| Document and Entity Information | Sep. 28, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | CHART INDUSTRIES INC |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000892553 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Sep. 28, 2020 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 001-11442 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 34-1712937 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 3055 Torrington Drive |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Ball Ground |
| Entity Address, State or Province | GA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 30107 |
| City Area Code | (770) |
| Local Phone Number | 721-8800 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common stock, par value $0.01 |
| Trading Symbol | GTLS |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
