| Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies) | 12 Months Ended |
| Dec. 31, 2020 |
| 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 17 for further discussion of the Balcke Dürr sale. All other VIEs are considered immaterial, individually and in aggregate, to our consolidated financial statements. |
| 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”). Gains and losses on foreign currency translations are reflected as a separate component of 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 revenue in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 606. See Note 5 for our policy for recognizing revenue under ASC 606 as well as the various other disclosures required by ASC 606. |
| 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 finance leases, was $25.2 , $22.9 and $21.4 for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, 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 2020, 2019 or 2018. |
| 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 interest costs and expected return on plan assets, are recorded on a quarterly basis. 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. 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 (Level 3 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, 2020 or 2019. |
| Income Taxes | Income Taxes — We account for 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. |
| 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 change in fair value of the derivatives is recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) and subsequently recognized in earnings when the forecasted transaction impacts 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 transactio n. 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 14 and 16 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 South African Rand, British Pound Sterling, and Euro. 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”). None of our FX forward contracts are designated as cash flow hedges. |
| Reclassification of Prior Years’ Amounts | Reclassification of Prior Years’ Amounts – Certain prior years’ amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation, including amounts related to the inclusion of Heat Transfer within discontinued operations. |
| 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 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. Impact of the Coronavirus Disease (the “COVID-19 pandemic”) — We have experienced modest adverse impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic since March 2020. Despite the adverse impacts, there are no indications that the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a material decline in the carrying value of any assets, or a material change in the estimate of any contingent amounts, recorded in our consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2020. However, there is uncertainty as to the duration and overall impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which could result in an adverse material change in a future period to the estimates we have made for the valuation of assets and contingent amounts. |
| 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. |
| 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, including 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 |
| 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 our legal interpretation of our rights for recovery under the agreements we have with the insurers. 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 interest costs and expected return on plan assets, are recorded on a quarterly basis. See Note 11 for further discussion of our pension and postretirement benefits. |
| Parent Guarantees and Bonds Associated with Balcke Durr | Parent Guarantees and Bonds Associated with Balcke Dürr — As further discussed in Note 17, in connection with the sale of Balcke Dürr, we became contingently obligated under existing parent company guarantees and bank and surety bonds which totaled approximately Euro 79.0 and Euro 79.0, respectively, at the time of sale (and Euro 0.0 and Euro 2.9, respectively, at December 31, 2020). 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 17, under the related purchase agreement, Balcke Dürr provided cash collateral and the parent company of the buyer provided a partial guarantee in the event any of the 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 the parent company of the buyer, with the estimated fair values based on the terms and conditions and relative risk associated with each of these securities. By way of an offset to “Other income (expense), net,” we are reducing the liability and amortizing the asset, with the reduction of the liability generally to occur upon return of the guarantee or bond which is expected 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 17 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 the parent company of the buyer. |
| New Accounting Pronouncements | New Accounting Pronouncements The following is a summary of new accounting pronouncements that apply or may apply to our business. In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued a new standard on revenue recognition (“ASC 606”) that outlines a single comprehensive model for entities to use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers and superseded most current revenue recognition guidance, including industry-specific guidance. Effective January 1, 2018, we adopted ASC 606 using the modified retrospective transition approach for all contracts not completed as of the date of adoption. The modified retrospective transition approach recognizes any changes as of the beginning of the year of initial application (i.e., as of January 1, 2018) through retained earnings, with no restatement of comparative periods. The adoption of ASC 606 resulted in a reduction of our retained deficit of $4.0. In January 2016, the FASB issued an amendment to guidance that (i) requires equity securities (excluding equity method investments) to be measured at fair value, with changes in fair value recognized in net earnings, and (ii) enhances the disclosure associated with these instruments. The amendment allows equity securities that do not have readily determinable fair values to be measured at fair value, either upon the occurrence of an observable price change or identification of an impairment. We adopted this amendment in 2018, with the impact limited to an adjustment to the carrying value of an equity security that we had been accounting for based on its historical cost. In connection with our adoption, we adjusted the carrying value of this equity security to its estimated fair value, which resulted in a reduction, net of tax, of our retained deficit of $12.0. See Note 17 for additional details. In February 2016, the FASB issued an amendment to existing guidance, ASC 842, that requires lessees to recognize assets and liabilities for the rights and obligations created by leases. Under the amendment, additional qualitative and quantitative disclosures are required to allow users of financial statements to assess the amount, timing, and uncertainty of cash flows arising from leases. Effective January 1, 2019, we adopted ASC 842 using the modified retrospective transition approach. The modified retrospective transition approach recognizes any changes as of the beginning of the year of initial application (i.e., as of January 1, 2019) through retained earnings, with no restatement of comparative periods. The new standard provides a number of optional practical expedients upon transition. We elected the “package of practical expedients,” which allowed us to maintain our prior conclusions regarding lease identification, lease classification and initial direct costs. We did not elect the practical expedients for the use-of-hindsight or land easements; the latter not being applicable to us. The adoption of ASC 842 had no impact on our retained deficit and no significant impact on the accompanying consolidated statements of operations or consolidated statements of cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019. See Note 6 for further discussion of the post adoption impact of ASC 842. In June 2016, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2016-13. ASU 2016-13 changes how entities measure credit losses for most financial assets and certain other instruments that are not measured at fair value through net income, including trade receivables, based on historical experience, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts. The requirements of ASU 2016-13 are to be applied on a modified retrospective basis, which entails recognizing the initial effect of adoption in retained earnings. We adopted ASU 2016-13 on January 1, 2020, which resulted in an increase of our retained deficit of $0.5. In October 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-16, which removes the prohibition in ASC 740 against the immediate recognition of the current and deferred income tax effects of intra-entity transfers of assets other than inventory. ASU 2016-16 is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those annual reporting periods. The requirements of ASU 2016-16 are to be applied on a modified retrospective basis, which entails recognizing the initial effect of adoption in retained earnings. We adopted ASU 2016-16 as of January 1, 2018, which resulted in an increase of our retained deficit of $0.2. 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. We adopted this guidance during the first quarter of 2020, with such adoption having no material impact to our consolidated financial statements. In August 2017, the FASB issued significant amendments to hedge accounting. The new guidance will make more financial and nonfinancial hedging strategies eligible for hedge accounting. It also amends the presentation and disclosure requirements and changes how companies assess effectiveness. It is intended to more closely align hedge accounting with companies’ risk management strategies, simplify the application of hedge accounting, and increase transparency as to the scope and results of hedging programs. We adopted this guidance during the first quarter of 2019, with such adoption having no material impact to our consolidated financial statements. In February 2018, the FASB amended its guidance for reporting comprehensive income to reflect the potential impacts of the reduction in the corporate tax rate resulting from the “Tax Cut and Jobs Act,” which was enacted in the United States on December 22, 2017. The amendment gives the option of reclassifying the stranded tax effects within AOCI to retained earnings during the fiscal year or quarter in which the effect of the lower tax rate is recorded. The amendment is effective for years beginning after December 15, 2018, with early adoption permitted. We adopted this guidance as of January 1, 2018, which resulted in an increase of our retained deficit of $4.8. In August 2018, the FASB issued amended guidance to simplify fair value measurement disclosure requirements. The new provisions eliminate the requirements to disclose (i) transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, (ii) policies related to valuation processes and the timing of transfers between levels of the fair value hierarchy, and (iii) net asset value disclosure of estimates of timing of future liquidity events. The FASB also modified disclosure requirements of Level 3 fair value measurements. This guidance is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2019. We adopted this guidance on January 1, 2020, with no impact on our consolidated financial statements. In December 2019, the FASB issued ASU No. 2019-12, Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes (Topic 740). This ASU simplifies the accounting for income taxes by, among other things, eliminating certain existing exceptions related to the general approach in ASC 740 relating to franchise taxes, reducing complexity in the interim-period accounting for year-to-date loss limitations and changes in tax laws, and clarifying the accounting for transactions outside of business combinations that result in a step-up in the tax basis of goodwill. The transition requirements are primarily prospective and the effective date is for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2020, with early adoption permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact of this guidance on our consolidated financial statements. The London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) is scheduled to be discontinued on December 31, 2021. In an effort to address the various challenges created by such discontinuance, the FASB issued two amendments to existing guidance, ASU No. 2020-04 and No. 2021-01, Reference Rate Reform. The amended guidance is designed to provide relief from the accounting analysis and impacts that may otherwise be required for modifications to agreements (e.g., loans, debt securities, derivatives, etc.) necessitated by the reference rate reform. It also provides optional expedients to enable companies to continue to apply hedge accounting to certain hedging relationships impacted by the reference rate reform. Application of the guidance in the amendments is optional, is only available in certain situations, and is only available for companies to apply until December 31, 2022. We are currently evaluating the impacts of reference rate reform and the new guidance on our consolidated financial statements. |
| 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 $3.2 in 2020, $4.4 in 2019, and $3.7 in 2018. 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 assets. Impairments of long-lived assets, 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 Intangibles — 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 during the fourth quarter of 2020, we concluded that the estimated fair value of each of our reporting units, exclusive of Cues and Patterson-Kelley, exceeded the carrying value of their respective net assets by over 75%. The estimated fair values of Cues and Patterson-Kelley exceeded the carrying value of their respective net assets by approximately 12% and 3%, while the total goodwill for Cues and Patterson-Kelley was $47.9 and $14.2, respectively, as of December 31, 2020. A change in assumptions used in testing Cues’ and Patterson-Kelley’s goodwill for impairment (e.g., projected revenues and profit growth rates, discount rates, industry price multiples, etc.) could result in Cues’ and/or Patterson-Kelley’s estimated fair value being less than the respective carrying value of their net assets. If Cues and/or Patterson-Kelley is unable to achieve the financial forecasts included in their respective 2020 annual goodwill impairment analysis, we may be required to record an impairment charge in a future period related to Cues’ and/or Patterson-Kelley’s goodwill. 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 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. In connection with the annual impairment testing of our trademarks during the fourth quarter of 2020, we recorded impairment charges of $0.7 related to certain of these trademarks. As indicated in Note 1, the COVID-19 pandemic could have an adverse impact on our future operating results. As of December 31, 2020, there are no indications that the carrying value of our goodwill and other intangible assets may not be recoverable. However, a prolonged adverse impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our future operating results may require an impairment charge related to one or more of these assets in a future period. |
| 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 0.276 , 0.287 and 0.279 shares of our common stock to employee accounts in 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively. Compensation expense is recorded based on the market value of shares as the shares are contributed to employee accounts. We recorded $ 11.3 in 2020, $10.3 in 2019 and $9.4 in 2018 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 $ 20.9 |
| 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 a tax 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. The Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) currently is performing an audit of our 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017 federal income tax returns. 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. Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) On March 27, 2020, the CARES Act was enacted into law and provides changes to various tax laws that impact businesses. We do not believe these changes impact our current and deferred income tax balances; therefore, no resulting adjustments have been recorded to such balances as of December 31, 2020. As provided within the CARES Act, we are deferring payments of our social security payroll taxes, for the period March 27, 2020 to December 31, 2020, with such deferral totaling $10.8 as of December 31, 2020. One-half of the deferred amount is required to be paid in 2021, with the remainder to be paid in 2022. |
| 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, insurance recovery assets associated with asbestos product liability matters, 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 and insurance companies throughout the world. We periodically evaluate the credit standing of these financial institutions and insurance companies. We maintain cash levels in bank accounts that, at times, may exceed federally-insured limits. We have not experienced significant loss, 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. Credit risks are mitigated 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 | 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. 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. 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, 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, 2020, 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. |
| 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, 2020, we had liabilities for site investigation and/or remediation at 25 sites (29 sites at December 31, 2019) 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 |
