| Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies) | 12 Months Ended |
| Dec. 31, 2016 |
| Accounting Policies [Abstract] | |
| Principles of Consolidation | Principles of Consolidation — The consolidated financial statements include SPX Corporation’s (“SPX”, “our”, or “we”) accounts prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”) after the elimination of intercompany transactions. Investments in unconsolidated companies where we exercise significant influence but do not have control are accounted for using the equity method. |
| Consolidation, Variable Interest Entity | In determining whether we are the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity (“VIE”), we perform a qualitative analysis that considers the design of the VIE, the nature of our involvement and the variable interests held by other parties to determine which party has the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance, and which party has the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits of the entity that could potentially be significant to the VIE. We have an interest in a VIE, in which we are not the primary beneficiary, as a result of the sale of Balcke Dürr. See below and in Notes 2, 4 and 15 for further discussion of the Balcke Dürr sale. All other VIEs are considered immaterial, individually and in aggregate, to our consolidated financial statements. |
| Spin- Off of Flow Business, Shift Away from the Power Generation Markets, and Change of the Name of Our Power Reportable Segment | Spin-Off of FLOW Business — On September 26, 2015 (the “Distribution Date”), we completed the spin-off to our stockholders (the “Spin-Off”) of all the outstanding shares of SPX FLOW, Inc. (“SPX FLOW”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of SPX prior to the Spin-Off, which at the time of the Spin-Off held the businesses comprising our Flow Technology reportable segment, our Hydraulic Technologies business, and certain of our corporate subsidiaries (collectively, the “FLOW Business”). On the Distribution Date, each of our stockholders of record as of the close of business on September 16, 2015 (the “Record Date”) received one share of common stock of SPX FLOW for every share of SPX common stock held as of the Record Date. SPX FLOW is now an independent public company trading under the symbol “FLOW” on the New York Stock Exchange. Following the Spin-Off, SPX’s common stock continues to be listed on the New York Stock Exchange and trades under the ticker symbol, “SPXC”. The financial results of SPX FLOW for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 have been classified as discontinued operations within the accompanying consolidated financial statements. Shift Away from the Power Generation Markets — Prior to the Spin-Off, our businesses serving the power generation markets had a major impact on the consolidated financial results of SPX. In recent years, these businesses have experienced significant declines in revenues and profitability associated with weak demand and increased competition within the global power generation markets. Based on a review of our post-spin portfolio and the belief that a recovery within the power generation markets was unlikely in the foreseeable future, we decided that our strategic focus would be on our (i) scalable growth businesses that serve the heating and ventilation (“HVAC”) and detection and measurement markets and (ii) power transformer and process cooling systems businesses. As a result, we have been reducing our exposure to the power generation markets as indicated by the disposals summarized below. On November 20, 2015, we entered into an agreement to sell our dry cooling business, a business that provides dry cooling products to the global power generation markets. On March 30, 2016, we completed the sale of the dry cooling business. See Note 4 for additional details on the sale of the dry cooling business. Balcke Dürr, a business that provides heat exchangers and other related components primarily to the European and Asian power generation markets, historically has been the most significant of our power generation businesses. Weak demand within the European power generation markets has resulted in continuing declines in the business’s revenues and profitability. For example, revenue from 2014 to 2015 declined 37.9% , and during 2015 the business incurred a net loss of $39.6 . In response to these financial trends and results, we performed an in-depth strategic review of the business during the first half of 2016. Based on such review, we concluded that a sale of Balcke Dürr would be our best strategic option for the business. Thus, towards the end of the second quarter of 2016, we initiated efforts to sell Balcke Dürr. As these efforts progressed during the third quarter of 2016, only a limited number of parties expressed interest in acquiring the business. As a result, the business did not meet the “held for sale” criteria as of the end of the third quarter of 2016. In November 2016, we began negotiations for the sale of Balcke Dürr and completed the sale on December 30, 2016 to a subsidiary of matures AG (the “Buyer”), which allowed Balcke Dürr to meet the “held for sale” criteria as of the end of the fourth quarter of 2016. With the sale, we have eliminated the losses and liquidity needs of Balcke Dürr that were expected to be significant for the foreseeable future and, thus, have also significantly reduced our exposure to the power generation markets. As we consider the disposition of Balcke Dürr to be the cornerstone of our strategic shift away from the power generation markets, and given the fact that the disposition of Balcke Dürr will have a major effect on our operations and financial results, we have classified the business as a discontinued operation within the accompanying consolidated financial statements for all periods presented. See Note 4 for additional details on the sale of Balcke Dürr and its historical financial results. Change to the Name of Our Power Reportable Segment — In recognition of our shift away from the power generation markets, we changed the name of our “Power” reportable segment to “Engineered Solutions,” effective in the fourth quarter of 2016. We believe the new name better reflects the current industries and customers served by the segment. Other than the sales of the previously mentioned businesses, there were no additional changes to the segment’s composition. The information for this segment for all periods included in these consolidated financial statements has been labeled using the new name. |
| Retirement of Treasury Stock | In accordance with our accounting policy, we allocate any excess of share repurchase over par value between “Paid-in capital” and “Retained earnings,” |
| Foreign Currency Translation and Transactions | Foreign Currency Translation and Transactions — The financial statements of our foreign subsidiaries are translated into U.S. dollars in accordance with the Foreign Currency Matters Topic of the Financial Accounting Standards Board Codification (“Codification” or “ASC”). Gains and losses on foreign currency translations are reflected as a separate component of shareholders’ equity and other comprehensive income. |
| Cash Equivalents | Cash Equivalents — We consider highly liquid money market investments with original maturities of three months or less at the date of purchase to be cash equivalents. |
| Revenue Recognition | Revenue Recognition — We recognize revenues from product sales upon shipment to the customer (e.g., FOB shipping point) or upon receipt by the customer (e.g., FOB destination), in accordance with the agreed upon customer terms. Revenues from service contracts and long-term maintenance arrangements are recognized on a straight-line basis over the agreement period. Sales with FOB destination terms are primarily to power transformer customers. Sales to distributors with return rights are recognized upon shipment to the distributor with expected returns estimated and accrued at the time of sale. The accrual considers restocking charges for returns and in some cases the distributor must issue a replacement order before the return is authorized. Actual return experience may vary from our estimates. We recognize revenues separately for arrangements with multiple deliverables that meet the criteria for separate units of accounting as defined by the Revenue Recognition Topic of the Codification. The deliverables under these arrangements typically include hardware and software components, installation, maintenance, extended warranties and software upgrades. Amounts allocated to each element are based on its objectively determined fair value, such as the sales price of the product or service when it is sold separately, competitor prices for similar products or our best estimate. The hardware and software components are usually recognized as revenue contemporaneously, as both are required for essential functionality of the products, with the installation being recognized upon completion. Revenues related to maintenance, extended warranties and software upgrades are recognized on a pro-rata basis over the coverage period. We offer sales incentive programs primarily to effect volume rebates and promotional and advertising allowances. These programs are only significant to one of our business units. The liability for these programs, and the resulting reduction to reported revenues, is determined primarily through trend analysis, historical experience and expectations regarding customer participation. Amounts billed for shipping and handling are included in revenues. Costs incurred for shipping and handling are recorded in cost of products sold. Taxes assessed by governmental authorities that are directly imposed on a revenue-producing transaction between a seller and a customer are presented on a net basis (excluded from revenues) in our consolidated statements of operations. In addition, certain of our businesses, primarily within the Engineered Solutions reportable segment, also recognize revenues from long-term construction/installation contracts under the percentage-of-completion method of accounting. The percentage-of-completion is measured principally by the percentage of costs incurred to date for each contract to the estimated total costs for such contract at completion. We recognize revenues for similar short-term contracts using the completed-contract method of accounting. Provisions for any estimated losses on uncompleted long-term contracts are made in the period in which such losses are determined. In the case of customer change orders for uncompleted long-term contracts, estimated recoveries are included for work performed in forecasting ultimate profitability on certain contracts. Due to uncertainties inherent in the estimation process, it is possible that completion costs, including those arising from contract penalty provisions and final contract settlements, may be revised in the near-term. Such revisions to costs and income are recognized in the period in which the revisions are determined. Costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings arise when revenues have been recorded but the amounts have not been billed under the terms of the contracts. These amounts are recoverable from customers upon various measures of performance, including achievement of certain milestones, completion of specified units or completion of the contract. Claims related to long-term contracts are recognized as revenue only after we have determined that collection is probable and the amount can be reliably estimated. Claims made by us involve negotiation and, in certain cases, litigation or other dispute-resolution processes. In the event we incur litigation or other dispute-resolution costs in connection with claims, such costs are expensed as incurred, although we may seek to recover these costs. Claims against us are recognized when a loss is considered probable and amounts are reasonably estimable. |
| Research and Development Costs | Research and Development Costs — We expense research and development costs as incurred. We charge costs incurred in the research and development of new software included in products to expense until technological feasibility is established. After technological feasibility is established, additional eligible costs are capitalized until the product is available for general release. We amortize these costs over the economic lives of the related products and include the amortization in cost of products sold. We perform periodic reviews of the recoverability of these capitalized software costs. At the time we determine that capitalized amounts are not recoverable based on the estimated cash flows to be generated from the applicable software, we write off any unrecoverable capitalized amounts. |
| Property, Plant and Equipment | Property, Plant and Equipment — Property, plant and equipment (“PP&E”) is stated at cost, less accumulated depreciation. We use the straight-line method for computing depreciation expense over the useful lives of PP&E, which do not exceed 40 years for buildings and range from 3 to 15 years for machinery and equipment. Depreciation expense, including amortization of capital leases, was $22.5 , $31.8 and $34.9 for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the life of the related asset or the life of the lease, whichever is shorter. Interest is capitalized on significant construction or installation projects. No interest was capitalized during 2016 , 2015 or 2014 . |
| Pension and Postretirement | Pension and Postretirement — We recognize changes in the fair value of plan assets and actuarial gains and losses in earnings during the fourth quarter of each year, unless earlier remeasurement is required, as a component of net periodic benefit expense and, accordingly, recognize the effects of plan investment performance, interest rate changes, and changes in actuarial assumptions as a component of earnings in the year in which they occur. The remaining components of pension/postretirement expense, primarily service and interest costs and expected return on plan assets, are recorded on a quarterly basis. Defined benefit pension plans cover a portion of our salaried and hourly paid employees, including certain employees in foreign countries. Beginning in 2001, we discontinued providing these pension benefits generally to newly hired employees. In addition, we no longer provide service credits to certain active participants. All of the U.S. employees covered by a defined benefit pension plan and actively accruing a benefit are part of a collectively bargained agreement. We have domestic postretirement plans that provide health and life insurance benefits to certain retirees and their dependents. Beginning in 2003, we discontinued providing these postretirement benefits generally to newly hired employees. The plan year-end date for all our plans is December 31. We review the pension assumptions annually. Pension income or expense for the year is determined using assumptions as of the beginning of the year (except for the effects of recognizing changes in the fair value of plan assets and actuarial gains and losses in the fourth quarter of each year), while the funded status is determined using assumptions as of the end of the year. We determined assumptions and established them at the respective balance sheet date using the following principles: (i) the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets is established based on forward looking long-term expectations of asset returns over the expected period to fund participant benefits based on the target investment mix of our plans; (ii) the discount rate is determined by matching the expected projected benefit obligation cash flows for each of the plans to a yield curve that is representative of long-term, high-quality (rated AA or higher) fixed income debt instruments as of the measurement date; and (iii) the rate of increase in compensation levels is established based on our expectations of current and foreseeable future increases in compensation. In addition, we consider advice from independent actuaries. Plan assets — Our investment strategy is based on the long-term growth and protection of principle while mitigating overall risk to ensure that funds are available to pay benefit obligations. The domestic plan assets are invested in a broad range of investment classes, including fixed income securities and domestic and international equities. We engage various investment managers who are regularly evaluated on long-term performance, adherence to investment guidelines and the ability to manage risk commensurate with the investment style and objective for which they were hired. We continuously monitor the value of assets by class and routinely rebalance our portfolio with the goal of meeting our target allocations. The strategy for bonds emphasizes investment-grade corporate and government debt with maturities matching a portion of the longer duration pension liabilities. The bonds strategy also includes a high yield element, which is generally shorter in duration. The strategy for equity assets is to minimize concentrations of risk by investing primarily in companies in a diversified mix of industries worldwide, while targeting neutrality in exposure to global versus regional markets, fund types and fund managers. A small portion of U.S. plan assets is allocated to private equity partnerships and real estate asset fund investments for diversification, providing opportunities for above market returns. Allowable investments under the plan agreements include fixed income securities, equity securities, mutual funds, venture capital funds, real estate and cash and equivalents. In addition, investments in futures and option contracts, commodities and other derivatives are allowed in commingled fund allocations managed by professional investment managers. Investments prohibited under the plan agreements include private placements and short selling of stock. No shares of our common stock were held by our defined benefit pension plans as of December 31, 2016 or 2015 . Actual asset allocation percentages of each class of our domestic and foreign pension plan assets as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 , along with the targeted asset investment allocation percentages, each of which is based on the midpoint of an allocation range The accumulated postretirement benefit obligation was determined using the terms and conditions of our various plans, together with relevant actuarial assumptions and health care cost trend rates. It is our policy to review the postretirement assumptions annually. The assumptions are determined by us and are established based on our prior experience and our expectations that future health care cost trend rates will decline. In addition, we consider advice from independent actuaries. |
| Income Taxes | Income Taxes — We account for our income taxes based on the requirements of the Income Taxes Topic of the Codification, which includes an estimate of the amount of taxes payable or refundable for the current year and deferred tax liabilities and assets for the future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in our consolidated financial statements or tax returns. Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. We periodically assess the realizability of deferred tax assets and the adequacy of deferred tax liabilities, including the results of local, state, federal or foreign statutory tax audits or estimates and judgments used. Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. We periodically assess deferred tax assets to determine if they are likely to be realized and the adequacy of deferred tax liabilities, incorporating the results of local, state, federal and foreign tax audits in our estimates and judgments. Realization of deferred tax assets, including those associated with net operating loss and credit carryforwards, is dependent upon generating sufficient taxable income in the appropriate tax jurisdiction. We believe that it is more likely than not that we may not realize the benefit of certain of these deferred tax assets and, accordingly, have established a valuation allowance against these deferred tax assets. Although realization is not assured for the remaining deferred tax assets, we believe it is more likely than not that the deferred tax assets will be realized through future taxable earnings or tax planning strategies. However, deferred tax assets could be reduced in the near term if our estimates of taxable income are significantly reduced or tax planning strategies are no longer viable. |
| Derivative Financial Instruments | Derivative Financial Instruments — We use foreign currency forward contracts to manage our exposures to fluctuating currency exchange rates, forward contracts to manage the exposure on forecasted purchases of commodity raw materials (“commodity contracts”) and interest rate protection agreements to manage our exposures to fluctuating interest rate risk on variable rate debt. Derivatives are recorded on the balance sheet and measured at fair value. For derivatives designated as hedges of the fair value of assets or liabilities, the changes in fair values of both the derivatives and the hedged items are recorded in current earnings. For derivatives designated as cash flow hedges, the effective portion of the changes in fair value of the derivatives is recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) and subsequently recognized in earnings when the hedged items impact earnings. Changes in the fair value of derivatives not designated as hedges, and the ineffective portion of cash flow hedges, are recorded in current earnings. We do not enter into financial instruments for speculative or trading purposes. For those transactions that are designated as cash flow hedges, on the date the derivative contract is entered into, we document our hedge relationship, including identification of the hedging instruments and the hedged items, as well as our risk management objectives and strategies for undertaking the hedge transaction. We also assess, both at inception and quarterly thereafter, whether such derivatives are highly effective in offsetting changes in the fair value of the hedged item. See Notes 12 and 14 for further information. Cash flows from hedging activities are included in the same category as the items being hedged, which are primarily operating activities. We manufacture and sell our products in a number of countries and, as a result, are exposed to movements in foreign currency exchange rates. Our objective is to preserve the economic value of non-functional currency-denominated cash flows and to minimize the impact of changes as a result of currency fluctuations. Our principal currency exposures relate to the Euro, South African Rand and GBP. From time to time, we enter into forward contracts to manage the exposure on contracts with forecasted transactions denominated in non-functional currencies and to manage the risk of transaction gains and losses associated with assets/liabilities denominated in currencies other than the functional currency of certain subsidiaries (“FX forward contracts”). In addition, some of our contracts contain currency forward embedded derivatives (“FX embedded derivatives”), because the currency of exchange is not “clearly and closely” related to the functional currency of either party to the transaction. Certain of our FX forward contracts are designated as cash flow hedges. To the extent these derivatives are effective in offsetting the variability of the hedged cash flows, changes in the derivatives’ fair value are not included in current earnings, but are included in accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”). These changes in fair value are reclassified into earnings as a component of revenues or cost of products sold, as applicable, when the forecasted transaction impacts earnings. In addition, if the forecasted transaction is no longer probable, the cumulative change in the derivatives’ fair value is recorded as a component of “Other income (expense), net” in the period in which the transaction is no longer considered probable of occurring. To the extent a previously designated hedging transaction is no longer an effective hedge, any ineffectiveness measured in the hedging relationship is recorded in earnings in the period in which it occurs. |
| Use of Estimates | |
| Use of Estimates | The preparation of our consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions. These estimates and assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues (e.g., our percentage-of-completion estimates described above) and expenses during the reporting period. We evaluate these estimates and judgments on an ongoing basis and base our estimates on experience, current and expected future conditions, third-party evaluations and various other assumptions that we believe are reasonable under the circumstances. The results of these estimates form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities as well as identifying and assessing the accounting treatment with respect to commitments and contingencies. Actual results may differ from the estimates and assumptions used in the consolidated financial statements and related notes. |
| Accounts Receivable Allowances | Accounts Receivable Allowances — We provide allowances for estimated losses on uncollectible accounts based on our historical experience and the evaluation of the likelihood of success in collecting specific customer receivables. In addition, we maintain allowances for customer returns, discounts and invoice pricing discrepancies, with such allowances primarily based on historical experience. |
| Inventory | Inventory — We estimate losses for excess and/or obsolete inventory and the net realizable value of inventory based on the aging and historical utilization of the inventory and the evaluation of the likelihood of recovering the inventory costs based on anticipated demand and selling price. Inventories include material, labor and factory overhead costs and are reduced, when necessary, to estimated net realizable values. Certain domestic inventories are valued using the last-in, first-out (“LIFO”) method. These inventories were approximately 51% and 49% of total inventory at December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. Other inventories are valued using the first-in, first-out (“FIFO”) method. |
| Long-Lived Assets and Intangible Assets Subject to Amortization | Long-Lived Assets and Intangible Assets Subject to Amortization — We continually review whether events and circumstances subsequent to the acquisition of any long-lived assets, or intangible assets subject to amortization, have occurred that indicate the remaining estimated useful lives of those assets may warrant revision or that the remaining balance of those assets may not be fully recoverable. If events and circumstances indicate that the long-lived assets should be reviewed for possible impairment, we use projections to assess whether future cash flows on an undiscounted basis related to the assets are likely to exceed the related carrying amount. We will record an impairment charge to the extent that the carrying value of the assets exceed their fair values as determined by valuation techniques appropriate in the circumstances, which could include the use of similar projections on a discounted basis. In determining the estimated useful lives of definite-lived intangibles, we consider the nature, competitive position, life cycle position, and historical and expected future operating cash flows of each acquired asset, as well as our commitment to support these assets through continued investment and legal infringement protection. |
| Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets | Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets — We test goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment annually during the fourth quarter and continually assess whether a triggering event has occurred to determine whether the carrying value exceeds the implied fair value. The fair value of reporting units is based generally on discounted projected cash flows, but we also consider factors such as comparable industry price multiples. We employ cash flow projections that we believe to be reasonable under current and forecasted circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of the reported net assets of our reporting units. Many of our businesses closely follow changes in the industries and end markets that they serve. Accordingly, we consider estimates and judgments that affect the future cash flow projections, including principal methods of competition, such as volume, price, service, product performance and technical innovations, as well as estimates associated with cost reduction initiatives, capacity utilization and assumptions for inflation and foreign currency changes. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. |
| Accrued Expenses | Accrued Expenses — We make estimates and judgments in establishing accruals as required under GAAP. |
| Legal | Legal — It is our policy to accrue for estimated losses from legal actions or claims when events exist that make the realization of the losses probable and they can be reasonably estimated. We do not discount legal obligations or reduce them by anticipated insurance recoveries. |
| Environmental Remediation Costs | Environmental Remediation Costs — We expense costs incurred to investigate and remediate environmental issues unless they extend the economic useful lives of related assets. We record liabilities when it is probable that an obligation has been incurred and the amounts can be reasonably estimated. Our environmental accruals cover anticipated costs, including investigation, remediation and operation and maintenance of clean-up sites. Our estimates are based primarily on investigations and remediation plans established by independent consultants, regulatory agencies and potentially responsible third parties. We generally do not discount environmental obligations or reduce them by anticipated insurance recoveries. |
| Risk Management Matters | Risk Management Matters — We are subject to claims associated with risk management matters (e.g., product liability, predominately associated with alleged exposure to asbestos-containing materials, general liability, automobile, and workers’ compensation claims). The liabilities we record for these claims are based on a number of assumptions, including historical claims and payment experience and, with respect to asbestos claims, actuarial estimates of the future period during which additional claims are reasonably foreseeable. We also have recorded insurance recovery assets associated with the asbestos product liability matters. These assets represent amounts that we believe we are or will be entitled to recover under agreements we have with insurance companies. The assets we record for these insurance recoveries are based on a number of assumptions, including the continued solvency of the insurers, and are subject to a variety of uncertainties. In addition, we are self-insured for certain of our workers’ compensation, automobile, product, general liability, disability and health costs, and we maintain adequate accruals to cover our retained liabilities. Our accruals for self-insurance liabilities are based on claims filed and an estimate of claims incurred but not yet reported, and generally are not discounted. We consider a number of factors, including third-party actuarial valuations, when making these determinations. We maintain third-party stop-loss insurance policies to cover certain liability costs in excess of predetermined retained amounts; however, this insurance may be insufficient or unavailable (e.g., because of insurer insolvency) to protect us against potential loss exposures. The key assumptions considered in estimating the ultimate cost to settle reported claims and the estimated costs associated with incurred but not yet reported claims include, among other factors, our historical and industry claims experience, trends in health care and administrative costs, our current and future risk management programs, and historical lag studies with regard to the timing between when a claim is incurred and reported. |
| Warranty | Warranty — In the normal course of business, we issue product warranties for specific products and provide for the estimated future warranty cost in the period in which the sale is recorded. We provide for the estimate of warranty cost based on contract terms and historical warranty loss experience that is periodically adjusted for recent actual experience. Because warranty estimates are forecasts that are based on the best available information, claims costs may differ from amounts provided. In addition, due to the seasonal fluctuations at certain of our businesses, the timing of warranty provisions and the usage of warranty accruals can vary period to period. We make adjustments to initial obligations for warranties as changes in the obligations become reasonably estimable. |
| Income Taxes | Income Taxes — We perform reviews of our income tax positions on a continuous basis and accrue for potential uncertain tax positions in accordance with the Income Taxes Topic of the Codification. Accruals for these uncertain tax positions are classified as “Income taxes payable” and “Deferred and other income taxes” in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets based on an expectation as to the timing of when the matter will be resolved. As events change or resolutions occur, these accruals are adjusted, such as in the case of audit settlements with taxing authorities. For tax positions where it is more likely than not that a tax benefit will be sustained, we record the largest amount of tax benefit with a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement with a taxing authority, assuming such authority has full knowledge of all relevant information. These reviews also entail analyzing the realization of deferred tax assets. When we believe that it is more likely than not that we will not realize a benefit for a deferred tax asset based on all available evidence, we establish a valuation allowance. |
| Employee Benefit Plans | Employee Benefit Plans — Defined benefit plans cover a portion of our salaried and hourly employees, including certain employees in foreign countries. As discussed in Note 1, we recognize changes in the fair value of plan assets and actuarial gains and losses associated with our pension and postretirement benefit plans in earnings during the fourth quarter of each year, unless earlier remeasurement is required, as a component of net periodic benefit expense. The remaining components of pension/postretirement expense, primarily service and interest costs and expected return on plan assets, are recorded on a quarterly basis. See Note 9 for further discussion of our pension and postretirement benefits. We derive pension expense from an actuarial calculation based on the defined benefit plans’ provisions and our assumptions regarding discount rate and rate of increase in compensation levels. We determine the discount rate for our more significant U.S. plans by matching the expected projected benefit obligation cash flows of the plans to a yield curve that is representative of long-term, high-quality (rated AA or higher) fixed income debt instruments as of the measurement date. For our other plans, we determine the discount rate based on representative bond indices. The rate of increase in compensation levels is established based on our expectations of current and foreseeable future increases in compensation. We also consult with independent actuaries in determining these assumptions. |
| Parent Guarantees and Bonds Associated with Balcke Durr | Parent Guarantees and Bonds Associated with Balcke Dürr — As further discussed in Note 4, in connection with the sale of Balcke Dürr, we remain contingently obligated under existing parent company guarantees of approximately €79.0 and bank and surety bonds of €79.0 . We have accounted for our contingent obligation in accordance with the Guarantees Topic of the Codification, which required that we record a liability for the estimated fair value of the parent company guarantees and the bonds in connection with the accounting for the sale of Balcke Dürr. We estimated the fair value of the parent company guarantees and bank and surety bonds considering the probability of default by Balcke Dürr and an estimate of the amount we would be obligated to pay in the event of a default. As also discussed in Note 4, under the related purchase agreement, Balcke Dürr provided cash collateral and mutares AG provided a partial guarantee in the event any of the parent company guarantees or bonds are called. We recorded an asset for the estimated fair value of the cash collateral provided by Balcke Dürr and the partial guarantee provided by mutares AG, with the estimated fair values based on the terms and conditions and relative risk associated with each of these securities. In future periods, we will amortize the liability and asset to “Income (loss) from continuing operations,” with the amortization of the liability generally to occur at the earlier of the completion of the related underlying project milestones or the expiration of the guarantees or bonds, and the amortization of the asset to occur based on the expiration terms of each of the securities. We will continue to evaluate the adequacy of the recorded liability and will record an adjustment to the liability if we conclude that it is probable that we will be required to fund an amount greater than what is recorded. See Note 15 for further information regarding the estimated fair values of the parent company guarantees and bonds, as well as the cash collateral provided by Balcke Dürr and the partial guarantee provided by mutares AG. |
| New Accounting Pronouncements | New Accounting Pronouncements The following is a summary of new accounting pronouncements that apply or may apply to our business. In April 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued an amendment to guidance to change the criteria for determining which disposals of components of an entity can be presented as discontinued operations and to modify related disclosure requirements. Under the amended guidance, a discontinued operation is defined as a disposal of a component or group of components that is disposed of or is classified as held for sale and represents a strategic shift that has (or will have) a major effect on an entity’s operations and financial results. The amendment states that a “strategic shift” could include a disposal of (i) a major geographical area of operations, (ii) a major line of business, (iii) a major equity method investment, or (iv) other major parts of an entity. The standard no longer precludes presentation as a discontinued operation if there are operations and cash flows of the component that have not been eliminated from the reporting entity’s ongoing operations, or there is significant continuing involvement with a component after its disposal. This amendment was effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2014. We adopted this guidance on January 1, 2015. See Note 4 for businesses classified as a discontinued operation in accordance with this amendment. In May 2014, the FASB issued a new standard on revenue recognition that outlines a single comprehensive model for entities to use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers and supersedes most current revenue recognition guidance, including industry-specific guidance. The new standard contains a five-step approach that entities will apply to determine the measurement of revenue and timing of when it is recognized, including (i) identifying the contract(s) with a customer, (ii) identifying the separate performance obligations in the contract, (iii) determining the transaction price, (iv) allocating the transaction price to separate performance obligations, and (v) recognizing revenue when (or as) each performance obligation is satisfied. The new standard requires a number of disclosures intended to enable users of financial statements to understand the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue, and the related cash flows. The disclosures include qualitative and quantitative information about contracts with customers, significant judgments made in applying the revenue guidance, and assets recognized from the costs to obtain or fulfill a contract. The standard is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017 and we currently plan to adopt the standard using the modified retrospective transition method. The modified retrospective transition approach will recognize any changes from the beginning of the year of initial application through retained earnings with no restatement of comparative periods. We are continuing to assess the potential effect that the standard is expected to have on our consolidated financial statements. We believe the more significant effects on our existing accounting policies will be associated with our power transformer business. Under the new standard, revenue for our power transformers will be recognized over time, which is a change from our current accounting policy of recognizing revenue for power transformers at a point in time. In April 2015, FASB issued a new standard that requires debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability to be reported in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability, consistent with debt discounts. An amendment to this standard was issued in August 2015 that permits entities to present debt issuance costs related to line-of-credit arrangements as an asset and subsequently amortize such debt issuance costs ratably over the term of the line-of-credit arrangement, regardless of whether there are any outstanding borrowings on the line-of-credit arrangement. The standard was effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2015, and shall be applied retrospectively. We adopted this guidance on January 1, 2016 and, thus, the debt issuance costs associated with the term loan under our senior credit facilities have been presented as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of the term loan in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. See Note 11 for additional details. In April 2015, the FASB issued an amendment to existing guidance that, among other changes, permits an entity that has a significant event in an interim period that requires a remeasurement of defined benefit plan assets and obligations to remeasure such assets and obligations using the month-end date that is closest to the date of the significant event, rather than the date of the plan event. Under the amended guidance, the month-end remeasurement of defined benefit plan assets and obligations that is closest to the date of the significant event should be adjusted to reflect any effects of the significant event, to the extent those effects are not captured in the month-end measurement. An entity is required to disclose its accounting policy election and the dates used to measure defined benefit plan assets and obligations in accordance with the provisions of this amended guidance. Although earlier application is permitted, the amendment is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2015, and shall be applied prospectively. We early adopted the provisions of this amendment during the third quarter of 2015 in connection with an amendment to certain of our U.S. pension plans during the period. See Note 9 for additional information on the adoption of this amendment and the impact on our consolidated financial statements. In November 2015, the FASB issued an amendment to existing guidance that simplifies the presentation of deferred income taxes. The amended guidance requires that deferred tax assets and liabilities be classified as non-current in a statement of financial position. Although earlier application is permitted, the amendment is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, with prospective or retrospective adoption permitted. We early adopted the amendment during the fourth quarter of 2015, on a prospective basis, resulting in the classification of our deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities as non-current within the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2016 and 2015. In February 2016, the FASB issued an amendment to existing guidance that requires lessees to recognize assets and liabilities for the rights and obligations created by long-term leases. In addition, this amendment requires new qualitative and quantitative disclosures about leasing arrangements. This standard is effective for annual periods beginning on or after December 15, 2018 for public business entities, and interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted, and adoption must be applied on a modified retrospective basis. We are currently evaluating the effect this new standard will have on our consolidated financial statements. In March 2016, the FASB issued an amendment to existing guidance that simplifies several aspects of the accounting for employee shared-based payment transactions. This standard is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those annual reporting periods. The standard requires that all excess tax benefits and deficiencies currently recorded in “shareholders’ equity” be prospectively recorded to the statement of operations within the income tax (provision) benefit. These excess tax benefits and deficiencies are primarily driven by fluctuations in our stock price between the date a share-based award is granted and the date the award vests. As such, under this standard we could experience volatility in our income tax (provision) benefit and effective income tax rate. The standard also requires excess tax benefits or deficiencies be presented as an operating activity within the statement of cash flows rather than as a financing activity. This element of the standard may be applied retrospectively or prospectively. We are currently evaluating the effect this new standard will have on our consolidated financial statements. In August 2016, the FASB issued an amendment to existing guidance to reduce diversity in practice in how certain cash receipts and cash payments are presented in the statement of cash flows. This amendment provides clarification on eight specific cash flow presentation issues. The issues include, but are not limited to, debt prepayment or extinguishment costs, settlement of zero-coupon debt, proceeds from the settlement of insurance claims, and cash receipts from payments on beneficial interests in securitization transactions. This amendment is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those annual reporting periods. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating the effect this amendment will have on our consolidated financial statements. In January 2017, the FASB issued an amendment to simplify the subsequent measurement of goodwill by removing the second step of the two-step impairment test. The amendment requires that an entity recognize an impairment charge for the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value. This amendment is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 31, 2019, including interim periods within those annual reporting periods. Early adoption is permitted. The impact of this amendment on our consolidated financial statements will depend on the results of future goodwill impairment tests. |
| Special Charges, Net | As part of our business strategy, we periodically right-size and consolidate operations to improve long-term results. Additionally, from time to time, we alter our business model to better serve customer demand, discontinue lower-margin product lines and rationalize and consolidate manufacturing capacity. Our restructuring and integration decisions are based, in part, on discounted cash flows and are designed to achieve our goals of reducing structural footprint and maximizing profitability. As a result of our strategic review process, we recorded net special charges of $ 5.3 in 2016 , $ 5.1 in 2015 and $ 5.9 in 2014 . These net special charges were primarily related to restructuring initiatives to consolidate manufacturing and sales facilities, reduce workforce, and rationalize certain product lines. The components of the charges have been computed based on actual cash payouts, including severance and other employee benefits based on existing severance policies, local laws, and other estimated exit costs, and our estimate of the realizable value of the affected tangible and intangible assets. Impairments of long-lived assets, including amortizable intangibles, which represent non-cash asset write-downs, typically arise from business restructuring decisions that lead to the disposition of assets no longer required in the restructured business. For these situations, we recognize a loss when the carrying amount of an asset exceeds the sum of the undiscounted cash flows expected to result from the use and eventual disposition of the asset. Fair values for assets subject to impairment testing are determined primarily by management, taking into consideration various factors including third-party appraisals, quoted market prices and previous experience. If an asset remains in service at the decision date, the asset is written down to its fair value and the resulting net book value is depreciated over its remaining economic useful life. When we commit to a plan to sell an asset, including the initiation of a plan to locate a buyer, and it is probable that the asset will be sold within one year based on its current condition and sales price, depreciation of the asset is discontinued and the asset is classified as an asset held for sale. The asset is written down to its fair value less any selling costs. Liabilities for exit costs, including, among other things, severance, other employee benefit costs, and operating lease obligations on idle facilities, are measured initially at their fair value and recorded when incurred. We anticipate that the liabilities related to restructuring actions will be paid within one year from the period in which the action was initiated. |
| Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets | Consistent with the requirements of the Intangible — Goodwill and Other Topic of the Codification, the fair values of our reporting units generally are estimated using discounted cash flow projections that we believe to be reasonable under current and forecasted circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about carrying values of the reported net assets of our reporting units. Other considerations are also incorporated, including comparable industry price multiples. Many of our reporting units closely follow changes in the industries and end markets that they serve. Accordingly, we consider estimates and judgments that affect the future cash flow projections, including principal methods of competition such as volume, price, service, product performance and technical innovations and estimates associated with cost improvement initiatives, capacity utilization and assumptions for inflation and foreign currency changes. Any significant change in market conditions and estimates or judgments used to determine expected future cash flows that indicate a reduction in carrying value may give rise to impairment in the period that the change becomes known. We perform our annual goodwill impairment testing during the fourth quarter in conjunction with our annual financial planning process, with such testing based primarily on events and circumstances existing as of the end of the third quarter. In addition, we test goodwill for impairment on a more frequent basis if there are indications of potential impairment. Based on our annual goodwill impairment testing in the fourth quarter of 2016, we concluded that the estimated fair value of each of our reporting units exceeds the carrying value of their respective net assets by at least 30.0% . We perform our annual trademarks impairment testing during the fourth quarter, or on a more frequent basis if there are indications of potential impairment. The fair values of our trademarks are determined by applying estimated royalty rates to projected revenues, with the resulting cash flows discounted at a rate of return that reflects current market conditions. The basis for these projected revenues is the annual operating plan for each of the related businesses, which is prepared in the fourth quarter of each year. |
| Defined Contribution Retirement Plans | We maintain a defined contribution retirement plan (the “DC Plan”) pursuant to Section 401(k) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code. Under the DC Plan, eligible U.S. employees may voluntarily contribute up to 50% of their compensation into the DC Plan and we match a portion of participating employees’ contributions. Our matching contributions are primarily made in newly issued shares of company common stock and are issued at the prevailing market price. The matching contributions vest with the employee immediately upon the date of the match and there are no restrictions on the resale of common stock held by employees. Under the DC Plan, we contributed 0.605 , 0.434 and 0.167 shares of our common stock to employee accounts in 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. Compensation expense is recorded based on the market value of shares as the shares are contributed to employee accounts. We recorded $ 8.8 in 2016 , $ 10.2 in 2015 and $ 10.3 in 2014 as compensation expense related to the matching contribution. Certain collectively-bargained employees participate in the DC Plan with company contributions not being made in company common stock, although company common stock is offered as an investment option under these plans. We also maintain a Supplemental Retirement Savings Plan (“SRSP”), which permits certain members of our senior management and executive groups to defer eligible compensation in excess of the amounts allowed under the DC Plan. We match a portion of participating employees’ deferrals to the extent allowable under the SRSP provisions. The matching contributions vest with the participant immediately. Our funding of the participants’ deferrals and our matching contributions are held in certain mutual funds (as allowed under the SRSP), as directed by the participant. The fair values of these assets, which totaled $ 19.1 and $ 20.0 at December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively, are based on quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1). In addition, the assets under the SRSP are available to the general creditors in the event of our bankruptcy and, thus, are maintained on our consolidated balance sheets within other non-current assets, with a corresponding amount in other long-term liabilities for our obligation to the participants. Lastly, these assets are accounted for as trading securities. |
| Undistributed Foreign Earnings | Undistributed Foreign Earnings In general, it is our practice and intention to reinvest the earnings of our non-U.S. subsidiaries in those operations. As of December 31, 2016 , we had not recorded a provision for U.S. or foreign withholding taxes on approximately $26.0 of the excess of the amount for financial reporting over the tax basis of investments in foreign subsidiaries that are essentially permanent in duration. Generally, such amounts become subject to U.S. taxation upon the remittance of dividends and under certain other circumstances. It is not practicable to estimate the amount of a deferred tax liability related to the undistributed earnings of these foreign subsidiaries, in the event that these earnings are no longer considered to be indefinitely reinvested, due to the hypothetical nature of the calculation. |
| Potential Uncertain Positions | We perform reviews of our income tax positions on a continuous basis and accrue for potential uncertain positions when we determine that an uncertain position meets the criteria of the Income Taxes Topic of the Codification. Accruals for these uncertain tax positions are recorded in “Income taxes payable” and “Deferred and other income taxes” in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets based on the expectation as to the timing of when the matters will be resolved. As events change and resolutions occur, these accruals are adjusted, such as in the case of audit settlements with taxing authorities. We have filed our federal income tax returns for the 2013, 2014, and 2015 tax years and those returns are subject to examination. With regard to all open tax years, we believe any contingencies are adequately provided for. State income tax returns generally are subject to examination for a period of three to five years after filing the respective tax returns. The impact on such tax returns of any federal changes remains subject to examination by various states for a period of up to one year after formal notification to the states. We have various state income tax returns in the process of examination. We believe any uncertain tax positions related to these examinations have been adequately provided for. We have various foreign income tax returns under examination. The most significant of these are in Germany for the 2010 through 2014 tax years. We believe that any uncertain tax positions related to these examinations have been adequately provided for. An unfavorable resolution of one or more of the above matters could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations or cash flows in the quarter and year in which an adjustment is recorded or the tax is due or paid. As audits and examinations are still in process, the timing of the ultimate resolution and any payments that may be required for the above matters cannot be determined at this time. |
| Concentrations of Credit Risk | Concentrations of Credit Risk Financial instruments that potentially subject us to significant concentrations of credit risk consist of cash and equivalents, trade accounts receivable, and interest rate swap, foreign currency forward, and commodity contracts. These financial instruments, other than trade accounts receivable, are placed with high-quality financial institutions throughout the world. We periodically evaluate the credit standing of these financial institutions. We maintain cash levels in bank accounts that, at times, may exceed federally-insured limits. We have not experienced, and believe we are not exposed to significant risk of, loss in these accounts. We have credit loss exposure in the event of nonperformance by counterparties to the above financial instruments, but have no other off-balance-sheet credit risk of accounting loss. We anticipate, however, that counterparties will be able to fully satisfy their obligations under the contracts. We do not obtain collateral or other security to support financial instruments subject to credit risk, but we do monitor the credit standing of counterparties. Concentrations of credit risk arising from trade accounts receivable are due to selling to customers in a particular industry. We mitigate our credit risks by performing ongoing credit evaluations of our customers’ financial conditions and obtaining collateral, advance payments, or other security when appropriate. No one customer, or group of customers that to our knowledge are under common control, accounted for more than 10% of our revenues for any period presented. |
| Fair Value | Valuation Methodologies Used to Measure Fair Value on a Recurring Basis Derivative Financial Instruments — Our financial derivative assets and liabilities include interest rate swaps, FX forward contracts, FX embedded derivatives and commodity contracts, valued using valuation models based on observable market inputs such as forward rates, interest rates, our own credit risk and the credit risk of our counterparties, which comprise investment-grade financial institutions. Based on these inputs, the derivative assets and liabilities are classified within Level 2 of the valuation hierarchy. We have not made any adjustments to the inputs obtained from the independent sources. Based on our continued ability to enter into forward contracts, we consider the markets for our fair value instruments active. We primarily use the income approach, which uses valuation techniques to convert future amounts to a single present amount. As of December 31, 2016 , there had been no significant impact to the fair value of our derivative liabilities due to our own credit risk, as the related instruments are collateralized under our senior credit facilities. Similarly, there had been no significant impact to the fair value of our derivative assets based on our evaluation of our counterparties’ credit risks. Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. In the absence of active markets for the identical assets or liabilities, such measurements involve developing assumptions based on market observable data and, in the absence of such data, internal information consistent with what market participants would use in a hypothetical transaction that occurs at the measurement date. Observable inputs reflect market data obtained from independent sources, while unobservable inputs reflect our market assumptions. Preference is given to observable inputs. These two types of inputs create the following fair value hierarchy: • Level 1 — Quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets. • Level 2 — Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations whose inputs are observable or whose significant value drivers are observable. • Level 3 — Significant inputs to the valuation model are unobservable. There were no changes during the periods presented to the valuation techniques we use to measure asset and liability fair values on a recurring basis. Except as previously discussed in Note 9, there were no transfers between the three levels of the fair value hierarchy for the periods presented. Goodwill, Indefinite-Lived Intangible and Other Long-Lived Assets — Certain of our non-financial assets are subject to impairment analysis, including long-lived assets, indefinite-lived intangible assets and goodwill. We review the carrying amounts of such assets whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts may not be recoverable or at least annually for indefinite-lived intangible assets and goodwill. Any resulting asset impairment would require that the instrument be recorded at its fair value. As of December 31, 2016 , and with the exception of the impairment charges noted below, we did not have any significant non-financial assets or liabilities that are required to be measured at fair value on a recurring or non-recurring basis. |
| Fiscal Period | We establish actual interim closing dates using a fiscal calendar, which requires our businesses to close their books on the Saturday closest to the end of the first calendar quarter, with the second and third quarters being 91 days in length. Our fourth quarter ends on December 31. The interim closing dates for the first, second and third quarters of 2016 are April 2, July 2 and October 1, compared to the respective March 28, June 27 and September 26, 2015 dates. This practice only affects the quarterly reporting periods and not the annual reporting period. We had six more days in the first quarter of 2016 and we had five fewer days in the fourth quarter of 2016 than in the respective 2015 periods. |
| Environmental Matters | |
| Environmental Matters | Environmental Matters Our operations and properties are subject to federal, state, local and foreign regulatory requirements relating to environmental protection. It is our policy to comply fully with all applicable requirements. As part of our effort to comply, we have a comprehensive environmental compliance program that includes environmental audits conducted by internal and external independent professionals, as well as regular communications with our operating units regarding environmental compliance requirements and anticipated regulations. Based on current information, we believe that our operations are in substantial compliance with applicable environmental laws and regulations, and we are not aware of any violations that could have a material effect, individually or in the aggregate, on our business, financial condition, and results of operations or cash flows. As of December 31, 2016 , we had liabilities for site investigation and/or remediation at 30 sites ( 35 sites at December 31, 2015 ) that we own or control. In addition, while we believe that we maintain adequate accruals to cover the costs of site investigation and/or remediation, we cannot provide assurance that new matters, developments, laws and regulations, or stricter interpretations of existing laws and regulations will not materially affect our business or operations in the future. Our environmental accruals cover anticipated costs, including investigation, remediation, and operation and maintenance of clean-up sites. Our estimates are based primarily on investigations and remediation plans established by independent consultants, regulatory agencies and potentially responsible third parties. Accordingly, our estimates may change based on future developments, including new or changes in existing environmental laws or policies, differences in costs required to complete anticipated actions from estimates provided, future findings of investigation or remediation actions, or alteration to the expected remediation plans. It is our policy to revise an estimate once it becomes probable and the amount of change can be reasonably estimated. We generally do not discount our environmental accruals and do not reduce them by anticipated insurance recoveries. We take into account third-party indemnification from financially viable parties in determining our accruals where there is no dispute regarding the right to indemnification. |
