AVX (AVX) 10-Q 5 Feb 15 2015 Q3 Quarterly report Financial data

Document_And_Entity_Informatio

Document And Entity Information	9 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Feb. 02, 2015
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Document Type	10-Q
Amendment Flag	FALSE
Document Period End Date	31-Dec-14
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q3
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2015
Entity Registrant Name	AVX Corp
Entity Central Index Key	859163
Current Fiscal Year End Date	-28
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		168,301,163
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Trading Symbol	AVX

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents	$330,573	$460,674
Short-term investments in securities	510,129	413,615
Accounts receivable - trade, net	181,094	206,417
Accounts receivable - affiliates	1,918	2,028
Inventories	535,944	550,518
Income taxes receivable	68,495	71,346
Deferred income taxes	74,895	31,896
Prepaid and other	39,317	32,229
Total current assets	1,742,365	1,768,723
Long-term investments in securities	150,139	25,000
Property and equipment	1,541,009	1,636,796
Accumulated depreciation	-1,332,571	-1,401,071
Property and equipment, net	208,438	235,725
Goodwill	213,051	213,051
Intangible assets, net	63,874	67,735
Deferred income taxes - non-current	14,581	65,524
Other assets	9,824	9,230
Total Assets	2,402,272	2,384,988
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Accounts payable - trade	37,777	49,576
Accounts payable - affiliates	34,287	45,058
Income taxes payable	10,123	2,956
Deferred income taxes	863	952
Accrued payroll and benefits	36,103	38,867
Accrued expenses	153,046	24,525
Total current liabilities	272,199	161,934
Pensions	12,609	18,267
Deferred income taxes - non-current	4,559	5,453
Other liabilities	29,948	151,649
Total Liabilities	319,315	337,303
Commitments and contingencies (Note 8)
Stockholders' Equity:
Preferred stock, par value $.01 per share: Authorized, 20,000 shares; None issued and outstanding
Common stock, par value $.01 per share: Authorized, 300,000 shares; issued, 176,368 shares; outstanding, 168,221 and 168,327 shares at March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2014, respectively	1,764	1,764
Additional paid-in capital	352,737	351,708
Retained earnings	1,864,615	1,789,856
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-33,517	8,126
Treasury stock, at cost: 8,148 and 8,401 shares at March 31 and December 31, 2014, respectively	-102,642	-103,769
Total Stockholders' Equity	2,082,957	2,047,685
Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity	$2,402,272	$2,384,988

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014
Consolidated Balance Sheets [Abstract]
Preferred stock, par value	$0.01	$0.01
Preferred stock, shares authorized	20,000,000	20,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued
Preferred stock, shares outstanding
Common stock, par value	$0.01	$0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	300,000,000	300,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	176,368,000	176,368,000
Common stock, shares outstanding	168,327,000	168,221,000
Treasury stock, shares	8,401,000	8,148,000

Consolidated_Statements_of_Ope

Consolidated Statements of Operations (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Consolidated Statements of Operations [Abstract]
Net sales	$321,687	$346,211	$1,037,681	$1,091,375
Cost of sales	243,010	278,445	786,054	883,812
Gross profit	78,677	67,766	251,627	207,563
Selling, general and administrative expenses	28,290	32,193	85,548	91,389
Profit from operations	50,387	35,573	166,079	116,174
Other income (expense):
Interest income	1,129	1,252	3,373	3,848
Other, net	1,196	373	227	-979
Income before income taxes	52,712	37,198	169,679	119,043
Provision for income taxes	13,759	5,764	45,334	31,136
Net income	$38,953	$31,434	$124,345	$87,907
Income (loss) per share:
Basic	$0.23	$0.19	$0.74	$0.52
Diluted	$0.23	$0.19	$0.74	$0.52
Dividends declared per share:	$0.11	$0.10	$0.30	$0.27
Weighted average common shares outstanding:
Basic	168,164	168,428	168,117	168,554
Diluted	168,442	168,700	168,375	168,734

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Net income	$38,953	$31,434	$124,345	$87,907
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes
Foreign currency translation adjustment	-12,227	-6,035	-40,593	3,526
Foreign currency cash flow hedges adjustment	-397	-1,576	-1,289	-865
Pension liability adjustment	55	1,073	239	2,937
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes	-12,569	-6,538	-41,643	5,598
Comprehensive income	$26,384	$24,896	$82,702	$93,505

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cas

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Operating Activities:
Net income	$124,345	$87,907
Adjustment to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash from operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	31,090	37,116
Stock-based compensation expense	1,208	1,080
Deferred income taxes	6,094	41,970
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable	24,762	13,033
Inventories	2,280	-15,037
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	107,651	-35,760
Income taxes payable	8,191	6,408
Other assets	-12,692	-25,986
Other liabilities	-128,570	-121,894
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	164,359	-11,163
Investing Activities:
Purchases of property and equipment	-19,134	-18,149
Purchase of business, net of cash acquired		-1,600
Purchases of investment securities	-909,356	-520,361
Redemptions of investment securities	685,027	575,743
Proceeds from property and equipment dispositions	52	785
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	-243,411	36,418
Financing Activities:
Dividends paid	-49,584	-44,272
Purchase of treasury stock	-4,335	-8,788
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	4,863	4,020
Excess tax benefit from stock-based payment arrangements	419	200
Net cash used in financing activities	-48,637	-48,840
Effect of exchange rate on cash	-2,412	290
Decrease in cash and cash equivalents	-130,101	-23,295
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	460,674	486,724
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$330,573	$463,429

Basis_of_Presentation

Basis of Presentation	9 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Basis of Presentation [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	1. Basis of Presentation:
	The consolidated financial statements of AVX Corporation and its subsidiaries (“AVX” or the “Company”) include all accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries. All significant intercompany transactions and accounts have been eliminated. We have prepared the accompanying financial statements pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) for interim financial reporting. These consolidated financial statements are unaudited and, in the opinion of management, include all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring adjustments and accruals, necessary for the fair statement of the consolidated balance sheets, operating results, comprehensive income (loss), and cash flows for the periods presented. Operating results for the three and nine month periods ended December 31, 2014 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2015 due to changes in economic conditions and other factors. Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States have been omitted in accordance with the rules and regulations of the SEC. These consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2014.
	Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates:
	We have identified the accounting policies and estimates that are critical to our business operations and understanding our results of operations. Those policies and estimates can be found in Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies”, of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements and in “Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates”, in “Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2014. Accordingly, this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q should be read in conjunction with our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2014. During the three and nine month periods ended December 31, 2014, there were no significant changes to any critical accounting policies or to the methodology used in determining estimates including those related to investment securities, revenue recognition, inventories, goodwill, intangible assets, property and equipment, income taxes, and contingencies.
	New Accounting Standards
	In April 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-08, which changes the criteria for determining which disposals are required to be presented as discontinued operations. The changes require a disposal of a component of an entity or a group of components of an entity to be reported in discontinued operations if the disposal represents a strategic shift that has, or will have, a major effect on an entity’s operations and financial results when any of the following occurs: (i) the component of an entity or group of components of an entity meets the criteria to be classified as held for sale, (ii) the component of an entity or group of components of an entity is disposed of by sale, or (iii) the component of an entity or group of components of an entity is disposed of other than by sale. The amendments apply on a prospective basis to disposals of components of an entity that occur within annual periods beginning on or after December 15, 2014 and interim periods within those years, with early adoption permitted. The implementation of the amended accounting guidance on January 1, 2015 is not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
	In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers.” This guidance modifies the financial reporting of revenue and how an entity will determine the measurement of revenue and timing of when it is recognized. The guidance provides for a five-step approach in applying the standard: 1) identifying the contract with the customer, 2) identifying separate performance obligations in the contract, 3) determining the transaction price, 4) allocating the transaction price to separate performance obligations, and 5) recognizing the revenue when the performance obligation has been satisfied. The new guidance requires enhanced disclosures for the nature, amount, timing, and uncertainty of revenue that is being recognized. The guidance is effective for public companies for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016.  Companies may use either a full retrospective or a modified retrospective approach to adopt ASU 2014-09. Early adoption is not permitted. Management is currently evaluating the impact of this guidance on our consolidated financial statements.
	In August 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-15, “Presentation of Financial Statements - Going Concern (Subtopic 205-40); Disclosure of Uncertainties about an Entity’s Ability to Continue as a Going Concern.” This update requires management to evaluate whether there is substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. This update is effective for the annual period ending after December 15, 2016, and for annual and interim periods thereafter. Early adoption is permitted. The implementation of this standard is not expected to have an impact on our consolidated financial statements upon adoption.
	We have reviewed other newly issued accounting pronouncements and concluded that they are either not applicable to our business or that no material effect is expected on our consolidated financial statements as a result of adoption.

Earnings_Per_Share

Earnings Per Share	9 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings Per Share	2. Earnings Per Share:
	Basic earnings per share are computed by dividing net earnings by the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per share are computed by dividing net earnings by the sum of (a) the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period and (b) the dilutive effect of potential common stock equivalents during the period. Stock options are the only common stock equivalents currently used in our calculation and are computed using the treasury stock method.
	The table below represents the basic and diluted earnings per share and sets forth the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding and potential common stock equivalents:
		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
		December 31,				December 31,
		2013		2014		2013		2014
	Net income	$	31,434	$	38,953	$	87,907	$	124,345
	Computation of Basic EPS:
	Weighted Average Shares Outstanding used in Computing Basic EPS		168,428		168,164		168,554		168,117
	Basic earnings per share	$	0.19	$	0.23	$	0.52	$	0.74
	Computation of Diluted EPS:
	Weighted Average Shares Outstanding used in Computing Basic EPS		168,428		168,164		168,554		168,117
	Effect of stock options		272		278		180		258
	Weighted Average Shares used in Computing Diluted EPS (1)		168,700		168,442		168,734		168,375
	Diluted earnings per share	$	0.19	$	0.23	$	0.52	$	0.74
	(1) Common stock equivalents not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because the impact would have been antidilutive were 2,282 shares and 1,750 shares for the three months ended December 31, 2013 and 2014, respectively and 3,051 and 2,321 for the nine months ended December 31, 2013 and 2014, respectively.

Trade_Accounts_Receivable

Trade Accounts Receivable	9 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Trade Accounts Receivable [Abstract]
Trade Accounts Receivable	3. Trade Accounts Receivable:
		31-Mar-14		31-Dec-14
	Gross Accounts Receivable - Trade	$	230,321	$	206,591
	Less:
	Allowances for doubtful accounts		410		580
	Stock rotation and ship from stock and debit		17,138		18,096
	Sales returns and discounts		6,356		6,821
	Total allowances		23,904		25,497
		$	206,417	$	181,094
	Charges related to allowances for doubtful accounts are charged to selling, general and administrative expenses. Charges related to stock rotation, ship from stock and debit, sales returns, and sales discounts are reported as deductions from revenue.
		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
		December 31,				December 31,
		2013		2014		2013		2014
	Allowances for doubtful accounts:
	Beginning Balance	$	389	$	579	$	705	$	410
	Charges		-3		-		45		185
	Applications		6		1		-358		-15
	Ending Balance	$	392	$	580	$	392	$	580
		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
		December 31,				December 31,
		2013		2014		2013		2014
	Stock rotation and ship from stock and debit:
	Beginning Balance	$	15,448	$	18,104	$	14,771	$	17,138
	Charges		9,587		8,377		30,753		27,428
	Applications		-8,646		-8,385		-29,135		-26,470
	Ending Balance	$	16,389	$	18,096	$	16,389	$	18,096
		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
		December 31,				December 31,
		2013		2014		2013		2014
	Sales returns and discounts:
	Beginning Balance	$	6,035	$	6,554	$	5,486	$	6,356
	Charges		7,872		5,970		16,532		15,396
	Applications		-7,489		-5,582		-15,632		-14,748
	Translation and other		-18		-121		14		-183
	Ending Balance	$	6,400	$	6,821	$	6,400	$	6,821

Fair_Value

Fair Value	9 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value [Abstract]
Fair Value	4. Fair Value:
	Fair Value Hierarchy:
	The fair value framework requires the categorization of assets and liabilities into three levels based upon the assumptions (inputs) used to value the assets or liabilities. Level 1 provides the most reliable measure of fair value, whereas Level 3 generally requires significant management judgment. The three levels are defined as follows:
		-		Level 1: Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities.
		-		Level 2: Observable inputs other than those included in Level 1. For example, quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets or quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in inactive markets.
		-		Level 3: Unobservable inputs reflecting management’s own assumptions about the inputs used in pricing the asset or liability.
	During the three and nine month periods ended December 31, 2013 and 2014, there have been no transfers of assets or liabilities between levels within the fair value hierarchy.
					Based on
					Quoted prices		Other
					in active		observable		Unobservable
		Fair Value at			markets		inputs		inputs
		31-Mar-14			(Level 1)		(Level 2)		(Level 3)
	Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
	Assets held in the non-qualified deferred	$	7,915		$	7,915	$	-	$	-
	compensation program(1)
	Foreign currency derivatives(2)		564			-		564		-
	Total	$	8,479		$	7,915	$	564	$	-
					Based on
					Quoted prices		Other
					in active		observable		Unobservable
		Fair Value at			markets		inputs		inputs
		31-Mar-14			(Level 1)		(Level 2)		(Level 3)
	Liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
	Obligation related to assets held in the non-qualified deferred compensation program(1)	$	7,915		$	7,915	$	-	$	-
	Foreign currency derivatives(2)		433			-		433		-
	Total	$	8,348		$	7,915	$	433	$	-
					Based on
					Quoted prices		Other
					in active		observable		Unobservable
		Fair Value at			markets		inputs		inputs
		31-Dec-14			(Level 1)		(Level 2)		(Level 3)
	Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
	Assets held in the non-qualified deferred	$	8,699		$	8,699	$	-	$	-
	compensation program(1)
	Foreign currency derivatives(2)		2,211			-		2,211		-
	Total	$	10,910		$	8,699	$	2,211	$	-
						Based on
					Quoted prices			Other
						in active		observable		Unobservable
		Fair Value at				markets	inputs		inputs
		31-Dec-14			(Level 1)		(Level 2)		(Level 3)
	Liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
	Obligation related to assets held in the non-qualified deferred compensation program(1)	$	8,699		$	8,699	$	-	$	-
	Foreign currency derivatives(2)		3,701			-		3,701		-
	Total	$	12,400		$	8,699	$	3,701	$	-
	(1) The market value of the assets held in the trust for the non-qualified deferred compensation program is included as an asset and as a liability as the trust’s assets are both assets of the Company and also a liability as they are available to general creditors in certain circumstances.
	(2) Foreign currency derivatives in the form of forward contracts are included in prepaid and other and accrued expenses in the consolidated balance sheets. Unrealized gains and losses on derivatives classified as cash flow hedges are recorded in other comprehensive income (loss). Realized gains and losses on derivatives classified as cash flow hedges are recorded in the consolidated statement of operations as revenues and costs of sales and gains and losses on derivatives not designated as hedges are recorded in other income.
	Valuation Techniques:
	The following describes valuation techniques used to appropriately value our assets held in the non-qualified deferred compensation plan and derivatives.
	Assets held in the non-qualified deferred compensation plan
	Assets valued using Level 1 inputs in the table above represent assets from our non-qualified deferred compensation program. The funds in the non-qualified deferred compensation program are valued based on the number of shares in the funds using a price per share traded in an active market.
	Investments are considered to be impaired when a decline in fair value is judged to be other-than-temporary. If the cost of an investment exceeds its fair value, among other factors, we evaluate general market conditions, the duration and extent to which the fair value is less than cost, and whether or not we expect to recover the security's entire amortized cost basis. Once a decline in fair value is determined to be other-than-temporary, an impairment charge is recorded and a new cost basis in the investment is established.
	Derivatives
	We primarily use forward contracts, with maturities generally less than four months, designated as cash flow hedges to protect against the foreign currency exchange rate risks inherent in our forecasted transactions related to purchase commitments and sales, denominated in various currencies. We also use derivatives not designated as hedging instruments to hedge foreign currency balance sheet exposures. These derivatives are used to offset currency changes in the fair value of the hedged assets and liabilities. Fair values for all of our derivative financial instruments are valued by adjusting the market spot rate by forward points, based on the date of the contract. The spot rates and forward points used are an average rate from an actively traded market. At March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2014, all of our forward contracts are Level 2 measurements.

Financial_Instruments_and_Inve

Financial Instruments and Investments in Securities	9 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Financial Instruments and Investments in Securities [Abstract]
Financial Instruments and Investments in Securities	5. Financial Instruments and Investments in Securities:
	At March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2014, we classified investments in debt securities and time deposits as held-to-maturity securities.
	Our long-term and short-term investment securities are accounted for as held-to-maturity securities and are carried at amortized cost. We have the ability and intent to hold these investments until maturity. All income generated from the held-to-maturity securities investments are recorded as interest income.
	Investments in held-to-maturity securities, recorded at amortized cost, were as follows:
		31-Mar-14
				Gross		Gross
				Unrealized		Unrealized		Estimated
		Cost		Gains		Losses		Fair Value
	Short-term investments:
	Corporate bonds	$	40,838	$	75	$	-	$	40,913
	Time deposits		372,777		245		-		373,022
	Long-term investments:
	Corporate bonds		25,000		13		-		25,013
		$	438,615	$	333	$	-	$	438,948
		31-Dec-14
				Gross		Gross
				Unrealized		Unrealized		Estimated
		Cost		Gains		Losses		Fair Value
	Short-term investments:
	Corporate bonds	$	43,664	$	-	$	-28	$	43,636
	Time deposits		466,465		180		-		466,645
	Long-term investments:
	Corporate bonds		150,139		34		-454		149,719
		$	660,268	$	214	$	-482	$	660,000
	The amortized cost and estimated fair value of held-to-maturity investments at December 31, 2014, by contractual maturity, are shown below. The estimated fair value of these investments are based on valuation inputs that include benchmark yields, reported trades, broker and dealer quotes, issuer spreads, two-sided markets, benchmark securities bids, offers, and reference data, which are Level 2 inputs in the fair value hierarchy. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because issuers may have the right to call or prepay obligations without call or prepayment penalties.
				Held-to-Maturity
				Amortized		Estimated
				Cost		Fair Value
	Due in one year or less			$	510,129	$	510,281
	Due after one year through five years				150,139		149,719
	Total			$	660,268	$	660,000

Inventories

Inventories	9 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Inventories [Abstract]
Inventories	6. Inventories:
		31-Mar-14		31-Dec-14
	Finished goods	$	109,053	$	98,584
	Work in process		109,315		111,521
	Raw materials and supplies		332,150		325,839
		$	550,518	$	535,944

StockBased_Compensation

Stock-Based Compensation	9 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]
Stock-Based Compensation	7. Stock-Based Compensation:
	In April 2014, we granted 498 options to employees pursuant to the 2014 Stock Option Plan described in Note 11, “Stock Based Compensation”, of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2014. The weighted average grant date fair value per share and the weighted average exercise price per share for these options are $2.75 and $13.32, respectively.
	In August 2014, we granted 15 options to employees pursuant to the 2014 Stock Option Plan described in Note 11, “Stock Based Compensation”, of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2014. The weighted average grant date fair value per share and the weighted average exercise price per share for these options are $2.72 and $13.40, respectively.
	There were 428 stock options exercised during the nine months ended December 31, 2014 with a total intrinsic value of $1,213.

Commitments_and_Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	9 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	8. Commitments and Contingencies:
	We have been identified by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”), state governmental agencies or other private parties as a potentially responsible party (“PRP”) under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (“CERCLA”) or equivalent state or local laws for clean-up and response costs associated with certain sites at which remediation is required with respect to prior contamination.  Because CERCLA or such state statutes authorize joint and several liability, the EPA or state regulatory authorities could seek to recover all clean-up costs from any one of the PRPs at a site despite the involvement of other PRPs.  At certain sites, financially responsible PRPs other than AVX also are, or have been, involved in site investigation and clean-up activities.  We believe that liability resulting from these sites will be apportioned between AVX and other PRPs.
	To resolve our liability at the sites at which we have been named a PRP, we have entered into various administrative orders and consent decrees with federal and state regulatory agencies governing the timing and nature of investigation and remediation.  As is customary, the orders and decrees regarding sites where the PRPs are not themselves implementing the chosen remedy contain provisions allowing the EPA to reopen the agreement and seek additional amounts from settling PRPs in the event that certain contingencies occur, such as the discovery of significant new information about site conditions.
	On October 10, 2012, the EPA, the United States, and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and AVX announced that they had reached a financial settlement with respect to the EPA’s ongoing clean-up of the New Bedford Harbor in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts (the “harbor”). Under the terms of the settlement, AVX was obligated to pay $366,250, plus interest computed from August 1, 2012, in three installments over a two-year period for use by the EPA and the Commonwealth to complete the clean-up of the harbor. On October 18, 2013, we paid the initial settlement installment of $133,350, plus accrued interest of $3,954.  On March 26, 2014, we prepaid a second settlement installment of $110,817, plus accrued interest of $822 on the remaining settlement amount through that date.  In accordance with the terms of the settlement, we are obligated to pay the remaining settlement balance of  $122,083, plus interest, on September 21, 2015.  We have the option to prepay any portion of the remaining settlement balance at any time prior to the due date.
	Also, on June 3, 2010, AVX entered into an agreement with the EPA and the City of New Bedford, pursuant to which AVX is required to perform environmental remediation at a site referred to as the “Aerovox Site” (the “Site”), located in New Bedford, Massachusetts. AVX has substantially completed its obligations pursuant to such agreement with the EPA and the City of New Bedford with respect to the satisfaction of AVX’s federal law requirements. Agreements with the state regulatory authorities have yet to be concluded but are likely to include additional groundwater remediation. We have a remaining accrual of $11,034 at December 31, 2014, representing our estimate of the potential liability related to the remaining performance of environmental remediation actions at the Site using certain assumptions regarding the plan of remediation. Since additional sampling and analysis may cause the state regulatory authority, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection, to require a more extensive and costly plan of remediation, until all parties agree and remediation is complete, we cannot be certain there will be no additional cost relating to the Site.
	We had total reserves of approximately $135,336 and $136,917 at March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2014, respectively, related to the various matters and specific sites discussed above. These reserves are classified in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as $4,353 and $127,017 in accrued expenses at March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2014, respectively, and $130,983 and $9,900 in other non-current liabilities at March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2014, respectively. The amounts recorded for identified contingent liabilities are based on estimates. Amounts recorded are reviewed periodically and adjusted to reflect additional legal and technical information that becomes available. Also, uncertainties about the status of laws, regulations, regulatory actions, technology, and information related to individual sites make it difficult to develop an estimate of the reasonably possible aggregate environmental remediation exposure.  Accordingly, these costs could differ from our current estimates.
	On November 27, 2007, a suit was filed in South Carolina State Court by individuals as a class action with respect to property adjacent to our Myrtle Beach, South Carolina factory claiming property values were negatively impacted by alleged migration of certain pollutants from our property. The parties agreed to a  $1,200 settlement of the action, which was approved by the Court on December 15, 2014. We have $1,200 in accrued costs and expenses with respect to this case as of December 31, 2014.
	On March 1, 2010, AVX was named as a third party defendant in a case filed in Massachusetts Superior Court captioned DaRosa v. City of New Bedford.  This case relates to a former disposal site in the City of New Bedford located at Parker Street. The City asserts that a predecessor company, Aerovox, among others, contributed to contamination at that site. We intend to defend vigorously the claims that have been asserted in this lawsuit. We are not able to estimate any amount of loss or range of loss at this time. No accrual for costs has been recorded and the potential impact of this case on our financial position, results of operations, comprehensive income (loss), and cash flows cannot be determined at this time.
	On October 16, 2014, a case was filed against AVX in Massachusetts Superior Court by the City of New Bedford arising from contamination at the City’s New Bedford Railyard. AVX had previously received formal demand from the City in the amount of approximately $11,000 related to activities by Aerovox. AVX believes it has meritorious defenses and intends to defend vigorously the case. We are not able to estimate any amount of loss or range of loss at this time. No accrual for costs has been recorded and the potential impact of this case on our financial position, results of operations, comprehensive income (loss), and cash flows cannot be determined at this time.
	We also operate on other sites that may have potential future environmental issues as a result of activities at sites during AVX’s long history of manufacturing operations or prior to the start of operations by AVX. Even though we may have rights of indemnity for such environmental matters at certain sites, regulatory agencies in those jurisdictions may require us to address such issues. Once it becomes probable that we will incur costs in connection with remediation of a site and such costs can be reasonably estimated, we establish reserves or adjust our reserves for our projected share of these costs. A separate account receivable is recorded for any indemnified costs. Our environmental reserves are not discounted and do not reflect any possible future insurance recoveries, which are not expected to be significant, but do reflect a reasonable estimate of cost sharing at multiple party sites or indemnification of our liability by a third party.
	On April 25, 2013, AVX was named as a defendant in a patent infringement case filed in the United States District Court for the District of Delaware captioned Greatbatch, Inc. v AVX Corporation.  This case alleges that certain AVX products infringe on one or more of six Greatbatch patents. We intend to defend vigorously the claims that have been asserted in this lawsuit.
	On September 2, 2014, a subsidiary of AVX, American Technical Ceramics (“ATC), was named as a defendant in a patent infringement case filed in the United States District Court for the District of Delaware captioned Presidio Components, Inc. v. American Technical Ceramics Corp. This case alleges that certain products of ATC’s infringe on a Presidio patent. We intend to defend vigorously the claims that have been asserted in this lawsuit. We are not able to estimate any amount of loss or range of loss at this time. No accrual for costs has been recorded and the potential impact of this case on our financial position, results of operations, comprehensive income (loss) and cash flows cannot be determined at this time.
	During the quarter ended September 30, 2014, AVX was named as a co-defendant in a series of cases filed in the United States and in the Canadian provinces of Quebec, Ontario and British Columbia alleging violations of United States, Canadian, and state antitrust laws asserting that AVX and numerous other companies are participants in alleged price-fixing in the capacitor market. The cases in the United States were consolidated into the Northern District of California on October 2, 2014. During the quarter ended December 31, 2014, additional Canadian cases were filed in the provinces of Quebec, Ontario, British Columbia, Saskatchewan and Manitoba. These cases are at the very initial stages. We intend to defend vigorously the claims that have been asserted in these lawsuits. In light of the foregoing, we are not able to estimate any amount of loss or range of loss. No accrual for costs has been recorded and the potential impact of these cases on our financial position, results of operations, comprehensive income (loss) and cash flows cannot be determined at this time.
	We are involved in disputes, warranty, and legal proceedings arising in the normal course of business. While we cannot predict the outcome of these disputes and proceedings, management believes, based upon a review with legal counsel, that none of these proceedings will have a material impact on our financial position, results of operations, comprehensive income (loss), or cash flows.

Comprehensive_Income_Loss

Comprehensive Income (Loss)	9 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract]
Comprehensive Income (Loss)
	9. Comprehensive Income (Loss):
	Comprehensive income (loss) represents changes in equity during a period except those resulting from investments by and distributions to shareholders. The specific components include net income, pension liability and other post-retirement benefit adjustments, deferred gains and losses resulting from foreign currency translation adjustments and unrealized gains and losses on qualified foreign currency cash flow hedges.
	Other comprehensive income (loss) includes the following components:
		Three Months Ended
		December 31,
		2013				2014
		Pre-tax		Net of Tax		Pre-tax		Net of Tax
	Foreign currency translation adjustment	$	-6,035	$	-6,035	$	-12,227	$	-12,227
	Foreign currency cash flow hedges adjustment		-1,875		-1,576		-490		-397
	Pension liability adjustment		1,490		1,073		72		55
	Other comprehensive income (loss)	$	-6,420	$	-6,538	$	-12,645	$	-12,569
		Nine Months Ended
		December 31,
		2013				2014
		Pre-tax		Net of Tax		Pre-tax		Net of Tax
	Foreign currency translation adjustment	$	3,526	$	3,526	$	-40,593	$	-40,593
	Foreign currency cash flow hedges adjustment		-954		-865		-1,557		-1,289
	Pension liability adjustment		4,079		2,937		315		239
	Other comprehensive income (loss)	$	6,651		5,598	$	-41,835	$	-41,643
	Amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into net income include those that pertain to the Company’s pension and postretirement benefit plans and realized gains and losses on derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges. Please see Note 11 for additional information related to the amortization of prior service cost and the recognized actuarial losses, which amounts are reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into net income and are included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the statement of operations during the three and nine month periods ended December 31, 2013 and 2014. Please see Note 12 for additional information related to realized gains and losses on derivative instruments reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into net income during the three and nine month periods ended December 31, 2013 and 2014.

Segment_and_Geographic_Informa

Segment and Geographic Information	9 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment and Geographic Information [Abstract]
Segment and Geographic Information	10. Segment and Geographic Information:
	We have three reportable segments: Passive Components, KED Resale, and Interconnect. The Passive Components segment consists primarily of surface mount and leaded ceramic capacitors, RF thick and thin film components, surface mount and leaded tantalum capacitors, surface mount and leaded film capacitors, ceramic and film power capacitors, super capacitors, EMI filters (bolt in and surface mount), thick and thin film packages of multiple passive integrated components, varistors, thermistors, inductors, and resistive products. The KED Resale segment consists primarily of ceramic capacitors, frequency control devices, SAW devices, sensor products, RF modules, actuators, acoustic devices, and connectors produced by Kyocera and resold by AVX. The Interconnect segment consists primarily of automotive, telecom, and memory connectors manufactured by AVX Interconnect and KCP Resale connector products. Sales and operating results from these reportable segments are shown in the tables below. In addition, we have a corporate administration group consisting of finance and administrative activities and a separate research and development group.
	We evaluate performance of our segments based upon sales and operating profit. There are no intersegment revenues. We allocate the costs of shared resources between segments based on each segment’s usage of the shared resources. Cash, accounts receivable, investments in securities, and certain other assets, which are centrally managed, are not readily allocable to operating segments.
	The tables below present information about reported segments:
		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
		December 31,				December 31,
	Sales Revenue:	2013		2014		2013		2014
	Ceramic Components	$	50,227	$	48,289	$	144,814	$	155,283
	Tantalum Components		96,270		82,876		295,452		272,810
	Advanced Components		86,605		88,668		264,711		270,223
	Total Passive Components		233,102		219,833		704,977		698,316
	KDP and KCD Resale		59,835		52,761		234,736		176,093
	KCP Resale		17,969		16,958		49,072		58,127
	Total KED Resale		77,804		69,719		283,808		234,220
	AVX Interconnect		35,305		32,135		102,590		105,145
	Total Revenue	$	346,211	$	321,687	$	1,091,375	$	1,037,681
		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
		December 31,				December 31,
		2013		2014		2013		2014
	Operating profit (loss):
	Passive Components	$	39,804	$	51,574	$	121,228	$	165,244
	KED Resale		3,736		6,053		15,044		16,695
	Interconnect		6,711		6,334		19,704		22,558
	Corporate activities		-14,678		-13,574		-39,802		-38,418
	Total	$	35,573	$	50,387	$	116,174	$	166,079
		As of		As of
		31-Mar-14		31-Dec-14
	Assets:
	Passive Components	$	744,821	$	709,998
	KED Resale		43,872		31,557
	Interconnect		51,012		50,054
	Cash, A/R, and investments in securities		1,107,734		1,173,948
	Goodwill - Passive components		202,774		202,774
	Goodwill - Interconnect		10,277		10,277
	Corporate activities		224,498		223,664
	Total	$	2,384,988	$	2,402,272
	The following geographic data is based upon net sales generated by operations located within particular geographic areas.  Substantially all of the sales in the Americas region were generated in the United States.
		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
			December 31,			December 31,
		2013		2014		2013		2014
	Net sales:
	Americas	$	99,295	$	95,801	$	305,795	$	302,192
	Europe		93,177		92,281		278,129		298,072
	Asia		153,739		133,605		507,451		437,417
	Total	$	346,211	$	321,687	$	1,091,375	$	1,037,681

Pension_Plans

Pension Plans	9 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Pension Plans [Abstract]
Pension Plans
	11. Pension Plans:
	Net periodic pension cost for our defined benefit plans consisted of the following for the three and nine months ended December  31, 2013 and 2014:
		U.S. Plans				International Plans
		Three Months Ended				Three Months Ended
		December 31,				December 31,
		2013		2014		2013		2014
	Service cost	$	116	$	49	$	220	$	237
	Interest cost		390		397		1,683		1,662
	Expected return on plan assets		-545		-552		-1,743		-1,948
	Amortization of prior service cost		-		-		5		-
	Recognized actuarial loss		284		201		662		466
	Net periodic pension cost	$	245	$	95	$	827	$	417
		U.S. Plans				International Plans
		Nine Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
		December 31,				December 31,
		2013		2014		2013		2014
	Service cost	$	348	$	147	$	651	$	753
	Interest cost		1,170		1,191		4,902		5,189
	Expected return on plan assets		-1,635		-1,657		-5,072		-6,079
	Amortization of prior service cost		-		-		9		-
	Recognized actuarial loss		852		603		1,925		1,453
	Net periodic pension cost	$	735	$	284	$	2,415	$	1,316
	Based on current actuarial computations, during the nine months ended December 31, 2014, we made contributions of $4,219 to the international plans. We expect to make additional contributions of approximately $2,000 to the international plans over the remainder of fiscal 2015. Based on current actuarial computations, we made a  contribution of $2,116 to the U.S. plans during the nine months ended December 31, 2014. We do not anticipate making any additional contributions to the U.S. plans for the remainder of the fiscal year.

Derivative_Financial_Instrumen

Derivative Financial Instruments	9 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Derivative Financial Instruments [Abstract]
Derivative Financial Instruments	12. Derivative Financial Instruments:
	We are exposed to foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations in the normal course of business.  We use derivative instruments (forward contracts) to hedge certain foreign currency exposures as part of our risk management strategy.  The objective is to offset gains and losses resulting from these exposures with gains and losses on the forward contracts used to hedge them, thereby reducing volatility of earnings or protecting fair values of assets and liabilities.  We do not enter into any trading or speculative positions with regard to derivative instruments.
	We primarily use forward contracts, with maturities less than four months, designated as cash flow hedges to protect against the foreign currency exchange rate risks inherent in our forecasted transactions related to purchase commitments and sales, denominated in various currencies.  These derivative instruments are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges.
	The effectiveness of the cash flow hedges is determined by comparing the cumulative change in the fair value of the hedge contract with the cumulative change in the fair value of the hedged transaction, both of which are based on forward rates.  The effective portion of the gain or loss on these cash flow hedges is initially recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) as a separate component of stockholders’ equity.  Once the hedged transaction is recognized, the gain or loss is recognized in our statement of operations.  At March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2014, respectively, the following forward contracts were entered into to hedge against the volatility of foreign currency exchange rates for certain forecasted sales and purchases.
		31-Mar-14
		Fair Value of Derivative Instruments
		Asset Derivatives			Liability Derivatives
		Balance			Balance
		Sheet	Fair		Sheet	Fair
		Caption	Value		Caption	Value
	Foreign exchange contracts	Prepaid and other	$	548	Accrued expenses	$	332
		31-Dec-14
		Fair Value of Derivative Instruments
		Asset Derivatives			Liability Derivatives
		Balance			Balance
		Sheet	Fair		Sheet	Fair
		Caption	Value		Caption	Value
	Foreign exchange contracts	Prepaid and other	$	1,583	Accrued expenses	$	2,924
	For these derivatives designated as hedging instruments, during the three and nine months ended December 31, 2014, net pre-tax gains (losses) of $(2,130) and $(3,083), respectively, were recognized in other comprehensive income (loss). In addition, during the three and nine months ended December 31, 2014, net pre-tax gains (losses) of $(5,529) and $(6,961), respectively, were reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income into cost of sales (for hedging purchases), and net pretax gains (losses) of $3,756 and $5,280,  respectively, were reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income into sales (for hedging sales) in the accompanying statement of operations.
	Derivatives not designated as cash flow hedging instruments consist primarily of forwards used to hedge foreign currency balance sheet exposures. These hedging instruments are used to offset foreign currency changes in the fair values of the underlying assets and liabilities. The gains and losses on these foreign currency forward contracts are recognized in other income in the same period as the remeasurement gains and losses of the related foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities and thus naturally offset these gains and losses. At March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2014, we had the following forward contracts that were entered into to hedge against these exposures.
		31-Mar-14
		Fair Value of Derivative Instruments
		Asset Derivatives			Liability Derivatives
		Balance			Balance
		Sheet	Fair		Sheet	Fair
		Caption	Value		Caption	Value
	Foreign exchange contracts	Prepaid and other	$	16	Accrued expenses	$	101
		31-Dec-14
		Fair Value of Derivative Instruments
		Asset Derivatives			Liability Derivatives
		Balance			Balance
		Sheet	Fair		Sheet	Fair
		Caption	Value		Caption	Value
	Foreign exchange contracts	Prepaid and other	$	628	Accrued expenses	$	777
	For these derivatives not designated as cash flow hedging instruments during the three and nine months ended December 31, 2014, gains/(losses) of $637 and $(269) respectively, on hedging contracts were recognized in other income, along with the approximately $513 and $327 in exchange losses that were recognized in other income in the accompanying statement of operations.
	At March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2014, we had outstanding foreign exchange contracts with notional amounts totaling $202,865 and $190,568, respectively, denominated primarily in euros, Czech korunas, British pounds, and Japanese yen.

Subsequent_Events

Subsequent Events	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events	13. Subsequent Events:
	On February 4, 2015, the Board of Directors of the Company declared a $0.105 dividend per share of common stock with respect to the quarter ended December 31, 2014.  The dividend will be paid to stockholders of record on February 20, 2015 and will be disbursed on March 6, 2015.

Basis_of_Presentation_Policy

Basis of Presentation (Policy)	9 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Basis of Presentation [Abstract]
New Accounting Standards	New Accounting Standards
	In April 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-08, which changes the criteria for determining which disposals are required to be presented as discontinued operations. The changes require a disposal of a component of an entity or a group of components of an entity to be reported in discontinued operations if the disposal represents a strategic shift that has, or will have, a major effect on an entity’s operations and financial results when any of the following occurs: (i) the component of an entity or group of components of an entity meets the criteria to be classified as held for sale, (ii) the component of an entity or group of components of an entity is disposed of by sale, or (iii) the component of an entity or group of components of an entity is disposed of other than by sale. The amendments apply on a prospective basis to disposals of components of an entity that occur within annual periods beginning on or after December 15, 2014 and interim periods within those years, with early adoption permitted. The implementation of the amended accounting guidance on January 1, 2015 is not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
	In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers.” This guidance modifies the financial reporting of revenue and how an entity will determine the measurement of revenue and timing of when it is recognized. The guidance provides for a five-step approach in applying the standard: 1) identifying the contract with the customer, 2) identifying separate performance obligations in the contract, 3) determining the transaction price, 4) allocating the transaction price to separate performance obligations, and 5) recognizing the revenue when the performance obligation has been satisfied. The new guidance requires enhanced disclosures for the nature, amount, timing, and uncertainty of revenue that is being recognized. The guidance is effective for public companies for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016.  Companies may use either a full retrospective or a modified retrospective approach to adopt ASU 2014-09. Early adoption is not permitted. Management is currently evaluating the impact of this guidance on our consolidated financial statements.
	In August 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-15, “Presentation of Financial Statements - Going Concern (Subtopic 205-40); Disclosure of Uncertainties about an Entity’s Ability to Continue as a Going Concern.” This update requires management to evaluate whether there is substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. This update is effective for the annual period ending after December 15, 2016, and for annual and interim periods thereafter. Early adoption is permitted. The implementation of this standard is not expected to have an impact on our consolidated financial statements upon adoption.
	We have reviewed other newly issued accounting pronouncements and concluded that they are either not applicable to our business or that no material effect is expected on our consolidated financial statements as a result of adoption.

Earnings_Per_Share_Tables

Earnings Per Share (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Basic and diluted weighted average number of shares of common stock and potential common stock equivalents
		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
		December 31,				December 31,
		2013		2014		2013		2014
	Net income	$	31,434	$	38,953	$	87,907	$	124,345
	Computation of Basic EPS:
	Weighted Average Shares Outstanding used in Computing Basic EPS		168,428		168,164		168,554		168,117
	Basic earnings per share	$	0.19	$	0.23	$	0.52	$	0.74
	Computation of Diluted EPS:
	Weighted Average Shares Outstanding used in Computing Basic EPS		168,428		168,164		168,554		168,117
	Effect of stock options		272		278		180		258
	Weighted Average Shares used in Computing Diluted EPS (1)		168,700		168,442		168,734		168,375
	Diluted earnings per share	$	0.19	$	0.23	$	0.52	$	0.74
	(1) Common stock equivalents not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because the impact would have been antidilutive were 2,282 shares and 1,750 shares for the three months ended December 31, 2013 and 2014, respectively and 3,051 and 2,321 for the nine months ended December 31, 2013 and 2014, respectively.

Trade_Accounts_Receivable_Tabl

Trade Accounts Receivable (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Trade Accounts Receivable
		31-Mar-14		31-Dec-14
	Gross Accounts Receivable - Trade	$	230,321	$	206,591
	Less:
	Allowances for doubtful accounts		410		580
	Stock rotation and ship from stock and debit		17,138		18,096
	Sales returns and discounts		6,356		6,821
	Total allowances		23,904		25,497
		$	206,417	$	181,094
Allowances for Doubtful Accounts [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Allowances
		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
		December 31,				December 31,
		2013		2014		2013		2014
	Allowances for doubtful accounts:
	Beginning Balance	$	389	$	579	$	705	$	410
	Charges		-3		-		45		185
	Applications		6		1		-358		-15
	Ending Balance	$	392	$	580	$	392	$	580
Stock Rotation And Ship From Stock And Debit [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Allowances
		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
		December 31,				December 31,
		2013		2014		2013		2014
	Stock rotation and ship from stock and debit:
	Beginning Balance	$	15,448	$	18,104	$	14,771	$	17,138
	Charges		9,587		8,377		30,753		27,428
	Applications		-8,646		-8,385		-29,135		-26,470
	Ending Balance	$	16,389	$	18,096	$	16,389	$	18,096
Sales Returns And Discounts [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Allowances
		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
		December 31,				December 31,
		2013		2014		2013		2014
	Sales returns and discounts:
	Beginning Balance	$	6,035	$	6,554	$	5,486	$	6,356
	Charges		7,872		5,970		16,532		15,396
	Applications		-7,489		-5,582		-15,632		-14,748
	Translation and other		-18		-121		14		-183
	Ending Balance	$	6,400	$	6,821	$	6,400	$	6,821

Fair_Value_Tables

Fair Value (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value [Abstract]
Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis
				Based on
				Quoted prices		Other
				in active		observable		Unobservable
		Fair Value at		markets		inputs		inputs
		31-Mar-14		(Level 1)		(Level 2)		(Level 3)
	Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
	Assets held in the non-qualified deferred	$	7,915	$	7,915	$	-	$	-
	compensation program(1)
	Foreign currency derivatives(2)		564		-		564		-
	Total	$	8,479	$	7,915	$	564	$	-
				Based on
				Quoted prices		Other
				in active		observable		Unobservable
		Fair Value at		markets		inputs		inputs
		31-Mar-14		(Level 1)		(Level 2)		(Level 3)
	Liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
	Obligation related to assets held in the non-qualified deferred compensation program(1)	$	7,915	$	7,915	$	-	$	-
	Foreign currency derivatives(2)		433		-		433		-
	Total	$	8,348	$	7,915	$	433	$	-
				Based on
				Quoted prices		Other
				in active		observable		Unobservable
		Fair Value at		markets		inputs		inputs
		31-Dec-14		(Level 1)		(Level 2)		(Level 3)
	Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
	Assets held in the non-qualified deferred	$	8,699	$	8,699	$	-	$	-
	compensation program(1)
	Foreign currency derivatives(2)		2,211		-		2,211		-
	Total	$	10,910	$	8,699	$	2,211	$	-
					Based on
				Quoted prices			Other
					in active		observable		Unobservable
		Fair Value at			markets	inputs		inputs
		31-Dec-14		(Level 1)		(Level 2)		(Level 3)
	Liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
	Obligation related to assets held in the non-qualified deferred compensation program(1)	$	8,699	$	8,699	$	-	$	-
	Foreign currency derivatives(2)		3,701		-		3,701		-
	Total	$	12,400	$	8,699	$	3,701	$	-
	(1) The market value of the assets held in the trust for the non-qualified deferred compensation program is included as an asset and as a liability as the trust’s assets are both assets of the Company and also a liability as they are available to general creditors in certain circumstances.
	(2) Foreign currency derivatives in the form of forward contracts are included in prepaid and other and accrued expenses in the consolidated balance sheets. Unrealized gains and losses on derivatives classified as cash flow hedges are recorded in other comprehensive income (loss). Realized gains and losses on derivatives classified as cash flow hedges are recorded in the consolidated statement of operations as revenues and costs of sales and gains and losses on derivatives not designated as hedges are recorded in other income.

Financial_Instruments_and_Inve1

Financial Instruments and Investments in Securities (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Financial Instruments and Investments in Securities [Abstract]
Investments in held-to-maturity securities, recorded at amortized cost
		31-Mar-14
				Gross		Gross
				Unrealized		Unrealized		Estimated
		Cost		Gains		Losses		Fair Value
	Short-term investments:
	Corporate bonds	$	40,838	$	75	$	-	$	40,913
	Time deposits		372,777		245		-		373,022
	Long-term investments:
	Corporate bonds		25,000		13		-		25,013
		$	438,615	$	333	$	-	$	438,948
		31-Dec-14
				Gross		Gross
				Unrealized		Unrealized		Estimated
		Cost		Gains		Losses		Fair Value
	Short-term investments:
	Corporate bonds	$	43,664	$	-	$	-28	$	43,636
	Time deposits		466,465		180		-		466,645
	Long-term investments:
	Corporate bonds		150,139		34		-454		149,719
		$	660,268	$	214	$	-482	$	660,000
Amortized cost and estimated fair value of held-to-maturity investments, by contractual maturity
				Held-to-Maturity
				Amortized		Estimated
				Cost		Fair Value
	Due in one year or less			$	510,129	$	510,281
	Due after one year through five years				150,139		149,719
	Total			$	660,268	$	660,000

Inventories_Tables

Inventories (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Inventories [Abstract]
Inventories
		31-Mar-14		31-Dec-14
	Finished goods	$	109,053	$	98,584
	Work in process		109,315		111,521
	Raw materials and supplies		332,150		325,839
		$	550,518	$	535,944

Comprehensive_Income_Loss_Tabl

Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract]
Comprehensive income (loss)
		Three Months Ended
		December 31,
		2013				2014
		Pre-tax		Net of Tax		Pre-tax		Net of Tax
	Foreign currency translation adjustment	$	-6,035	$	-6,035	$	-12,227	$	-12,227
	Foreign currency cash flow hedges adjustment		-1,875		-1,576		-490		-397
	Pension liability adjustment		1,490		1,073		72		55
	Other comprehensive income (loss)	$	-6,420	$	-6,538	$	-12,645	$	-12,569
		Nine Months Ended
		December 31,
		2013				2014
		Pre-tax		Net of Tax		Pre-tax		Net of Tax
	Foreign currency translation adjustment	$	3,526	$	3,526	$	-40,593	$	-40,593
	Foreign currency cash flow hedges adjustment		-954		-865		-1,557		-1,289
	Pension liability adjustment		4,079		2,937		315		239
	Other comprehensive income (loss)	$	6,651		5,598	$	-41,835	$	-41,643

Segment_and_Geographic_Informa1

Segment and Geographic Information (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment and Geographic Information [Abstract]
Information about reported segments
		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
		December 31,				December 31,
	Sales Revenue:	2013		2014		2013		2014
	Ceramic Components	$	50,227	$	48,289	$	144,814	$	155,283
	Tantalum Components		96,270		82,876		295,452		272,810
	Advanced Components		86,605		88,668		264,711		270,223
	Total Passive Components		233,102		219,833		704,977		698,316
	KDP and KCD Resale		59,835		52,761		234,736		176,093
	KCP Resale		17,969		16,958		49,072		58,127
	Total KED Resale		77,804		69,719		283,808		234,220
	AVX Interconnect		35,305		32,135		102,590		105,145
	Total Revenue	$	346,211	$	321,687	$	1,091,375	$	1,037,681
		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
		December 31,				December 31,
		2013		2014		2013		2014
	Operating profit (loss):
	Passive Components	$	39,804	$	51,574	$	121,228	$	165,244
	KED Resale		3,736		6,053		15,044		16,695
	Interconnect		6,711		6,334		19,704		22,558
	Corporate activities		-14,678		-13,574		-39,802		-38,418
	Total	$	35,573	$	50,387	$	116,174	$	166,079
		As of		As of
		31-Mar-14		31-Dec-14
	Assets:
	Passive Components	$	744,821	$	709,998
	KED Resale		43,872		31,557
	Interconnect		51,012		50,054
	Cash, A/R, and investments in securities		1,107,734		1,173,948
	Goodwill - Passive components		202,774		202,774
	Goodwill - Interconnect		10,277		10,277
	Corporate activities		224,498		223,664
	Total	$	2,384,988	$	2,402,272
Net sales generated by operations located within particular geographic areas
		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
			December 31,			December 31,
		2013		2014		2013		2014
	Net sales:
	Americas	$	99,295	$	95,801	$	305,795	$	302,192
	Europe		93,177		92,281		278,129		298,072
	Asia		153,739		133,605		507,451		437,417
	Total	$	346,211	$	321,687	$	1,091,375	$	1,037,681

Pension_Plans_Tables

Pension Plans (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Pension Plans [Abstract]
Net periodic cost for defined benefit plans
		U.S. Plans				International Plans
		Three Months Ended				Three Months Ended
		December 31,				December 31,
		2013		2014		2013		2014
	Service cost	$	116	$	49	$	220	$	237
	Interest cost		390		397		1,683		1,662
	Expected return on plan assets		-545		-552		-1,743		-1,948
	Amortization of prior service cost		-		-		5		-
	Recognized actuarial loss		284		201		662		466
	Net periodic pension cost	$	245	$	95	$	827	$	417
		U.S. Plans				International Plans
		Nine Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
		December 31,				December 31,
		2013		2014		2013		2014
	Service cost	$	348	$	147	$	651	$	753
	Interest cost		1,170		1,191		4,902		5,189
	Expected return on plan assets		-1,635		-1,657		-5,072		-6,079
	Amortization of prior service cost		-		-		9		-
	Recognized actuarial loss		852		603		1,925		1,453
	Net periodic pension cost	$	735	$	284	$	2,415	$	1,316

Derivative_Financial_Instrumen1

Derivative Financial Instruments (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Fair value of derivative instruments
		31-Mar-14
		Fair Value of Derivative Instruments
		Asset Derivatives			Liability Derivatives
		Balance			Balance
		Sheet	Fair		Sheet	Fair
		Caption	Value		Caption	Value
	Foreign exchange contracts	Prepaid and other	$	548	Accrued expenses	$	332
		31-Dec-14
		Fair Value of Derivative Instruments
		Asset Derivatives			Liability Derivatives
		Balance			Balance
		Sheet	Fair		Sheet	Fair
		Caption	Value		Caption	Value
	Foreign exchange contracts	Prepaid and other	$	1,583	Accrued expenses	$	2,924
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Fair value of derivative instruments
		31-Mar-14
		Fair Value of Derivative Instruments
		Asset Derivatives			Liability Derivatives
		Balance			Balance
		Sheet	Fair		Sheet	Fair
		Caption	Value		Caption	Value
	Foreign exchange contracts	Prepaid and other	$	16	Accrued expenses	$	101
		31-Dec-14
		Fair Value of Derivative Instruments
		Asset Derivatives			Liability Derivatives
		Balance			Balance
		Sheet	Fair		Sheet	Fair
		Caption	Value		Caption	Value
	Foreign exchange contracts	Prepaid and other	$	628	Accrued expenses	$	777

Earnings_Per_Share_Basic_and_d

Earnings Per Share (Basic and diluted weighted average number of shares of common stock and potential common stock equivalents) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended				9 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$38,953		$31,434		$124,345		$87,907
Weighted Average Shares Outstanding used in computing Basic EPS	168,164		168,428		168,117		168,554
Basic earnings (loss) per share	$0.23		$0.19		$0.74		$0.52
Effect of stock options	278	[1]	272	[1]	258	[1]	180	[1]
Weighted Average Shares used in computing Diluted EPS	168,442		168,700		168,375		168,734
Diluted income (loss) per share	$0.23		$0.19		$0.74		$0.52
Antidilutive Securities excluded from computation of diluted EPS	1,750		2,282		2,321		3,051
[1]	Common stock equivalents not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because the impact would have been antidilutive were 2,282 shares and 1,750 shares for the three months ended December 31, 2013 and 2014, respectively and 3,051 and 2,321 for the nine months ended December 31, 2013 and 2014, respectively.

Trade_Accounts_Receivable_Trad

Trade Accounts Receivable (Trade Accounts Receivable) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Gross Accounts Receivable - Trade	$206,591		$230,321
Allowances	25,497		23,904
Net Accounts Receivable - Trade	181,094		206,417
Allowances for Doubtful Accounts [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Allowances	580	579	410	392	389	705
Stock Rotation And Ship From Stock And Debit [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Allowances	18,096	18,104	17,138	16,389	15,448	14,771
Sales Returns And Discounts [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Allowances	$6,821	$6,554	$6,356	$6,400	$6,035	$5,486

Trade_Accounts_Receivable_Allo

Trade Accounts Receivable (Allowances) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2014
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses [Line Items]
Beginning Balance					$23,904
Ending Balance	25,497		25,497		23,904
Allowances for Doubtful Accounts [Member]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	579	389	410	705
Charges		-3	185	45
Applications	1	6	-15	-358
Ending Balance	580	392	580	392
Stock Rotation And Ship From Stock And Debit [Member]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	18,104	15,448	17,138	14,771
Charges	8,377	9,587	27,428	30,753
Applications	-8,385	-8,646	-26,470	-29,135
Ending Balance	18,096	16,389	18,096	16,389
Sales Returns And Discounts [Member]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	6,554	6,035	6,356	5,486
Charges	5,970	7,872	15,396	16,532
Applications	-5,582	-7,489	-14,748	-15,632
Translation and other	-121	-18	-183	14
Ending Balance	$6,821	$6,400	$6,821	$6,400

Fair_Value_Measurement_Inputs_

Fair Value (Measurement Inputs) (Details) (Recurring Basis [Member], USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014		Mar. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets held in the non-qualified deferred compensation program	$8,699		$7,915	[1]
Foreign currency derivatives	2,211	[1]	564	[2]
Assets measured at fair value, Total	10,910	[2]	8,479
Obligation related to assets held in the non-qualified deferred compensation program	8,699	[1]	7,915	[1]
Foreign currency derivatives	3,701	[2]	433	[2]
Liabilities measured at fair value, Total	12,400		8,348
Quoted Prices In Active Markets (Level 1) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets held in the non-qualified deferred compensation program	8,699		7,915	[1]
Foreign currency derivatives		[1]		[2]
Assets measured at fair value, Total	8,699	[2]	7,915
Obligation related to assets held in the non-qualified deferred compensation program	8,699	[1]	7,915	[1]
Foreign currency derivatives		[2]		[2]
Liabilities measured at fair value, Total	8,699		7,915
Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets held in the non-qualified deferred compensation program				[1]
Foreign currency derivatives	2,211	[1]	564	[2]
Assets measured at fair value, Total	2,211	[2]	564
Obligation related to assets held in the non-qualified deferred compensation program		[1]		[1]
Foreign currency derivatives	3,701	[2]	433	[2]
Liabilities measured at fair value, Total	3,701		433
Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets held in the non-qualified deferred compensation program				[1]
Foreign currency derivatives		[1]		[2]
Assets measured at fair value, Total		[2]
Obligation related to assets held in the non-qualified deferred compensation program		[1]		[1]
Foreign currency derivatives		[2]		[2]
Liabilities measured at fair value, Total
[1]	The market value of the assets held in the trust for the non-qualified deferred compensation program is included as an asset and as a liability as the trustbs assets are both assets of the Company and also a liability as they are available to general creditors in certain circumstances.
[2]	Foreign currency derivatives in the form of forward contracts are included in prepaid and other and accrued expenses in the consolidated balance sheets. Unrealized gains and losses on derivatives classified as cash flow hedges are recorded in other comprehensive income (loss). Realized gains

Financial_Instruments_and_Inve2

Financial Instruments and Investments in Securities (Investments in held-to-maturity securities, recorded at amortized cost) (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]
Cost	$660,268	$438,615
Gross Unrealized Gains	214	333
Gross Unrealized Losses	-482
Estimated Fair Value	660,000	438,948
Short-Term Investments [Member] | Corporate Bonds [Member]
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]
Short-term investments, Cost	43,664	40,838
Gross Unrealized Gains		75
Gross Unrealized Losses	-28
Estimated Fair Value	43,636	40,913
Short-Term Investments [Member] | Time Deposits [Member]
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]
Short-term investments, Cost	466,465	372,777
Gross Unrealized Gains	180	245
Gross Unrealized Losses
Estimated Fair Value	466,645	373,022
Long-Term Investments [Member] | Corporate Bonds [Member]
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]
Long-term investment, Cost	150,139	25,000
Gross Unrealized Gains	34	13
Gross Unrealized Losses	-454
Estimated Fair Value	$149,719	$25,013

Financial_Instruments_and_Inve3

Financial Instruments and Investments in Securities (Amortized cost and estimated fair value of held-to-maturity investments by contractual maturity) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Financial Instruments and Investments in Securities [Abstract]
Due in one year or less, Amortized Cost	$510,129
Due after one year through five years, Amortized Cost	150,139
Total, Amortized Cost	660,268
Due in one year or less, Estimated Fair Value	510,281
Due after one year through five years, Estimated Fair Value	149,719
Held-to-maturity Securities, Fair Value, Total	$660,000	$438,948

Inventories_Details

Inventories (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Inventories [Abstract]
Finished goods	$98,584	$109,053
Work in process	111,521	109,315
Raw materials and supplies	325,839	332,150
Total Inventory	$535,944	$550,518

StockBased_Compensation_Detail

Stock-Based Compensation (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total intrinsic value of stock options exercised during period	$1,213
Stock options exercised during period	428
2014 Stock Option Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Granted options		15	498
Weighted average grant date fair value per share		$2.72	$2.75
Weighted average exercise price per share		$13.40	$13.32

Commitments_and_Contingencies_

Commitments and Contingencies (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended		9 Months Ended	0 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2014	Oct. 18, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Oct. 16, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Payments for Legal Settlements	$110,817,000	$133,350,000
Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies			11,034,000
Contractual Obligation, Due in Second Year			122,083,000
Litigation Settlement Interest		3,954,000	822,000
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies			1,200,000
Unfavorable Regulatory Action [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Environmental reserves			136,917,000,000		135,336,000,000
Environmental reserves classified as accrued expenses			127,017,000,000		4,353,000,000
Environmental reserves classified as other non-current liabilities			9,900,000,000		130,983,000,000
Unilateral Administrative Order [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Site Contingency, Timing of Disbursements			2 years
Site Contingency, Number of Disbursements			3
Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies			366,250,000,000
Subsequent Event [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Value				$11,000,000

Comprehensive_Income_Loss_Deta

Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract]
Foreign currency translation adjustment, Pre-tax	($12,227)	($6,035)	($40,593)	$3,526
Foreign currency cash flow hedges adjustment, Pre-tax	-490	-1,875	-1,557	-954
Pension liability adjustment, Pre-tax	72	1,490	315	4,079
Other comprehensive income (loss), Pre-tax	-12,645	-6,420	-41,835	6,651
Foreign currency translation adjustment, Net of tax	-12,227	-6,035	-40,593	3,526
Foreign currency cash flow hedges adjustment, Net of tax	-397	-1,576	-1,289	-865
Pension liability adjustment, Net of tax	55	1,073	239	2,937
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes	($12,569)	($6,538)	($41,643)	$5,598

Segment_and_Geographic_Informa2

Segment and Geographic Information (Information about reporting segments, net sales) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net Sales	$321,687	$346,211	$1,037,681	$1,091,375
Passive Components [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net Sales	219,833	233,102	698,316	704,977
Ceramic Components [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net Sales	48,289	50,227	155,283	144,814
Tantalum Components [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net Sales	82,876	96,270	272,810	295,452
Advanced Components [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net Sales	88,668	86,605	270,223	264,711
KED Resale [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net Sales	69,719	77,804	234,220	283,808
KDP And KCD Resale [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net Sales	52,761	59,835	176,093	234,736
KCP Resale [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net Sales	16,958	17,969	58,127	49,072
Interconnect [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net Sales	$32,135	$35,305	$105,145	$102,590

Segment_and_Geographic_Informa3

Segment and Geographic Information (Information about reporting segments, operating profit) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating profit (loss)	$50,387	$35,573	$166,079	$116,174
Passive Components [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating profit (loss)	51,574	39,804	165,244	121,228
KED Resale [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating profit (loss)	6,053	3,736	16,695	15,044
Interconnect [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating profit (loss)	6,334	6,711	22,558	19,704
Corporate Administration [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating profit (loss)	($13,574)	($14,678)	($38,418)	($39,802)

Segment_and_Geographic_Informa4

Segment and Geographic Information (Information about reporting segments, assets) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	$2,402,272	$2,384,988
Passive Components [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	709,998	744,821
Cash A/R And Investments In Securities [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	1,173,948	1,107,734
KED Resale [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	31,557	43,872
Goodwill - Passive Components [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	202,774	202,774
Interconnect [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	50,054	51,012
Goodwill - Interconnect [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	10,277	10,277
Corporate Administration [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	$223,664	$224,498

Segment_and_Geographic_Informa5

Segment and Geographic Information (Net sales generated by operations located within particular geographic areas) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net sales	$321,687	$346,211	$1,037,681	$1,091,375
Americas [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net sales	95,801	99,295	302,192	305,795
Europe [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net sales	92,281	93,177	298,072	278,129
Asia [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net sales	$133,605	$153,739	$437,417	$507,451

Pension_Plans_Narrative_Detail

Pension Plans (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014
International Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Contributions made	$4,219
Expected additional contributions	2,000
United States Postretirement Benefit Plan of US Entity, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Contributions made	$2,116

Pension_Plans_Net_periodic_pen

Pension Plans (Net periodic pension cost for defined benefit plans) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended		3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013
U.S. Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost	$49	$116	$147	$348
Interest cost	397	390	1,191	1,170
Expected return on plan assets	-552	-545	-1,657	-1,635
Amortization of prior service cost
Recognized actuarial loss	201	284	603	852
Net periodic pension cost	95	245	284	735
International Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost	237		753	651	220
Interest cost	1,662		5,189	4,902	1,683
Expected return on plan assets	-1,948		-6,079	-5,072	-1,743
Amortization of prior service cost				9	5
Recognized actuarial loss	466		1,453	1,925	662
Net periodic pension cost	$417		$1,316	$2,415	$827

Derivative_Financial_Instrumen2

Derivative Financial Instruments (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014
Foreign Exchange Contract [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Net pre-tax gains (losses) recognized in OCI	($2,130)	($3,083)
Gain on Derivative Instruments, Pretax	3,756	5,280
Loss On Derivative Instruments Pretax	5,529	6,961
Hedging contract gains (losses) recognized in other income (expense)	637	-269
Exchange gains (losses) recognized in other income (expense)	513	327
Outstanding foreign exchange contracts	$190,568	$190,568	$202,865
Foreign Exchange Forward [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Derivative contract maximum maturity term		4 months

Derivative_Financial_Instrumen3

Derivative Financial Instruments (Fair value of Derivative Instruments) (Details) (Foreign Exchange Contract [Member], USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Prepaid And Other [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Asset Derivatives, Fair Value	$1,583	$548
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Accrued Expenses [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Liability Derivatives, Fair Value	2,924	332
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Prepaid And Other [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Asset Derivatives, Fair Value	628	16
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Accrued Expenses [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Liability Derivatives, Fair Value	$777	$101

Subsequent_Events_Narrative_De

Subsequent Events (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended		0 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Feb. 04, 2015
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Dividends declared, dividend per share	$0.11	$0.10	$0.30	$0.27
Dividends payable, date declared	4-Feb-15
Dividends payable, date of record	20-Feb-15
Dividends payable, date to be paid	6-Mar-15
Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Dividends declared, dividend per share					$0.11