Charges	The following table summarizes charges reported in the Consolidated Statements of Income under “Restructuring and other, net”: Year ended December 31, 2016 Total restructuring costs incurred Termination and other costs Impairment of plant and equipment Benefit plan curtailment/ settlement (in thousands) Machine Clothing $6,069 $5,756 $425 ($112 ) Albany Engineered Composites 2,314 1,502 812 Corporate expenses (7 ) (7 ) Total $8,376 $7,251 $1,237 ($112 ) Year ended December 31, 2015 Total restructuring costs incurred Termination and other costs Impairment of plant and equipment Benefit plan curtailment/ settlement (in thousands) Machine Clothing $22,211 $18,906 $3,305 $- Albany Engineered Composites - - - - Corporate expenses 1,635 1,635 - - Total $23,846 $20,541 $3,305 $- Year ended December 31, 2014 Total restructuring costs incurred Termination and other costs Impairment of plant and equipment Benefit plan curtailment/ settlement (in thousands) Machine Clothing $4,828 $5,769 $- ($941 ) Albany Engineered Composites 931 319 612 - Corporate expenses - - - - Total $5,759 $6,088 $612 ($941 )
Schedule of Restructuring Liability	The table below presents the changes in restructuring liabilities for 2016 and 2015, all of which related to termination costs: December 31, Restructuring Currency December 31, (in thousands) 2015 charges accrued Payments translation/other 2016 Total termination and other costs $10,177 $7,251 ($11,800 ) ($69 ) $5,559 December 31, Restructuring Currency December 31, (in thousands) 2014 charges accrued Payments translation/other 2015 Total termination and other costs $1,874 $20,541 ($12,323 ) $85 $10,177

Other Expense_(Income), net (Ta

Other Expense/(Income), net (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Other Income and Expenses [Abstract]
Other Expense/(Income), Net	The components of Other Expense/(Income), net, are: (in thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Currency transactions ($3,532 ) $1,496 ($6,379 ) Bank fees and amortization of debt issuance costs 759 916 1,174 Loss due to theft of cash 2,506 - - Gain on sale of investment - (872 ) - Gain on insurance recovery - - (1,126 ) Other 313 893 (522 ) Total $46 $2,433 ($6,853 )

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Components of Income Tax (Benefit)/Expense	The following tables present components of income tax expense/(benefit) and income before income taxes on continuing operations: (in thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Income tax based on income from continuing operations, at estimated tax rates of 35%, 32%, and 34%, respectively $27,629 $16,388 $25,703 Pension plan settlements - - (3,194 ) Income tax before discrete items 27,629 16,388 22,509 Discrete tax expense/(benefit): Worthless Stock deduction - (28,553 ) - Repatriation of non-U.S. prior years' earnings - - 2,210 Provision for/resolution of tax audits and contingencies, net (2,856 ) 6,500 744 Adjustments to prior period tax liabilities 769 (867 ) 397 Provision for/adjustment to beginning of year valuation allowances (88 ) 75 (109 ) Enacted tax legislation - 670 - Total income tax expense/(benefit) $25,454 ($5,787 ) $25,751
Schedule of Income/(Loss) From Continuing Operations	(in thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Income/(loss) before income taxes: U.S. $8,556 ($7,211 ) $4,993 Non-U.S. 69,710 58,689 62,507 $78,266 $51,478 $67,500 Income tax provision: Current: Federal $3,728 $- $1,874 State 176 1,993 1,102 Non-U.S. 19,979 20,842 17,474 $23,883 $22,835 $20,450 Deferred: Federal $2,138 ($34,135 ) ($1,707 ) State 1,984 (40 ) (495 ) Non-U.S. (2,551 ) 5,553 7,503 $1,571 ($28,622 ) $5,301 Total income tax expense/(benefit) $25,454 ($5,787 ) $25,751
Schedule of significant components of deferred income tax expense/(benefit)	The significant components of deferred income tax expense/(benefit) are as follows: (in thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Net effect of temporary differences $7,214 ($7,615 ) ($1,667 ) Foreign tax credits (6,869 ) (17,874 ) (481 ) Retirement benefits 1,734 1,844 1,438 Net impact to operating loss carryforwards (603 ) (5,722 ) 6,120 Enacted changes in tax laws and rates 183 670 - Adjustments to beginning-of-the-year valuation allowance balance for changes in circumstances (88 ) 75 (109 ) Total $1,571 ($28,622 ) $5,301
Reconciliation of the U.S. Federal Statutory Tax Rate to the Company's Effective Income Tax Rate	A reconciliation of the U.S. federal statutory tax rate to the Company’s effective income tax rate is as follows: 2016 2015 2014 U.S. federal statutory tax rate 35.0 % 35.0 % 35.0 % State taxes, net of federal benefit 2.3 2.4 1.7 Non-U.S. local income taxes 3.5 4.1 4.0 Foreign adjustments 1.6 7.4 3.7 Foreign rate differential (11.3 ) (13.6 ) (13.9 ) Net U.S. tax on non-U.S. earnings and foreign withholdings 5.8 (1.8 ) 8.0 Provision for/resolution of tax audits and contingencies, net (3.4 ) 12.6 1.0 Research and development and other tax credits (1.2 ) (2.4 ) (1.6 ) Adjustment to beginning of year valuation allowances (0.1 ) 0.1 (0.2 ) Worthless stock deduction - (55.5 ) - Other 0.3 0.5 0.4 Effective income tax rate 32.5 % (11.2 )% 38.1 %
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities	Significant components of the Company’s deferred tax assets and liabilities are as follows: U.S. Non-U.S. 2016 2015 2016 2015 (in thousands) Noncurrent deferred tax assets: Accounts receivable $1,155 $1,392 $1,381 $1,304 Inventories 1,193 897 1,868 1,750 Deferred compensation 7,533 6,714 - - Depreciation and amortization 2,786 10,323 5,030 4,882 Postretirement benefits 26,602 26,475 3,478 4,138 Tax loss carryforwards 1,760 2,682 26,084 27,134 Tax credit carryforwards 50,624 42,851 1,186 1,740 Other 7,828 10,222 2,876 3,503 Noncurrent deferred tax assets before valuation allowance 99,481 101,556 41,903 44,451 Less: valuation allowance - - (22,821 ) (24,439 ) Total noncurrent deferred tax assets 99,481 101,556 19,082 20,012 Total deferred tax assets $99,481 $101,556 $19,082 $20,012 Noncurrent deferred tax liabilities: Unrepatriated foreign earnings $1,602 $1,157 $- $- Depreciation and amortization 43,156 10,309 2,466 3,174 Postretirement benefits - - 1,411 2,003 Deferred gain 7,156 7,559 - - Branch losses subject to recapture - - - 918 Other 2,198 - 2,897 3,245 Total deferred tax liabilities $54,112 19,025 $6,774 9,340 Net deferred tax asset $45,369 $82,531 $12,308 $10,672
Reconciliation of the Beginning and Ending Amount of Unrecognized Tax Benefits	The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits, all of which, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate. (in thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Unrecognized tax benefits balance at January 1 $19,606 $19,509 $12,538 Increase in gross amounts of tax positions related to prior years 62 2,315 14,699 Decrease in gross amounts of tax positions related to prior years (2,129 ) (145 ) (67 ) Increase in gross amounts of tax positions related to current year 585 79 1,077 Decrease due to settlements with tax authorities (14,029 ) (42 ) (32 ) Decrease due to lapse in statute of limitations (163 ) (90 ) (6,775 ) Currency translation 251 (2,020 ) (1,931 ) Unrecognized tax benefits balance at December 31 $4,183 $19,606 $19,509
Schedule of Current Income Taxes Prepaid and Deferred	As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, current income taxes prepaid and receivable consisted of the following: (in thousands) 2016 2015 Prepaid taxes $3,914 $2,417 Taxes receivable 1,299 510 Total current income taxes prepaid and receivable $5,213 $2,927
Schedule of Non-Current Income Taxes Receivable and Deferred	As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, noncurrent income taxes receivable and deferred consisted of the following: (in thousands) 2016 2015 Deferred income taxes $68,865 $105,792 Taxes receivable - 3,153 Total noncurrent income taxes receivable and deferred $68,865 $108,945
Schedule of Current Income Taxes Payable and Deferred	As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, current income taxes payable consisted of the following: (in thousands) 2016 2015 Taxes Payable $9,531 $7,090 Total current income taxes payable $9,531 $7,090
Schedule of Noncurrent Deferred Taxes and Other Liabilities	As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, noncurrent deferred taxes and other liabilities consisted of the following: (in thousands) 2016 2015 Deferred income taxes $11,188 $12,589 Other liabilities 1,201 1,565 Total noncurrent deferred taxes and other liabilities $12,389 $14,154

Earnings Per Share (Tables)

Earnings Per Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Schedule Computing Earnings Per Share	The amounts used in computing earnings per share and the weighted average number of shares of potentially dilutive securities are as follows: (in thousands, except market price and earnings per share) 2016 2015 2014 Net income attributable to the Company $52,733 $57,279 $41,569 Weighted average number of shares: Weighted average number of shares used in calculating basic net income per share 32,086 31,978 31,832 Effect of dilutive stock-based compensation plans: Stock options 39 58 99 Long-term incentive plan 45 52 57 Weighted average number of shares used in calculating diluted net income per share 32,170 32,088 31,988 Average market price of common stock used for calculation of dilutive shares $40.25 $36.68 $36.29 Net income per share: Basic $1.64 $1.79 $1.31 Diluted $1.64 $1.79 $1.30

Accumulated Other Comprehensi37

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Accumulated items of other comprehensive income:
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	The table below presents changes in the components of AOCI from January 1, 2014 to December 31, 2016: (in thousands) Translation adjustments Pension and postretirement liability adjustments Derivative valuation adjustment Total Other Comprehensive Income January 1, 2014 ($138 ) ($48,383 ) ($977 ) ($49,498 ) Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications (55,102 ) 252 (1,052 ) (55,902 ) Pension/postretirement settlements and curtailments 5,167 5,167 Pension/postretirement plan remeasurement (9,265 ) (9,265 ) Interest expense related to swaps reclassified to the Statement of Income, net of tax 1,168 1,168 Pension and postretirement liability adjustments reclassified to Statement of Income, net of tax 563 563 Net current period other comprehensive income (55,102 ) (3,283 ) 116 (58,269 ) December 31, 2014 (55,240 ) (51,666 ) (861 ) (107,767 ) Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications (53,415 ) 2,238 (1,836 ) (53,013 ) Pension/postretirement settlements and curtailments 103 103 Pension/postretirement plan remeasurement (622 ) (622 ) Interest expense related to swaps reclassified to the Statement of Income, net of tax 1,233 1,233 Pension and postretirement liability adjustments reclassified to Statement of Income, net of tax 1,222 1,222 Net current period other comprehensive income (53,415 ) 2,941 (603 ) (51,077 ) December 31, 2015 (108,655 ) (48,725 ) (1,464 ) (158,844 ) Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications (24,643 ) 676 804 (23,163 ) Pension/postretirement settlements and curtailments 45 45 Pension/postretirement plan remeasurement (4,394 ) (4,394 ) Interest expense related to swaps reclassified to the Statement of Income, net of tax 1,488 1,488 Pension and postretirement liability adjustments reclassified to Statement of Income, net of tax 679 679 Net current period other comprehensive income (24,643 ) (2,994 ) 2,292 (25,345 ) December 31, 2016 ($133,298 ) ($51,719 ) $828 ($184,189 )
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Components Reclassified to Statement of Income	The table below presents the expense/(income) amounts reclassified, and the line items of the Statement of Income that were affected for the periods ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014. (in thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Pretax Derivative valuation reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income: Expense related to interest rate swaps included in Income before taxes (a) $2,400 $1,988 $1,914 Income tax effect (912) (755) (746) Effect on net income due to items reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income $1,488 $1,233 $1,168 Pretax pension and postretirement liabilities reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income: Pension/postretirement settlements and curtailments $51 $103 $8,377 Amortization of prior service credit (4,450) (4,440) (4,436) Amortization of net actuarial loss 5,102 5,932 5,329 Total pretax amount reclassified (b) 703 1,595 9,270 Income tax effect 21 (270) (3,540) Effect on net income due to items reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income $724 $1,325 $5,730 (a) Included in Interest expense are payments related to the interest rate swap agreements and amortization of swap buyouts (see Note 15). (b) These accumulated other comprehensive income components are included in the computation of net periodic pension cost (see Note 4).

Noncontrolling Interest (Tables

Noncontrolling Interest (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Schedule of Income Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest and Noncontrolling Equity	The table below presents a reconciliation of income attributable to the noncontrolling interest and noncontrolling equity: (in thousands, except percentages) 2016 2015 Net income of ASC $1,777 $842 Less: Return attributable to the Company's preferred holding 987 978 Net income/(loss) of ASC available for common ownership $790 (136 ) Ownership percentage of noncontrolling shareholder 10% 10% Net income/(loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest $79 ($14 ) Noncontrolling interest, beginning of year $3,690 $3,699 Net income/(loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest 79 (14 ) Changes in other comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest (2 ) 5 Noncontrolling interest, end of year $3,767 $3,690

Property, Plant and Equipment (

Property, Plant and Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Schedule of Property, Plant, and Equipment	The table below sets forth the reclassification and components of property, plant and equipment as of December 31, 2016 and 2015: (in thousands) 2016 2015 Estimated useful life Land and land improvements $13,339 $14,307 25 years for improvements Buildings 214,086 211,027 25 to 40 years Assets under capital lease 8,140 - 7 years Machinery and equipment 842,921 828,409 5 to 15 years Furniture and fixtures 7,632 6,074 5 years Computer and other equipment 15,264 14,813 3 to 10 years Software 54,212 52,503 5 to 8 years Capital expenditures in progress 66,900 26,291 Property, plant and equipment, gross 1,222,494 1,153,424 Accumulated depreciation and amortization (799,930 ) (795,954 ) Property, plant and equipment, net $422,564 $357,470

Goodwill and Other Intangible40

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Changes in Intangible Assets and Goodwill	The changes in intangible assets and goodwill from December 31, 2014 to December 31, 2016, were as follows: Amortization life Balance at Currency Balance at (in thousands, except for years) in years December 31, 2015 Acquisition Amortization Translation December 31, 2016 Amortized intangible assets: AEC trade names 15 $25 $- ($5 ) $- $20 AEC technology 15 129 - (25 ) - 104 AEC customer contracts 6 - 20,420 (2,561 ) - 17,859 AEC customer relationships 15 - 49,490 (2,481 ) - 47,009 AEC other intangibles 5 - 1,720 (258 ) - 1,462 Total amortized intangible assets $154 $71,630 ($5,330 ) $- $66,454 Unamortized intangible assets: MC Goodwill $66,373 $- $- ($1,728 ) $64,645 AEC Goodwill - 95,730 - - 95,730 Total amortized intangible assets $66,373 $95,730 $- ($1,728 ) $160,375 Balance at Currency Balance at (in thousands) December 31, 2014 Amortization Translation December 31, 2015 Amortized intangible assets: AEC trade names $29 ($4 ) $- $25 AEC customer contracts 202 (202 ) - - AEC technology 154 (25 ) - 129 Total amortized intangible assets $385 ($231 ) $- $154 Unamortized intangible assets: Goodwill $71,680 $- ($5,307 ) $66,373
Schedule of Estimated Amortization Expense	Estimated amortization expense of intangibles for the years ending December 31, 2017 through 2021, is as follows: Annual amortization Year (in thousands) 2017 $7,076 2018 7,076 2019 7,076 2020 7,076 2021 6,796

Accrued Liabilities (Tables)

Accrued Liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Schedule of Accrued Liabilities	Accrued liabilities consist of: (in thousands) 2016 2015 Salaries and wages $18,520 $17,621 Accrual for compensated absences 10,181 9,564 Employee benefits 13,277 10,880 Pension liability - current portion 2,057 2,110 Postretirement medical benefits - current portion 4,195 4,660 Returns and allowances 13,714 14,024 Interest 1,218 942 Restructuring costs 4,668 6,856 Dividends 5,458 5,443 Workers' compensation 2,053 2,086 Billings in excess of revenue recognized 2,390 2,903 Professional fees 3,068 2,093 Utilities 991 779 Other 13,405 11,824 Total $95,195 $91,785

Financial Instruments (Tables)

Financial Instruments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations [Abstract]
Schedule of Long-Term Debt	Long-term debt, principally to banks and noteholders, consists of: (in thousands, except interest rates) 2016 2015 Private placement with a fixed interest rate of 6.84%, due 2017 $50,000 $50,000 Revolving credit agreements with borrowings outstanding at an end of period interest rate of 2.58% in 2016 and 2.27% in 2015 (including the effect of interest rate hedging transactions, as described below), due in 2021 418,000 215,000 Obligation under capital lease, matures 2022 16,584 96 Long-term debt 484,584 265,096 Less: current portion (51,666 ) (16 ) Long-term debt, net of current portion $432,918 $265,080
Schedule of Future Minimum Annual Capital Lease Obilgations	The following schedule presents future minimum annual lease payments under the capital lease obligation and the present value of the minimum lease payments, as of December 31, 2016. Years ending December 31, (in thousands) 2017 $ 2,696 2018 2,743 2019 2,743 2020 2,790 2021 2,790 Thereafter 7,644 Total minimum lease payments 21,406 Less: Amount representing interest (4,822) Present value of minimum lease payments $ 16,584

Fair-Value Measurements (Tables

Fair-Value Measurements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Schedule of Fair Value of Financial Assets and Liabilities	The following table presents the fair-value hierarchy for our Level 1 and Level 2 financial and non-financial assets and liabilities, which are measured at fair value on a recurring basis, and Level 3 non-financial assets measured at fair value: December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 (in thousands) Quoted Significant Unobservable Quoted Significant Unobservable Fair Value Assets: Cash equivalents $8,468 $- $- $5,189 $- $- Assets held for sale - - - - - 4,988 Other Assets: Common stock of foreign public company 762 (a) - - 819 - - Interest rate swaps - 5,784 (b) - - - - Liabilities: Other noncurrent liabilities: Interest rate swaps - - - - (2,400 ) (c) - (a) Original cost basis $0.5 million. (b) Net of $21.4 million receivable floating leg and $15.6 million liability fixed leg (c) Net of $7.4 million receivable floating leg and $9.8 million liability fixed leg
Schedule of (Losses)/Gains on Changes in Fair Value of Derivative Instruments	Gains/(losses) related to changes in fair value of derivative instruments that were recognized in Other (income)/expenses, net in the Consolidated Statements of Income were as follows: Years ended December 31, (in thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments Foreign currency options $202 ($121) ($81)

Other Noncurrent Liabilities (T

Other Noncurrent Liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Other Noncurrent Liabilities	As of December 31 of each year, Other noncurrent liabilities consists of: (in thousands) 2016 2015 Pension liabilities $35,921 $36,782 Postretirement benefits other than pensions 53,293 55,310 Obligations under license agreement 10,254 - Interest rate swap agreement - 2,400 Incentive and deferred compensation 3,468 3,421 Restructuring 908 3,320 Other 2,983 311 Total $106,827 $101,544

Commitments and Contingencies (

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Schedule of Changes in Claims	The following table sets forth the number of claims filed, the number of claims settled, dismissed or otherwise resolved, and the aggregate settlement amount during the periods presented: Year ended December 31, Opening Number of Claims Dismissed, New Claims Closing Number of Claims Amounts Paid (thousands) to Settle or 2005 29,411 6,257 1,297 24,451 $504 2006 24,451 6,841 1,806 19,416 3,879 2007 19,416 808 190 18,798 15 2008 18,798 523 110 18,385 52 2009 18,385 9,482 42 8,945 88 2010 8,945 3,963 188 5,170 159 2011 5,170 789 65 4,446 1,111 2012 4,446 90 107 4,463 530 2013 4,463 230 66 4,299 78 2014 4,299 625 147 3,821 437 2015 3,821 116 86 3,791 164 2016 3,791 148 102 3,745 $758 We anticipate
Brandon Drying Fabrics, Inc. [Member]
Schedule of Changes in Claims	The following table sets forth the number of claims filed, the number of claims settled, dismissed or otherwise resolved, and the aggregate settlement amount during the periods presented: Year ended December 31, Opening Claims Dismissed, New Claims Closing Amounts 2005 9,985 642 223 9,566 $- 2006 9,566 1,182 730 9,114 - 2007 9,114 462 88 8,740 - 2008 8,740 86 10 8,664 - 2009 8,664 760 3 7,907 - 2010 7,907 47 9 7,869 - 2011 7,869 3 11 7,877 - 2012 7,877 12 2 7,867 - 2013 7,867 55 3 7,815 - 2014 7,815 87 2 7,730 - 2015 7,730 18 1 7,713 - 2016 7,713 7 - 7,706 $-

Stock Options and Incentive P46

Stock Options and Incentive Plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Schedule of Stock Option Activity	Activity with respect to these plans is as follows: 2016 2015 2014 Shares under option January 1 88,773 187,233 228,533 Options canceled - - - Options exercised 26,383 98,460 41,300 Shares under option at December 31 62,390 88,773 187,233 Options exercisable at December 31 62,390 88,773 187,233 The weighted average exercise price is as follows: 2016 2015 2014 Shares under option January 1 $18.67 $18.99 $18.94 Options canceled - - - Options exercised 19.60 19.27 18.71 Shares under option December 31 18.28 18.67 18.99 Options exercisable December 31 18.28 18.67 18.99
Schedule of Executive Management Share-based Compensation Activity	Shares payable under these plans generally vest immediately prior to payment. As of December 31, 2016, there were 235,299 shares of Company stock authorized for the payment of awards under these plans. Information with respect to these plans is presented below: Number of shares Weighted Year-end Shares potentially payable at January 1, 2014 185,564 $27.51 $6,667 Forfeitures - - Payments (75,385 ) $28.60 Shares accrued based on 2014 performance 75,020 $34.65 Shares potentially payable at December 31, 2014 185,199 $30.69 $5,683 Forfeitures - - Payments (95,889 ) $29.09 Shares accrued based on 2015 performance 98,998 $38.01 Shares potentially payable at December 31, 2015 188,308 $35.35 $6,657 Forfeitures - - Payments (86,926 ) $33.43 Shares accrued based on 2016 performance 88,036 $36.78 Shares potentially payable at December 31, 2016 189,418 $36.90 $6,989
Schedule of Other Management Share-based Compensation Activity	The determination of compensation expense for other management share-based compensation plans is based on the number of outstanding share units, the end-of-period share price, and Company performance. Information with respect to these plans is presented below: Number of Weighted average Cash paid for Share units potentially payable at January 1, 2014 361,189 Grants 91,631 Changes due to performance (8,793 ) Payments (86,840 ) $35.01 $3,040 Forfeitures (9,246 ) Share units potentially payable at December 31, 2014 347,941 Grants 90,065 Changes due to performance 13,966 Payments (167,482 ) $36.08 $6,040 Forfeitures (31,624 ) Share units potentially payable at December 31, 2015 252,866 Grants 118,279 Changes due to performance 18,779 Payments (88,073 ) $33.20 $2,924 Forfeitures (40,706 ) Share units potentially payable at December 31, 2016 261,145

Shareholders' Equity (Tables)

Shareholders' Equity (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]
Schedule of Activity in Shareholders' Equity	Activity in Shareholders’ equity for 2014, 2015, and 2016 is presented below: Class A Class B Additional paid-in capital Retained earnings Accumulated Class A Noncontrolling Interest (in thousands) Shares Amount Shares Amount Shares Amount January 1, 2014 36,996 $37 3,236 $3 $416,728 $434,598 ($49,498) 8,464 ($257,571) $3,482 Net income - - - - - 41,569 - - - 180 Compensation and benefits paid or payable in shares 47 - - - 1,234 - - - - - Conversion of Class B shares to Class A shares 1 - (1) - - - - - - - Changes in equity related to Noncontrolling interest in ASC - - - - (24) - - - - 38 Options exercised 41 - - - 974 - - - - - Shares issued to Directors' - - - - 60 - - (5) 90 - Dividends declared - - - - - (20,062) - - - Cumulative translation adjustments - - - - - - (55,102) - - (1) Pension and postretirement liability adjustments - - - - - - (3,283) - - - Derivative valuation adjustment - - - - - - 116 - - - December 31, 2014 37,085 $37 3,235 $3 $418,972 $456,105 ($107,767) 8,459 ($257,481) $3,699 Net income - - - - - 57,279 - - - (14) Compensation and benefits paid or payable in shares 55 - - - 1,540 - - - - - Options exercised 99 - - - 2,520 - - - - - Shares issued to Directors' - - - - 76 - - (4) 90 - Dividends declared - - - - - (21,434) - - - Cumulative translation adjustments - - - - - - (53,415) - - 5 Pension and postretirement liability adjustments - - - - - - 2,941 - - - Derivative valuation adjustment - - - - - - (603) - - - December 31, 2015 37,239 $37 3,235 $3 $423,108 $491,950 ($158,844) 8,455 ($257,391) $3,690 Net income - - - - - 52,733 - - - 79 Compensation and benefits paid or payable in shares 53 - - - 1,980 - - - - 0 Options exercised 26 - - - 667 - - - - 0 Shares issued to Directors' 1 - (1) - 198 - - (12) 255 - Dividends declared - - - - - (21,828) - - - - Cumulative translation adjustments - - - - - - (24,643) - - (2) Pension and postretirement liability adjustments - - - - - - (2,994) - - - Derivative valuation adjustment - - - - - - 2,292 - - - December 31, 2016 37,319 $37 3,234 $3 $425,953 $522,855 ($184,189) 8,443 ($257,136) $3,767

Quarterly Financial Data (Table

Quarterly Financial Data (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Quarterly Financial Data [Abstract]
Schedule of Quarterly Data	The following table presents certain unaudited quarterly consolidated statement of operations data from continuing operations for each of the quarters in the periods ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014. The information has been derived from our unaudited financial statements, which have been prepared on substantially the same basis as the audited consolidated financial statements contained in this report. We have presented quarterly earnings per share numbers as reported in our earnings releases. The sum of these quarterly results may differ from annual results due to rounding and the impact of the difference in the weighted shares outstanding for the stand-alone periods. The results of operations for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for any future period. (in millions, except per share amounts) 2016 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Total Net sales $172.3 $203.2 $191.3 $213.0 $779.8 Gross profit 72.5 78.3 72.4 77.4 300.6 Net income attributable to the Company 13.5 10.4 13.1 15.8 52.8 Basic earnings per share 0.42 0.32 0.41 0.49 1.64 Diluted earnings per share 0.42 0.32 0.41 0.49 1.64 Cash dividends per share 0.17 0.17 0.17 0.17 0.68 Class A Common Stock prices: High 38.21 41.31 43.78 49.25 Low 31.43 37.27 38.92 38.65 2015 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Total Net sales $181.3 $172.3 $178.8 $177.5 $709.9 Gross profit 76.7 54.6 75.7 71.7 278.7 Net income/(loss) attributable to the Company 12.2 (2.2 ) 9.7 37.6 57.3 Basic earnings per share 0.38 (0.07 ) 0.30 1.18 1.79 Diluted earnings per share 0.38 (0.07 ) 0.30 1.18 1.79 Cash dividends per share 0.16 0.17 0.17 0.17 0.67 Class A Common Stock prices: High 40.31 41.15 40.21 39.25 Low 34.13 39.15 28.28 28.19 2014 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Total Net sales $180.3 $193.5 $179.9 $191.6 $745.3 Gross profit 74.8 75.3 68.6 72.9 291.6 Net income attributable to the Company 10.6 11.2 11.8 8.0 41.6 Basic earnings per share 0.33 0.35 0.37 0.26 1.31 Diluted earnings per share 0.33 0.35 0.37 0.25 1.30 Cash dividends per share 0.15 0.16 0.16 0.16 0.63 Class A Common Stock prices: High 37.59 38.01 38.53 38.15 Low 32.85 33.67 34.04 32.46

Accounting Policies (Narrative)

Accounting Policies (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended												12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Customer-funded research and development															$ 400
Research expense													$ 28,800	$ 31,700	32,400
Capitalized salaries, travel, and consulting costs related to software development													1,200	1,300
Defined benefit pension plan assets	$ 7,800				$ 10,400								7,800	10,400
Gross profit	$ 77,400	$ 72,400	$ 78,300	$ 72,500	71,700	$ 75,700	$ 54,600	$ 76,700	$ 72,900	$ 68,600	$ 75,300	$ 74,800	$ 300,568	278,686	291,635
Recorded Charge on BR contract														14,000
Write-off deffered contract Costs														10,900
Reserve for additional anticipated losses														3,100
Interest rate on contract receivables	2.00%												2.00%
Extended payment term of receivables													over a 10 year period starting in 2020
Contracts Accounted for under Percentage of Completion [Member]
Gross profit													$ 1,500	400	$ (600)
Financial Assets [Member]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	$ 6,500				800								$ 6,500	800
Albany Safran Composites, LLC [Member]
Ownership interest in ASC	90.00%												90.00%
Russia Entity [Member]
Interest in foreign subsidiaries	50.00%												50.00%
Equity method investment	$ 400				$ 400								$ 400	$ 400

Accounting Policies (Schedule o

Accounting Policies (Schedule of Foreign Currency Transaction Gains and Losses) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Selling, general, and administrative expense	$ (381)	$ (5,090)	$ (3,931)
Other (income)/expense, net	(3,532)	1,496	(6,379)
Total transaction (gains)/losses	(3,913)	(3,594)	(10,310)
Gain/(loss) on long-term intercompany loans	$ 3,515	$ (5,225)	$ 5,317

Accounting Policies (Schedule51

Accounting Policies (Schedule of Accounts Receivable) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Trade and other accounts receivable	$ 146,460	$ 123,179
Bank promissory notes	15,759	15,845
Revenue in excess of progress billings	15,926	15,889
Allowance for doubtful accounts	(6,952)	(8,530)
Total accounts receivable	$ 171,193	$ 146,383

Accounting Policies (Schedule52

Accounting Policies (Schedule of Inventories) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Raw materials	$ 37,691	$ 27,636
Work in process	58,715	41,823
Finished goods	37,500	36,947
Total inventories	$ 133,906	$ 106,406

Business Acquisition (Narrative

Business Acquisition (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Apr. 08, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Jun. 18, 2015
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash consideration for acquisition			$ 187,000
Goodwill		$ 160,375	160,375	66,373	71,680
Property, plant and equipment decrease			$ 58,106	$ 52,974	$ 56,575
Albany Aerostructures Composites LLC (AAC) [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Goodwill	$ 95,730
Goodwil increase		28,700
Amortizable intangible assets increase		12,300
Noncurrent liabilities increase		10,400
Deferred tax liabilities increase		7,800
Other liabilities increase		2,600
Property, plant and equipment decrease		18,900
Other assets decrease		1,300
Income before income taxes		$ 100
Harris Corporation's Composite Aerostructures Division [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash consideration for acquisition	187,000
Goodwill	95,700
Credit Agreement [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Proceeds from unsecured credit facility agreement	$ 550,000					$ 40,000

Business Acquisition (Summary o

Business Acquisition (Summary of the provisional allocation of the purchase price of AAC) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Apr. 08, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Assets acquired
Goodwill	$ 160,375		$ 66,373	$ 71,680
Albany Aerostructures Composites LLC (AAC) [Member]
Assets acquired
Accounts receivable		$ 15,443
Inventories		16,670
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		402
Property, plant and equipment		62,784
Intangibles		71,630
Goodwill		95,730
Total assets acquired		262,659
Liabilities assumed
Accounts payable		10,323
Accrued liabilities		2,862
Capital lease obligation		17,560
Deferred income taxes		33,143
Other noncurrent liabilities		11,771
Total liabilities assumed		75,659
Net assets acquired		$ 187,000

Business Acquisition (Summary55

Business Acquisition (Summary of operational results of AAC) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended												9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 213,000	$ 191,300	$ 203,200	$ 172,300	$ 177,500	$ 178,800	$ 172,300	$ 181,300	$ 191,600	$ 179,900	$ 193,500	$ 180,300		$ 779,839	$ 709,868	$ 745,345
Operating loss														91,776	63,895	71,360
Loss before income taxes														78,266	51,478	67,500
Net loss attributable to the Company	$ 15,800	$ 13,100	$ 10,400	$ 13,500	$ 37,600	$ 9,700	$ (2,200)	$ 12,200	$ 8,000	$ 11,800	$ 11,200	$ 10,600		$ 52,733	$ 57,279	$ 41,569
Loss per share:
Basic	$ 0.49	$ 0.41	$ 0.32	$ 0.42	$ 1.18	$ 0.30	$ (0.07)	$ 0.38	$ 0.26	$ 0.37	$ 0.35	$ 0.33		$ 1.64	$ 1.79	$ 1.31
Diluted	$ 0.49	$ 0.41	$ 0.32	$ 0.42	$ 1.18	$ 0.30	$ (0.07)	$ 0.38	$ 0.25	$ 0.37	$ 0.35	$ 0.33		$ 1.64	$ 1.79	$ 1.30
Albany Aerostructures Composites LLC (AAC) [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Net sales													$ 67,011
Operating loss													(1,246)
Loss before income taxes													(2,342)
Net loss attributable to the Company													$ (1,495)
Loss per share:
Basic													$ (0.05)
Diluted													$ (0.05)

Business Acquisition (Summary56

Business Acquisition (Summary of pro-forma information of AAC) (Details) - Albany Aerostructures Composites LLC (AAC) [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Combined Net sales	$ 802,023	$ 786,623
Combined Income before income taxes	80,639	52,542
Pro forma increase/(decrease) to income before income taxes:
Acquisition expenses	5,367
Interest expense related to purchase price	(1,382)	(5,133)
Acquisition accounting adjustments:
Depreciation and amortization on property, plant and equipment, and intangible assets	(1,575)	(7,875)
Valuation of contract inventories	1,997	6,908
Interest expense on capital lease obligation	300	1,096
Interest expense on other obligations	(133)	(533)
Pro forma Income before income taxes	85,213	47,005
Pro forma Net Income attributable to the Company	$ 57,229	$ 54,245

Reportable Segments and Geogr57

Reportable Segments and Geographic Data (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total Capital Expenditures increase	$ 78,516	$ 50,595	$ 58,873
Accounts payable [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total Capital Expenditures increase	5,000
Albany Aerostructures Composites LLC (AAC) [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Invoiced receivables, unbilled receivables and contract receivables	68,500	$ 29,700
Acquisition expense	$ 5,400
Albany Safran Composites, LLC [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Ownership percentage of noncontrolling shareholder	10.00%	10.00%
Safran [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sale	$ 88,900	$ 58,100	$ 46,900

Reportable Segments and Geogr58

Reportable Segments and Geographic Data (Schedule of Financial Data by Reporting Segment) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended												12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 213,000	$ 191,300	$ 203,200	$ 172,300	$ 177,500	$ 178,800	$ 172,300	$ 181,300	$ 191,600	$ 179,900	$ 193,500	$ 180,300	$ 779,839	$ 709,868	$ 745,345
Depreciation and amortization													67,461	60,114	64,292
Operating income (loss)													91,776	63,895	71,360
Interest income													(2,077)	(1,857)	(1,541)
Interest expense													15,541	11,841	12,254
Other expense/ (income), net													46	2,433	(6,853)
Income before income taxes													78,266	51,478	67,500
Machine Clothing [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales													582,190	608,581	655,026
Depreciation and amortization													36,428	39,503	45,066
Operating income (loss)													152,529	141,311	136,450
Albany Engineered Composites [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales													197,649	101,287	90,319
Depreciation and amortization													24,211	12,140	10,880
Operating income (loss)													(15,363)	(28,478)	(10,483)
Corporate Expenses [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization													6,822	8,471	8,346
Operating income (loss)													(45,390)	(48,938)	(54,607)
Significant Reconciling Items [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Interest income													(2,077)	(1,857)	(1,541)
Interest expense													15,541	11,841	12,254
Other expense/ (income), net													$ 46	$ 2,433	$ (6,853)

Reportable Segments and Geogr59

Reportable Segments and Geographic Data (Schedule of Restructuring Costs by Reporting Segment) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Pension settlement expense
Pension settlement expense			$ 8,190
Restructuring expenses, net
Charges/ (reversals)	8,376	23,846	5,759
Machine Clothing [Member]
Restructuring expenses, net
Charges/ (reversals)	6,069	22,211	4,828
Albany Engineered Composites [Member]
Restructuring expenses, net
Charges/ (reversals)	2,314		931
Corporate Expenses [Member]
Restructuring expenses, net
Charges/ (reversals)	$ (7)	$ 1,635

Reportable Segments and Geogr60

Reportable Segments and Geographic Data (Schedule of Operating Assets and Capital Expenditures by Reporting Segment) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Assets	$ 1,263,433	$ 1,009,562	$ 1,029,304
Capital expenditures and purchased software	78,516	50,595	58,873
Cash	181,742	185,113	179,802	$ 222,666
Asset held for sale		4,988
Machine Clothing [Member]
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Assets	454,010	494,347	565,853
Capital expenditures and purchased software	16,158	16,010	23,202
Albany Engineered Composites [Member]
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Assets	514,527	181,825	175,338
Capital expenditures and purchased software	59,195	30,378	32,141
Corporate Expenses [Member]
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Capital expenditures and purchased software	3,163	4,207	3,530
Significant Reconciling Items [Member]
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Cash	181,742	185,113	179,802
Asset held for sale		4,988
Income taxes prepaid, receivable and deferred	74,078	111,872	76,283
Other assets	$ 39,076	$ 31,417	$ 32,028

Reportable Segments and Geogr61

Reportable Segments and Geographic Data (Schedule of Financial Data by Geographic Area) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended												12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 213,000	$ 191,300	$ 203,200	$ 172,300	$ 177,500	$ 178,800	$ 172,300	$ 181,300	$ 191,600	$ 179,900	$ 193,500	$ 180,300	$ 779,839	$ 709,868	$ 745,345
Property, plant and equipment, net	422,564				357,470				395,113				422,564	357,470	395,113
United States [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net sales													396,238	323,399	324,750
Property, plant and equipment, net	245,626				172,372				168,848				245,626	172,372	168,848
Switzerland [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net sales													145,479	159,804	184,022
Brazil [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net sales													60,287	58,846	59,332
China [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net sales													48,043	48,490	52,822
Property, plant and equipment, net	65,987				80,786				93,182				65,987	80,786	93,182
France [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net sales													42,862	26,081	26,654
Property, plant and equipment, net	42,272				28,539				25,091				42,272	28,539	25,091
Mexico [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net sales													27,526	30,581	27,431
Other Countries [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net sales													59,404	62,667	70,334
Property, plant and equipment, net	27,048				24,788				44,061				27,048	24,788	44,061
Korea [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, net	15,585				19,095				23,473				15,585	19,095	23,473
United Kingdom [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, net	14,591				19,029				22,222				14,591	19,029	22,222
Canada [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, net	$ 11,455				$ 12,861				$ 18,236				$ 11,455	$ 12,861	$ 18,236

Pensions and Other Postretire62

Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans (Narrative) (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Canada [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Accrued postretirement liability	$ 56.5
United States [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Accrued postretirement liability	$ 1
United States Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Percent of consolidated pension plan assets	43.00%
Percent of consolidated pension plan obligations	44.00%

Pensions and Other Postretire63

Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans (Schedule of Plan Benefit Obligations) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Pension Plans [Member]
Change in benefit obligation:
Benefit obligation, beginning of year	$ 199,856	$ 213,110
Service cost	2,656	2,959	$ 3,269
Interest cost	7,885	7,787	9,505
Plan participants' contributions	249	304
Actuarial (gain)/loss	17,676	(4,209)
Benefits paid	(7,057)	(6,530)
Settlements and curtailments	(2,436)	(321)
Plan amendments and other	36	(37)
Foreign currency changes	(8,009)	(13,207)
Benefit obligation, end of year	210,856	199,856	213,110
Other Postretirement Benefits [Member]
Change in benefit obligation:
Benefit obligation, beginning of year	59,970	64,987
Service cost	254	330	314
Interest cost	2,443	2,437	2,741
Actuarial (gain)/loss	(395)	(2,855)
Benefits paid	(4,812)	(4,758)
Settlements and curtailments
Plan amendments and other
Foreign currency changes	28	(171)
Benefit obligation, end of year	57,488	59,970	$ 64,987
Accumulated benefit obligation
United States Pension Plan [Member]
Weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations, end of year:
Discount rate	4.20%	4.54%
Compensation increase
Non-U.S. Pension Plans [Member]
Weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations, end of year:
Discount rate	2.98%	3.67%
Compensation increase	3.29%	3.24%
United States Postretirement Benefits Plan [Member]
Weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations, end of year:
Discount rate	4.00%	4.24%
Compensation increase
Non-U.S. Postretirement Benefits Plan [Member]
Weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations, end of year:
Discount rate	3.70%	4.00%
Compensation increase	3.00%	3.00%

Pensions and Other Postretire64

Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans (Schedule of Plan Assets) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Pension Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year	$ 171,387	$ 183,199
Actual return on plan assets, net of expenses	19,740	730
Employer contributions	6,605	5,287
Plan participants' contributions	249	304
Benefits paid	(7,057)	(6,530)
Settlements	(2,308)	(688)
Foreign currency changes	(7,944)	(10,915)
Fair value of plan assets, end of year	180,672	171,387
Other Postretirement Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year
Actual return on plan assets, net of expenses
Employer contributions	4,812	4,758
Plan participants' contributions	72	1,068
Benefits paid	(4,812)	(4,758)
Settlements
Foreign currency changes
Fair value of plan assets, end of year

Pensions and Other Postretire65

Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans (Schedule of Funded Status of Plans and Composition of Accrued Pension Cost) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Noncurrent asset	$ 7,800	$ 10,400
Pension Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	180,672	171,387	$ 183,199
Benefit obligation	210,856	199,856	213,110
Funded status	(30,184)	(28,469)
Noncurrent asset	7,794	10,423
Current liability	(2,057)	(2,110)
Noncurrent liability	(35,921)	(36,782)
Net amount recognized	(30,184)	(28,469)
Net actuarial loss	72,400	69,896
Prior service cost/(credit)	597	608
Net amount recognized	72,997	70,504
Other Postretirement Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets
Benefit obligation	57,488	59,970	$ 64,987
Funded status	(57,488)	(59,970)
Noncurrent asset
Current liability	(4,195)	(4,660)
Noncurrent liability	(53,293)	(55,310)
Net amount recognized	(57,488)	(59,970)
Net actuarial loss	34,782	37,997
Prior service cost/(credit)	(30,899)	(35,387)
Net amount recognized	3,883	$ 2,610
U.S. Pension Plans with Pension Assets [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Net amount recognized	(5,197)
U.S. Pension Plans without Pension Assets [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Net amount recognized	(7,761)
United States Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Net amount recognized	(12,958)
Non-U.S. Pension Plans with Pension Assets [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Net amount recognized	5,648
Non-U.S. Pension Plans without Pension Assets [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Net amount recognized	(22,874)
Non-U.S. Pension Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Net amount recognized	17,226
Pension Plans with Pension Assets [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Net amount recognized	451
Pension Plans without Pension Assets [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Net amount recognized	$ (30,635)

Pensions and Other Postretire66

Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans (Schedule of Net Periodic Benefit Plan Cost) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Components of net periodic benefit cost:
Settlement			$ 8,190
Pension Plans [Member]
Components of net periodic benefit cost:
Service cost	2,656	2,959	3,269
Interest cost	7,885	7,787	9,505
Expected return on assets	(8,675)	(8,630)	(9,577)
Amortization of prior service cost/(credit)	38	48	53
Amortization of transition obligation
Amortization of net actuarial loss	2,283	2,594	2,421
Settlement	162	103	8,331
Curtailment (gain)/loss	(111)		(942)
Special / contractual termination benefits		44
Net periodic benefit cost	$ 4,238	$ 4,905	$ 13,060
Health care cost trend rate (U.S. and non-U.S. plans):
Initial rate
Ultimate rate
Other Postretirement Benefits [Member]
Components of net periodic benefit cost:
Service cost	$ 254	$ 330	$ 314
Interest cost	2,443	2,437	2,741
Expected return on assets
Amortization of prior service cost/(credit)	(4,488)	(4,488)	(4,488)
Amortization of transition obligation
Amortization of net actuarial loss	2,819	3,338	2,908
Settlement
Curtailment (gain)/loss
Special / contractual termination benefits
Net periodic benefit cost	$ 1,028	$ 1,617	$ 1,475
Health care cost trend rate (U.S. and non-U.S. plans):
Initial rate
Ultimate rate
United States Pension Plan [Member]
Weighted average assumptions used to determine net cost:
Discount rate	4.54%	4.18%	5.22%
Expected return on plan assets	4.74%	4.43%	5.40%
Rate of compensation increase
Non-U.S. Pension Plans [Member]
Weighted average assumptions used to determine net cost:
Discount rate	3.67%	3.58%	4.50%
Expected return on plan assets	5.39%	5.52%	5.65%
Rate of compensation increase	3.24%	3.23%	3.39%
United States Postretirement Benefits Plan [Member]
Weighted average assumptions used to determine net cost:
Discount rate	4.24%	3.90%	4.68%
Expected return on plan assets
Rate of compensation increase
Non-U.S. Postretirement Benefits Plan [Member]
Weighted average assumptions used to determine net cost:
Discount rate	4.00%	3.85%	4.75%
Expected return on plan assets
Rate of compensation increase	3.00%	3.00%	3.00%

Pensions and Other Postretire67

Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans (Schedule of (Gains)/Losses Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
(Gains)/losses in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income:
Settlements/curtailments	$ (51)	$ (103)	$ (8,377)
Asset/liability loss/(gain)	5,498	700	14,707
Amortization of actuarial (loss)	(5,102)	(5,932)	(5,329)
Amortization of prior service (cost)/credit	4,450	$ 4,440	$ 4,436
Pension Plans [Member]
(Gains)/losses in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income:
Settlements/curtailments	(51)
Asset/liability loss/(gain)	6,519
Amortization of actuarial (loss)	(2,283)
Amortization of prior service (cost)/credit	(38)
Amortization of transition (obligation)
Currency impact	(1,655)
Gain in other comprehensive income	2,492
Total cost/(benefit) recognized in net periodic benefit cost and other comprehensive income	6,730
Other Postretirement Benefits [Member]
(Gains)/losses in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income:
Settlements/curtailments
Asset/liability loss/(gain)	(395)
Amortization of actuarial (loss)	(2,819)
Amortization of prior service (cost)/credit	4,488
Amortization of transition (obligation)
Currency impact	(1)
Gain in other comprehensive income	1,273
Total cost/(benefit) recognized in net periodic benefit cost and other comprehensive income	$ 2,301

Pensions and Other Postretire68

Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans (Schedule of Amounts That Will Be Amortized from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income) (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Other Postretirement Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Actuarial loss	$ 2,578
Prior service cost/(benefit)	38
Total	2,616
Pension Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Actuarial loss	2,811
Prior service cost/(benefit)	(4,488)
Total	$ (1,677)

Pensions and Other Postretire69

Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans (Schedule of Fair Value of Plan Assets) (Details) - Pension Plans [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	$ 180,672	$ 171,387	$ 183,199
Investment of plan assets	180,672	171,387
Total investments in the fair value hierarchy [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	80,397	77,194
Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	3,710	2,905
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	74,449	71,886
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	2,238	2,403	2,133
Common Stocks and Equity Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	309	404
Investment of plan assets	35,510	34,709
Common Stocks and Equity Funds [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	309	404
Common Stocks and Equity Funds [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets
Common Stocks and Equity Funds [Member] | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets
Debt Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	74,449	71,886
Debt Securities [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets
Debt Securities [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	74,449	71,886
Debt Securities [Member] | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets
Fixed income funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Investment of plan assets	59,662	53,616
Insurance Contracts [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	2,238	2,403
Insurance Contracts [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets
Insurance Contracts [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets
Insurance Contracts [Member] | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	2,238	2,403	$ 2,133
Cash and Short-Term Investments [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	3,401	2,501
Cash and Short-Term Investments [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	3,401	2,501
Cash and Short-Term Investments [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets
Cash and Short-Term Investments [Member] | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets
Limited Partnerships [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Investment of plan assets	5,065	5,676
Limited Partnerships [Member] | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		5,676
Hedge Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Investment of plan assets	$ 38	192
Hedge Funds [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets
Hedge Funds [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets
Hedge Funds [Member] | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets

Pensions and Other Postretire70

Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans (Reconciliation of Level 3 Assets) (Details) - Pension Plans [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year	$ 171,387	$ 183,199
Fair value of plan assets, end of year	180,672	171,387
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year	2,403	2,133
Net realized gains/(losses)
Net unrealized gains/(losses)	26	35
Net purchases, issuances and settlements	(191)	235
Net transfers (out of) Level 3
Fair value of plan assets, end of year	2,238	2,403
Insurance Contracts [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year	2,403
Fair value of plan assets, end of year	2,238	2,403
Insurance Contracts [Member] | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year	2,403	2,133
Net realized gains/(losses)
Net unrealized gains/(losses)	26	35
Net purchases, issuances and settlements	(191)	235
Net transfers (out of) Level 3
Fair value of plan assets, end of year	$ 2,238	$ 2,403

Pensions and Other Postretire71

Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans (Schedule of Asset Allocation) (Details)		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
United States Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target Allocation		100.00%	100.00%
Percentage of plan assets at plan measurement date		100.00%	100.00%
United States Pension Plan [Member] | Common Stocks and Equity Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target Allocation
Percentage of plan assets at plan measurement date		2.00%	3.00%
United States Pension Plan [Member] | Debt Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target Allocation		100.00%
Percentage of plan assets at plan measurement date		92.00%	92.00%
United States Pension Plan [Member] | Real Estate [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target Allocation
Percentage of plan assets at plan measurement date		5.00%	5.00%
United States Pension Plan [Member] | Other [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target Allocation	[1]
Percentage of plan assets at plan measurement date	[2]	1.00%
Non-U.S. Pension Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target Allocation		100.00%	100.00%
Percentage of plan assets at plan measurement date		100.00%	100.00%
Non-U.S. Pension Plans [Member] | Common Stocks and Equity Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target Allocation		32.00%
Percentage of plan assets at plan measurement date		33.00%	35.00%
Non-U.S. Pension Plans [Member] | Debt Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target Allocation		64.00%
Percentage of plan assets at plan measurement date		61.00%	55.00%
Non-U.S. Pension Plans [Member] | Real Estate [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target Allocation
Percentage of plan assets at plan measurement date			4.00%
Non-U.S. Pension Plans [Member] | Other [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target Allocation	[1]	4.00%
Percentage of plan assets at plan measurement date	[1]	6.00%	6.00%
[1]	Other includes hedged equity and absolute return strategies, and private equity. The Company has procedures to closely monitor the performance of these investments and compares asset valuations to audited financial statements of the funds.
[2]	Original cost basis $0.5 million.

Pensions and Other Postretire72

Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans (Schedule of Pension Plans with Projected Benefit Obligation and Accumulated Benefit Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Plans with projected benefit obligation in excess of plan assets:
Projected benefit obligation	$ 121,600	$ 120,312
Accumulated benefit obligation	119,753	117,447
Fair value of plan assets	83,622	81,421
Plans with accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets:
Projected benefit obligation	121,511	120,312
Accumulated benefit obligation	119,728	117,447
Fair value of plan assets	$ 83,558	$ 81,421

Pensions and Other Postretire73

Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans (Schedule of Expected Cash Flows) (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Pension Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Expected employer contributions in the next fiscal year	$ 3,727
2,017	6,625
2,018	7,013
2,019	7,380
2,020	7,873
2,021	8,473
2022 - 2026	50,990
Other Postretirement Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Expected employer contributions in the next fiscal year	4,195
2,017	4,195
2,018	4,047
2,019	3,913
2,020	3,804
2,021	3,748
2022 - 2026	$ 17,983

Restructuring (Narrative) (Deta

Restructuring (Narrative) (Details) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)employees	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Fair value adjustment on available-for-sale assets				$ 3,212
Accrued liabilities for restructuring charges	$ 6,856		4,668	6,856
Restructuring reserve, noncurrent	3,320		908	3,320
Payments for restructuring			900
Scenario, Forecast [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Payments for restructuring		$ 4,700
Reduced Employee Expenses [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges accrued			$ 2,600	11,400
Fair value adjustment on available-for-sale assets				3,300
Machine Clothing [Member] | Reduced Employee Expenses [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Reduction in employees | employees			200
Early Retirement Program [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges accrued	$ 8,100
Early Retirement Program [Member] | Machine Clothing and Corporate [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Effect of cost savings				$ 4,300

Restructuring (Schedule of Rest

Restructuring (Schedule of Restructuring Charges) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Restructuring expenses, net
Restructuring expenses, net	$ 8,376	$ 23,846	$ 5,759
Machine Clothing [Member]
Restructuring expenses, net
Restructuring expenses, net	6,069	22,211	4,828
Albany Engineered Composites [Member]
Restructuring expenses, net
Restructuring expenses, net	2,314		931
Termination and Other Costs [Member]
Restructuring expenses, net
Restructuring expenses, net	7,251	20,541	6,088
Termination and Other Costs [Member] | Machine Clothing [Member]
Restructuring expenses, net
Restructuring expenses, net	5,756	18,906	5,769
Termination and Other Costs [Member] | Albany Engineered Composites [Member]
Restructuring expenses, net
Restructuring expenses, net	1,502		319
Impairment of Plant and Equipment [Member]
Restructuring expenses, net
Restructuring expenses, net	1,237	3,305	612
Impairment of Plant and Equipment [Member] | Machine Clothing [Member]
Restructuring expenses, net
Restructuring expenses, net	425	3,305
Impairment of Plant and Equipment [Member] | Albany Engineered Composites [Member]
Restructuring expenses, net
Restructuring expenses, net	812		612
Benefit Plan Curtailment/ Settlement [Member]
Restructuring expenses, net
Restructuring expenses, net	(112)		(941)
Benefit Plan Curtailment/ Settlement [Member] | Machine Clothing [Member]
Restructuring expenses, net
Restructuring expenses, net	(112)		(941)
Benefit Plan Curtailment/ Settlement [Member] | Albany Engineered Composites [Member]
Restructuring expenses, net
Restructuring expenses, net
Corporate Expenses [Member]
Restructuring expenses, net
Restructuring expenses, net	(7)	1,635
Corporate Expenses [Member] | Termination and Other Costs [Member]
Restructuring expenses, net
Restructuring expenses, net	(7)	1,635
Corporate Expenses [Member] | Impairment of Plant and Equipment [Member]
Restructuring expenses, net
Restructuring expenses, net
Corporate Expenses [Member] | Benefit Plan Curtailment/ Settlement [Member]
Restructuring expenses, net
Restructuring expenses, net

Restructuring (Schedule of Re76

Restructuring (Schedule of Restructuring Liability) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Payments	$ (900)
Termination Costs [Member]
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	10,177	$ 1,874
Restructuring charges accrued	7,251	20,541
Payments	(11,800)	(12,323)
Currency translation/other	(69)	85
Ending balance	$ 5,559	$ 10,177

Other Expense_(Income), net (De

Other Expense/(Income), net (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Other Income and Expenses [Abstract]
Currency transactions	$ (3,532)	$ 1,496	$ (6,379)
Bank fees and amortization of debt issuance costs	759	916	1,174
Loss due to theft of cash	2,506
Gain on sale of investment		(872)
Gain on insurance recovery			(1,126)
Other	313	893	(522)
Total	$ 46	$ 2,433	$ (6,853)

Income Taxes (Narrative) (Detai

Income Taxes (Narrative) (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)countries	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Number of countries in which operations constitute a taxable presence | countries	18
Net increase (decrease) in valuation allowance	$ (900)
Tax rates	35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
Net operating loss carryforwards	$ 143,000
Net operating loss carryforwards, deferred tax asset	27,800
Net operating loss carryforwards, valuation allowance	19,700
Unrepatriated foreign earnings	1,600
Non-U.S. earnings that have been targeted for future repatriation	24,900
Income tax expense recorded due to expected repatriation of foreign earnings	1,100
Accumulated undistributed earnings intended to remain permanently invested	164,000
Recognized interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits	(100)	$ (100)	$ 1,000
Accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits	300	400	400
Estimated range of change, net increase	100
Estimated range of change, net decrease	600
Taxes paid, net of refunds	23,400	18,300	17,600
Recognized current and deferred tax benefits	$ 14,029	42	32
China [Member]
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Tax rates	25.00%
Mexico [Member]
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Tax rates	30.00%
Switzerland [Member]
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Tax rates	8.00%
Valuation Allowance Deferred Tax Assets [Member]
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Net increase (decrease) in valuation allowance	$ (300)
Valuation Allowance due to Foreign Currency Translation [Member]
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Net increase (decrease) in valuation allowance	(400)
Tax Attributes With Limited Lives [Member]
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Net deferred tax asset	$ 52,400
Earliest Tax Year [Member]
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Open tax years	2,007
Earliest Tax Year [Member] | Research and Development [Member]
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Tax credit carryforwards, expiration date	Jan. 1, 2025
Latest Tax Year [Member]
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Open tax years	2,016
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	$ 23,000
Non-U.S. [Member]
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Tax credit carryforward	41,400
Net deferred tax asset	12,308	10,672
Non-U.S. [Member] | Research and Development [Member]
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Tax credit carryforward	$ 1,200
Non-U.S. [Member] | Earliest Tax Year [Member]
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Tax credit carryforwards, expiration date	Jan. 1, 2022
United States [Member]
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Net deferred tax asset	$ 45,400
Domestic Tax Authority [Member]
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Net deferred tax asset	45,369	82,531
Domestic Tax Authority [Member] | Research and Development [Member]
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Tax credit carryforward	7,900
German Tax Authority [Member]
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Payment to taxing authority to pursue litigation	14,500
Taxes and interest along with deferred tax assets adjusted with anticipation of settlement	$ 3,700	$ 6,400	$ 6,300

Income Taxes (Schedule of Compo

Income Taxes (Schedule of Components of Income Tax (Benefit)/Expense) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income tax based on income from continuing operations, at estimated tax rates of 35%, 32%, and 34%, respectively	$ 27,629	$ 16,388	$ 25,703
Pension plan settlements			(3,194)
Income tax before discrete items	27,629	16,388	22,509
Discrete tax (benefit)/expense:
Worthless stock deduction		(28,553)
Repatriation of non-U.S. prior years' earnings			2,210
Provision for/resolution of tax audits and contingencies, net	(2,856)	6,500	744
Adjustments to prior period tax liabilities	769	(867)	397
Provision for/adjustment to beginning of year valuation allowances	(88)	75	(109)
Enacted tax legislation		670
Other discrete tax adjustments, net
Total income tax (benefit)/expense	$ 25,454	$ (5,787)	$ 25,751
Estimated tax rate	35.00%	32.00%	34.00%

Income Taxes (Schedule of Incom

Income Taxes (Schedule of Income/(Loss) From Continuing Operations) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
U.S.	$ 8,556	$ (7,211)	$ 4,993
Non-U.S.	69,710	58,689	62,507
Income/(loss) before income taxes	78,266	51,478	67,500
Current:
Federal	3,728		1,874
State	176	1,993	1,102
Non-U.S.	19,979	20,842	17,474
Current income tax provision	23,883	22,835	20,450
Deferred:
Federal	2,138	(34,135)	(1,707)
State	1,984	(40)	(495)
Non-U.S.	(2,551)	5,553	7,503
Deferred income tax provision	1,571	(28,622)	5,301
Total income tax (benefit)/expense	$ 25,454	$ (5,787)	$ 25,751

Income Taxes (Schedule of Com81

Income Taxes (Schedule of Components of Deferred Income Tax Expense/(Benefit)) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Net effect of temporary differences	$ 7,214	$ (7,615)	$ (1,667)
Foreign tax credits	(6,869)	(17,874)	(481)
Retirement benefits	1,734	1,844	1,438
Net impact to operating loss carryforwards	(603)	(5,722)	6,120
Enacted changes in tax laws and rates	183	670
Adjustments to beginning-of-the-year valuation allowance balance for changes in circumstances	(88)	75	(109)
Deferred income tax provision	$ 1,571	$ (28,622)	$ 5,301

Income Taxes (Reconciliation of

Income Taxes (Reconciliation of the U.S. Federal Statutory Tax Rate to the Company's Effective Income Tax Rate) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
U.S. federal statutory tax rate	35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
State taxes, net of federal benefit	2.30%	2.40%	1.70%
Non-U.S. local income taxes	3.50%	4.10%	4.00%
Foreign adjustments	1.60%	7.40%	3.70%
Foreign rate differential	(11.30%)	(13.60%)	(13.90%)
Net U.S. tax on non-U.S. earnings and foreign withholdings	5.80%	(1.80%)	8.00%
Provision for/resolution of tax audits and contingencies, net	(3.40%)	12.60%	1.00%
Research and development and other tax credits	(1.20%)	(2.40%)	(1.60%)
Adjustment to beginning of year valuation allowances	(0.10%)	0.10%	(0.20%)
Worthless stock deduction		(55.50%)
Other	0.30%	0.50%	0.40%
Effective income tax rate	32.50%	(11.20%)	38.10%

Income Taxes (Schedule of Defer

Income Taxes (Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Tax loss carryforwards	$ 27,800
Unrepatriated foreign earnings	1,600
Domestic Tax Authority [Member]
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Total deferred tax assets	99,481	$ 101,556
Total deferred tax liabilities	54,112	19,025
Net deferred tax asset	45,369	82,531
Non-U.S. [Member]
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Total deferred tax assets	19,082	20,012
Total deferred tax liabilities	6,774	9,340
Net deferred tax asset	12,308	10,672
Noncurrent Assets [Member] | Domestic Tax Authority [Member]
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Accounts receivable	1,155	1,392
Inventories	1,193	897
Deferred compensation	7,533	6,714
Depreciation and amortization	2,786	10,323
Postretirement benefits	26,602	26,475
Tax loss carryforwards	1,760	2,682
Tax credit carryforwards	50,624	42,851
Other	7,828	10,222
Deferred tax assets before valuation allowance	99,481	101,556
Less: valuation allowance
Total deferred tax assets	99,481	101,556
Noncurrent Assets [Member] | Non-U.S. [Member]
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Accounts receivable	1,381	1,304
Inventories	1,868	1,750
Deferred compensation
Depreciation and amortization	5,030	4,882
Postretirement benefits	3,478	4,138
Tax loss carryforwards	26,084	27,134
Tax credit carryforwards	1,186	1,740
Other	2,876	3,503
Deferred tax assets before valuation allowance	41,903	44,451
Less: valuation allowance	(22,821)	(24,439)
Total deferred tax assets	19,082	20,012
Noncurrent Liabilities [Member] | Domestic Tax Authority [Member]
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Unrepatriated foreign earnings	1,602	1,157
Depreciation and amortization	43,156	10,309
Postretirement benefits
Deferred Gain	7,156	7,559
Branch losses subject to recapture
Other	2,198
Total deferred tax liabilities	54,112	19,025
Noncurrent Liabilities [Member] | Non-U.S. [Member]
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Unrepatriated foreign earnings
Depreciation and amortization	2,466	3,174
Postretirement benefits	1,411	2,003
Deferred Gain
Branch losses subject to recapture		918
Other	2,897	3,245
Total deferred tax liabilities	$ 6,774	$ 9,340

Income Taxes (Reconciliation 84

Income Taxes (Reconciliation of the Beginning and Ending Amount of Unrecognized Tax Benefits) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Unrecognized tax benefits balance at January 1	$ 19,606	$ 19,509	$ 12,538
Increase in gross amounts of tax positions related to prior years	62	2,315	14,699
Decrease in gross amounts of tax positions related to prior years	(2,129)	(145)	(67)
Increase in gross amounts of tax positions related to current year	585	79	1,077
Decrease due to settlements with tax authorities	(14,029)	(42)	(32)
Decrease due to lapse in statute of limitations	(163)	(90)	(6,775)
Currency translation	251
Currency translation		(2,020)	(1,931)
Unrecognized tax benefits balance at December 31	$ 4,183	$ 19,606	$ 19,509

Income Taxes (Schedule of Curre

Income Taxes (Schedule of Current Income Taxes Prepaid and Deferred) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Prepaid taxes	$ 3,914	$ 2,417
Taxes receivable	1,299	510
Total current income taxes prepaid and deferred	$ 5,213	$ 2,927

Income Taxes (Schedule of Non-C

Income Taxes (Schedule of Non-Current Income Taxes Receivable and Deferred) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Deferred income taxes	$ 68,865	$ 105,792
Taxes receivable		3,153
Total noncurrent income taxes receivable and deferred	$ 68,865	$ 108,945

Income Taxes (Schedule of Cur87

Income Taxes (Schedule of Current Income Taxes Payable and Deferred) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Taxes Payable	$ 9,531	$ 7,090
Total current taxes payable and deferred	$ 9,531	$ 7,090

Income Taxes (Schedule of Noncu

Income Taxes (Schedule of Noncurrent Deferred Taxes and Other Liabilities) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Deferred income taxes	$ 11,188	$ 12,589
Other liabilities	1,201	1,565
Total noncurrent deferred taxes and other liabilities	$ 12,389	$ 14,154

Earnings Per Share (Details)

Earnings Per Share (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended												12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Net income attributable to the Company													$ 52,733	$ 57,279	$ 41,569
Weighted average number of shares used in calculating basic net income per share													32,086	31,978	31,832
Stock options													39	58	99
Long-term incentive plan													45	52	57
Weighted average number of shares used in calculating diluted net income per share													32,170	32,088	31,988
Average market price of common stock used for calculation of dilutive shares													$ 40.25	$ 36.68	$ 36.29
Basic	$ 0.49	$ 0.41	$ 0.32	$ 0.42	$ 1.18	$ 0.30	$ (0.07)	$ 0.38	$ 0.26	$ 0.37	$ 0.35	$ 0.33	1.64	1.79	1.31
Diluted	$ 0.49	$ 0.41	$ 0.32	$ 0.42	$ 1.18	$ 0.30	$ (0.07)	$ 0.38	$ 0.25	$ 0.37	$ 0.35	$ 0.33	$ 1.64	$ 1.79	$ 1.30
Common Stock, shares outstanding	32,100				32,000				31,900				32,100	32,000	31,900

Accumulated Other Comprehensi90

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Accumulated items of other comprehensive income:
Pension settlement charge			$ (8,190)
Pension/postretirement settlements and curtailments, before tax	51	103	8,377
Pension/postretirement settlements and curtailments	$ 45	$ 103	$ 5,167

Accumulated Other Comprehensi91

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Beginning balance	$ (158,844)	$ (107,767)	$ (49,498)
Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications	(23,163)	(53,013)	(55,902)
Pension/postretirement settlements and curtailments	45	103	5,167
Pension/postretirement plan remeasurement	(4,394)	(622)	(9,265)
Interest expense related to swaps reclassified to the Statement of Income, net of tax	1,488	1,233	1,168
Pension and postretirement liability adjustments reclassified to Statement of Income, net of tax	679	1,222	563
Net current period other comprehensive income	(25,345)	(51,077)	(58,269)
Ending balance	(184,189)	(158,844)	(107,767)
Translation Adjustments [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Beginning balance	(108,655)	(55,240)	(138)
Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications	(24,643)	(53,415)	(55,102)
Pension/postretirement settlements and curtailments
Pension/Postretirement plan change in benefits
Pension/postretirement plan remeasurement
Interest expense related to swaps reclassified to the Statement of Income, net of tax
Pension and postretirement liability adjustments reclassified to Statement of Income, net of tax
Net current period other comprehensive income	(24,643)	(53,415)	(55,102)
Ending balance	(133,298)	(108,655)	(55,240)
Pension and Postretirement Liability Adjustments [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Beginning balance	(48,725)	(51,666)	(48,383)
Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications	676	2,238	252
Pension/postretirement settlements and curtailments	45	103	5,167
Pension/postretirement plan remeasurement	(4,394)	(622)	(9,265)
Interest expense related to swaps reclassified to the Statement of Income, net of tax
Pension and postretirement liability adjustments reclassified to Statement of Income, net of tax	679	1,222	563
Net current period other comprehensive income	(2,994)	2,941	(3,283)
Ending balance	(51,719)	(48,725)	(51,666)
Derivative Valuation Adjustment [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Beginning balance	(1,464)	(861)	(977)
Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications	804	(1,836)	(1,052)
Pension/postretirement settlements and curtailments
Pension/postretirement plan remeasurement
Interest expense related to swaps reclassified to the Statement of Income, net of tax	1,488	1,233	1,168
Pension and postretirement liability adjustments reclassified to Statement of Income, net of tax
Net current period other comprehensive income	2,292	(603)	116
Ending balance	$ 828	$ (1,464)	$ (861)

Accumulated Other Comprehensi92

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Schedule of Items Reclassified to Statement of Income) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended												12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Payments made on interest rate swaps included in earnings														$ 15,541	$ 11,841	$ 12,254
Total pretax amount reclassified														(78,266)	(51,478)	(67,500)
Income tax effect														25,454	(5,787)	25,751
Effect on net income due to items reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income		$ (15,800)	$ (13,100)	$ (10,400)	$ (13,500)	$ (37,600)	$ (9,700)	$ 2,200	$ (12,200)	$ (8,000)	$ (11,800)	$ (11,200)	$ (10,600)	(52,733)	(57,279)	(41,569)
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Derivative Valuation Adjustment [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Payments made on interest rate swaps included in earnings	[1]													2,400	1,988	1,914
Income tax effect														(912)	(755)	(746)
Effect on net income due to items reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income														1,488	1,233	1,168
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Settlements and Curtailments [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Total pretax amount reclassified														51	103	8,377
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment, Net Prior Service Cost (Credit) [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Total pretax amount reclassified														(4,450)	(4,440)	(4,436)
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment, Net Unamortized Gain (Loss) [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Total pretax amount reclassified														5,102	5,932	5,329
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Pension and Postretirement Liability Adjustments [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Total pretax amount reclassified	[2]													703	1,595	9,270
Income tax effect														21	(270)	(3,540)
Effect on net income due to items reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income														$ 724	$ 1,325	$ 5,730
[1]	Included in Interest expense are payments related to the interest rate swap agreements and amortization of swap buyouts (see Note 15).
[2]	These accumulated other comprehensive income components are included in the computation of net periodic pension cost (see Note 4).

Noncontrolling Interest (Detail

Noncontrolling Interest (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Net income of ASC		$ 52,812	$ 57,265	$ 41,749
Net (loss)/income of ASC available for common ownership		52,733	57,279	41,569
Net (loss)/income attributable to noncontrolling interest		79	(14)	180
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Roll Forward]
Noncontrolling interest, beginning of year		3,690
Net (loss)/income attributable to noncontrolling interest		79	(14)	180
Noncontrolling interest, end of year		3,767	3,690
Albany Safran Composites, LLC [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Interest in subsidiary sold	10.00%
Cash contribution	$ 28,000
Albany's remaining interest	90.00%
Net income of ASC		1,777	842
Less: Return attributable to the Company's preferred holding		987	978
Net (loss)/income of ASC available for common ownership		$ 790	$ (136)
Ownership percentage of noncontrolling shareholder		10.00%	10.00%
Net (loss)/income attributable to noncontrolling interest		$ 79	$ (14)
Ownership interest in ASC		90.00%
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Roll Forward]
Noncontrolling interest, beginning of year		$ 3,690	3,699
Net (loss)/income attributable to noncontrolling interest		79	(14)
Changes in other comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest		(2)	5
Noncontrolling interest, end of year		$ 3,767	$ 3,690	$ 3,699

Property, Plant and Equipment94

Property, Plant and Equipment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	$ 1,222,494	$ 1,153,424
Accumulated depreciation and amortization	(799,930)	(795,954)
Property, plant and equipment, net	422,564	357,470	$ 395,113
Expenditures for maintenance and repairs	16,600	16,600	17,400
Depreciation expense	58,106	52,974	56,575
Software amortization	4,000	6,500	6,200
Capital expenditures and purchased software	78,516	50,595	58,873
Unamortized software cost	7,200	9,600
Asset held for sale real property		4,988
Harris Corporation's Composite Aerostructures Division [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Accumulated depreciation and amortization	(900)
Property plant and equipment	62,800
Land and Land Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	$ 13,339	14,307
Estimated useful life	25 years
Buildings [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	$ 214,086	211,027
Buildings [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	25 years
Buildings [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	40 years
Assets under capital lease [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	$ 8,140
Estimated useful life	7 years
Assets under capital lease [Member] | Harris Corporation's Composite Aerostructures Division [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	$ 8,100
Machinery and Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	$ 842,921	828,409
Machinery and Equipment [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	5 years
Machinery and Equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	15 years
Furniture and Fixtures [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	$ 7,632	6,074
Estimated useful life	5 years
Computer and Other Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	$ 15,264	14,813
Computer and Other Equipment [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	3 years
Computer and Other Equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	10 years
Software [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	$ 54,212	52,503
Software [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	5 years
Software [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	8 years
Construction in Progress [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	$ 66,900	$ 26,291

Goodwill and Other Intangible95

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization of intangible assets	$ 5,330	$ 231
Cost of Goods Sold [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization of intangible assets	2,600
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization of intangible assets	$ 2,700

Goodwill and Other Intangible96

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Schedule of Changes in Intangible Assets and Goodwill) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Amortized intangible assets:
Beginning balance	$ 154	$ 385
Acquisition	71,630
Amortization	(5,330)	(231)
Currency Translation
Ending balance	66,454	154
Beginning balance	66,373	71,680
Acquisition	95,730
Amortization
Currency Translation	1,728	(5,307)
Ending balance	$ 160,375	66,373
AEC Trade Names [Member]
Amortized intangible assets:
Amortization life in year	15 years
Beginning balance	$ 25	29
Acquisition
Amortization	(5)	(4)
Currency Translation
Ending balance	$ 20	25
AEC Technology [Member]
Amortized intangible assets:
Amortization life in year	15 years
Beginning balance	$ 129	154
Acquisition
Amortization	(25)	(25)
Currency Translation
Ending balance	$ 104	129
Customer Contracts [Member]
Amortized intangible assets:
Amortization life in year	6 years
Beginning balance		202
Acquisition	20,420
Amortization	(2,561)	(202)
Currency Translation
Ending balance	$ 17,859
Customer Relationships [Member]
Amortized intangible assets:
Amortization life in year	15 years
Beginning balance
Acquisition	49,490
Amortization	(2,481)
Currency Translation
Ending balance	$ 47,009
Other Intangible Assets [Member]
Amortized intangible assets:
Amortization life in year	5 years
Beginning balance
Acquisition	1,720
Amortization	(258)
Currency Translation
Ending balance	1,462
MC Goodwill [Member]
Amortized intangible assets:
Beginning balance	66,373
Acquisition
Amortization
Currency Translation	(1,728)
Ending balance	64,645	66,373
AEC Goodwill [Member]
Amortized intangible assets:
Beginning balance
Acquisition	95,730
Amortization
Currency Translation
Ending balance	$ 95,730

Goodwill and Other Intangible97

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Schedule of Estimated Amortization Expense) (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
2,017	$ 7,076
2,018	7,076
2,019	7,076
2,020	7,076
2,021	$ 6,796

Accrued Liabilities (Details)

Accrued Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Salaries and wages	$ 18,520	$ 17,621
Accrual for compensated absences	10,181	9,564
Employee benefits	13,277	10,880
Pension liability - current portion	2,057	2,110
Postretirement medical benefits - current portion	4,195	4,660
Returns and allowances	13,714	14,024
Interest	1,218	942
Restructuring costs	4,668	6,856
Dividends	5,458	5,443
Workers' compensation	2,053	2,086
Billings in excess of revenue recognized	2,390	2,903
Professional fees	3,068	2,093
Utilities	991	779
Other	13,405	11,824
Total	$ 95,195	$ 91,785

Financial Instruments (Schedule

Financial Instruments (Schedule of Long-Term Debt) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt	$ 484,584	$ 265,096
Less: current portion	(51,666)	(16)
Long-term debt, net of current portion	432,918	265,080
Private Placement, Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt	$ 50,000	50,000
Interest rate	6.84%
Maturity date range, end	Dec. 31, 2017
Revolving Credit Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt	$ 418,000	$ 215,000
Interest rate at end of period	2.58%	2.27%
Capital Lease Obligations [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt	$ 16,584	$ 96
Interest rate	5.00%
Maturity date range, end	Dec. 31, 2022

Financial Instruments (Sched100

Financial Instruments (Schedule of future minimum annual lease payments) (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Financial Instruments Schedule Of Future Minimum Annual Lease Payments Details
2,017	$ 2,696
2,018	2,743
2,019	2,743
2,020	2,790
2,021	2,790
Thereafter	7,644
Total minimum lease payments	21,406
Less: Amount representing interest	(4,822)
Present value of minimum lease payments	$ 16,584

Financial Instruments (Narrativ

Financial Instruments (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 16, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	May 09, 2016	May 06, 2016	Apr. 08, 2016	Jun. 18, 2015
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Principal payments due in 2018		$ 1,800
Principal payments due in 2019		1,900
Principal payments due in 2020		200
Principal payments due in 2021		420,100
Principal payments due in 2022		7,100
Interest paid		$ 13,700	$ 12,600	$ 13,000
Maximum leverage ratio allowed		3.50
Minimum interest coverage ratio required		3
Leverage ratio		2.30
Interest coverage ratio		11.52
Capital Lease Obligations [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate		5.00%
Maturity date		Dec. 31, 2022
Private Placement, Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate		6.84%
Maturity date		Oct. 25, 2017
Payment required on October 25, 2017		$ 5,000
Fair value of long-term debt		52,800
Credit Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Amount of credit facility							$ 550,000	$ 40,000
Amount of credit facility outstanding		41,800
Additional amount that can be borrowed on facility		$ 13,200
LIBOR spread	1.50%
Interest rate at end of period		2.58%	2.27%
Credit Agreement [Member] | Interest Rate Swap [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Borrowings, revolving credit facility						$ 12,000
Notional amount	$ 30,000				$ 30,000
Fixed interest rate in swap	2.745%				1.245%
LIBOR rate	0.71%
Amount paid to terminate agreement						$ 5,200
Credit Agreement [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
LIBOR spread		1.25%
Credit Agreement [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
LIBOR spread		1.75%

Fair-Value Measurements (Narrat

Fair-Value Measurements (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Derivative [Line Items]
Interest expense		$ 15,541	$ 11,841	$ 12,254
Interest Rate Swap [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Interest expense		1,700	$ 2,000	$ 1,900
Interest Rate Swap Buyouts [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Interest expense		$ 600
Interest Rate Swap Buyouts [Member] | Scenario, Forecast [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Interest expense	$ 500

Fair-Value Measurements (Schedu

Fair-Value Measurements (Schedule of Fair Value of Financial Assets and Liabilities) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015
Derivative asset:
Common stock of foreign public company, original cost	$ 500
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) [Member]
Assets:
Cash equivalents	8,468		$ 5,189
Assets held for sale
Foreign currency options
Common stock of foreign public company	762	[1]	819
Interest rate swaps
Liabilities:
Interest rate swaps
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Assets:
Cash equivalents
Assets held for sale
Foreign currency options
Common stock of foreign public company
Interest rate swaps	5,784	[2]
Liabilities:
Interest rate swaps			(2,400)	[3]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Assets:
Cash equivalents
Assets held for sale			4,988
Foreign currency options
Common stock of foreign public company
Interest rate swaps
Liabilities:
Interest rate swaps
Interest Rate Swap [Member]
Derivative liability:
Liability for fixed rate leg	21,400		7,400
Receivable for floating rate leg	$ 15,600		$ 9,800
[1]	Original cost basis $0.5 million.
[2]	Net of $21.4 million receivable floating leg and $15.6 million liability fixed leg
[3]	Net of $7.4 million receivable floating leg and $9.8 million liability fixed leg

Fair-Value Measurements (Sch104

Fair-Value Measurements (Schedule of (Losses)/Gains on Changes in Fair Value of Derivative Instruments) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Foreign Currency Options [Member] | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
(Losses)/gains recognized in income, net	$ 202	$ 121	$ (81)

Other Noncurrent Liabilities (D

Other Noncurrent Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]
Pension liabilities	$ 35,921	$ 36,782
Postretirement benefits other than pensions	53,293	55,310
Obligations under license agreement	10,254
Interest rate swap agreement		2,400
Incentive and deferred compensation	3,468	3,421
Restructuring	908	3,320
Other	2,983	311
Total	$ 106,827	$ 101,544

Commitments and Contingencie106

Commitments and Contingencies (Narrative) (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)claimspolicies	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Jan. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2003
Operating leases
Rental expense	$ 5.2	$ 3.5	$ 4.2
Due in 2017	5.6
Due in 2018	3.7
Due in 2019	1.4
Due in 2020	0.8
Due in 2021 and thereafter	$ 0.3
Asbestos Litigation [Member]
Operating leases
Total resolved claims, by means of settlement or dismissal | claims	37,489
Total cost of resolution	$ 10.2
Resolution costs paid by insurance carrier	100.00%
Number of policies | policies	23
Confirmed insurance coverage	$ 140
Asbestos Litigation [Member] | Brandon Drying Fabrics, Inc. [Member]
Operating leases
Total resolved claims, by means of settlement or dismissal | claims	9,900
Total cost of resolution	$ 0.2
Resolution costs paid by insurance carrier				100.00%	88.20%
Percent of resolution costs paid by entity					11.80%
Asbestos Litigation [Member] | Policies Exhausted [Member]
Operating leases
Number of policies | policies	2
Asbestos Litigation [Member] | Other Available Policies [Member]
Operating leases
Confirmed insurance coverage	$ 2.5

Commitments and Contingencie107

Commitments and Contingencies (Schedule of Changes in Claims) (Details) - Asbestos Litigation [Member] $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)claims	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)claims	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)claims	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)claims	Dec. 31, 2012USD ($)claims	Dec. 31, 2011USD ($)claims	Dec. 31, 2010USD ($)claims	Dec. 31, 2009USD ($)claims	Dec. 31, 2008USD ($)claims	Dec. 31, 2007USD ($)claims	Dec. 31, 2006USD ($)claims	Dec. 31, 2005USD ($)claims
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Opening Number of Claims	3,791	3,821	4,299	4,463	4,446	5,170	8,945	18,385	18,798	19,416	24,451	29,411
Claims Dismissed, Settled, or Resolved	148	116	625	230	90	789	3,963	9,482	523	808	6,841	6,257
New Claims	102	86	147	66	107	65	188	42	110	190	1,806	1,297
Closing Number of Claims	3,745	3,791	3,821	4,299	4,463	4,446	5,170	8,945	18,385	18,798	19,416	24,451
Amounts Paid (thousands) to Settle or Resolve | $	$ 758	$ 164	$ 437	$ 78	$ 530	$ 1,111	$ 159	$ 88	$ 52	$ 15	$ 3,879	$ 504
Brandon Drying Fabrics, Inc. [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Opening Number of Claims	7,713	7,730	7,815	7,867	7,877	7,869	7,907	8,664	8,740	9,114	9,566	9,985
Claims Dismissed, Settled, or Resolved	7	18	87	55	12	3	47	760	86	462	1,182	642
New Claims		1	2	3	2	11	9	3	10	88	730	223
Closing Number of Claims	7,706	7,713	7,730	7,815	7,867	7,877	7,869	7,907	8,664	8,740	9,114	9,566
Amounts Paid (thousands) to Settle or Resolve | $

Stock Options and Incentive 108

Stock Options and Incentive Plans (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	1 Months Ended			12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2016	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Long Term Incentive Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares of stock authorized for payment of awards				235,299
Shares issued for long term incentive plan	26,146	35,393	29,321
Cash payments in connection with long term incentive plan	$ 0.8	$ 1.2	$ 1.1
Deferred compensation expense				$ 2.7	$ 3	$ 2.4
Vesting period				3 years
Additional share based compensation expense expected to be recognized in next twelve months				$ 0.7
Additional share based compensation expense expected to be recognized in two years				0.6
Long Term Incentive Plan [Member] | Management [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares issued for long term incentive plan	26,774	19,571	15,910
Cash payments in connection with long term incentive plan	$ 1.9	$ 1.5	$ 1.4
Deferred compensation expense				$ 3.3	3.4	2.7
Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Contractual term of stock options, in years				20 years
Length of time options are valid after retirement, in years				10 years
Aggregate intrinsic value of vested options				$ 1.7
Aggregate intrinsic value of options exercised				0.5	0.2	0.7
Phantom Stock Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Deferred compensation expense				3.8	2.6	2.2
Compensation cost not yet recognized				$ 8.3
Vesting period				5 years
Compensation cost recognition period				2 years
Additional Restricted Stock Plan [Member] | Management [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Deferred compensation expense					0.3	0.7
Restricted Stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Deferred compensation expense				$ 0.7	0.6	1.4
Vesting period				5 years
Maximum [Member] | Long Term Incentive Plan [Member] | Management [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Earned incentive compensation paid in shares of Class A Common Stock				50.00%
Minimum [Member] | Long Term Incentive Plan [Member] | Management [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Earned incentive compensation paid in shares of Class A Common Stock				40.00%
Pension Plans [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Deferred compensation plan expense				$ 5.5	4.8	4.3
Pension Plans [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Percent of employee contribution matched by the Company				100.00%
Pension Plans [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Percent of employee contribution matched by the Company				50.00%
Profit Sharing Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Deferred compensation plan expense				$ 2.9	$ 2.4	$ 1.5

Stock Options and Incentive 109

Stock Options and Incentive Plans (Schedules of Stock Option Activity) (Details) - Stock Options [Member] - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Shares
Shares under option	88,773	187,233	228,533
Options canceled
Options exercised	26,383	98,460	41,300
Shares under option at December 31	62,390	88,773	187,233
Options exercisable at December 31	62,390	88,773	187,233
Weighted Average Exercise Price
Shares under option January 1	$ 18.67	$ 18.99	$ 18.94
Options canceled
Options exercised	19.60	19.27	18.71
Shares under option December 31	18.28	18.67	18.99
Options exercisable December 31	$ 18.28	$ 18.67	$ 18.99

Stock Options and Incentive 110

Stock Options and Incentive Plans (Schedules of Executive Management Share-based Compensation Activity) (Details) - Performance Shares [Member] - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Number of shares
Shares/Share units potentially payable, beginning balance	188,308	185,199	185,564
Forfeitures
Payments	(86,926)	(95,889)	(75,385)
Shares accrued	88,036	98,998	75,020
Shares/Share units potentially payable, ending balance	189,418	188,308	185,199
Weighted average grant date value per share
Shares/Share units potentially payable, beginning balance	$ 35.35	$ 30.69	$ 27.51
Forfeitures
Payments	33.43	29.09	28.60
Shares accrued	36.78	38.01	34.65
Shares/Share units potentially payable, ending balance	$ 36.90	$ 35.35	$ 30.69
Year-end intrinsic value
Shares potentially payable	$ 6,657	$ 5,683	$ 6,667
Shares potentially payable	$ 6,989	$ 6,657	$ 5,683

Stock Options and Incentive 111

Stock Options and Incentive Plans (Schedules of Other Share-based Compensation Activity) (Details) - Restricted Stock [Member] - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Number of shares
Shares/Share units potentially payable, beginning balance	252,866	347,941	361,189
Grants	118,279	90,065	91,631
Changes due to performance	18,779	13,966	(8,793)
Payments	(88,073)	(167,482)	(86,840)
Forfeitures	(40,706)	(31,624)	(9,246)
Shares/Share units potentially payable, ending balance	261,145	252,866	347,941
Weighted average grant date value per share
Payments	$ 33.20	$ 36.08	$ 35.01
Cash paid for share based liabilities	$ 2,924	$ 6,040	$ 3,040

Shareholders' Equity (Narrative

Shareholders' Equity (Narrative) (Details) - $ / shares shares in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Common Class A [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Common Stock, par value per share	$ 0.001	$ 0.001
Common Stock reserved for the conversion of Class B Common Stock and the exercise of stock options	3.3
Number of shares authorized to be repurchased	2
Common Class B [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Common Stock, par value per share	$ 0.001	$ 0.001

Shareholders' Equity (Schedule

Shareholders' Equity (Schedule of Activity in Shareholders' Equity) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Balance	$ 502,553
Balance, shares	32,000,000	31,900,000
Net income	$ 52,812	$ 57,265	$ 41,749
Balance	$ 511,290	$ 502,553
Balance, shares	32,100,000	32,000,000	31,900,000
Common Stock [Member] | Common Class A [Member]
Balance	$ 37	$ 37	$ 37
Balance, shares	37,239,000	37,085,000	36,996,000
Net income
Compensation and benefits paid or payable in shares
Compensation and benefits paid or payable in shares, shares	53,000	55,000	47,000
Conversion of Class B shares to Class A shares
Conversion of Class B shares to Class A shares, shares			1,000
Changes in equity related to Noncontrolling interest in ASC
Options exercised
Options exercised, shares	26,000	99,000	41,000
Shares issued to Directors'
Shares issued to Directors', shares	1,000
Dividends declared
Cumulative translation adjustments
Pension and postretirement liability adjustments
Derivative valuation adjustment
Balance	$ 37	$ 37	$ 37
Balance, shares	37,319,000	37,239,000	37,085,000
Common Stock [Member] | Class B Preferred Stock [Member]
Balance	$ 3	$ 3	$ 3
Balance, shares	3,235,000	3,235,000	3,236,000
Net income
Compensation and benefits paid or payable in shares
Compensation and benefits paid or payable in shares, shares
Conversion of Class B shares to Class A shares, shares			(1,000)
Options exercised
Options exercised, shares
Shares issued to Directors'
Shares issued to Directors', shares	(1,000)
Dividends declared
Cumulative translation adjustments
Pension and postretirement liability adjustments
Derivative valuation adjustment
Balance	$ 3	$ 3	$ 3
Balance, shares	3,234,000	3,235,000	3,235,000
Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]
Balance	$ 423,108	$ 418,972	$ 416,728
Net income
Compensation and benefits paid or payable in shares	1,980	1,540	1,234
Conversion of Class B shares to Class A shares
Changes in equity related to Noncontrolling interest in ASC			(24)
Options exercised	667	2,520	974
Shares issued to Directors'	198	76	60
Dividends declared
Cumulative translation adjustments
Pension and postretirement liability adjustments
Derivative valuation adjustment
Balance	425,953	423,108	418,972
Retained Earnings [Member]
Balance	491,950	456,105	434,598
Net income	52,733	57,279	41,569
Compensation and benefits paid or payable in shares
Conversion of Class B shares to Class A shares
Changes in equity related to Noncontrolling interest in ASC
Options exercised
Shares issued to Directors'
Dividends declared	(21,828)	(21,434)	(20,062)
Cumulative translation adjustments
Pension and postretirement liability adjustments
Derivative valuation adjustment
Balance	522,855	491,950	456,105
Accumulated items of other comprehensive income
Balance	(158,844)	(107,767)	(49,498)
Net income
Compensation and benefits paid or payable in shares
Conversion of Class B shares to Class A shares
Changes in equity related to Noncontrolling interest in ASC
Options exercised
Shares issued to Directors'
Dividends declared
Cumulative translation adjustments	(24,643)	(53,415)	(55,102)
Pension and postretirement liability adjustments	(2,994)	2,941	(3,283)
Derivative valuation adjustment	2,292	(603)	116
Balance	(184,189)	(158,844)	(107,767)
Treasury Stock [Member]
Balance	$ (257,391)	$ (257,481)	$ (257,571)
Balance, shares	8,455,000	8,459,000	8,464,000
Net income
Compensation and benefits paid or payable in shares
Compensation and benefits paid or payable in shares, shares
Conversion of Class B shares to Class A shares
Conversion of Class B shares to Class A shares, shares
Changes in equity related to Noncontrolling interest in ASC
Options exercised
Options exercised, shares
Shares issued to Directors'	$ 255	$ 90	$ 90
Shares issued to Directors', shares	(12,000)	(4,000)	(5,000)
Dividends declared
Cumulative translation adjustments
Pension and postretirement liability adjustments
Derivative valuation adjustment
Balance	$ (257,136)	$ (257,391)	$ (257,481)
Balance, shares	8,443,000	8,455,000	8,459,000
Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Balance	$ 3,690	$ 3,699	$ 3,482
Net income	79	(14)	180
Compensation and benefits paid or payable in shares	0
Conversion of Class B shares to Class A shares
Changes in equity related to Noncontrolling interest in ASC			38
Options exercised	0
Shares issued to Directors'
Dividends declared
Cumulative translation adjustments	(2)	5	(1)
Pension and postretirement liability adjustments
Derivative valuation adjustment
Balance	$ 3,767	$ 3,690	$ 3,699

Quarterly Financial Data (Sched

Quarterly Financial Data (Schedule of Quarterly Data) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended												12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Net sales	$ 213,000	$ 191,300	$ 203,200	$ 172,300	$ 177,500	$ 178,800	$ 172,300	$ 181,300	$ 191,600	$ 179,900	$ 193,500	$ 180,300	$ 779,839	$ 709,868	$ 745,345
Gross profit	77,400	72,400	78,300	72,500	71,700	75,700	54,600	76,700	72,900	68,600	75,300	74,800	300,568	278,686	291,635
Net income/(loss) attributable to the Company	$ 15,800	$ 13,100	$ 10,400	$ 13,500	$ 37,600	$ 9,700	$ (2,200)	$ 12,200	$ 8,000	$ 11,800	$ 11,200	$ 10,600	$ 52,733	$ 57,279	$ 41,569
Basic earnings per share	$ 0.49	$ 0.41	$ 0.32	$ 0.42	$ 1.18	$ 0.30	$ (0.07)	$ 0.38	$ 0.26	$ 0.37	$ 0.35	$ 0.33	$ 1.64	$ 1.79	$ 1.31
Diluted earnings per share	0.49	0.41	0.32	0.42	1.18	0.30	(0.07)	0.38	0.25	0.37	0.35	0.33	1.64	1.79	1.30
Cash dividends per share	0.17	0.17	0.17	0.17	0.17	0.17	0.17	0.16	0.16	0.16	0.16	0.15	$ 0.68	$ 0.67	$ 0.63
Minimum [Member]
Class A Common Stock prices:	38.65	38.92	37.27	31.43	28.19	28.28	39.15	34.13	32.46	34.04	33.67	32.85
Maximum [Member]
Class A Common Stock prices:	$ 49.25	$ 43.78	$ 41.31	$ 38.21	$ 39.25	$ 40.21	$ 41.15	$ 40.31	$ 38.15	$ 38.53	$ 38.01	$ 37.59

Quarterly Financial Data (Narra

Quarterly Financial Data (Narrative) (Details)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016owners$ / shares	Sep. 30, 2016$ / shares	Jun. 30, 2016$ / shares	Mar. 31, 2016$ / shares	Dec. 31, 2015$ / shares	Sep. 30, 2015$ / shares	Jun. 30, 2015$ / shares	Mar. 31, 2015$ / shares	Dec. 31, 2014$ / shares	Sep. 30, 2014$ / shares	Jun. 30, 2014$ / shares	Mar. 31, 2014$ / shares
Quarterly Financial Data [Abstract]
Restructuring charges, per share	$ 0.01	$ 0.01	$ 0.13	$ 0.01	$ 0.21	$ 0.07	$ 0.02	$ 0.18	$ 0.04	$ 0.02	$ 0.04	$ 0.02
Business acquistion adjustment decreased earing, per share	0	0.03
Costs related the acquisition transaction reduced earnings per share	0	0	0.08	0.03
Discrete income tax adjustments, per share	$ 0.04	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0.03	$ 0.85	$ (0.15)	$ 0	(0.01)
Gain related to the sale of investment, per share								$ 0.02
Gain related to insurance recovery, per share										$ 0.01	$ 0.03
Pension plan settlement, per share									$ 0.16
Number of beneficial owners, including employees owning shares through the Company's 401(k) | owners	7,500

VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACC116

VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member]
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period		$ 8,530	$ 8,713	$ 11,274
Charge to expense		23	744	(341)
Other	[1]	(1,601)	(927)	(2,220)
Balance at end of the period		6,952	8,530	8,713
Allowance for Sales Returns [Member]
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period		14,024	17,265	22,428
Charge to expense		10,851	10,640	13,879
Other	[1]	(11,161)	(13,881)	(19,042)
Balance at end of the period		13,714	14,024	17,265
Valuation Allowance Deferred Tax Assets [Member]
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period		24,439	21,860	49,987
Charge to expense		(88)	75	(3,347)
Other	[1]	(1,530)	2,504	(24,780)
Balance at end of the period		$ 22,821	$ 24,439	$ 21,860
[1]	Amounts sold, written off, or recovered, and the effect of changes in currency translation rates, are included in Column D.