Perma-Pipe International (PPIH) 10-K 15 Apr 14 2013 Q4 Annual report Financial data

Document_and_entity_informatio

Document and entity information Document (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014	Apr. 07, 2014	Jul. 31, 2013
Entity Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Entity Registrant Name	'MFRI INC.	'	'
Entity Central Index Key	'0000914122	'	'
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--01-31	'	'
Entity Filer Category	'Smaller Reporting Company	'	'
Document Type	'10-K	'	'
Document Period End Date	31-Jan-14	'	'
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2013	'	'
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'Q4	'	'
Amendment Flag	'false	'	'
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	'	7,173,037	'
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	'No	'	'
Entity Voluntary Filers	'No	'	'
Entity Current Reporting Status	'Yes	'	'
Entity Public Float	'	'	$67,524,506

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENT_OF_OPER

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS Statement (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
Net sales	$226,835	$168,807
Cost of sales	174,620	141,313
Gross profit	52,215	27,494
Operating expenses:	'	'
General and administrative expense	28,116	25,580
Selling expense	11,016	10,734
Total operating expenses	39,132	36,314
Income (loss) from operations	13,083	-8,820
Income from joint venture	528	1,386
Interest expense, net	1,311	1,498
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes	12,300	-8,932
Income tax (benefit) expense	-493	11,825
Income (loss) from continuing operations	12,793	-20,757
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax	8,234	2,272
Net income (loss)	$21,027	($18,485)
Weighted average common shares outstanding	'	'
Basic	7,028	6,922
Diluted	7,096	6,922
Earnings (loss) per share from continuing operations	'	'
Basic	$1.82	($3)
Diluted	$1.80	($3)
Earnings per share from discontinued operations	'	'
Basic	$1.17	$0.33
Diluted	$1.16	$0.33
Earnings (loss) per share	'	'
Basic	$2.99	($2.67)
Diluted	$2.96	($2.67)

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENT_OF_COMP

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) Statement (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
Net income (loss)	$21,027	($18,485)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	'	'
Currency translation adjustments, net of tax	-1,268	-251
Minimum pension liability adjustment, net of tax	682	112
Interest rate swap, net of tax	151	-6
Other comprehensive loss	-435	-145
Comprehensive income (loss)	$20,592	($18,630)

CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE_SHEETS

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (USD $)	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$13,395	$7,034
Restricted cash	439	725
Trade accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $194 at January 31, 2014 and $290 at January 31, 2013	45,659	23,278
Inventories, net	33,547	37,529
Assets held for sale	1,223	10,218
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	5,353	3,932
Costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts	1,476	1,630
Total current assets	101,092	84,346
Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation	42,541	45,582
Other assets	'	'
Deferred tax assets - long-term	1,667	1,358
Note receivable from joint venture	4,659	5,200
Investment in joint venture	6,550	6,022
Cash surrender value on life insurance policies	3,110	2,946
Other assets	2,363	2,408
Assets held for sale long-term	914	1,253
Patents, net of accumulated amortization	373	373
Total other assets	19,636	19,560
Total assets	163,269	149,488
Current liabilities	'	'
Trade accounts payable	15,276	18,740
Commissions and management incentives payable	9,235	2,723
Accrued compensation and payroll taxes	5,254	4,361
Current maturities of long-term debt	8,274	5,384
Customers' deposits	7,372	7,030
Liabilities held for sale current	527	7,531
Other accrued liabilities	1,842	1,735
Billings in excess of costs and estimated earnings on uncompleted contracts	2,222	985
Deferred tax liabilities - current	889	687
Income tax payable	2,593	34
Total current liabilities	53,484	49,210
Long-term liabilities	'	'
Long-term debt, less current maturities	23,469	35,579
Deferred compensation liabilities	6,509	5,670
Liabilities held for sale long-term	968	1,485
Other long-term liabilities	2,203	3,289
Total long-term liabilities	33,149	46,023
Stockholders' equity	'	'
Common stock, $.01 par value, authorized 50,000 shares; 7,169 issued and outstanding at January 31, 2014 and 6,924 issued and outstanding at January 31, 2013	72	69
Additional paid-in capital	52,144	50,358
Retained earnings	25,580	4,553
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-1,160	-725
Total stockholders' equity	76,636	54,255
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	$163,269	$149,488

Balance_Sheet_Parentheticals

Balance Sheet (Parentheticals) (USD $)	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified
Allowance for doubtful accounts	$194	$290
Common stock, par value	$0.01	$0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	50,000	50,000
Common stock, shares issued	7,169	6,924
Common stock, shares outstanding	7,169	6,924

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENT_OF_STOC

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDERSb EQUITY (USD $)	Total	Common Stock	Additional Paid-in Capital	Retained Earnings	Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
In Thousands, except Share data
Total stockholders' equity at Jan. 31, 2012	$72,355	$69	$49,828	$23,038	($580)
Balance, Shares at Jan. 31, 2012	'	6,912,771	'	'	'
Net income (loss)	-18,485	'	'	-18,485	'
Stock options exercised	35	0	35	'	'
Stock-based compensation	484	'	484	'	'
Excess tax (benefit) expense from stock options exercised	11	'	11	'	'
Interest rate swap	97	'	'	'	97
Pension liability adjustment	466	'	'	'	466
Foreign currency translation adjustment	-263	'	'	'	-263
Tax benefit on above items	-445	'	'	'	-445
Shares issued	'	11,313	'	'	'
Total stockholders' equity at Jan. 31, 2013	54,255	69	50,358	4,553	-725
Balance, Shares at Jan. 31, 2013	'	6,924,084	'	'	'
Net income (loss)	21,027	'	'	21,027	'
Stock options exercised	1,588	3	1,585	'	'
Stock-based compensation	196	'	196	'	'
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Other	5	'	5	'	'
Interest rate swap	151	'	'	'	151
Pension liability adjustment	966	'	'	'	966
Foreign currency translation adjustment	-1,269	'	'	'	-1,269
Tax benefit on above items	-283	'	'	'	-283
Shares issued	'	244,453	'	'	'
Total stockholders' equity at Jan. 31, 2014	$76,636	$72	$52,144	$25,580	($1,160)
Balance, Shares at Jan. 31, 2014	'	7,168,537	'	'	'

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENT_OF_CASH

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
Operating activities	'	'
Net income (loss)	$21,027	($18,485)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash flows provided by operating activities	'	'
Depreciation and amortization expense	5,785	5,806
Gain on disposal of discontinued operations	-11,449	0
Impairment on fixed assets	0	1,520
Deferred tax (benefit) expense	-3,190	12,594
Income in joint venture	-528	-1,386
Stock-based compensation expense	196	484
Cash surrender value on life insurance policies	-164	-163
Provision on uncollectible accounts	419	114
Loss on disposal of fixed assets	-328	-64
Changes in operating assets and liabilities	'	'
Accrued compensation and payroll taxes	6,026	-844
Accounts payable	-4,438	2,908
Inventories	8,608	-2,080
Customers' deposits	-198	5,138
Income taxes receivable and payable	2,564	-384
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	-619	563
Accounts receivable	-18,592	204
Costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts	1,110	34
Notes receivable	331	0
Other assets and liabilities	-816	-740
Net cash provided by operating activities	6,400	5,347
Investing activities	'	'
Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities	15,172	0
Capital expenditures	-2,761	-5,360
Loan to joint venture	0	-989
Proceeds from sales of property and equipment	16	95
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	12,427	-6,254
Financing activities	'	'
Proceeds from debt	83,530	194,035
Payments of debt on revolving lines of credit	-85,490	-185,659
Payments of other debt	-7,643	-4,025
Decrease in drafts payable	-3,125	-8
Payments on capitalized lease obligations	-603	-591
Stock options exercised and deferred shares issued	1,592	35
Tax benefit of stock options exercised	0	11
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities	-11,739	3,798
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	-727	-66
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents	6,361	2,825
Cash and cash equivalents - beginning of period	7,034	4,209
Cash and cash equivalents - end of period	13,395	7,034
Supplemental cash flow information	'	'
Interest paid	1,958	2,314
Income taxes	409	200
Fixed assets acquired under capital leases	107	569
Funds held in escrow related to the sale of Thermal Care, Inc. assets	$1,125	$0

Business_and_segment_informati

Business and segment information	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Business and segment information [Abstract]	'
Business and segment information [Text Block]	'
	Note 1 - Business and segment information
	MFRI, Inc. ("MFRI", the "Company", or the "Registrant") was incorporated in Delaware on October 12, 1993. MFRI is engaged in the manufacture and sale of products in two distinct segments: Piping Systems and Filtration Products.
	Fiscal year. The Company's fiscal year ends on January 31. Years and balances described as 2013 and 2012 are the fiscal years ended January 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
	Nature of business. Piping Systems engineers, designs, manufactures and sells specialty piping and leak detection and location systems. This segment's specialty piping systems include (i) industrial and secondary containment piping systems for transporting chemicals, hazardous fluids and petroleum products, (ii) insulated and jacketed district heating and cooling piping systems for efficient energy distribution to multiple locations from central energy plants, and (iii) oil and gas gathering flow and long lines for oil and mineral transportation. Piping Systems' leak detection and location systems are sold with many of its piping systems and on a stand-alone basis, to monitor areas where fluid intrusion may contaminate the environment, endanger personal safety, cause a fire hazard, impair essential services or damage equipment or property. Filtration Products manufactures and sells a wide variety of filter elements for use in industrial air filtration systems and particulate collection systems. Air filtration systems are used in a wide variety of industries to limit particulate emissions, primarily to comply with environmental regulations. Filtration Products markets air filtration related products and accessories, and provides maintenance services, consisting primarily of dust collector inspection, filter cleaning and filter replacement.
	MFRI's reportable segments are strategic businesses that offer different products and services. Each is managed separately based on fundamental operating differences. Each strategic business was acquired as a unit and management at the time of acquisition was retained. The Company evaluates performance based on gross profit and income or loss from operations.
	In the fiscal year ended January 31, 2014, one customer in Piping Systems accounted for 10.6% of the Company's net sales. In the fiscal year ended January 31, 2013, no customer accounted for 10.0% or more of the Company's net sales. At January 31, 2014, one customer in Piping Systems accounted for 24.5% of accounts receivable.
	Segment information was as follows:
		2013	2012
	Net sales
	Piping Systems	$158,422	$89,664
	Filtration Products	68,413	79,143
	Total net sales	$226,835	$168,807
	Gross profit
	Piping Systems	$43,273	$17,020
	Filtration Products	8,942	10,474
	Total gross profit	$52,215	$27,494
	Income (loss) from operations
	Piping Systems	$24,213	$3,452
	Filtration Products	-1,629	-2,962
	Corporate	-9,501	-9,310
	Total income (loss) from operations	$13,083	($8,820)
	Segment assets
	Piping Systems	$109,154	$83,944
	Filtration Products	41,765	52,958
	Corporate	12,350	12,586
	Total segment assets	$163,269	$149,488
	Capital expenditures
	Piping Systems	$2,425	$4,206
	Filtration Products	294	995
	Corporate	42	159
	Total capital expenditures	$2,761	$5,360
	Depreciation and amortization
	Piping Systems	$3,489	$3,344
	Filtration Products	1,729	1,750
	Corporate	567	712
	Total depreciation and amortization	$5,785	$5,806
	Interest expense, net
	Piping Systems	$495	$226
	Filtration Products	1,966	2,239
	Corporate	-1,150	-967
	Total interest expense, net	$1,311	$1,498
	Impairment of fixed assets
	Filtration Products	$0	$1,520
	Geographic information. Net sales are attributed to a geographic area based on the destination of the product shipment. Sales to foreign customers was 57% in 2013 compared to 30% in 2012. Long-lived assets are based on the physical location of the assets and consist of property, plant and equipment used in the generation of revenues in the geographic area.
		2013	2012
	Net sales
	United States	$97,311	$104,830
	Middle East	94,500	24,631
	Europe	14,933	16,324
	Canada	7,591	9,771
	India	773	6,317
	Other Americas	6,915	2,317
	Other	4,812	4,617
	Total net sales	$226,835	$168,807
	Long-lived assets
	United States	$25,260	$26,952
	Middle East	12,751	13,204
	Denmark	4,020	4,445
	India	510	981
	Total long-lived assets	$42,541	$45,582

Significant_accounting_policie

Significant accounting policies	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Significant accounting policies	'
	Note 2 - Significant accounting policies
	Use of estimates. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
	Revenue recognition. The Company recognizes revenues including shipping and handling charges billed to customers, when all the following criteria are met: (i) persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, (ii) the seller's price to the buyer is fixed or determinable, and (iii) collectability is reasonably assured. All subsidiaries of the Company, except as noted below, recognize revenues upon shipment or delivery of goods or services when title and risk of loss pass to customers.
	Percentage of completion revenue recognition. All divisions recognize revenues under the above stated revenue recognition policy except for sizable complex contracts that require periodic recognition of income. For these contracts, the Company uses the "percentage of completion" accounting method. Under this approach, income is recognized in each reporting period based on the status of the uncompleted contracts and the current estimates of costs to complete. The choice of accounting method is made at the time the contract is received based on the expected length and complexity of the project. The percentage of completion is determined by the relationship of costs incurred to the total estimated costs of the contract. Provisions are made for estimated losses on uncompleted contracts in the period in which such losses are determined. Changes in job performance, job conditions, and estimated profitability, including those arising from contract penalty provisions and final contract settlements, may result in revisions to costs and income. Such revisions are recognized in the period in which they are determined. Claims for additional compensation due the Company are recognized in contract revenues when realization is probable and the amount can be reliably estimated.
	Shipping and handling. Shipping and handling costs are included in cost of sales, and the amounts invoiced to customers relating to shipping and handling are included in net sales.
	Sales tax. Sales tax is reported on a net basis in the consolidated financial statements.
	Operating cycle. The length of piping systems contracts vary, but are typically less than one year. The Company includes in current assets and liabilities amounts realizable and payable in the normal course of contract completion unless completion of such contracts extends significantly beyond one year. The Company's other businesses do not have an operating cycle beyond one year.
	Consolidation. The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its domestic and foreign subsidiaries, all of which are wholly owned. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated.
	Translation of foreign currency. Assets and liabilities of consolidated foreign subsidiaries are translated into U.S. dollars at exchange rates in effect at year-end. Revenues and expenses are translated at average exchange rates prevailing during the year. Gains or losses on foreign currency transactions and the related tax effects are reflected in net income. The resulting translation adjustments are included in stockholders' equity as part of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).
	Contingencies. The Company is subject to various legal proceedings and claims that arise in the ordinary course of business, including those involving environmental, tax, product liability and general liability claims. The Company accrues for such liabilities when it is probable that future costs will be incurred and such costs can be reasonably estimated. Such accruals are based on developments to date, the Company's estimates of the outcomes of these matters, and its experience in contesting, litigating and settling other similar matters. The Company does not currently anticipate the amount of any ultimate liability with respect to these matters will materially affect the Company's financial position, liquidity or future operations.
	Cash and cash equivalents. All highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less when purchased are considered to be cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents were $13.4 million and $7.0 million as of January 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The balance is primarily cash and cash equivalents at the foreign subsidiaries.
	The Company has not experienced any losses as a result of its cash concentration. Consequently, no significant concentration of credit risk is considered to exist. Accounts payable included drafts payable of $0.2 million and $3.3 million as of January 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
	Restricted cash. The Loan Agreement provides that all domestic receipts are deposited in a bank account from which all funds may only be used to pay the debt under the Loan Agreement. At January 31, 2014, the amount of such restricted cash was $0.05 million and $0.4 million of restricted cash was held by a foreign subsidiary. At January 31, 2013, the amount of such restricted cash was $0.1 million and $0.6 million of restricted cash was held by a foreign subsidiary.
	Accounts receivable. The majority of the Company's accounts receivable are due from geographically dispersed contractors and manufacturing companies. Credit is extended based on an evaluation of a customer's financial condition, including the availability of credit insurance. In the U.S. collateral is not generally required. In the U.A.E. and Saudi Arabia, letters of credit are obtained for substantially all material orders. Accounts receivable are due within various time periods specified in the terms applicable to the specific customer and are stated at amounts due from customers net of an allowance for claims and doubtful accounts. The allowance for doubtful accounts is calculated using a percentage of sales method based upon collection history and an estimate of uncollectible accounts. Management may exercise its judgment in adjusting the provision as a consequence of known items, such as current economic factors and credit trends. Past due trade accounts receivable balances are written off when the Company's collection efforts have been unsuccessful in collecting the amount due. Accounts receivable adjustments are recorded against the allowance for doubtful accounts.
	Concentration of credit risk. The Company has a broad customer base doing business in all regions of the U.S. as well as other areas in the world. In the fiscal year ended January 31, 2014, one customer in Piping Systems accounted for 10.6% of the Company's net sales. In the fiscal year ended January 31, 2013, no customer accounted for 10.0% or more of the Company's net sales. At January 31, 2014, one customer in Piping Systems accounted for 24.5% of accounts receivable.
	Accumulated other comprehensive loss. Represents the change in equity from non-owner transactions and consisted of foreign currency translation, minimum pension liability and interest rate swaps.
		2013			2012
	Equity adjustment foreign currency		($90	)		$1,179
	Minimum pension liability, gross	-1,513			-2,479
	Interest rate swap, gross	-68			-219
	Subtotal excluding tax effect	-1,671			-1,519
	Tax effect of foreign exchange	12			12
	Tax effect of minimum pension liability	482			765
	Tax effect of interest rate swap	17			17
	Total other comprehensive loss	($1,160)			($725)
	Pension plan. The defined benefit plan that covered Winchester filtration hourly rated employees was frozen on June 30, 2013. The benefits are based on fixed amounts multiplied by years of service of retired participants. The Company engages outside actuaries to calculate its obligations and costs. The funding policy is to contribute such amounts as are necessary to provide for benefits attributed to service to date. The amounts contributed to the plan are sufficient to meet the minimum funding requirements set forth in the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974.
	Inventories. Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined using the first-in, first-out method for all inventories. In the fourth quarter, Filtration Products recorded an additional $0.6 million inventory reserve for slow moving and obsolete materials.
		2013	2012
	Raw materials	$27,330	$31,820
	Work in process	2,855	2,333
	Finished goods	4,311	4,051
	Subtotal	34,496	38,204
	Less allowances	949	675
	Inventories, net	$33,547	$37,529
	Long-lived assets. Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost. Interest is capitalized in connection with the construction of facilities and amortized over the asset's estimated useful life. Long-lived assets are reviewed for possible impairment whenever events indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable. If such a review indicates impairment, the carrying amount of such assets is reduced to an estimated fair value.
	Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets, which range from three to 30 years. Leasehold improvements are depreciated over the remaining life of the lease or its useful life whichever is shorter. Amortization of assets under capital leases is included in depreciation and amortization. Depreciation expense was approximately $5.8 million in 2013 and in 2012.
		2013	2012
	Land, buildings and improvements	$36,535	$36,572
	Machinery and equipment	50,793	49,919
	Furniture, office equipment and computer systems	9,723	11,065
	Transportation equipment	206	189
	Subtotal	97,257	97,745
	Less accumulated depreciation and amortization	54,716	52,163
	Property, plant and equipment, net	$42,541	$45,582
	Impairment of long-lived assets. The Company evaluates long-lived assets (including intangible assets) for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of a long-lived asset may not be recoverable. An asset is considered impaired if its carrying amount exceeds the undiscounted future net cash flow the asset is expected to generate.
	The Company has an idle facility in Cicero, Illinois that has not yet been sold and does not meet the criteria to be presented as held for sale as of January 31, 2014. In 2013, management performed the required impairment analysis on the idle facility to determine if its carrying value was recoverable. Management determined that the carrying value of the idle facility was fully recoverable. For 2012, management identified recent sales data for similar facilities for sale in the area and analyzed the expected cash flows from different sales scenarios and determined that the carrying value of the idle facility was not fully recoverable. For 2012, management recorded an impairment loss of $1.5 million, to adjust the idle facility to its estimated recoverable amount.
	Other intangible assets with definite lives. The Company owns several patents including those covering features of its piping and electronic leak detection systems. The patents are not material either individually or in the aggregate overall because the Company believes sales would not be materially reduced if patent protection were not available. Patents are capitalized and amortized on a straight-line basis over a period not to exceed the legal lives of the patents. The Company expenses costs incurred to renew or extend the term of intangible assets. Gross patents were $2.6 million as of January 31, 2014 and 2013. Accumulated amortization was approximately $2.23 million and $2.18 million as of January 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Future amortizations over the next five years ending January 31 will be $48,900 in 2014, $45,700 in 2015, $41,900 in 2016, $38,800 in 2017, $28,800 in 2018, and $168,400 thereafter.
	Investment in joint venture. In October 2009, the Company invested $5.9 million, which consisted of $2.0 million for a 49% interest and $3.9 million for a note receivable, in a Canadian joint venture with The Bayou Companies, Inc., a subsidiary of Aegion Corporation. The joint venture completed an acquisition of Garneau, Inc.'s pipe coating and insulation facility and associated assets located in Camrose, Alberta, Canada, which provides the Company the opportunity to participate in the growing oil sands market. In February 2012, the Company loaned $1.0 million to its Canadian joint venture to be used for capital expenditures.
	The Company accounts for the investment in joint venture using the equity method. The financial results included in the Company's consolidated financial statements.
		2013	2012
	Share of income from joint venture	$528	$1,386
	The following information summarizes the joint venture financial data:
		2013	2012
	Current assets	$13,034	$14,058
	Noncurrent assets	17,093	19,442
	Current liabilities	2,921	2,703
	Noncurrent liabilities	14,837	18,274
	Equity	12,369	12,523
	Revenue	29,110	30,448
	Gross profit	4,748	7,211
	Income from continuing operations	2,619	3,380
	Net income	1,078	2,680
	Research and development. Research and development expenses consist of materials, salaries and related expenses of engineering personnel and outside services for product development projects. Research and development costs are expensed as incurred. Research and development expense was approximately $0.7 million in 2013 and $2.2 million in 2012.
Income taxes. Deferred income taxes have been provided for temporary differences arising from differences in the basis of assets and liabilities for tax and financial reporting purposes. Deferred income taxes on temporary differences have been recorded at the current tax rate. The Company assesses its deferred tax assets for realizability at each reporting period.
The Company recognizes the financial statement benefit of a tax position only after determining that the relevant tax authority would more likely than not sustain the position following an audit. For tax positions meeting the more likely than not threshold, the amount recognized in the financial statements is the largest benefit that has a greater than 50 percent likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement with the relevant tax authority. For further information, see Note 8 - Income taxes in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Net income (loss) per common share. Earnings per share ("EPS") are computed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding (basic). The year 2013 had net earnings. The year 2012 had net losses therefore, the diluted loss per share was identical to the basic loss per share rather than assuming conversion, exercise, or contingent issuance of securities that would have an anti-dilutive effect on earnings per share.
Basic weighted average number of common shares outstanding	2013		2012
Basic weighted average number of common shares outstanding	7,028		6,922
Dilutive effect of stock options	68		—
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding assuming full dilution	7,096		6,922
Weighted average number of stock options not included in the computation of diluted EPS of common stock because the option exercise prices exceeded the average market prices	201		783
Canceled options during the year	(73	)	(36	)
Stock options with an exercise price below the average stock price	575		186
Equity-based compensation. The Company issues various types of stock-based awards to employees and directors: restricted stock, deferred stock and stock options. Compensation expense associated with restricted and deferred stock is based on the fair value of the common stock on the date of grant. Stock compensation expense for stock options is recognized ratably over the requisite service period of the award. The Black-Scholes option-pricing model is utilized to estimate the fair value of awards. Determining the fair value of stock options using the Black-Scholes model requires judgment, including estimates for (1) risk-free interest rate - an estimate based on the yield of zero-coupon treasury securities with a maturity equal to the expected life of the option; (2) expected volatility - an estimate based on the historical volatility of the Company's Common Stock; and (3) expected life of the option - an estimate based on historical experience including the effect of employee terminations. If any of these assumptions differ significantly from actual, stock-based compensation expense could be impacted.
Fair value of financial instruments. The carrying values of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable and accounts payable are reasonable estimates of their fair value due to their short-term nature. The carrying amount of the Company's short-term debt, revolving line of credit and long-term debt approximate fair value because the majority of the amounts outstanding accrue interest at variable rates.
The Company entered into an interest rate swap agreement to reduce its exposure to market risks from changing interest rates under the revolving credit agreement. Any differences paid or received on the interest rate swap agreements are recognized as adjustments to interest expense over the life of the swap, thereby adjusting the effective interest rate on the underlying obligation.
Reclassifications. Reclassifications were made to prior-year financial statements to conform to the current-year presentations.

New_Accounting_Pronouncements

New Accounting Pronouncements	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Note 2 - New Accounting Pronouncements. [Abstract]	'
New Accounting Pronouncements	'
	Recent accounting pronouncements. In 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued new accounting guidance clarifying the accounting for the release of a cumulative translation adjustment into net income when a parent either sells a part or all of its investment in a foreign entity or no longer holds a controlling financial interest in a subsidiary or group of assets that is a nonprofit activity or a business within a foreign entity. The new standard is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after December 15, 2013. The Company does not anticipate that this adoption will have a significant impact on the financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.
	In September 2013, the Department of Treasury and Internal Revenue Service issued the final tangible property regulations on the capitalization of costs incurred for acquisitions, maintenance and improvements. The final regulations are effective for taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 2014. Early adoption is permissible for taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 2012. The Company is evaluating the effects of final regulations on its operating results and financial position.
	The Company evaluated recent accounting pronouncements and does not expect them to have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements.

Discontinued_Operations_Notes

Discontinued Operations (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Discontinued operations [Abstract]	'
Discontinued operations	'
	On April 30, 2013, the Company sold most of the domestic assets of its subsidiary Thermal Care, Inc. to a subsidiary of IPEG, Inc. for $16.3 million cash, of which $1.1 million is held in escrow until May 1, 2014 and included in other assets on the consolidated balance sheet. On June 26, 2013, the Company sold substantially all of the assets of the HVAC business previously included in Corporate and Other. In October 2013, the Company decided to sell its remaining industrial process business in Denmark. This business was sold on February 28, 2014. From October 2013 until it was sold, the business was operational and selling product. These businesses are reported as discontinued operations in the consolidated financial statements and the notes to consolidated financial statements have been revised to conform to the current year reporting. The January 31, 2013 Balance Sheet has been revised to reflect the separate amounts for assets and liabilities that were sold. Income from discontinued operations net of tax was $8.2 million and $2.3 million for the years ended January 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
	Results of the discontinued operations were as follows:
		2013			2012
	Net sales		$14,063			$43,210
	Gain on disposal of discontinued operations		$11,082			$—
	(Loss) income from discontinued operations	(28		)	1,237
	Income from discontinued operations before income taxes	11,054			1,237
	Income tax expense (benefit)	2,820			(1,035		)
	Income from discontinued operations, net of tax		$8,234			$2,272
	Components of assets and liabilities from discontinued operations consist of the following:
		2013			2012
	Current assets
	Cash and cash equivalents		$1			$1
	Trade accounts receivable, net	595			4,564
	Inventories, net	593			4,804
	Other assets	34			849
	Total current assets from discontinued operations	1,223			10,218
	Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation	551			819
	Non-Current assets
	Other assets	363			434
	Total noncurrent assets from discontinued operations	914			1,253
	Total assets from discontinued operations		$2,688			$12,290
	Current liabilities
	Trade accounts payable, accrued expenses and other		$492			$7,496
	Current maturities of long-term debt	35			35
	Total current liabilities from discontinued operations	527			7,531
	Long-term liabilities	968			1,485
	Total liabilities from discontinued operations		$1,495			$9,016

Retention

Retention	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Retention [Abstract]	'
Retention	'Retention receivable is the amount withheld by a customer until a contract is completed. Retention receivables of $5.0 million and $1.1 million were included in the balance of trade accounts receivable as of JanuaryB 31,B 2014 and 2013, respectively.Retention payable is the amount withheld by the Company until a contract is completed. There was no retention payables at JanuaryB 31,B 2014 and $0.4B million was included in the balance of trade accounts payable at JanuaryB 31,B 2013.

Costs_and_estimated_earnings_o

Costs and estimated earnings on uncompleted contracts	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Costs and estimated earnings on uncompleted contracts [Abstract]	'
Costs and estimated earnings on uncompleted contracts	'
	Note 5 - Costs and estimated earnings on uncompleted contracts
		2013	2012
	Costs incurred on uncompleted contracts	$52,064	$39,556
	Estimated earnings	18,915	13,861
	Earned revenue	70,979	53,417
	Less billings to date	71,725	52,772
	Costs in excess of billings, net	($746)	$645
	Balance sheet classification
	Costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts	$1,476	$1,630
	Billings in excess of costs and estimated earnings on uncompleted contracts	-2,222	-985
	Costs in excess of billings, net	($746)	$645

Debt

Debt	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Debt [Abstract]	'
Debt Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	Note 6 - Debt
		2013		2012
	Revolving line domestic	$6,951		$13,989
	Mortgage notes	11,172		11,540
	Revolving lines foreign	5,059		2,242
	Term loans	6,494		10,608
	Capitalized lease obligations (See Note 7 - Lease information)	2,067		2,584
	Total debt	31,743		40,963
	Less current maturities	8,274		5,384
	Total long-term debt	$23,469		$35,579
	The following table summarizes the Company's scheduled maturities at January 31,:
		Total	2015		2016		2017	2018		2019		Thereafter
	Revolving line domestic	$6,951		$—		$—	$6,951		$—		$—		$—
	Mortgages	11,172	380		395		410	3,590		374		6,023
	Revolving line foreign	5,059	5,059		—		—	—		—		0
	Term loans	6,494	2,241		1,874		1,757	622		—		0
	Capitalized lease obligations	2,067	594		648		647	154		24		—
	Total	$31,743	$8,274		$2,917		$9,765	$4,366		$398		$6,023
	On July 11, 2002, the Company entered into a secured loan and security agreement with a financial institution (as amended, "Loan Agreement"). Under the terms of the Loan Agreement, which matures on November 30, 2016, the Company can borrow up to $25.0 million, subject to borrowing base and other requirements, under a revolving line of credit. The Company granted a continuing lien upon the Company’s assets. The Loan Agreement covenants restrict debt, liens, and certain investments, do not permit payment of dividends, and require attainment of specific levels of profitability and cash flows. At January 31, 2014, the Company was in compliance with all covenants under the Loan Agreement. Interest rates are based on options selected by the Company as follows: (a) a margin in effect of 0.25 in effect plus prime rate; and/or (b) a margin of 2.25 in effect plus the LIBOR rate for the corresponding interest period. At January 31, 2014, these rates were 3.5% and 2.5%, respectively. As of January 31, 2014, the Company had borrowed $7.0 million at prime and LIBOR rates and had $13.0 million available to it under the revolving line of credit. In addition, $0.1 million of availability was used under the Loan Agreement primarily to support letters of credit to guarantee amounts committed for inventory purchases. The Loan Agreement provides that all domestic receipts are deposited in a bank account from which all funds may only be used to pay the debt under the Loan Agreement. At January 31, 2014, the amount of such restricted cash was $0.05 million. Cash required for operations is provided by draw-downs on the line of credit.
	Revolving lines foreign. The Company also has credit arrangements used by its Danish and Middle Eastern subsidiaries. These credit arrangements are in the form of overdraft facilities and project financing at rates competitive in the countries in which the Company operates. The lines are secured by certain equipment, certain assets, such as accounts receivable and inventory, and a guarantee by the Company. The credit arrangement covenant requires a minimum tangible net worth to be maintained. At January 31, 2014, the Company was in compliance with the covenant under the credit arrangement. Interest rates are 4.0% per annum below National Bank of Fujairah Base Rate, minimum 3.5% per annum and Emirates Inter Bank Offered Rate (EIBOR) plus 3.5% per annum. The Company's interest rates range from 3.5% to 6.0% at January 31, 2014. At January 31, 2014, the Company can borrow under these credit arrangements $20.5 million. The Company borrowed $5.1 million and had $15.5 million available under these credit arrangements.
	The Company guarantees the subsidiaries' debt including all foreign debt.
	Mortgages. On June 19, 2012, Perma-Pipe, Inc. borrowed $1.8 million under a mortgage note secured by its manufacturing facility in Lebanon, Tennessee. The proceeds were used for payment of amounts borrowed. The loan bears interest at 4.5% with monthly payments of $13 thousand for both principal and interest and matures July 1, 2027. On June 19, 2022, and on the same day of each year thereafter, the interest rate shall adjust to the prime rate provided the applicable interest rate shall not adjust more than 2.0% per annum and shall be subject to ceiling of 18.0% and a floor of 4.5%.
	On March 27, 2012, the Company obtained a loan in the amount of 7.9 million Danish Kroners ("DKK") (approximately $1.4 million U.S. dollars at the prevailing exchange rate on the transaction date) from a Danish bank under a mortgage note secured by its Filtration Products manufacturing facility in Denmark. The loan has an interest rate of 2.2%, monthly payments of approximately $7.5 thousand for both principal and interest and matures March 2032.
	On March 4, 2008, the Company borrowed $5.4 million under a mortgage note secured by the Filtration Products manufacturing facility located in Bolingbrook, Illinois that matures March 2033. The 25 year mortgage resets its interest rate every five years based on a published index. The interest rate is 4.04% with monthly payments of $30 thousand for principal and interest combined.
	On January 18, 2008, the Company borrowed $3.7 million under a mortgage note secured by its manufacturing and office facility in Niles, Illinois. The loan bears interest at 6.3% with monthly payments of $23 thousand for both principal and interest based on an amortization schedule of thirty years with a balloon payment at maturity in January 2018.
	Term loans. On August 28, 2007, the Company amended and restated the Term Loan Note to $3.0 million ("Term Loan"). This secured promissory note is one of the term loan notes referred to in, and is issued pursuant to, the Loan Agreement and is entitled to all of the benefits and security of the Loan Agreement. Interest rates under the Term Loan are based on options selected by the Company as follows: (a) a margin in effect plus a prime rate; or (b) a margin in effect plus the LIBOR rate for the corresponding interest period. At January 31, 2014, the prime rate was 3.25%, the LIBOR rate was 0.25% and the margin added to the prime rate, which is determined each quarter based on the applicable financial statement ratio, was 0.50 percentage points. The Company is scheduled to pay $107 thousand of principal on the first days of March and June. The third amendment to the loan agreement allows for an additional term loan of $2.5 million less $0.6 million, the amount outstanding on this loan, in 2013 subject to attaining certain performance levels. The weighted average interest rates based on this loan at January 31, 2014 and 2013 were 4.21% and 4.24%, respectively.
	On December 10, 2012, the Company obtained a loan in the amount of 1.4 million Euros (approximately $1.8 million U.S. dollars at the prevailing exchange rate on transaction date) from a Danish bank by its Filtration Products manufacturing facility in Denmark. The loan is secured by equipment. The interest rate at January 31, 2014 was 3.7%. The loan has a variable interest rate plus margin, quarterly payments of approximately $108 thousand for both principal and interest and matures December 2017.
	Between November 25, 2012 and year end, the Company obtained a loan in the amount of 0.4 million Dirhams (approximately $115 thousand U.S. dollars at the exchange rate prevailing on the transaction date). The loan bears interest at 3.4% with monthly payments of $5 thousand for both principal and interest and matures between January and March of 2015.
	On April 10, 2012, the Company obtained a loan from a U.A.E. bank to purchase equipment and office furniture for a building for the Piping System's facility in Saudi Arabia, in the amount of 22.2 million Dirhams (approximately $5.9 million U.S. dollars at the exchange rate prevailing on the transaction date). The loan is secured by the equipment and office furniture purchased and bears interest at 5.5% with quarterly payments of approximately $408 thousand for both principal and interest and matures April, 2017.
	On May 14, 2010, Perma-Pipe, Inc. borrowed $1.0 million under an equipment loan secured by equipment. The loan bears interest at 5.8% with monthly payments of $24 thousand for both principal and interest and matures May 2014.
	On April 8, 2003, the Company obtained a loan from a Danish bank to purchase equipment and office furniture for a building for the Filtration Products' facility in Denmark, in the amount of 0.7 million Euros (approximately $0.8 million U.S. dollars at the exchange rate prevailing on the transaction date). The loan is secured by the equipment and office furniture purchased and bears interest at 6.1% with quarterly payments of $9 thousand for both principal and interest and matures April 2014.
	Capital leases. On November 28, 2013, Filtration Products' Denmark location obtained a capital lease in the amount of 0.5 million DKK (approximately $79 thousand U.S. dollars at the prevailing exchange rate on the transaction date) from a Danish bank to finance capital expenditures. The loan bears interest at a fixed rate of 3.7% per annum with monthly principal and interest payments of $2 thousand and matures December 2018.
	On July 13, 2012, Filtration Products' Denmark location obtained a capital lease in the amount of 1.5 million DKK (approximately $0.3 million U.S. dollars at the prevailing exchange rate on the transaction date) from a Danish bank to finance capital expenditures. The loan bears interest at a fixed rate of 5.2% per annum with monthly principal and interest payments of $4 thousand and matures August 2017.
	On May 1, 2012, Piping Systems and Filtration Products borrowed $1.1 million under an equipment loan secured by equipment. The loan bears interest at 6.5% with monthly payments of $21 thousand for both principal and interest and matures June 2017.
	On January 31, 2012, Perma-Pipe, Inc. borrowed $1.2 million under an equipment loan secured by equipment. The loan bears interest at 6.7% with monthly payments of $24 thousand for both principal and interest and matures January 2017.
	On July 1, 2011, Filtration Products' Denmark location obtained a capital lease in the amount of 2.2 million DKK (approximately $0.4 million U.S. dollars at the prevailing exchange rate on the transaction date) from a Danish bank to finance capital expenditures. The loan bears interest at a fixed rate of 6.4% per annum with monthly principal and interest payments of $6 thousand and matures June 2016.
	Between 2011 and 2012, the Company obtained several capital leases totaling $81 thousand to finance capital computer equipment. The interest rate for these capital leases range from 3.8% to 4.6% per annum with monthly principal and interest payments of $3 thousand and matures between June 2014 and May 2015.
	In 2011 and 2013, Piping Systems obtained several capital leases totaling 3.1 million Indian Rupees (approximately $57 thousand U.S. dollars at the prevailing exchange rate on the transaction date) to finance vehicle equipment. The interest rate for these capital leases range from 12.8% to 17.8% per annum with monthly principal and interest payments of $1 thousand and matures in 2014 and 2016.
	On April 23, 2010, Filtration Products' Denmark location obtained a capital lease in the amount of 1.0 million DKK (approximately $0.2 million U.S. dollars at the prevailing exchange rate on the transaction date) from a Danish bank to finance capital expenditures. The loan bears interest at a fixed rate of 9.7% per annum with monthly principal and interest payments of $2.5 thousand, and matures June 2015.

Lease_information

Lease information	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Lease information [Abstract]	'
Lease information [Text Block]	'
	Note 7 - Lease information
	Property under capitalized leases	2013	2012
	Machinery and equipment	$3,328	$3,325
	Transportation equipment	31	42
	Computer equipment	92	92
	Subtotal	3,451	3,459
	Less accumulated amortization	871	546
	Total	$2,580	$2,913
	Fixed assets acquired under capital leases	$107	$569
	The Company has several significant operating lease agreements as follows:
	•	Nine acres of land in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is leased through 2030 and an additional ten acres of land is leased through 2031.
	•	Land for production facilities in the U.A.E of approximately 80,200 square feet is leased until June 30, 2030. Office space and land for production facilities of approximately 37,700 square feet in the U.A.E. is leased until July 2032.
	•	Office space of approximately 6,000 square feet in Virginia is leased through August 31, 2015.
	At January 31, 2014, future minimum annual rental commitments under non-cancelable lease obligations were as follows:
		Operating Leases	Capital Leases
	2014	$2,211	$705
	2015	1,567	724
	2016	1,378	678
	2017	1,274	157
	2018	1,243	24
	Thereafter	1,526	—
	Subtotal	9,199	2,288
	Less Amount representing interest		221
	Future minimum lease payments	$9,199	$2,067
	Rental expense for operating leases was $1.4 million and $2.1 million in 2013 and 2012, respectively

Income_taxes

Income taxes	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Income tax [Abstract]	'
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	Note 8 - Income taxes
	Income (loss) from continuing operations	2013		2012
	Domestic	($7,485)		($6,719)
	Foreign	19,785		(2,213	)
	Total	$12,300		($8,932)
	Components of income tax (benefit) expense
	Current
	Federal	($245)		($964)
	Foreign	3,024		229
	State and other	(82	)	(34	)
	Subtotal	2,697		(769	)
	Deferred
	Federal	(2,715	)	12,545
	Foreign	(475	)	466
	State and other	—		(417	)
	Subtotal	(3,190	)	12,594
	Total	($493)		$11,825
	The excess tax benefit related to stock options recorded through equity was $11 thousand in 2012 and did not affect net loss. The amounts were recorded to additional paid-in capital on the consolidated balance sheets and in financing activities on the consolidated statement of cash flows.
	The determination of the consolidated provision for income taxes, deferred tax assets and liabilities, and the related valuation allowances requires management to make judgments and estimates. As a company with subsidiaries in foreign jurisdictions, the Company is required to calculate and provide for estimated income tax expense for each of the tax jurisdictions. The process of calculating income taxes involves estimating current tax obligations and exposures in each jurisdiction as well as making judgments regarding the future recoverability of deferred tax assets. Changes in the estimated level of annual pre-tax income, in tax laws, and resulting from tax audits can affect the overall ETR, which impacts the level of income tax expense and net income. Judgments and estimates related to the Company's projections and assumptions are inherently uncertain; therefore, actual results could differ materially from projections.
	The ETR in 2013 was less than the statutory U.S. federal income tax rate, mainly due to the mix of the U.A.E. earnings (loss) versus total earnings (loss) because the U.A.E. is not subject to any local country income tax. Additionally, the ETR in 2013 is impacted by the $1.2 million release of the full valuation allowance related to the Company's deferred tax assets in Saudi Arabia. As a result of two quarters of positive operating income as well as management's expectations of this subsidiary's profitability for the fiscal year 2013, the Company believes the second quarter of 2013 was the appropriate time to release the valuation allowance. The ETR in 2012 was less than the statutory U.S. federal income tax rate, primarily due to the full valuation allowance of $13.9 million recorded on the domestic deferred tax assets.
	The difference between the provision for income taxes and the amount computed by applying the Federal ETR of 34% was as follows:
		2013			2012
	Tax benefit at federal statutory rate	$4,182			($3,037)
	Domestic valuation allowance	—			12,975
	Valuation allowance for state NOLs	—			972
	Differences in foreign tax rate	(3,049		)	823
	Foreign tax credit	—			(67		)
	Research tax credit	—			(46		)
	Valuation allowance for foreign NOLs	(1,209		)	613
	Nontaxable income from the Canadian joint venture	(179		)	(471		)
	State taxes, net of federal benefit	(192		)	(247		)
	All other, net expense	(46		)	310
	Total		($493	)		$11,825
	The Company has a Federal operating loss carryforward of $9.1 million that will begin to expire in the year ending January 31, 2030.
	The deferred tax asset, ("DTA") for state NOL carryforwards of $1.2 million relates to amounts that expire at various times from 2014 to 2031. The amount that expired in 2013 is approximately $2 thousand.
	The Company has a DTA for foreign NOL carryforwards of $0.5 million that can be carried forward indefinitely and does not have a valuation allowance recorded against it. The ultimate realization of this tax benefit is dependent upon the generation of sufficient operating income in the foreign tax jurisdictions. The Company has a DTA foreign NOL carryforwards of $0.5 million for its subsidiary in Saudi Arabia that can be carried forward indefinitely and does not have a valuation allowance recorded against it.
	The Company periodically reviews the adequacy of its valuation allowance in all of the tax jurisdictions in which it operates, evaluates future sources of taxable income and tax planning strategies and may make further adjustments based on management's outlook for continued profits in each jurisdiction
	For the year ending January 31, 2014, the Company has determined that there is not greater than 50% likelihood that all of the domestic DTAs will be realized based on the available evidence. The Company recorded a full valuation allowance against the remaining domestic net DTAs as of January 31, 2013 net of uncertain tax positions ("UTP").
	In 2012, the Company relied heavily on Subpart F income as a future source of taxable income to support their conclusion that the domestic deferred tax assets were more-likely-than-not realizable. During the fourth quarter, legislation was passed which extended the provisions of IRC 954(c)(6). Because of this, the Company will not have Subpart F income related to royalty payments and can no longer rely on Subpart F income as a future source of taxable income during the periods that IRC 954(c)(6) is in effect. Accordingly, the Company recorded a full valuation allowance against the net domestic DTA discretely during the fourth quarter of 2012.
	The Company has not provided for Federal tax on unremitted earnings of its international subsidiaries. The Company anticipates that unremitted earnings will be reinvested overseas to fund current working capital requirements and expansion in foreign markets. Accordingly, a provision for income tax expense in excess of foreign jurisdiction income tax requirements relative to such unremitted earnings has not been provided in the accompanying financial statements. A deferred tax asset of $1.3 million was established in 2011 for U.S. foreign tax credits attributed to repatriated foreign earnings. The excess foreign tax credits are subject to a ten-year carryforward and will expire in January 31, 2022.
	As of January 31, 2014, the Company had undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries for which deferred taxes have not been provided. The Company intends and has the opportunities to reinvest these earnings for the foreseeable future outside the U.S. If these amounts were distributed to the U.S., in the form of dividends or otherwise, the Company would be subject to additional U.S. income taxes. Determination of the amount of unrecognized deferred income tax liabilities on these earnings is not practicable because such liability, if any, is dependent on circumstances existing if and when remittance occurs. The most significant foreign entity, which has undistributed earnings is Perma-Pipe Middle East, FZC in the U.A.E., where cumulative undistributed earnings as of January 31, 2014 were $22 million.
	Components of deferred income tax assets	2013		2012
	U.S. Federal NOL carryforward	$2,298		$3,680
	Non-qualified deferred compensation	2,358		2,092
	Research tax credit	1,965		1,964
	Foreign NOL carryforward	1,004		612
	Foreign tax credit	1,294		1,297
	Stock compensation	1,162		1,417
	Other accruals not yet deducted	581		1,086
	State NOL carryforward	1,173		1,066
	Accrued commissions and incentives	814		837
	Accrued pension	182		428
	Inventory valuation allowance	413		306
	Other	217		94
	Inventory uniform capitalization	102		132
	Deferred tax assets, gross	13,563		15,011
	Valuation allowance	(11,591	)	(12,960	)
	Total deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowances	$1,972		$2,051
	Components of the deferred income tax liability
	Depreciation	$963		$1,040
	Prepaid	231		340
	Total deferred tax liabilities	$1,194		$1,380
	Deferred tax asset, net	$778		$671
Balance sheet classification
Long-term assets	$1,667		$1,358
Current liabilities	889		687
Total deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowances	$778		$671
The following table summarizes UTP activity, excluding the related accrual for interest and penalties:
	2013		2012
Balance at beginning of the year	$1,373		$1,213
Increases in positions taken in a prior period	—		30
Increases in positions taken in a current period	11		200
Decreases due to lapse of statute of limitations	(26	)	(70	)
Balance at end of the year	$1,358		$1,373
Included in the total UTP liability at January 31, 2014 were estimated accrued interest of $18 thousand and penalties of $25 thousand and at January 31, 2013, accrued interest was $81 thousand and penalties were $66 thousand. These non-current income tax liabilities are recorded in other long-term liabilities in the consolidated balance sheet. The Company's policy is to include interest and penalties in income tax expense. At January 31, 2014, the Company did not anticipate any significant adjustments to its unrecognized tax benefits caused by the settlement of the ongoing tax examinations detailed above, or other factors, within the next twelve months. Included in the balance at January 31, 2014 were amounts offset by deferred taxes (i.e., temporary differences) or amounts that could be offset by refunds in other taxing jurisdictions (i.e., corollary adjustments). Thus, $1.4 million of the amount accrued at January 31, 2014 would impact the ETR, if reversed.
The Company is subject to income taxes in the U.S. federal jurisdiction, and various states and foreign jurisdictions. Tax regulations within each jurisdiction are subject to the interpretation of the related tax laws and regulations and require significant judgment to apply. The IRS began an audit of the fiscal year ended January 31, 2012 in the third quarter of 2013. Tax years back to January 31, 2011 are open for federal and state tax purposes. In addition, federal and state tax years January 31, 2002 through January 31, 2009 are subject to adjustment on audit, up to the amount of research tax credit generated in those years.
The Company's management periodically estimates the probable tax obligations of the Company using historical experience in tax jurisdictions and informed judgments. There are inherent uncertainties related to the interpretation of tax regulations in the jurisdictions in which the Company transacts business. The judgments and estimates made at a point in time may change based on the outcome of tax audits, as well as changes to or further interpretations of regulations. If such changes take place, there is a risk that the tax rate may increase or decrease in any period. Tax accruals for tax liabilities related to potential changes in judgments and estimates for federal, foreign and state tax issues are included in current liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet.

Retirement_plans_Retirement_pl

Retirement plans Retirement plans (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	Note 9 - Retirement plans
	Pension plan
	The defined benefit plan that covered Winchester filtration hourly rated employees was frozen on June 30, 2013 per the third Amendment to the Plan dated May 15, 2013. Per the third amendment, the accrued benefit of each participant was frozen as of the freeze date and no further benefits shall accrue with respect to any service or hours of service after the freeze date. The benefits are based on fixed amounts multiplied by years of service of participants. The Company engages outside actuaries to calculate its obligations and costs. The funding policy is to contribute such amounts as are necessary to provide for benefits attributed to service to date. The amounts contributed to the plan are sufficient to meet the minimum funding requirements set forth in the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974.
	Asset allocation
	The plans hold no securities of MFRI, Inc. 100% of the assets are held for benefits under the plan. The fair value of the major categories of the pension plans' investments are presented below. The FASB has established a fair value hierarchy that distinguishes between (1) market participant assumptions developed based on market data obtained from independent sources (observable inputs) and (2) an entity's own assumptions about market participant assumptions developed based on the best information available in the circumstances (unobservable inputs). The fair value hierarchy consists of three broad levels, which gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3). The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are described below:
	Level 1 - Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities.
	Level 2 - Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, including quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active; inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability (e.g., interest rates); and inputs that are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data by correlation or other means.
	Level 3 - Inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable.
	Level 1 market value of plan assets	2013	2012
	Equity securities	$3,340	$3,343
	U.S. bond market	2,453	2,183
	High-quality inflation-indexed bonds issued by the U.S. Treasury and government agencies as well as domestic corporations	0	279
	Real estate securities	149	126
	Subtotal	5,942	5,931
	Level 2 significant other observable inputs
	Money market fund	409	134
	Total	$6,351	$6,065
	At January 31, 2014, plan assets were held 50% in equity, 37% in debt, 2% in real estate securities and 11% in other. The investment policy is to invest all funds not needed to pay benefits and investment expenses for the year, with target asset allocations of 55% equities (with a range of 40% - 65%),  25% fixed income (with a range of 20% - 35%) and 20% Alternative Investments (with a range of 15% - 25%), diversified across a variety of sub-asset classes and investment styles, following a flexible asset allocation approach that will allow the plan to participate in market opportunities as they become available. The expected long-term rate of return on assets is based on historical long-term rates of equity and fixed income investments and the asset mix objective of the funds.
	Investment market conditions in 2013 resulted in $531 thousand actual return on plan assets as presented below, which increased the fair value of plan assets at year end. The Company did not change its 8% expected return on plan assets used in determining cost and benefit obligations, the return that the Company has assumed during every profitable and unprofitable investment year since 1991. The plan's investments are intended to earn long-term returns to fund long-term obligations, and investment portfolios with asset allocations similar to those of the plan's investment policy have attained such returns over several decades. Future contributions that may be necessary to maintain funding requirements are not expected to materially affect the Company's liquidity.
	Reconciliation of benefit obligations, plan assets and funded status of plan	2013		2012
	Accumulated benefit obligations
	Vested benefits	$6,243		$6,650
	Accumulated benefits	$6,827		$7,240
	Change in benefit obligation
	Benefit obligation - beginning of year	$7,240		$7,186
	Service cost	78		171
	Interest cost	293		299
	Actuarial (gain) loss	(539	)	(113	)
	Benefits paid	(245	)	(303	)
	Benefit obligation - end of year	$6,827		$7,240
	Change in plan assets
	Fair value of plan assets - beginning of year	$6,065		$5,502
	Actual gain on plan assets	531		574
	Company contributions	0		292
	Benefits paid	(245	)	(303	)
	Fair value of plan assets - end of year	$6,351		$6,065
	Unfunded status	($476)		($1,175)
	Balance sheet classification
	Prepaid expenses and other current assets	$335		$328
	Other assets	1,038		1,304
	Other long-term liabilities	(1,849	)	(2,807	)
	Net amount recognized	($476)		($1,175)
	Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income
	Unrecognized actuarial loss	$1,513		$2,206
	Unamortized prior service cost	0		273
	Net amount recognized	$1,513		$2,479
	Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net cost and benefit obligations	2013		2012
	End of year benefit obligation	4.5	%	4	%
	Service cost discount rate *	4.5	%	4.25	%
	Expected return on plan assets	8	%	8	%
	Rate of compensation increase	N/A		N/A
	*4.00% prior to the re-measurement on June 30, 2013 due to the plan freeze and 4.50% after the re-measurement.
	The discount rate was based on a Citigroup pension discount curve of high quality fixed income investments with cash flows matching the plans' expected benefit payments. The Company determines the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets by performing a detailed analysis of historical and expected returns based on the strategic asset allocation approved by the Board of Directors and the underlying return fundamentals of each asset class. The Company's historical experience with the pension fund asset performance is also considered.
	Components of net periodic benefit cost	2013	2012
	Service cost	$78	$171
	Interest cost	293	299
	Expected return on plan assets	-483	-444
	Amortization of prior service cost	21	50
	Recognized actuarial loss	105	173
	Curtailment cost	252	0
	Net periodic benefit cost	$266	$249
	Amounts recognized in other comprehensive income
	Actuarial gain (loss) on obligation	$539		$113
Actual gain (loss) on plan assets	153		303
Reclassify prior service cost	21		50
Total in other comprehensive income (loss)	$713		$466
Other comprehensive income is also affected by the tax effect of the valuation allowance recorded on the domestic deferred tax assets.
Cash flows
Expected employer contributions for the fiscal year ending January 31, 2015		$0
Expected employee contributions for the fiscal year ending January 31, 2015		—
Estimated future benefit payments reflecting expected future service for the fiscal year(s) ending January 31,:
2015		335
2016		348
2017		345
2018		366
2019		364
2020 - 2024		$1,907
401(k) plan
The domestic employees of the Company participate in the MFRI, Inc. Employee Savings and Protection Plan, which is applicable to all employees except employees covered by collective bargaining agreement benefits. The plan allows employee pretax payroll contributions of up to 16% of total compensation. The Company matches 50% of each participant's contribution, up to a maximum of 3% of each participant's salary. For employees covered by the Winchester Bargaining Unit Savings Plan, the Company matches 15% of each participant's contribution, up to a maximum of 6% of each participant's salary.
Contributions to the 401(k) plan were $430 thousand and $560 thousand for the years ended January 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
Deferred compensation plan
The Company has a Supplemental Retirement and Deferred Compensation Plan ("Supplemental Plan"), pursuant to which key employees deferred compensation. Life insurance contracts have been purchased which may be used to fund the Company's obligation under these agreements. Participants receive distributions from the plan at the later of age 65 or six months after separation from service. Distributions can be lump sum or annual payments over a specified number of years based on elections made when the participant enters the plan.
Deferred compensation liability	2013		2012
Current	$189		$163
Long-term	6,509		5,670
Total	$6,698		$5,833
Deferred compensation expense	$519		$484
On April 10, 2014, the Company's Board of Directors terminated the Supplemental Plan and its Deferred Stock Purchase Plan, adopted on December 5, 2012 (collectively, the "Plans"), effective April 10, 2014 ("Termination Date"). No additional contributions will be made by the Company or participants under the Plans after the Termination Date. All funds and Company stock remaining in participant accounts will be distributed not later than 24 months after the Termination Date. As of the Termination Date, the Company was obligated to deliver 28,891 shares of Company common stock under the Deferred Stock Purchase Plan.
Multi-employer plans
The Company contributes to a multi-employer plan for certain collective bargaining U.S. employees and for foreign employees according to their countries requirements. The risks of participating in this multi-employer plan are different from a single employer plan in the following aspects:
•	Assets contributed to the multi-employer plans by one employer may be used to provide benefits to employees of other participating employers.
•	If a participating employer ceases contributing to the plan, the unfunded obligations of the plan may be inherited by the remaining participating employers.
•	If the Company chooses to stop participating in the multi-employer plan, the Company may be required to pay those plans an amount based on the underfunded status of the plan, referred to as a withdrawal liability.
The Company has assessed and determined that the multi-employer plans to which it contributes are not significant to the Company's consolidated financial statements. The Company does not expect to incur a withdrawal liability or expect to significantly increase its contribution over the remainder of the contract period. The Company made contributions to the bargaining unit supported multi-employer pension plans.
			Funded Zone Status	FIP/RP Status Pending/Implemented	Contribution
Plan Name	EIN	Plan #			2013		2012		Surcharge Imposed	Collective Bargaining Expiration Date
Northern Illinois Pension Plan	362663798	1	Green	No		$—		$7	No	6/1/14
Pipe Fitters Retirement Fund, Local 597	626105084	1	Green	No	275		102		No	6/1/14
Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 572 Pension Fund	626102837	1	Green	No	192		250		No	3/31/16
Plans for which financial information is not publicly available outside MFRI's financial statements
Denmark	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A		$350		$353	N/A

Stock_options

Stock options	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Stock options [Abstract]	'
Stock options [Text Block]	'
	Note 10 - Stock options
	On June 20, 2013, the stockholders approved the 2013 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan ("Omnibus Plan"). Under the Omnibus Plan, 350,000 shares of common stock are reserved for issuance to employees, officers, and directors of, and other individuals providing bona fide services to or for, the Company and its affiliates. In addition, on January 31, 2014 and each January 31 thereafter until January 31, 2023, the aggregate number of shares that may be issued with respect to Awards pursuant to the terms of this Plan will be increased by the number equal to 2% of the aggregate amount of common stock outstanding as of such date, provided, however, the maximum number of additional shares that may be issued pursuant to this sentence will not exceed 400,000. The Omnibus Plan permits the granting of stock options (including incentive stock options qualifying under Code section 422 and nonstatutory stock options), stock appreciation rights, restricted or unrestricted stock awards, restricted stock units, performance awards, deferred stock awards, other stock-based awards, or any combination of the foregoing. Awards will be valued at the Company's closing stock price on the date of grant.
	Options vest ratably over four years and are exercisable for up to ten years from the date of grant. To cover the exercise of vested options, the Company issues new shares from its authorized but unissued share pool. The Company calculates all stock compensation expense based on the grant date fair value of the option and recognizes expense on a straight-line basis over the four-year vesting period of the option.
	The fair value of each option award was estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model that used the assumptions noted in the following table. The principal variable assumptions utilized in valuing options and the methodology for estimating such model inputs include:
	1	risk-free interest rate - an estimate based on the "Market yield on U.S. Treasury securities at the rate for the period described in assumption 3 below, quoted on investment basis" for the end of week closest to the stock option grant date, from the Federal Reserve website;
	2	expected volatility - an estimate based on the historical volatility of MFRI Common Stock's weekly closing stock price for the expected life ; and
	3	expected life of the option - an estimate based on historical experience including the effect of employee terminations.
			2013		2012
	1	Risk-free interest rate	.74%-2.82%		.74%-3.57%
	2	Expected volatility	42.12%-65.54%		53.90%-66.82%
	3	Expected life in years	4.9 to 5.7		4.9 to 5.7
	4	Dividend yield	—		—
	The following summarizes the activity related to options outstanding under all plans for the years ended January 31, 2013 and 2014:
		Options		Weighted average exercise price		Weighted average remaining contractual term	Aggregate intrinsic value
	Outstanding at January 31, 2012	843		$11.48		6.9	$430
	Granted	173		6.78
	Exercised	(11	)	3.1			46
	Expired or forfeited	(36	)	10.47
	Outstanding at January 31, 2013	969		10.77		6.6	40
	Options exercisable at January 31, 2013	586		$13.30		5.3	37
	Granted	103		10.55
	Exercised	(223	)	7.11			1,082
	Expired or forfeited	(73	)	11.9
	Outstanding at January 31, 2014	776		11.69		6.1	3,859
	Options exercisable at January 31, 2014	513		$13.43		4.8	$2,226
	The weighted average fair value of options granted, net of options surrendered, during 2013 and 2012 are estimated at $4.78 and $3.31, per share, respectively, on the date of grant.
	Unvested options outstanding	Options		Weighted-average grant date fair value		Aggregate intrinsic value
	Outstanding at beginning of year	383		$6.91		$4
	Granted	103		10.55
	Vested	(184	)
	Expired or forfeited	(39	)	7.05
	Outstanding at January 31, 2014	263		$8.31		$1,633
	Based on historical experience the Company expects 85% of these options to vest.
	As of January 31, 2014, there was $0.9 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested stock options granted under the plans. That cost is expected to be recognized over the weighted-average period of 2.4 years. The stock-based compensation expense for the years ended January 31, 2014 and 2013 was $0.2 million and $0.5 million, respectively.

Deferred_and_restricted_stock_

Deferred and restricted stock (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Restricted stock [Abstract]	'
Schedule of deferred and restricted Stock [Table Text Block]	'
	Deferred stock
	On December 5, 2012, the Company adopted the Deferred Stock Purchase Plan. Under the Deferred Stock Purchase Plan, 200,000 shares of common stock are reserved for issuance. Each deferred stock constitutes an unfunded and unsecured promise by the Company to deliver one share of common stock (or the equivalent value thereof in cash or property at the Company's election). In addition, directors may elect to receive, in lieu of annual retainer and committee chair fees and at the time these fees would otherwise be payable, fully vested deferred stock with an initial value equal to the amount based on the fair market value of common stock at the date of grant. Tier I and Tier II executive officers of the Company, as defined in the Compensation Committee Charter of the Company may elect to receive, in lieu of a portion of his annual incentive compensation not to exceed 50% of such bonus payable for a given year, a deferred stock award. Deferred stock is payable following the separation from the Company for non-employee directors. To the extent that a payment is required to be delayed for six months in order to comply with Section 409A, as determined by the Corporation, such payment amount shall be paid as soon as administratively practicable after the end of the six month period starting on the date of the Tier I and Tier II executive officer's “separation from service” under Section 409A. Refer to "Deferred compensation plan" in Note 9 - Retirement plans, in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
	In June 2013 under the Omnibus Plan described above, the Company granted deferred stock units to each non-employee director at the time of the annual meeting of stockholders equal to the result of dividing $30,000 by the fair market value of the common stock on the date of grant. The stock will be distributed to the directors upon their separation from service.
	As of January 31, 2014, there were approximately 28,891 deferred stock units outstanding included in restricted stock activity below.
	Restricted stock
	In June 2013 under the Omnibus Plan described above, the Company granted restricted stock to Tier I and Tier II executive officers. The restricted stock vest ratably over two years. Until restricted stock becomes vested and nonforfeitable, it may not be sold, assigned, transferred, pledged, hypothecated or disposed of in any way (whether by operation of law or otherwise), except by will or the laws of descent and distribution, and shall not be subject to execution, attachment or similar process. The Company issues new shares from its authorized but unissued share pool. The Company calculates restricted stock compensation expense based on the grant date fair value and recognizes expense on a straight-line basis over the two-year vesting period. The following table summarizes restricted stock activity for the year ended January 31, 2014:
		Restricted shares		Weighted average exercise price		Aggregate intrinsic value
	Outstanding at beginning of year	—			$—		$—
	Granted	52		11.24
	Issued	(21	)
	Forfeited	(2	)	11.25
	Outstanding at January 31, 2014	29			$14.52		$419
	As of January 31, 2014, there was $0.2 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested restricted stock granted under the plans. That cost is expected to be recognized over the weighted-average period of 1.6 years. The restricted stock-based compensation expense for the year ended January 31, 2014 was $0.1 million.

Stock_rights

Stock rights	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Stock rights [Abstract]	'
Stock rights	'
	On September 15, 2009, the Company entered into the Amendment ("Amendment") to Rights Agreement dated as of September 15, 1999. Among other things, the Amendment extends the term of the Rights Agreement until September 15, 2019 and amends definitions to include positions in derivative instruments related to the Company's common stock as constituting beneficial ownership of such stock.
	On September 15, 1999, the Company's Board of Directors declared a dividend of one common stock purchase right (a "Right") for each share of MFRI's common stock outstanding at the close of business on September 22, 1999. The stock issued after September 22, 1999 and before the redemption or expiration of the Rights is also entitled to one Right for each such additional share. Each Right entitles the registered holders, under certain circumstances, to purchase from the Company one share of MFRI's common stock at $25, subject to adjustment. At no time will the Rights have any voting power.
	The Rights may not be exercised until 10 days after a person or group acquires 15% or more of the Company's common stock, or announces a tender offer that, if consummated, would result in 15% or more ownership of the Company's common stock. Separate Rights certificates will not be issued and the Rights will not be traded separately from the stock until then. Should an acquirer become the beneficial owner of 15% or more of the Company's common stock, Rights holders other than the acquirer would have the right to buy common stock in MFRI, or in the surviving enterprise if MFRI is acquired, having a value of two times the exercise price then in effect. Also, MFRI's Board of Directors may exchange the Rights (other than those of the acquirer which will have become void), in whole or in part, at an exchange ratio of one share of MFRI common stock (and/or other securities, cash or other assets having equal value) per Right subject to adjustment. The Rights described in this paragraph and the preceding paragraph shall not apply to an acquisition, merger or consolidation approved by the Company's Board of Directors.
	The Rights will expire on September 15, 2019, unless exchanged or redeemed prior to that date. The redemption price is $0.01 per Right. MFRI's Board of Directors may redeem the Rights by a majority vote at any time prior to the 20th day following public announcement that a person or group has acquired 15% of MFRI's common stock. Under certain circumstances, the decision to redeem requires the concurrence of a majority of the independent directors.

Fair_value_of_financial_instru

Fair value of financial instruments	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Fair Value of Financial Instruments [Abstract]	'
Fair value of financial instruments[Text Block]	'
	Note 13 - Fair value of financial instruments
	At January 31, 2014, an interest rate swap agreement that relates to a mortgage note in Denmark was in effect with a notional value of $1.3 million that matures December 2021. The swap agreement, which reduces the exposure to market risks from changing interest rates, exchanges the variable rate to fixed interest rate payments of 2.47%. The exchange-traded swap is valued on a recurring basis using quoted market prices and was classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy which includes significant other observable inputs because the exchange is not deemed an active market. The swap agreement is a fair value hedge. The derivative mark to market of $68 thousand was included in other long-term liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet. The interest rate swap agreement in effect at January 31, 2013 with a notional value of $9 million was terminated in June 2013.

Subsequent_events_Notes

Subsequent events (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Subsequent Events [Abstract]	'
Subsequent events [Text Block]	'
	Subsequent events
	The Company has evaluated the period after the balance sheet date up through April 15, 2014, which is the date that the consolidated financial statements were issued, and determined that other than noted below, there were no subsequent events or transactions that required recognition or disclosure in the consolidated financial statements.
	In October 2013, the Company decided to sell its remaining industrial process business in Denmark. This business was sold on February 28, 2014. This business is reported as discontinued operations in the consolidated financial statements and the notes to consolidated financial statements have been revised to conform to the current year reporting.
	On April 10, 2014, the Company's Board of Directors terminated the Plans effective the Termination Date. No additional contributions will be made by the Company or participants under the Plans after the Termination Date. All funds and Company stock remaining in participant accounts will be distributed not later than 24 months after the Termination Date.

Schedule_II_Notes

Schedule II (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	Schedule II
	MFRI, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
	VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
	For the Years Ended January 31, 2014 and 2013
		Balance at beginning of period	Charged to costs and expenses	Deductions from reserves (1)	Charged to other accounts (2)	Balance at end of period
	Year Ended January 31, 2014
	Allowance for possible losses in collection of trade receivables	$290	$128	$228	$4	$194
	Year Ended January 31, 2013
	Allowance for possible losses in collection of trade receivables	$204	$151	$81	$16	$290
	(1) Uncollectible accounts charged off
	(2) Primarily related to recoveries from accounts previously charged off and currency translation

Significant_accounting_policie1

Significant accounting policies Significant accounting policies	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
policies [Abstract]	'
Use of estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Use of estimates. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Revenue recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Revenue recognition. The Company recognizes revenues including shipping and handling charges billed to customers, when all the following criteria are met: (i) persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, (ii) the seller's price to the buyer is fixed or determinable, and (iii) collectability is reasonably assured. All subsidiaries of the Company, except as noted below, recognize revenues upon shipment or delivery of goods or services when title and risk of loss pass to customers.
Percentage-of-completion revenue recognition [Policy Text Block]	'
	Percentage of completion revenue recognition. All divisions recognize revenues under the above stated revenue recognition policy except for sizable complex contracts that require periodic recognition of income. For these contracts, the Company uses the "percentage of completion" accounting method. Under this approach, income is recognized in each reporting period based on the status of the uncompleted contracts and the current estimates of costs to complete. The choice of accounting method is made at the time the contract is received based on the expected length and complexity of the project. The percentage of completion is determined by the relationship of costs incurred to the total estimated costs of the contract. Provisions are made for estimated losses on uncompleted contracts in the period in which such losses are determined. Changes in job performance, job conditions, and estimated profitability, including those arising from contract penalty provisions and final contract settlements, may result in revisions to costs and income. Such revisions are recognized in the period in which they are determined. Claims for additional compensation due the Company are recognized in contract revenues when realization is probable and the amount can be reliably estimated.
Shipping and handling, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Shipping and handling. Shipping and handling costs are included in cost of sales, and the amounts invoiced to customers relating to shipping and handling are included in net sales.
Sales tax policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Sales tax. Sales tax is reported on a net basis in the consolidated financial statements.
Operating cycle, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Operating cycle. The length of piping systems contracts vary, but are typically less than one year. The Company includes in current assets and liabilities amounts realizable and payable in the normal course of contract completion unless completion of such contracts extends significantly beyond one year. The Company's other businesses do not have an operating cycle beyond one year.
Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Consolidation. The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its domestic and foreign subsidiaries, all of which are wholly owned. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated.
Translation of foreign currency policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Translation of foreign currency. Assets and liabilities of consolidated foreign subsidiaries are translated into U.S. dollars at exchange rates in effect at year-end. Revenues and expenses are translated at average exchange rates prevailing during the year. Gains or losses on foreign currency transactions and the related tax effects are reflected in net income. The resulting translation adjustments are included in stockholders' equity as part of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).
Contingencies, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Contingencies. The Company is subject to various legal proceedings and claims that arise in the ordinary course of business, including those involving environmental, tax, product liability and general liability claims. The Company accrues for such liabilities when it is probable that future costs will be incurred and such costs can be reasonably estimated. Such accruals are based on developments to date, the Company's estimates of the outcomes of these matters, and its experience in contesting, litigating and settling other similar matters. The Company does not currently anticipate the amount of any ultimate liability with respect to these matters will materially affect the Company's financial position, liquidity or future operations.
Cash and cash equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Cash and cash equivalents. All highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less when purchased are considered to be cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents were $13.4 million and $7.0 million as of January 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The balance is primarily cash and cash equivalents at the foreign subsidiaries.
	The Company has not experienced any losses as a result of its cash concentration. Consequently, no significant concentration of credit risk is considered to exist. Accounts payable included drafts payable of $0.2 million and $3.3 million as of January 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
Restricted cash, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Restricted cash. The Loan Agreement provides that all domestic receipts are deposited in a bank account from which all funds may only be used to pay the debt under the Loan Agreement. At January 31, 2014, the amount of such restricted cash was $0.05 million and $0.4 million of restricted cash was held by a foreign subsidiary.
Accounts receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Accounts receivable. The majority of the Company's accounts receivable are due from geographically dispersed contractors and manufacturing companies. Credit is extended based on an evaluation of a customer's financial condition, including the availability of credit insurance. In the U.S. collateral is not generally required. In the U.A.E. and Saudi Arabia, letters of credit are obtained for substantially all material orders. Accounts receivable are due within various time periods specified in the terms applicable to the specific customer and are stated at amounts due from customers net of an allowance for claims and doubtful accounts. The allowance for doubtful accounts is calculated using a percentage of sales method based upon collection history and an estimate of uncollectible accounts. Management may exercise its judgment in adjusting the provision as a consequence of known items, such as current economic factors and credit trends. Past due trade accounts receivable balances are written off when the Company's collection efforts have been unsuccessful in collecting the amount due. Accounts receivable adjustments are recorded against the allowance for doubtful accounts.
Concentration of credit risk, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Concentration of credit risk. The Company has a broad customer base doing business in all regions of the U.S. as well as other areas in the world. In the fiscal year ended January 31, 2014, one customer in Piping Systems accounted for 10.6% of the Company's net sales.
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Accumulated other comprehensive loss. Represents the change in equity from non-owner transactions and consisted of foreign currency translation, minimum pension liability and interest rate swaps.
		2013			2012
	Equity adjustment foreign currency		($90	)		$1,179
	Minimum pension liability, gross	-1,513			-2,479
	Interest rate swap, gross	-68			-219
	Subtotal excluding tax effect	-1,671			-1,519
	Tax effect of foreign exchange	12			12
	Tax effect of minimum pension liability	482			765
	Tax effect of interest rate swap	17			17
	Total other comprehensive loss	($1,160)			($725)
Pension plan	'
	Pension plan. The defined benefit plan that covered Winchester filtration hourly rated employees was frozen on June 30, 2013. The benefits are based on fixed amounts multiplied by years of service of retired participants. The Company engages outside actuaries to calculate its obligations and costs. The funding policy is to contribute such amounts as are necessary to provide for benefits attributed to service to date. The amounts contributed to the plan are sufficient to meet the minimum funding requirements set forth in the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974.
Inventories, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Inventories. Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined using the first-in, first-out method for all inventories. In the fourth quarter, Filtration Products recorded an additional $0.6 million inventory reserve for slow moving and obsolete materials.
		2013	2012
	Raw materials	$27,330	$31,820
	Work in process	2,855	2,333
	Finished goods	4,311	4,051
	Subtotal	34,496	38,204
	Less allowances	949	675
	Inventories, net	$33,547	$37,529
Long-lived assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Long-lived assets. Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost. Interest is capitalized in connection with the construction of facilities and amortized over the asset's estimated useful life. Long-lived assets are reviewed for possible impairment whenever events indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable. If such a review indicates impairment, the carrying amount of such assets is reduced to an estimated fair value.
	Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets, which range from three to 30 years. Leasehold improvements are depreciated over the remaining life of the lease or its useful life whichever is shorter. Amortization of assets under capital leases is included in depreciation and amortization. Depreciation expense was approximately $5.8 million in 2013 and in 2012.
		2013	2012
	Land, buildings and improvements	$36,535	$36,572
	Machinery and equipment	50,793	49,919
	Furniture, office equipment and computer systems	9,723	11,065
	Transportation equipment	206	189
	Subtotal	97,257	97,745
	Less accumulated depreciation and amortization	54,716	52,163
	Property, plant and equipment, net	$42,541	$45,582
Impairment of long-lived assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Impairment of long-lived assets. The Company evaluates long-lived assets (including intangible assets) for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of a long-lived asset may not be recoverable. An asset is considered impaired if its carrying amount exceeds the undiscounted future net cash flow the asset is expected to generate.
	The Company has an idle facility in Cicero, Illinois that has not yet been sold and does not meet the criteria to be presented as held for sale as of January 31, 2014. In 2013, management performed the required impairment analysis on the idle facility to determine if its carrying value was recoverable. Management determined that the carrying value of the idle facility was fully recoverable. For 2012, management identified recent sales data for similar facilities for sale in the area and analyzed the expected cash flows from different sales scenarios and determined that the carrying value of the idle facility was not fully recoverable. For 2012, management recorded an impairment loss of $1.5 million, to adjust the idle facility to its estimated recoverable amount.
Other intangible assets with definite lives, policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Other intangible assets with definite lives. The Company owns several patents including those covering features of its piping and electronic leak detection systems. The patents are not material either individually or in the aggregate overall because the Company believes sales would not be materially reduced if patent protection were not available. Patents are capitalized and amortized on a straight-line basis over a period not to exceed the legal lives of the patents. The Company expenses costs incurred to renew or extend the term of intangible assets. Gross patents were $2.6 million as of January 31, 2014 and 2013. Accumulated amortization was approximately $2.23 million and $2.18 million as of January 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Future amortizations over the next five years ending January 31 will be $48,900 in 2014, $45,700 in 2015, $41,900 in 2016, $38,800 in 2017, $28,800 in 2018, and $168,400 thereafter.
Investment in joint venture, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Investment in joint venture. In October 2009, the Company invested $5.9 million, which consisted of $2.0 million for a 49% interest and $3.9 million for a note receivable, in a Canadian joint venture with The Bayou Companies, Inc., a subsidiary of Aegion Corporation. The joint venture completed an acquisition of Garneau, Inc.'s pipe coating and insulation facility and associated assets located in Camrose, Alberta, Canada, which provides the Company the opportunity to participate in the growing oil sands market. In February 2012, the Company loaned $1.0 million to its Canadian joint venture to be used for capital expenditures.
	The Company accounts for the investment in joint venture using the equity method. The financial results included in the Company's consolidated financial statements.
		2013	2012
	Share of income from joint venture	$528	$1,386
	The following information summarizes the joint venture financial data:
		2013	2012
	Current assets	$13,034	$14,058
	Noncurrent assets	17,093	19,442
	Current liabilities	2,921	2,703
	Noncurrent liabilities	14,837	18,274
	Equity	12,369	12,523
	Revenue	29,110	30,448
	Gross profit	4,748	7,211
	Income from continuing operations	2,619	3,380
	Net income	1,078	2,680
Research and development, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Research and development. Research and development expenses consist of materials, salaries and related expenses of engineering personnel and outside services for product development projects. Research and development costs are expensed as incurred. Research and development expense was approximately $0.7 million in 2013 and $2.2 million in 2012.
Income taxes, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Income taxes. Deferred income taxes have been provided for temporary differences arising from differences in the basis of assets and liabilities for tax and financial reporting purposes. Deferred income taxes on temporary differences have been recorded at the current tax rate. The Company assesses its deferred tax assets for realizability at each reporting period.
	The Company recognizes the financial statement benefit of a tax position only after determining that the relevant tax authority would more likely than not sustain the position following an audit. For tax positions meeting the more likely than not threshold, the amount recognized in the financial statements is the largest benefit that has a greater than 50 percent likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement with the relevant tax authority. For further information, see Note 8 - Income taxes in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Net loss per common share, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Net income (loss) per common share. Earnings per share ("EPS") are computed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding (basic). The year 2013 had net earnings. The year 2012 had net losses therefore, the diluted loss per share was identical to the basic loss per share rather than assuming conversion, exercise, or contingent issuance of securities that would have an anti-dilutive effect on earnings per share.
	Basic weighted average number of common shares outstanding	2013		2012
	Basic weighted average number of common shares outstanding	7,028		6,922
	Dilutive effect of stock options	68		—
	Weighted average number of common shares outstanding assuming full dilution	7,096		6,922
	Weighted average number of stock options not included in the computation of diluted EPS of common stock because the option exercise prices exceeded the average market prices	201		783
	Canceled options during the year	(73	)	(36	)
	Stock options with an exercise price below the average stock price	575		186
Equity-based compensation, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Equity-based compensation. The Company issues various types of stock-based awards to employees and directors: restricted stock, deferred stock and stock options. Compensation expense associated with restricted and deferred stock is based on the fair value of the common stock on the date of grant. Stock compensation expense for stock options is recognized ratably over the requisite service period of the award. The Black-Scholes option-pricing model is utilized to estimate the fair value of awards. Determining the fair value of stock options using the Black-Scholes model requires judgment, including estimates for (1) risk-free interest rate - an estimate based on the yield of zero-coupon treasury securities with a maturity equal to the expected life of the option; (2) expected volatility - an estimate based on the historical volatility of the Company's Common Stock; and (3) expected life of the option - an estimate based on historical experience including the effect of employee terminations. If any of these assumptions differ significantly from actual, stock-based compensation expense could be impacted.
Fair value of financial instruments., Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Fair value of financial instruments. The carrying values of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable and accounts payable are reasonable estimates of their fair value due to their short-term nature. The carrying amount of the Company's short-term debt, revolving line of credit and long-term debt approximate fair value because the majority of the amounts outstanding accrue interest at variable rates.
	The Company entered into an interest rate swap agreement to reduce its exposure to market risks from changing interest rates under the revolving credit agreement. Any differences paid or received on the interest rate swap agreements are recognized as adjustments to interest expense over the life of the swap, thereby adjusting the effective interest rate on the underlying obligation.
Reclassifications, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Reclassifications. Reclassifications were made to prior-year financial statements to conform to the current-year presentations.

Business_and_segment_informati1

Business and segment information Segment information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Segment information [Line Items]	'
Segment information [Table Text Block]	'
	Segment information was as follows:
		2013	2012
	Net sales
	Piping Systems	$158,422	$89,664
	Filtration Products	68,413	79,143
	Total net sales	$226,835	$168,807
	Gross profit
	Piping Systems	$43,273	$17,020
	Filtration Products	8,942	10,474
	Total gross profit	$52,215	$27,494
	Income (loss) from operations
	Piping Systems	$24,213	$3,452
	Filtration Products	-1,629	-2,962
	Corporate	-9,501	-9,310
	Total income (loss) from operations	$13,083	($8,820)
	Segment assets
	Piping Systems	$109,154	$83,944
	Filtration Products	41,765	52,958
	Corporate	12,350	12,586
	Total segment assets	$163,269	$149,488
	Capital expenditures
	Piping Systems	$2,425	$4,206
	Filtration Products	294	995
	Corporate	42	159
	Total capital expenditures	$2,761	$5,360
	Depreciation and amortization
	Piping Systems	$3,489	$3,344
	Filtration Products	1,729	1,750
	Corporate	567	712
	Total depreciation and amortization	$5,785	$5,806
	Interest expense, net
	Piping Systems	$495	$226
	Filtration Products	1,966	2,239
	Corporate	-1,150	-967
	Total interest expense, net	$1,311	$1,498
	Impairment of fixed assets
	Filtration Products	$0	$1,520
Geographic information [Table Text Block]	'
	Geographic information. Net sales are attributed to a geographic area based on the destination of the product shipment. Sales to foreign customers was 57% in 2013 compared to 30% in 2012. Long-lived assets are based on the physical location of the assets and consist of property, plant and equipment used in the generation of revenues in the geographic area.
		2013	2012
	Net sales
	United States	$97,311	$104,830
	Middle East	94,500	24,631
	Europe	14,933	16,324
	Canada	7,591	9,771
	India	773	6,317
	Other Americas	6,915	2,317
	Other	4,812	4,617
	Total net sales	$226,835	$168,807
	Long-lived assets
	United States	$25,260	$26,952
	Middle East	12,751	13,204
	Denmark	4,020	4,445
	India	510	981
	Total long-lived assets	$42,541	$45,582

Significant_accounting_policie2

Significant accounting policies Accumulated other comprehensive loss (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Accumulated other comprehensive loss [Abstract]	'
Accumulated other comprehensive loss [Table Text Block]	'
		2013			2012
	Equity adjustment foreign currency		($90	)		$1,179
	Minimum pension liability, gross	-1,513			-2,479
	Interest rate swap, gross	-68			-219
	Subtotal excluding tax effect	-1,671			-1,519
	Tax effect of foreign exchange	12			12
	Tax effect of minimum pension liability	482			765
	Tax effect of interest rate swap	17			17
	Total other comprehensive loss	($1,160)			($725)

Significant_accounting_policie3

Significant accounting policies Inventories (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Inventories [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block]	'
		2013	2012
	Raw materials	$27,330	$31,820
	Work in process	2,855	2,333
	Finished goods	4,311	4,051
	Subtotal	34,496	38,204
	Less allowances	949	675
	Inventories, net	$33,547	$37,529

Significant_accounting_policie4

Significant accounting policies Long-lived assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Long lived assets [Abstract]	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block]	'
		2013	2012
	Land, buildings and improvements	$36,535	$36,572
	Machinery and equipment	50,793	49,919
	Furniture, office equipment and computer systems	9,723	11,065
	Transportation equipment	206	189
	Subtotal	97,257	97,745
	Less accumulated depreciation and amortization	54,716	52,163
	Property, plant and equipment, net	$42,541	$45,582

Significant_accounting_policie5

Significant accounting policies Investment in joint venture (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Investment in joint venture [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block]	'
	Investment in joint venture. In October 2009, the Company invested $5.9 million, which consisted of $2.0 million for a 49% interest and $3.9 million for a note receivable, in a Canadian joint venture with The Bayou Companies, Inc., a subsidiary of Aegion Corporation. The joint venture completed an acquisition of Garneau, Inc.'s pipe coating and insulation facility and associated assets located in Camrose, Alberta, Canada, which provides the Company the opportunity to participate in the growing oil sands market. In February 2012, the Company loaned $1.0 million to its Canadian joint venture to be used for capital expenditures.
	The Company accounts for the investment in joint venture using the equity method. The financial results included in the Company's consolidated financial statements.
		2013	2012
	Share of income from joint venture	$528	$1,386
	The following information summarizes the joint venture financial data:
		2013	2012
	Current assets	$13,034	$14,058
	Noncurrent assets	17,093	19,442
	Current liabilities	2,921	2,703
	Noncurrent liabilities	14,837	18,274
	Equity	12,369	12,523
	Revenue	29,110	30,448
	Gross profit	4,748	7,211
	Income from continuing operations	2,619	3,380
	Net income	1,078	2,680

Significant_accounting_policie6

Significant accounting policies Net loss per common share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]	'
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]	'
	Basic weighted average number of common shares outstanding	2013		2012
	Basic weighted average number of common shares outstanding	7,028		6,922
	Dilutive effect of stock options	68		—
	Weighted average number of common shares outstanding assuming full dilution	7,096		6,922
	Weighted average number of stock options not included in the computation of diluted EPS of common stock because the option exercise prices exceeded the average market prices	201		783
	Canceled options during the year	(73	)	(36	)
	Stock options with an exercise price below the average stock price	575		186

Discontinued_Operations_Tables

Discontinued Operations (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Income Statement, Balance Sheet Discontinued Operations	'
Schedule of Discontinued Operations	'
	Results of the discontinued operations were as follows:
		2013			2012
	Net sales		$14,063			$43,210
	Gain on disposal of discontinued operations		$11,082			$—
	(Loss) income from discontinued operations	(28		)	1,237
	Income from discontinued operations before income taxes	11,054			1,237
	Income tax expense (benefit)	2,820			(1,035		)
	Income from discontinued operations, net of tax		$8,234			$2,272
	Components of assets and liabilities from discontinued operations consist of the following:
		2013			2012
	Current assets
	Cash and cash equivalents		$1			$1
	Trade accounts receivable, net	595			4,564
	Inventories, net	593			4,804
	Other assets	34			849
	Total current assets from discontinued operations	1,223			10,218
	Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation	551			819
	Non-Current assets
	Other assets	363			434
	Total noncurrent assets from discontinued operations	914			1,253
	Total assets from discontinued operations		$2,688			$12,290
	Current liabilities
	Trade accounts payable, accrued expenses and other		$492			$7,496
	Current maturities of long-term debt	35			35
	Total current liabilities from discontinued operations	527			7,531
	Long-term liabilities	968			1,485
	Total liabilities from discontinued operations		$1,495			$9,016

Costs_and_estimated_earnings_o1

Costs and estimated earnings on uncompleted contracts Costs and estimated earnings on uncompleted contracts (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Costs and estimated earnings on uncompleted contracts [Abstract]	'
Costs and estimated earnings on uncompleted contracts [Table Text Block]	'
		2013	2012
	Costs incurred on uncompleted contracts	$52,064	$39,556
	Estimated earnings	18,915	13,861
	Earned revenue	70,979	53,417
	Less billings to date	71,725	52,772
	Costs in excess of billings, net	($746)	$645
	Balance sheet classification
	Costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts	$1,476	$1,630
	Billings in excess of costs and estimated earnings on uncompleted contracts	-2,222	-985
	Costs in excess of billings, net	($746)	$645

Debt_Debt_repayment_Tables

Debt Debt repayment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block]	'
		2013		2012
	Revolving line domestic	$6,951		$13,989
	Mortgage notes	11,172		11,540
	Revolving lines foreign	5,059		2,242
	Term loans	6,494		10,608
	Capitalized lease obligations (See Note 7 - Lease information)	2,067		2,584
	Total debt	31,743		40,963
	Less current maturities	8,274		5,384
	Total long-term debt	$23,469		$35,579
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block]	'
	The following table summarizes the Company's scheduled maturities at January 31,:
		Total	2015		2016		2017	2018		2019		Thereafter
	Revolving line domestic	$6,951		$—		$—	$6,951		$—		$—		$—
	Mortgages	11,172	380		395		410	3,590		374		6,023
	Revolving line foreign	5,059	5,059		—		—	—		—		0
	Term loans	6,494	2,241		1,874		1,757	622		—		0
	Capitalized lease obligations	2,067	594		648		647	154		24		—
	Total	$31,743	$8,274		$2,917		$9,765	$4,366		$398		$6,023

Lease_information_Property_und

Lease information Property under capital lease (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Property under capital leases [Abstract]	'
Schedule of capital leased assets [Table Text Block]	'
	Property under capitalized leases	2013	2012
	Machinery and equipment	$3,328	$3,325
	Transportation equipment	31	42
	Computer equipment	92	92
	Subtotal	3,451	3,459
	Less accumulated amortization	871	546
	Total	$2,580	$2,913
	Fixed assets acquired under capital leases	$107	$569

Lease_information_Future_minim

Lease information Future minimum lease payments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Future minimum lease payments [Abstract]	'
Future minimum rental payments for operating leases [Table Text Block]	'
		Operating Leases	Capital Leases
	2014	$2,211	$705
	2015	1,567	724
	2016	1,378	678
	2017	1,274	157
	2018	1,243	24
	Thereafter	1,526	—
	Subtotal	9,199	2,288
	Less Amount representing interest		221
	Future minimum lease payments	$9,199	$2,067

Income_taxes_Loss_income_befor

Income taxes (Loss) income before income taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]	'
(Loss) income before income taxes [Table Text Block]	'
	Income (loss) from continuing operations	2013	2012
	Domestic	($7,485)	($6,719)
	Foreign	19,785	(2,213	)
	Total	$12,300	($8,932)

Income_taxes_Components_of_inc

Income taxes Components of income tax (benefit) expense (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Income taxes [Abstract]	'
Components of income tax (benefit) expense [Table Text Block]	'
	Components of income tax (benefit) expense
	Current
	Federal	($245)		($964)
	Foreign	3,024		229
	State and other	(82	)	(34	)
	Subtotal	2,697		(769	)
	Deferred
	Federal	(2,715	)	12,545
	Foreign	(475	)	466
	State and other	—		(417	)
	Subtotal	(3,190	)	12,594
	Total	($493)		$11,825
Effective income tax rate reconciliation[Table Text Block]	'
		2013			2012
	Tax benefit at federal statutory rate	$4,182			($3,037)
	Domestic valuation allowance	—			12,975
	Valuation allowance for state NOLs	—			972
	Differences in foreign tax rate	(3,049		)	823
	Foreign tax credit	—			(67		)
	Research tax credit	—			(46		)
	Valuation allowance for foreign NOLs	(1,209		)	613
	Nontaxable income from the Canadian joint venture	(179		)	(471		)
	State taxes, net of federal benefit	(192		)	(247		)
	All other, net expense	(46		)	310
	Total		($493	)		$11,825

Income_taxes_Components_of_def

Income taxes Components of deferred income tax (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Components of deferred income tax [Line Items]	'
Components of deferred tax assets and liabilities [Table Text Block]	'
	Components of deferred income tax assets	2013		2012
	U.S. Federal NOL carryforward	$2,298		$3,680
	Non-qualified deferred compensation	2,358		2,092
	Research tax credit	1,965		1,964
	Foreign NOL carryforward	1,004		612
	Foreign tax credit	1,294		1,297
	Stock compensation	1,162		1,417
	Other accruals not yet deducted	581		1,086
	State NOL carryforward	1,173		1,066
	Accrued commissions and incentives	814		837
	Accrued pension	182		428
	Inventory valuation allowance	413		306
	Other	217		94
	Inventory uniform capitalization	102		132
	Deferred tax assets, gross	13,563		15,011
	Valuation allowance	(11,591	)	(12,960	)
	Total deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowances	$1,972		$2,051
	Components of the deferred income tax liability
	Depreciation	$963		$1,040
	Prepaid	231		340
	Total deferred tax liabilities	$1,194		$1,380
	Deferred tax asset, net	$778		$671
	Balance sheet classification
	Long-term assets	$1,667		$1,358
	Current liabilities	889		687
	Total deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowances	$778		$671

Income_taxes_UTP_Tables

Income taxes UTP (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]	'
Summary of income tax contingencies [Table Text Block]	'
		2013		2012
	Balance at beginning of the year	$1,373		$1,213
	Increases in positions taken in a prior period	—		30
	Increases in positions taken in a current period	11		200
	Decreases due to lapse of statute of limitations	(26	)	(70	)
	Balance at end of the year	$1,358		$1,373
	Included in the total UTP liability at January 31, 2014 were estimated accrued interest of $18 thousand and penalties of $25 thousand and at January 31, 2013, accrued interest was $81 thousand and penalties were $66 thousand. These non-current income tax liabilities are recorded in other long-term liabilities in the consolidated balance sheet. The Company's policy is to include interest and penalties in income tax expense. At January 31, 2014, the Company did not anticipate any significant adjustments to its unrecognized tax benefits caused by the settlement of the ongoing tax examinations detailed above, or other factors, within the next twelve months. Included in the balance at January 31, 2014 were amounts offset by deferred taxes (i.e., temporary differences) or amounts that could be offset by refunds in other taxing jurisdictions (i.e., corollary adjustments). Thus, $1.4 million of the amount accrued at January 31, 2014 would impact the ETR, if reversed.

Retirement_plans_Plan_assets_T

Retirement plans Plan assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Plan assets [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets [Table Text Block]	'
	Level 1 market value of plan assets	2013	2012
	Equity securities	$3,340	$3,343
	U.S. bond market	2,453	2,183
	High-quality inflation-indexed bonds issued by the U.S. Treasury and government agencies as well as domestic corporations	0	279
	Real estate securities	149	126
	Subtotal	5,942	5,931
	Level 2 significant other observable inputs
	Money market fund	409	134
	Total	$6,351	$6,065

Retirement_plans_Defined_pensi

Retirement plans Defined pension disclosure (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table Text Block]	'
	Reconciliation of benefit obligations, plan assets and funded status of plan	2013		2012
	Accumulated benefit obligations
	Vested benefits	$6,243		$6,650
	Accumulated benefits	$6,827		$7,240
	Change in benefit obligation
	Benefit obligation - beginning of year	$7,240		$7,186
	Service cost	78		171
	Interest cost	293		299
	Actuarial (gain) loss	(539	)	(113	)
	Benefits paid	(245	)	(303	)
	Benefit obligation - end of year	$6,827		$7,240
	Change in plan assets
	Fair value of plan assets - beginning of year	$6,065		$5,502
	Actual gain on plan assets	531		574
	Company contributions	0		292
	Benefits paid	(245	)	(303	)
	Fair value of plan assets - end of year	$6,351		$6,065
	Unfunded status	($476)		($1,175)
	Balance sheet classification
	Prepaid expenses and other current assets	$335		$328
	Other assets	1,038		1,304
	Other long-term liabilities	(1,849	)	(2,807	)
	Net amount recognized	($476)		($1,175)
	Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income
	Unrecognized actuarial loss	$1,513		$2,206
	Unamortized prior service cost	0		273
	Net amount recognized	$1,513		$2,479

Retirement_plans_Assumptions_T

Retirement plans Assumptions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Assumptions [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block]	'
	Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net cost and benefit obligations	2013		2012
	End of year benefit obligation	4.5	%	4	%
	Service cost discount rate *	4.5	%	4.25	%
	Expected return on plan assets	8	%	8	%
	Rate of compensation increase	N/A		N/A
	*4.00% prior to the re-measurement on June 30, 2013 due to the plan freeze and 4.50% after the re-measurement.

Retirement_plans_Components_of

Retirement plans Components of net periodic benefit cost (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Components of net periodic benefit cost [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block]	'
	Components of net periodic benefit cost	2013	2012
	Service cost	$78	$171
	Interest cost	293	299
	Expected return on plan assets	-483	-444
	Amortization of prior service cost	21	50
	Recognized actuarial loss	105	173
	Curtailment cost	252	0
	Net periodic benefit cost	$266	$249

Retirement_plans_Amounts_recog

Retirement plans Amounts recognized in other comprehensive income (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]	'
	Amounts recognized in other comprehensive income
	Actuarial gain (loss) on obligation	$539	$113
	Actual gain (loss) on plan assets	153	303
	Reclassify prior service cost	21	50
	Total in other comprehensive income (loss)	$713	$466
	Other comprehensive income is also affected by the tax effect of the valuation allowance recorded on the domestic deferred tax assets.

Retirement_plans_Cash_flows_Ta

Retirement plans Cash flows (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block]	'
	Cash flows
	Expected employer contributions for the fiscal year ending January 31, 2015	$0
	Expected employee contributions for the fiscal year ending January 31, 2015	—
	Estimated future benefit payments reflecting expected future service for the fiscal year(s) ending January 31,:
	2015	335
	2016	348
	2017	345
	2018	366
	2019	364
	2020 - 2024	$1,907

Retirement_plans_Deferred_comp

Retirement plans Deferred compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Deferred compensation [Line Items]	'
Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual Disclosure, Postretirement Benefits [Table Text Block]	'
	Deferred compensation liability	2013	2012
	Current	$189	$163
	Long-term	6,509	5,670
	Total	$6,698	$5,833
	Deferred compensation expense	$519	$484

Retirement_plans_Multiemployer

Retirement plans Multi-employer (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]	'
Schedule of Multiemployer Plans [Table Text Block]	'
				Funded Zone Status	FIP/RP Status Pending/Implemented	Contribution
	Plan Name	EIN	Plan #			2013		2012		Surcharge Imposed	Collective Bargaining Expiration Date
	Northern Illinois Pension Plan	362663798	1	Green	No		$—		$7	No	6/1/14
	Pipe Fitters Retirement Fund, Local 597	626105084	1	Green	No	275		102		No	6/1/14
	Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 572 Pension Fund	626102837	1	Green	No	192		250		No	3/31/16
	Plans for which financial information is not publicly available outside MFRI's financial statements
	Denmark	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A		$350		$353	N/A

Stock_options_Option_activity_

Stock options Option activity (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Option activity [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block]	'
			2013		2012
	1	Risk-free interest rate	.74%-2.82%		.74%-3.57%
	2	Expected volatility	42.12%-65.54%		53.90%-66.82%
	3	Expected life in years	4.9 to 5.7		4.9 to 5.7
	4	Dividend yield	—		—
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block]	'
		Options		Weighted average exercise price		Weighted average remaining contractual term	Aggregate intrinsic value
	Outstanding at January 31, 2012	843		$11.48		6.9	$430
	Granted	173		6.78
	Exercised	(11	)	3.1			46
	Expired or forfeited	(36	)	10.47
	Outstanding at January 31, 2013	969		10.77		6.6	40
	Options exercisable at January 31, 2013	586		$13.30		5.3	37
	Granted	103		10.55
	Exercised	(223	)	7.11			1,082
	Expired or forfeited	(73	)	11.9
	Outstanding at January 31, 2014	776		11.69		6.1	3,859
	Options exercisable at January 31, 2014	513		$13.43		4.8	$2,226

Stock_options_Unvested_options

Stock options Unvested options (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Unvested options [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Nonvested Share Activity [Table Text Block]	'
	Unvested options outstanding	Options		Weighted-average grant date fair value	Aggregate intrinsic value
	Outstanding at beginning of year	383		$6.91	$4
	Granted	103		10.55
	Vested	(184	)
	Expired or forfeited	(39	)	7.05
	Outstanding at January 31, 2014	263		$8.31	$1,633

Deferred_and_restricted_stock_1

Deferred and restricted stock (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Restricted stock [Line Items]	'
Schedule of restricted stock award activity [Table Text Block]	'
		Restricted shares		Weighted average exercise price		Aggregate intrinsic value
	Outstanding at beginning of year	—			$—		$—
	Granted	52		11.24
	Issued	(21	)
	Forfeited	(2	)	11.25
	Outstanding at January 31, 2014	29			$14.52		$419

Interest_expense_net_Tables

Interest expense, net (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Interest expense, net [Abstract]	'
Interest expense, net [Table Text Block]	'
	Interest expense, net
		2013		2012
	Interest expense	$1,855		$2,009
	Interest income	(544	)	(511	)
	Interest expense, net	$1,311		$1,498

Schedule_II_Schedule_II_Allowa

Schedule II Schedule II Allowance for bad debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Summary of Valuation Allowance [Table Text Block]	'
		Balance at beginning of period	Charged to costs and expenses	Deductions from reserves (1)	Charged to other accounts (2)	Balance at end of period
	Year Ended January 31, 2014
	Allowance for possible losses in collection of trade receivables	$290	$128	$228	$4	$194
	Year Ended January 31, 2013
	Allowance for possible losses in collection of trade receivables	$204	$151	$81	$16	$290

Business_and_segment_informati2

Business and segment information Segment reporting (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
	Segments
Segment information [Line Items]	'	'
Entity Incorporation, Date of Incorporation	12-Oct-93	'
Number of reportable segments	2	'
Customer concentration risk, percentage	24.50%	'
Net sales	$226,835	$168,807
Gross profit	52,215	27,494
Income (loss) from operations	13,083	-8,820
Total assets	163,269	149,488
Capital expenditures	2,761	5,360
Depreciation and amortization expense	5,785	5,806
Interest expense, net	1,311	1,498
Piping Systems [Member]	'	'
Segment information [Line Items]	'	'
Net sales	158,422	89,664
Gross profit	43,273	17,020
Income (loss) from operations	24,213	3,452
Total assets	109,154	83,944
Capital expenditures	2,425	4,206
Depreciation and amortization expense	3,489	3,344
Interest expense, net	-495	-226
Filtration Products [Member]	'	'
Segment information [Line Items]	'	'
Net sales	68,413	79,143
Gross profit	8,942	10,474
Income (loss) from operations	-1,629	-2,962
Total assets	41,765	52,958
Capital expenditures	294	995
Depreciation and amortization expense	1,729	1,750
Interest expense, net	-1,966	-2,239
Asset Impairment Charges	0	1,520
Corporate and Other [Member]	'	'
Segment information [Line Items]	'	'
Income (loss) from operations	-9,501	-9,310
Total assets	12,350	12,586
Capital expenditures	42	159
Depreciation and amortization expense	567	712
Interest expense, net	$1,150	$967
Sales Revenue, Net [Member]	'	'
Segment information [Line Items]	'	'
Customer concentration risk, percentage	10.60%	10.00%

Business_and_segment_informati3

Business and segment information Geographic information (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
Geographic information [Line Items]	'	'
foreign sales	0.00%	0.00%
Net sales	$226,835	$168,807
Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation	42,541	45,582
United States	'	'
Geographic information [Line Items]	'	'
Net sales	97,311	104,830
Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation	25,260	26,952
Middle East	'	'
Geographic information [Line Items]	'	'
Net sales	94,500	24,631
Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation	12,751	13,204
Denmark	'	'
Geographic information [Line Items]	'	'
Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation	4,020	4,445
Europe	'	'
Geographic information [Line Items]	'	'
Net sales	14,933	16,324
Canada	'	'
Geographic information [Line Items]	'	'
Net sales	7,591	9,771
India	'	'
Geographic information [Line Items]	'	'
Net sales	773	6,317
Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation	510	981
Other Americas	'	'
Geographic information [Line Items]	'	'
Net sales	6,915	2,317
Other	'	'
Geographic information [Line Items]	'	'
Net sales	$4,812	$4,617

Significant_accounting_policie7

Significant accounting policies Significant accounting policies (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Customer concentration risk, percentage	24.50%

Significant_accounting_policie8

Significant accounting policies Drafts payable (Details) (USD $)	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Drafts payable [Abstract]	'	'
Drafts payable	$0.20	$3.30

Significant_accounting_policie9

Significant accounting policies Restricted cash (Details) (USD $)	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013	Jan. 31, 2012
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Items [Line Items]	'	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$13,395,000	$7,034,000	$4,209,000
Restricted cash	439,000	725,000	'
Drafts payable	200,000	3,300,000	'
United States	'	'	'
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Items [Line Items]	'	'	'
Restricted cash	0	100,000	'
India	'	'	'
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Items [Line Items]	'	'	'
Restricted cash foreign	$400,000	$600,000	'

Recovered_Sheet1

Significant accounting policies Accumulated other comprehensive loss (Details) (USD $)	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Accumulated other comprehensive loss [Abstract]	'	'
Equity adjustment foreign currency	($90)	$1,179
Minimum pension liability, gross	-1,513	-2,479
Interest rate swap, gross	-68	-219
Accumulated other comprehensive income before tax	-1,671	-1,519
Tax effect of foreign exchange	12	12
Tax effect of minimum pension liability	482	765
Tax effect of interest rate swap	17	17
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	($1,160)	($725)

Recovered_Sheet2

Significant accounting policies Inventories (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
Inventories [Abstract]	'	'
Inventory Write-down	$600,000	'
Raw materials	27,330,000	31,820,000
Work in process	2,855,000	2,333,000
Finished goods	4,311,000	4,051,000
Subtotal	34,496,000	38,204,000
Less allowances	949,000	675,000
Inventories, net	$33,547,000	$37,529,000

Recovered_Sheet3

Significant accounting policies Long lived assets (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
Long lived assets [Abstract]	'	'
Depreciation and amortization expense	$5,785	$5,806
Land, buildings and improvements	36,535	36,572
Machinery and equipment	50,793	49,919
Furniture, office equipment and computer systems	9,723	11,065
Transportation equipment	206	189
Subtotal	97,257	97,745
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization	54,716	52,163
Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation	42,541	45,582
Filtration Products [Member]	'	'
Long lived assets [Abstract]	'	'
Asset Impairment Charges	0	1,520
Depreciation and amortization expense	$1,729	$1,750

Recovered_Sheet4

Significant accounting policies Other intangible assets with definite lives (Details) (USD $)	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Finite-Lived Patents, Gross	$2,600,000	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	2,230,000	2,180,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months	48,900	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two	45,700	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three	41,900	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four	38,800	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five	28,800	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, after Year Five	$168,400	'

Recovered_Sheet5

Significant accounting policies Investment in joint venture (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]	'	'
date of investment in joint venture	'	18-Oct-09
Equity Method Investment, Aggregate Cost	$5,900,000	'
Payments to acquire interest in joint venture	2,000,000	'
Ownership percentage of joint venture	49.00%	'
Advances to joint venture	3,900,000	'
loan to joint venture	-1,000,000	'
Payments to fund long-term loans to joint venture	0	989,000
Income from joint venture	528,000	1,386,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Assets	13,034,000	14,058,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Noncurrent Assets	17,093,000	19,442,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Liabilities	2,921,000	2,703,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Noncurrent Liabilities	14,837,000	18,274,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Equity or Capital	12,369,000	12,523,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Revenue	29,110,000	30,448,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Gross Profit (Loss)	4,748,000	7,211,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Extraordinary Items	2,619,000	3,380,000
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Net Income (Loss)	$1,078,000	$2,680,000

Recovered_Sheet6

Significant accounting policies Research and development (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
Research and Development Arrangement, Contract to Perform for Others [Line Items]	'	'
Research and Development Expense	$0.70	$2.20

Recovered_Sheet7

Significant accounting policies Net income (loss) per share (Details)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]	'	'
Basic	7,028	6,922
Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment	68	0
Diluted	7,096	6,922
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount	201	783
Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Share-based Payment Arrangements	575	186
Stock Option [Member]	'	'
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period	-73	-36

Discontinued_Operations_Detail

Discontinued Operations (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
Income Statement, Balance Sheet Discontinued Operations	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents held for sale	$1,000	$1,000
Accounts receivable, net held for sale	595,000	4,564,000
Inventory held for sale	593,000	4,804,000
Other current assets held for sale	34,000	849,000
Assets held for sale current	1,223,000	10,218,000
Property, plant, and equipment, net held for sale	551,000	819,000
Other noncurrent assets held for sale	363,000	434,000
Assets held for sale, noncurrent	914,000	1,253,000
Total assets held for sale	2,688,000	12,290,000
Accounts payable, payroll and accrued liabilities held for sale	492,000	7,496,000
Other liabilities held for sale	35,000	35,000
Liabilities held for sale current	527,000	7,531,000
Liabilities held for sale long-term	968,000	1,485,000
Total liabilities held for sale	1,495,000	9,016,000
Disposal date	26-Jun-13	'
Net proceeds from sale of discontinued operations	16,300,000	'
Funds held in escrow related to the sale of Thermal Care, Inc. assets	1,125,000	0
escrow released date	1-May-14	'
Discontinued operation, net sales	14,063,000	43,210,000
Gain on disposal of discontinued operations	11,082,000	0
Income (loss) from discontinued operation	-28,000	1,237,000
Income (loss) from discontinued operation, before income tax	11,054,000	1,237,000
Discontinued operation, income tax expense (benefit)	2,820,000	-1,035,000
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax	$8,234,000	$2,272,000

Retention_Retention_receivable

Retention Retention receivable (Details) (USD $)	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Retention receivable [Line Items]	'	'
Retention receivable	$5	$1.10

Retention_Retention_payable_De

Retention Retention payable (Details) (USD $)	Jan. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Retention Payable, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]	'
Retention payable	$0.40

Costs_and_estimated_earnings_o2

Costs and estimated earnings on uncompleted contracts Costs and estimated earnings on uncompleted contracts (Details) (USD $)	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Costs incurred on uncompleted contracts	'	'
Costs incurred on uncompleted contracts	$52,064	$39,556
Estimated earnings	18,915	13,861
Earned revenue	70,979	53,417
Billings to date	71,725	52,772
Costs in excess of billings, net	-746	645
Costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts	1,476	1,630
Billings in excess of costs and estimated earnings on uncompleted contracts	($2,222)	($985)

Debt_Debt_by_type_Details

Debt Debt by type (Details) (USD $)	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Mortgage notes	$11,172	$11,540
Foreign line of credit	5,059	2,242
Loans Payable	6,494	10,608
Capital Lease Obligations	2,067	2,584
Total debt	31,743	40,963
Current maturities of long-term debt	8,274	5,384
Total long-term debt	23,469	35,579
United States	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Revolving line	$6,951	$13,989

Debt_5_year_repayment_Details

Debt 5 year repayment (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2019	Jan. 31, 2018	Jan. 31, 2017	Jan. 31, 2016	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Mortgage notes	'	'	'	'	'	$11,172	$11,540
Foreign line of credit	'	'	'	'	'	5,059	2,242
Loans Payable	'	'	'	'	'	6,494	10,608
Capital Lease Obligations	'	'	'	'	'	2,067	2,584
Total debt	'	'	'	'	'	31,743	40,963
Total due next fiscal year	'	'	'	'	8,274	'	'
Payments of debt on revolving lines of credit	0	0	0	0	'	85,490	185,659
Repayments of mortgages	374	3,590	410	395	380	'	'
Repayments of Debt	0	622	1,757	1,874	2,241	'	'
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months	'	'	'	'	'	5,059	'
Repayments of Long-term Capital Lease Obligations	'	'	'	'	'	24	'
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months	'	'	'	'	'	594	'
Capital Leases Future Minimum Payments Due In Two Years without interest	'	'	'	'	'	648	'
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Three Years	'	'	'	'	'	647	'
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Four Years	'	'	'	'	'	154	'
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Thereafter	'	'	'	'	'	0	'
Repayments of Debt and Capital Lease Obligations	398	4,366	9,765	2,917	'	'	'
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five	'	'	'	'	'	6,023	'
United States	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Revolving line	'	'	'	'	'	6,951	13,989
Payments of debt on revolving lines of credit	0	'	'	0	0	'	'
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five	'	'	'	'	'	0	'
Mortgages [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five	'	'	'	'	'	6,023	'
Foreign Line of Credit [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five	'	'	'	'	'	0	'
Other Debt Obligations [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five	'	'	'	'	'	$0	'

Debt_Narrative_Details

Debt Narrative (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]	'	'
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity	$25,000,000	'
Line of Credit Facility, Dividend Restrictions	'do not permit payment of dividends	'
Foreign line of credit	5,059,000	2,242,000
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents	439,000	725,000
Line of Credit Facility, Covenant Compliance	'in compliance with all covenants under the Loan Agreement	'
Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate Description	'(a) a margin in effect of 0.25 in effect plus prime rate; and/or (b) a margin of 2.25 in effect plus the LIBOR rate for the corresponding interest period.	'
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months	5,059,000	'
Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount	100,000	'
United States	'	'
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]	'	'
Line of Credit Facility, Expiration Date	30-Nov-16	'
Line of Credit Facility, Covenant Terms	'require attainment of specific levels of profitability and cash flows	'
Foreign Line of Credit [Member]	'	'
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]	'	'
Line of Credit Facility, Covenant Terms	'The credit arrangement covenant requires a minimum tangible net worth to be maintained	'
Line of Credit Facility, Covenant Compliance	'in compliance with the covenant under the credit arrangement.	'
Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate Description	'Interest rates are 4.0% per annum below National Bank of Fujairah Base Rate, minimum 3.5% per annum and Emirates Inter Bank Offered Rate (EIBOR) plus 3.5% per annum. The Company's interest rates range from 3.5% to 6.0%	'
Revolving line	20,500,000	'
Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity	15,500,000	'
United States	'	'
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]	'	'
Revolving line	6,951,000	13,989,000
Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity	$13,000,000	'

Debt_Mortgage_Details

Debt Mortgage (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'
Debt Instrument, Issuance Date	18-Jan-08
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Face Amount of Mortgages	$3,700,000
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End	6.30%
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment	23,000
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date, Description	'P30Y
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Final Maturity Date	31-Jan-18
Secured Debt [Member]	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'
Debt Instrument, Issuance Date	19-Jun-12
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Face Amount of Mortgages	1,800,000
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End	4.50%
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment	13,000
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Final Maturity Date	1-Jul-27
mortgage loans on real estate date interest rate changes	19-Jun-22
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	2.00%
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Maximum Interest Rate in Range	18.00%
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Minimum Interest Rate in Range	4.50%
Mortgage Loans over $1,000,000 [Member]	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'
Debt Instrument, Issuance Date	27-Mar-12
Face value of debt in local currency	'7.9 million Danish Kroners
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Face Amount of Mortgages	1,400,000
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End	2.20%
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment	7,500
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Final Maturity Date	31-Mar-32
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Member]	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'
Debt Instrument, Issuance Date	4-Mar-08
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Face Amount of Mortgages	5,400,000
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End	4.04%
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment	$30,000
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date, Description	'P25Y
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate Terms	'P5Y
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Final Maturity Date	31-Mar-33

Debt_Term_Loans_Details

Debt Term Loans (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
Loans Payable	$6,494,000	$10,608,000
Debt Instrument, Issuance Date	18-Jan-08	'
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment	23,000	'
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Final Maturity Date	31-Jan-18	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End	6.30%	'
Capital Lease Obligations [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Range, End	31-May-15	'
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment	0	'
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Range, Start	30-Jun-14	'
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]	'	'
Debt Instrument, Increase, Additional Borrowings	2,500,000	'
Short-term Debt	600,000	'
Debt Instrument, Issuance Date	28-Aug-07	'
Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate at Period End	3.25%	'
Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	4.21%	4.24%
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	0.50%	'
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment	107,000	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End	0.25%	'
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	3,000,000	'
1.360 Euro loan [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument, Issuance Date	10-Dec-12	'
Face value of debt in local currency	'1.4 million Euros	'
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment	108,000	'
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	31-Dec-17	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End	3.70%	'
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	1,800,000	'
423K Dirhams loan [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument, Issuance Date	25-Nov-12	'
Face value of debt in local currency	'0.4 million Dirhams	'
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment	5,000	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End	3.40%	'
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	115,000	'
Saudi term loan [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument, Issuance Date	10-Apr-12	'
Face value of debt in local currency	'22.2 million Dirhams	'
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment	408,000	'
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	30-Apr-17	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End	5.50%	'
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	5,900,000	'
700K Euro loan [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument, Issuance Date	8-Apr-03	'
Face value of debt in local currency	'0.7 million Euros	'
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment	9,000	'
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	30-Apr-14	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End	6.10%	'
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	800,000	'
Perma Pipe US [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument, Issuance Date	14-May-10	'
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment	24,000	'
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	31-May-14	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End	5.80%	'
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	$1,000,000	'

Debt_Capital_leases_Details

Debt Capital leases (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Capital Lease Obligations	$2,067,000	$2,584,000
Debt Instrument, Issuance Date	18-Jan-08	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End	6.30%	'
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment	23,000	'
.05 million Filtration loan [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt Instrument, Issuance Date	28-Nov-13	'
Face value of debt in local currency	'0.5 million DKK	'
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	79,000	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End	3.70%	'
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment	2,000	'
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	31-Dec-18	'
1.5 million DKK Filtration loan [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt Instrument, Issuance Date	13-Jul-12	'
Face value of debt in local currency	'1.5 million DKK	'
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	300,000	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End	5.20%	'
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment	4,000	'
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	31-Aug-17	'
Piping and Filtration [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt Instrument, Issuance Date	1-May-12	'
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	1,100,000	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End	6.50%	'
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment	21,000	'
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	30-Jun-17	'
Equipment loan [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Capital Lease Obligations	1,200,000	'
Debt Instrument, Issuance Date	31-Jan-12	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End	6.70%	'
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment	24,000	'
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	31-Jan-17	'
2.180 DKK loan [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Capital Lease Obligations	400,000	'
Debt Instrument, Issuance Date	1-Jul-11	'
Face value of debt in local currency	'2.2 million DKK	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End	6.40%	'
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment	6,000	'
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	30-Jun-16	'
Capital Lease Obligations [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Capital Lease Obligations	81,000	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Minimum	3.80%	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage Rate Range, Maximum	4.60%	'
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment	0	'
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Range, Start	30-Jun-14	'
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Range, End	31-May-15	'
423K Dirhams loan [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt Instrument, Issuance Date	25-Nov-12	'
Face value of debt in local currency	'0.4 million Dirhams	'
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	115,000	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End	3.40%	'
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment	5,000	'
Indian capital leases [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Capital Lease Obligations	57,000	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Minimum	12.80%	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage Rate Range, Maximum	17.80%	'
Face value of debt in local currency	'3.1 million Indian Rupees	'
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment	1,000	'
952 DDK Loan [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Capital Lease Obligations	200,000	'
Debt Instrument, Issuance Date	23-Apr-10	'
Face value of debt in local currency	'1.0 million DKK	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End	9.70%	'
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment	$2,500	'
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	30-Jun-15	'

Lease_information_Property_und1

Lease information Property under capitalized leases (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'
Capital leases vehicle equipment	$31	$42
Capitalized computer	92	92
Capital leased assets, gross	3,451	3,459
Capital leases other accumulated depreciation	871	546
Capital leases, net	2,580	2,913
Fixed assets acquired under capital leases	107	569
Other Capitalized Property Plant and Equipment [Member]	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'
Capital leases machinery and equipment	$3,328	$3,325

Lease_information_Rental_expen

Lease information Rental expense (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
Rental expense [Abstract]	'	'
Rental expense for operating leases	$1.40	$2.10

Lease_information_Future_minim1

Lease information Future minimum payments (Details) (USD $)	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months	$2,211	'
Capital Lease Obligations, Current	705	'
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years	1,567	'
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Two Years	724	'
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years	1,378	'
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Three Years	678	'
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years	1,274	'
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Four Years	157	'
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years	1,243	'
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Five Years	24	'
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter	1,526	'
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Thereafter	0	'
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due	9,199	'
Capital leases, future minimum payments, interest included in payments	2,288	'
Interest Portion of Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions	221	'
Capital Lease Obligations	$2,067	$2,584

Income_taxes_Income_loss_befor

Income taxes Income (loss) before income taxes (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
(Loss) income before income taxes [Abstract]	'	'
Domestic	($7,485)	($6,719)
Foreign	19,785	-2,213
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes	$12,300	($8,932)

Income_taxes_Components_of_inc1

Income taxes Components of income tax expense (benefit) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
Components of income tax expense (benefit) [Abstract]	'	'
Current federal tax benefit	($245)	($964)
Current foreign tax expense	3,024	229
State and other	-82	-34
Current income tax expense (benefit)	2,697	-769
Deferred federal income tax (benefit) expense	-2,715	12,545
Deferred foreign income tax (benefit) expense	-475	466
State and other	0	-417
Deferred tax (benefit) expense	-3,190	12,594
Income tax (benefit) expense	($493)	$11,825

Income_taxes_Reconcilation_to_

Income taxes Reconcilation to the ETR rate (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
Income Tax Expense [Line Items]	'	'
Tax benefit at federal statutory rate	$4,182	($3,037)
Differences in foreign tax rate	-3,049	823
Foreign tax credit	0	-67
Research tax credit	0	-46
Nontaxable income from the Canadian joint venture	-179	-471
State taxes, net of federal benefit	-192	-247
All other, net expense	-46	310
Income tax (benefit) expense	-493	11,825
United States	'	'
Income Tax Expense [Line Items]	'	'
Valuation allowance	0	12,975
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]	'	'
Income Tax Expense [Line Items]	'	'
Valuation allowance	0	972
Foreign Tax Authority [Member]	'	'
Income Tax Expense [Line Items]	'	'
Valuation allowance	($1,209)	$613

Income_taxes_Income_tax_disclo

Income taxes Income tax disclosure (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
Components of deferred income tax assets	'	'
U.S. Federal NOL carryforward	$2,298,000	$3,680,000
Non-qualified deferred compensation	2,358,000	2,092,000
Research tax credit	1,965,000	1,964,000
Foreign NOL carryforward	1,004,000	612,000
Foreign tax credit	1,294,000	1,297,000
Stock compensation	1,162,000	1,417,000
Other accruals not yet deducted	581,000	1,086,000
State NOL carryforward	1,173,000	1,066,000
Accrued commissions and incentives	814,000	837,000
Accrued pension	182,000	428,000
Inventory valuation allowance	413,000	306,000
Other	217,000	94,000
Inventory uniform capitalization	102,000	132,000
Deferred tax assets, gross	13,563,000	15,011,000
Valuation allowance	-11,591,000	-12,960,000
Total deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowances	1,972,000	2,051,000
Components of the deferred income tax liability	'	'
Depreciation	963,000	1,040,000
Prepaid	231,000	340,000
Total deferred tax liabilities	1,194,000	1,380,000
Deferred income tax, net	778,000	671,000
Balance sheet classification	'	'
Deferred tax assets - long-term	1,667,000	1,358,000
Deferred tax liabilities - current	889,000	687,000
Excess tax (benefit) expense from stock options exercised	'	11,000
Tax benefit of stock options exercised	0	11,000
Valuation allowance domestic deferred tax assets	'	-13,900,000
Federal operating loss carryforward, gross	9,100,000	'
Federal operating loss carryforward expires	'	31-Jan-30
Operating Loss Carryforwards, Expiration Dates	'expire at various times from 2014 to 2031	'
State NOL, subject to expiration	2,000	'
Tax Credit Carryforward, Expiration Date	31-Jan-22	'
Undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries	22,000,000	'
Income Tax Examination, Description	'IRS began an audit of the fiscal year ended JanuaryB 31, 2012	'
Open Tax Year	'2011	'
Open tax years up to the amount of research tax credit generated	'January 31, 2002 through January 31, 2009	'
Additional Paid-in Capital	'	'
Balance sheet classification	'	'
Excess tax (benefit) expense from stock options exercised	'	11,000
Foreign Tax Authority [Member]	'	'
Components of deferred income tax assets	'	'
Foreign tax credit	500,000	'
Middle East [Member]	'	'
Components of deferred income tax assets	'	'
Foreign tax credit	500,000	'
Foreign Tax Authority [Member]	'	'
Balance sheet classification	'	'
Change in valuation allowance	($1,209,000)	$613,000

Income_taxes_UTP_Details

Income taxes UTP (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013	Jan. 31, 2012
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]	'	'	'
Balance at beginning of the year	'	$1,373	$1,213
Increases in positions taken in a prior period	0	30	'
Increases in positions taken in a current period	11	200	'
Decreases due to lapse of statute of limitations	-26	-70	'
Unrecognized tax benefits that would impact effective tax rate	1,358	'	'
Unrecognized tax benefits, interest	18	81	'
Unrecognized tax benefits, income tax penalties	$25	$66	'

Retirement_plans_Plan_assets_D

Retirement plans Plan assets (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013	Jan. 31, 2012
	Rate	Rate
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	100.00%	'	'
US Government Agencies Securities, at Carrying Value	$0	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	6,351	6,065	5,502
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Allocation Percentage	'target asset allocations of 55% equities (with a range of 40% - 65%), B 25% fixed income (with a range of 20% - 35%) and 20% Alternative Investments (with a range of 15% - 25%)	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets	531	574	'
Net periodic benefit cost, expected long-term return on assets	0.00%	8.00%	'
Equity Securities [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'	'	'
Investment Owned, Percent of Net Assets	50.00%	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Equity Securities	3,340	3,343	'
Bonds [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'	'	'
Investment Owned, Percent of Net Assets	37.00%	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	2,453	2,183	'
US Treasury and Government [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'	'	'
US Government Agencies Securities, at Carrying Value	'	279	'
Real Estate Funds [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'	'	'
Investment Owned, Percent of Net Assets	2.00%	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	149	126	'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	5,942	5,931	'
Money Market Funds [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	$409	$134	'
Money Market Funds [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'	'	'
Investment Owned, Percent of Net Assets	11.00%	'	'

Retirement_plans_Reconciliatio

Retirement plans Reconciliation of benefit obligations, plan assets and funded status (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013	Jan. 31, 2012
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'	'
Defined benefit plan vested benefit obligation	$6,243	$6,650	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation	6,827	7,240	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation	6,827	7,240	7,186
Service cost	78	171	'
Interest cost	293	299	'
Actuarial (gain) loss	-539	-113	'
Benefits paid	-245	-303	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	6,351	6,065	5,502
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets	531	574	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer	0	292	'
Unfunded status	-476	-1,175	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Current Assets	335	328	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets for Plan Benefits, Noncurrent	1,038	1,304	'
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent	-1,849	-2,807	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet	-476	-1,175	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Unamortized Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax	1,513	2,206	'
Unamortized prior service cost	0	273	'
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax	$1,513	$2,479	'

Retirement_plans_Assumptions_D

Retirement plans Assumptions (Details)	6 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2013	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
		Rate	Rate
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'	'
Discount rate	'	4.50%	4.00%
Net periodic benefit cost, discount rate	4.00%	4.50%	4.25%
Net periodic benefit cost, expected long-term return on assets	'	0.00%	8.00%

Retirement_plans_Components_of1

Retirement plans Components of net periodic benefit cost (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'
Service cost	$78	$171
Interest cost	293	299
Expected return on plan assets	-483	-444
Amortization of prior service cost	21	50
Recognized actuarial loss	105	173
Curtailment cost	252	0
Net periodic benefit cost	$266	$249

Retirement_plans_Recognized_in

Retirement plans Recognized in other comprehensive income (Details) (USD $)	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'
Actuarial gain (loss) on obligation	$539	$113
Actuarial gain (loss) on plan assets	153	303
Reclassify prior service cost	21	50
Total in other comprehensive income (loss)	$713	$466

Retirement_plans_Cash_flows_De

Retirement plans Cash flows (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'
Defined Benefit Plans, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Next Fiscal Year	$0	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Plan Participants	0	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Next Twelve Months	'	335
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Two	'	348
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Three	'	345
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Four	'	366
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Five	'	364
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter	'	$1,907

Retirement_plans_401K_Details

Retirement plans 401K (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
401K [Abstract]	'	'
401K employee pretax payroll contributions limit	16.00%	'
Company matches contribution	50.00%	'
maximum % of each participant's salary	3.00%	'
Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Match	15.00%	'
Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Employees' Gross Pay	6.00%	'
Employer contributions to 401K	$430	$560

Retirement_plans_Deferred_comp1

Retirement plans Deferred compensation (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
Deferred compensation [Line Items]	'	'
Deferred shares outstanding at January 31, 2014	28,891	0
Deferred Compensation Liability, Current	$189	$163
Deferred compensation liabilities	6,509	5,670
Deferred Compensation Liability, Current and Noncurrent	6,698	5,833
Deferred compensation expense	$519	$484

Retirement_plans_Multi_employe

Retirement plans Multi employer (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
Northern Illinois Pension Plan [Member]	'	'
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]	'	'
Entity Tax Identification Number	'362663798	'
Multiemployer Plan Number	'001	'
Multiemployer Plans, Certified Zone Status	'Green	'
Multiemployer Plans, Funding Improvement Plan and Rehabilitation Plan	'No	'
Multiemployer Plan, Period Contributions	$0	$7
Multiemployer Plans, Surcharge	'No	'
Multiemployer Plans, Collective-Bargaining Arrangement, Expiration Date	1-Jun-14	'
Pipe Fitters Retirement Fund, Local 597 [Member]	'	'
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]	'	'
Entity Tax Identification Number	'626105084	'
Multiemployer Plan Number	'001	'
Multiemployer Plans, Certified Zone Status	'Green	'
Multiemployer Plans, Funding Improvement Plan and Rehabilitation Plan	'No	'
Multiemployer Plan, Period Contributions	275	102
Multiemployer Plans, Surcharge	'No	'
Multiemployer Plans, Collective-Bargaining Arrangement, Expiration Date	1-Jun-14	'
Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 572 Pension Fund [Member]	'	'
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]	'	'
Entity Tax Identification Number	'626102837	'
Multiemployer Plan Number	'001	'
Multiemployer Plans, Certified Zone Status	'Green	'
Multiemployer Plans, Funding Improvement Plan and Rehabilitation Plan	'No	'
Multiemployer Plan, Period Contributions	192	250
Multiemployer Plans, Surcharge	'No	'
Multiemployer Plans, Collective-Bargaining Arrangement, Expiration Date	31-Mar-16	'
Denmark	'	'
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]	'	'
Multiemployer Plan, Period Contributions	$350	$353

Stock_options_Fair_value_assum

Stock options Fair value assumptions (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
Minimum [Member]	'	'
Expected volatility rate	42.12%	53.90%
Risk free interest rate	0.74%	0.74%
Expected dividend rate	0.00%	0.00%
expected term	'4 years 10 months 24 days	'4 years 10 months 24 days
Maximum [Member]	'	'
Expected volatility rate	65.54%	66.82%
Risk free interest rate	2.82%	3.57%
Expected dividend rate	0.00%	0.00%
expected term	'5 years 8 months 12 days	'5 years 8 months 12 days

Stock_options_Option_activity_1

Stock options Option activity (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013	Jan. 31, 2012
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Additional Shares Authorized	400,000	'	'
Initial number of options to grant under plan	350,000	'	'
Stock Option [Member]	'	'	'
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number	776,000	969,000	843,000
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$11.69	$10.77	$11.48
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	'6 years 1 month 6 days	'6 years 6 months 24 days	'6 years 10 months 24 days
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value	$3,859	$40	$430
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number	513,000	586,000	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$13.43	$13.30	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	'4 years 9 months 6 days	'5 years 3 months 6 days	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value	2,226	37	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures	'	173,000	'
Shares issued	-223,000	-11,000	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$7.11	$3.10	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Total Intrinsic Value	1,082	46	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period	-73,000	-36,000	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$11.90	$10.47	'
unvested option [Member]	'	'	'
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$8.31	$6.91	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value	$1,633	$4	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures	103,000	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$10.55	$6.78	'

Stock_options_Options_addition

Stock options Options additional text (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
increase number of shares that may be issued	2.00%	'
Initial number of options to grant under plan	350,000	'
vesting period for stock options	'P4Y	'
unrecognized stock option expense	$900,000	'
cost is expected to be recognized over the weighted-average period	'2 years 4 months 24 days	'
Share-based Compensation	$196,000	$484,000
Maturity period for stock option fromI isuance date	'10 years	'
Stock Option [Member]	'	'
Weighted average fair value of options granted	$4.78	$3.31

Stock_options_Unvested_options1

Stock options Unvested options (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
percentage of options expect to vest	85.00%	'
unvested option [Member]	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares	263	383
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$8.31	$6.91
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value	$1,633	$4
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures	103	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$10.55	$6.78
Vested options in the period	-184	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period	39	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$7.05	'

Deferred_and_restricted_stock_2

Deferred and restricted stock (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
Restricted stock [Line Items]	'	'
Restricted stock grants	52,000	'
Restricted stock granted, weighted average fair value	$11.24	'
Restricted stock issued	-21,000	'
Restricted stock forfeited	-2,000	'
Restricted stock, forfeitures, weighted average fair value	$11.25	'
Deferred shares outstanding at January 31, 2014	28,891	0
share based compensation, other than options, weighted average, outstanding	$14.52	$0
Restricted stock, aggregate intrinsic value	$419,000	$0
Share-based compensation deferred shares, number of shares authorized	200,000	'
unrecognized restricted stock expense	900,000	'
cost is expected to be recognized over the weighted-average period	'2 years 4 months 24 days	'
Restricted stock expense	100,000	'
Director [Member]	'	'
Restricted stock [Line Items]	'	'
Deferred shares granted value	30,000	'
Restricted Stock [Member]	'	'
Restricted stock [Line Items]	'	'
vesting period restricted stock	'2 years	'
unrecognized restricted stock expense	$200,000	'
cost is expected to be recognized over the weighted-average period	'1 year 7 months 24 days	'

Stock_rights_Narrative_Details

Stock rights Narrative (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Stock rights [Abstract]	'
Price of MFRI common stock with Right	$25
days to wait after a person or group acquires 15% of common stock	$10
Change in control percentage	15.00%
redemption price per Right	$0.01
expiration date of Right	15-Sep-19

Interest_expense_net_Details

Interest expense, net (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
Interest expense, net [Abstract]	'	'
Interest Expense	$1,855	$2,009
Interest Income, Other	-544	-511
Interest expense, net	$1,311	$1,498

Fair_value_of_financial_instru1

Fair value of financial instruments Fair value details (Details) (USD $)	116 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2021	Jan. 31, 2014
		Rate
Fair Value of Financial Instruments [Abstract]	'	'
Derivative Liability, Notional Amount	'	$1,300,000
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	'	2.47%
Interest Rate Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value	'	68,000
Derivative, Maturity Date	31-Dec-21	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	'	$9,000,000

Subsequent_events_Details

Subsequent events (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014
Subsequent Event [Line Items]	'
Disposal date	26-Jun-13
Subsequent event, date	10-Apr-14
Denmark	'
Subsequent Event [Line Items]	'
Disposal date	28-Feb-14

Schedule_II_Details

Schedule II (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013	Jan. 31, 2012
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable	$194	$290	$204
Provision for Doubtful Accounts	128	151	'
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Charge-offs	228	81	'
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged to Other Accounts	$4	$16	'