Tennant (TNC) 10-K 27 Feb 15 2014 FY Annual report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information Document (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Jan. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2014
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	Tennant Company
Entity Central Index Key	97134
Current Fiscal Year End Date	-19
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Public Float			$1,376,385,672
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		18,415,249
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2014
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Document Type	10-K
Amendment Flag	FALSE
Document Period End Date	31-Dec-14

Consolidated_Statements_of_Ear

Consolidated Statements of Earnings (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Consolidated Statements of Earnings [Abstract]
Net Sales	$821,983	$752,011	$738,980
Cost of Sales	469,556	426,103	413,684
Gross Profit	352,427	325,908	325,296
Operating Expense:
Research and Development Expense	29,432	30,529	29,263
Selling and Administrative Expense	250,898	232,976	234,114
Gain on Sale of Business	0	0	-784
Total Operating Expense	280,330	263,505	262,593
Profit from Operations	72,097	62,403	62,703
Other Income (Expense):
Interest Income	302	390	1,069
Interest Expense	-1,722	-1,761	-2,517
Net Foreign Currency Transaction Losses	-690	-671	-1,403
Other (Expense) Income, Net	-449	-483	38
Total Other Expense, Net	-2,559	-2,525	-2,813
Profit Before Income Taxes	69,538	59,878	59,890
Income Tax Expense	18,887	19,647	18,306
Net Earnings	$50,651	$40,231	$41,584
Net Earnings per Share:
Basic	$2.78	$2.20	$2.24
Diluted	$2.70	$2.14	$2.18
Weighted Average Shares Outstanding:
Basic	18,217,384	18,297,371	18,544,896
Diluted	18,740,858	18,833,453	19,102,016
Cash Dividends Declared per Common Share	$0.78	$0.72	$0.69

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net Earnings	$50,651	$40,231	$41,584
Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income:
Foreign currency translation adjustments	-10,112	-2,242	574
Pension and retiree medical benefits	-5,382	12,282	-2,534
Income Taxes:
Foreign currency translation adjustments	13	-15	-25
Pension and retiree medical benefits	1,859	-4,663	889
Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), net of tax	-13,622	5,362	-1,096
Comprehensive Income	$37,029	$45,593	$40,488

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current Assets:
Cash and Cash Equivalents	$92,962	$80,984
Restricted Cash	352	393
Receivables:
Trade, less Allowance of $3,936 and $4,526, respectively	147,228	135,492
Other	5,155	4,690
Net Receivables	152,383	140,182
Inventories	80,511	66,906
Prepaid Expenses	9,552	11,426
Deferred Income Taxes, Current Portion	9,738	13,723
Other Current Assets	1,591	1,682
Total Current Assets	347,089	315,296
Property, Plant and Equipment	262,214	300,906
Accumulated Depreciation	-175,671	-217,430
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net	86,543	83,476
Deferred Income Taxes, Long-Term Portion	8,165	2,423
Goodwill	18,355	18,929
Intangible Assets, Net	15,588	19,028
Other Assets	11,192	17,154
Total Assets	486,932	456,306
Current Liabilities:
Short-Term Debt and Current Portion of Long-Term Debt	3,566	3,803
Accounts Payable	61,627	53,079
Employee Compensation and Benefits	33,842	29,756
Income Taxes Payable	1,087	812
Other Current Liabilities	45,508	44,076
Total Current Liabilities	145,630	131,526
Long-Term Liabilities:
Long-Term Debt	24,571	28,000
Employee-Related Benefits	25,711	25,173
Deferred Income Taxes, Long-Term Portion	5,989	2,870
Other Liabilities	4,380	4,891
Total Long-Term Liabilities	60,651	60,934
Total Liabilities	206,281	192,460
Commitments and Contingencies (Note 13)
Shareholders' Equity:
Preferred Stock of $0.02 par value per share, 1,000,000 shares authorized; no shares issued or outstanding	0	0
Common Stock, $0.375 par value per share, 60,000,000 shares authorized; 18,415,047 and 18,491,524 issued and outstanding, respectively	6,906	6,934
Additional Paid-In Capital	26,247	31,956
Retained Earnings	286,091	249,927
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	-38,593	-24,971
Total Shareholders' Equity	280,651	263,846
Total Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity	$486,932	$456,306

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parentheticals) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Current Assets:
Allowance For Doubtful Receivables and Sales Returns	$3,936	$4,526
Shareholders' Equity:
Preferred Stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$0.02	$0.02
Preferred Stock, authorized (in shares)	1,000,000	1,000,000
Preferred Stock, issued (in shares)	0	0
Preferred Stock, outstanding (in shares)	0	0
Common Stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$0.38	$0.38
Common Stock, authorized (in shares)	60,000,000	60,000,000
Common Stock, issued (in shares)	18,415,047	18,491,524
Common Stock, outstanding (in shares)	18,415,047	18,491,524

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cas

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net Earnings	$50,651	$40,231	$41,584
Adjustments to Reconcile Net Earnings to Cash Provided by Operating Activities:
Depreciation	17,694	17,686	18,072
Amortization of Intangible Assets	2,369	2,560	2,800
Deferred Income Taxes	129	5,622	3,166
Share-Based Compensation Expense	7,314	6,116	9,092
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts and Returns	1,504	1,279	1,427
Gain on Sale of Business	0	0	-784
Other, Net	24	219	-126
Changes in Operating Assets and Liabilities, Exluding the Impact of Acquisitions:
Receivables, Net	-18,811	-7,618	-11,811
Inventories	-21,155	-11,967	-149
Accounts Payable	10,192	6,120	970
Employee Compensation and Benefits	1,927	-4,178	-3,005
Other Current Liabilities	2,782	5,552	1,549
Income Taxes	3,466	-248	797
U.S. Pension Plan Contributions	0	0	-16,731
Other Assets and Liabilities	1,276	-1,560	715
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities	59,362	59,814	47,566
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Purchases of Property, Plant and Equipment	-19,583	-14,775	-15,623
Proceeds form Disposals of Property, Plant and Equipment	291	120	1,028
Acquisition of Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired	0	-750	-750
Proceeds from Sale of Business	1,416	4,261	1,014
Decrease (Increase) in Restricted Cash	6	-253	3,089
Net Cash Used for Investing Activities	-17,870	-11,397	-11,242
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from Short-term Debt	0	1,500	0
Payments of Short-term Debt	-1,500	0	0
Payments of Long-Term Debt	-2,016	-1,096	-2,986
Purchases of Common Stock	-14,097	-22,157	-25,343
Proceeds from Issuances of Common Stock	2,269	8,313	4,167
Excess Tax Benefit on Stock Plans	1,793	5,178	2,047
Dividends Paid	-14,487	-13,233	-12,817
Net Cash Used for Financing Activities	-28,038	-21,495	-34,932
Effect of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash and Cash Equivalents	-1,476	122	209
NET INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS	11,978	27,044	1,601
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year	80,984	53,940	52,339
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF YEAR	92,962	80,984	53,940
Cash Paid During the Year for:
Income Taxes	11,342	13,458	11,563
Interest	1,470	1,602	2,375
Supplemental Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities:
Capital Expenditures in Accounts Payable	$1,197	$1,090	$1,582

Consolidated_Statements_of_Sha

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity (USD $)	Total	Common Shares	Common Stock	Additional Paid-in Capital	Retained Earnings	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
In Thousands, except Share data	USD ($)		USD ($)	USD ($)	USD ($)	USD ($)
Balance at Dec. 31, 2011	$220,852		$7,063	$15,082	$227,944	($29,237)
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2011		18,834,940
Net Earnings	41,584		0	0	41,584	0
Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income	-1,096		0	0	0	-1,096
Issue Stock for Directors, Employee Benefit and Stock Plans, net of related tax withholdings (19,664, 9,457 and 46,152 shares)	2,517		94	2,423	0	0
Issue Stock for Directors, Employee Benefit and Stock Plans, net of related tax witholdings (19,664, 9,457, and 46,152 shares) (in shares)		250,850
Share-Based Compensation	7,310		0	7,310	0	0
Dividends paid ($0.69, $0.72 and $0.78) per Common Share)	-12,817		0	0	-12,817	0
Tax Benefit on Stock Plans	2,047		0	2,047	0	0
Purchases of Common Stock	-25,343		-233	-4,464	-20,646	0
Purchases of Common Stock (in shares)		-621,340
Balance at Dec. 31, 2012	235,054		6,924	22,398	236,065	-30,333
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2012		18,464,450
Net Earnings	40,231		0	0	40,231	0
Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income	5,362		0	0	0	5,362
Issue Stock for Directors, Employee Benefit and Stock Plans, net of related tax withholdings (19,664, 9,457 and 46,152 shares)	6,722		173	6,549	0	0
Issue Stock for Directors, Employee Benefit and Stock Plans, net of related tax witholdings (19,664, 9,457, and 46,152 shares) (in shares)		461,192
Share-Based Compensation	6,689		0	6,689	0	0
Dividends paid ($0.69, $0.72 and $0.78) per Common Share)	-13,233		0	0	-13,233	0
Tax Benefit on Stock Plans	5,178		0	5,178	0	0
Purchases of Common Stock	-22,157		-163	-8,858	-13,136	0
Purchases of Common Stock (in shares)		-434,118
Balance at Dec. 31, 2013	263,846		6,934	31,956	249,927	-24,971
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2013	18,491,524	18,491,524
Net Earnings	50,651		0	0	50,651	0
Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income	-13,622		0	0	0	-13,622
Issue Stock for Directors, Employee Benefit and Stock Plans, net of related tax withholdings (19,664, 9,457 and 46,152 shares)	-748		56	-804	0	0
Issue Stock for Directors, Employee Benefit and Stock Plans, net of related tax witholdings (19,664, 9,457, and 46,152 shares) (in shares)		148,557
Share-Based Compensation	7,314		0	7,314	0	0
Dividends paid ($0.69, $0.72 and $0.78) per Common Share)	-14,487		0	0	-14,487	0
Tax Benefit on Stock Plans	1,793		0	1,793	0	0
Purchases of Common Stock	-14,096		-84	-14,012	0	0
Purchases of Common Stock (in shares)		-225,034
Balance at Dec. 31, 2014	$280,651		$6,906	$26,247	$286,091	($38,593)
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2014	18,415,047	18,415,047

Consolidated_Statements_of_Sha1

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity (Parentheticals) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity (Parenthetical)
Tax withholdings for Directors, Employee Benefit and Stock Plans (in shares)	46,152	9,457	19,664
Dividends paid per Common Share (in dollars per share)	$0.78	$0.72	$0.69

Summary_of_Significant_Account

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Significant Accounting Policies
	1	Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
	Nature of Operations – Our primary business is in designing, manufacturing and marketing solutions that empower customers to achieve quality cleaning performance, significantly reduce their environmental impact and help create a cleaner, safer, healthier world. Tennant is committed to creating and commercializing breakthrough, sustainable cleaning innovations to enhance its broad suite of products including: floor maintenance and outdoor cleaning equipment, chemical-free and other sustainable cleaning technologies, specialty surface coatings, aftermarket parts and consumables, equipment maintenance and repair service. Tennant products are used in retail establishments and distribution centers, factories and warehouses, public venues such as arenas and stadiums, office buildings, schools and universities, hospitals and clinics, parking lots and streets, and other environments. Customers include building service contract cleaners to whom organizations outsource facilities maintenance, as well as businesses that perform facilities maintenance themselves. The Company reaches these customers through the industry's largest direct sales and service organization and through a strong and well-supported network of authorized distributors worldwide.
	Consolidation – The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of Tennant Company and its subsidiaries. All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated. In these Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, Tennant Company is referred to as “Tennant,” “we,” “us,” or “our.”
	Translation of Non-U.S. Currency – Foreign currency-denominated assets and liabilities have been translated to U.S. dollars at year-end exchange rates, while income and expense items are translated at average exchange rates prevailing during the year. Gains or losses resulting from translation are included as a separate component of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss. The balance of cumulative foreign currency translation adjustments recorded within Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss as of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 was a net loss of $32,090, $21,991 and $19,734, respectively. The majority of translation adjustments are not adjusted for income taxes as substantially all translation adjustments relate to permanent investments in non-U.S. subsidiaries. Net Foreign Currency Transaction Losses are included in Other Income (Expense).
	Use of Estimates – In preparing the consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("U.S. GAAP"), management must make decisions that impact the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses and the related disclosures, including disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities. Such decisions include the selection of the appropriate accounting principles to be applied and the assumptions on which to base accounting estimates. Estimates are used in determining, among other items, sales promotions and incentives accruals, inventory valuation, warranty reserves, allowance for doubtful accounts, pension and postretirement accruals, useful lives for intangible assets, and future cash flows associated with impairment testing for goodwill and other long-lived assets. These estimates and assumptions are based on management’s best estimates and judgments. Management evaluates its estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis using historical experience and other factors that management believes to be reasonable under the circumstances. We adjust such estimates and assumptions when facts and circumstances dictate. A number of these factors include, among others, economic conditions, credit markets, foreign currency, commodity cost volatility and consumer spending and confidence, all of which have combined to increase the uncertainty inherent in such estimates and assumptions. As future events and their effects cannot be determined with precision, actual amounts could differ significantly from those estimated at the time the consolidated financial statements are prepared. Changes in those estimates resulting from continuing changes in the economic environment will be reflected in the financial statements in future periods.
	Cash and Cash Equivalents – We consider all highly liquid investments with maturities of three months or less from the date of purchase to be cash equivalents.
	Restricted Cash – We have a total of $352 as of December 31, 2014 that serves as collateral backing certain bank guarantees and is therefore restricted. This money is invested in time deposits.
	Receivables – Credit is granted to our customers in the normal course of business. Receivables are recorded at original carrying value less reserves for estimated uncollectible accounts and sales returns. To assess the collectability of these receivables, we perform ongoing credit evaluations of our customers’ financial condition. Through these evaluations, we may become aware of a situation where a customer may not be able to meet its financial obligations due to deterioration of its financial viability, credit ratings or bankruptcy. The reserve requirements are based on the best facts available to us and are reevaluated and adjusted as additional information becomes available. Our reserves are also based on amounts determined by using percentages applied to trade receivables. These percentages are determined by a variety of factors including, but not limited to, current economic trends, historical payment and bad debt write-off experience. An account is considered past-due or delinquent when it has not been paid within the contractual terms. Uncollectible accounts are written off against the reserves when it is deemed that a customer account is uncollectible.
	Inventories – Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined on a first-in, first-out (“FIFO”) basis except for Inventories in North America, which are determined on a last-in, first-out (“LIFO”) basis.
	Property, Plant and Equipment – Property, plant and equipment is carried at cost. Additions and improvements that extend the lives of the assets are capitalized while expenditures for repairs and maintenance are expensed as incurred. We generally depreciate buildings and improvements by the straight-line method over a life of 30 years. Other property, plant and equipment are generally depreciated using the straight-line method based on lives of 3 years to 15 years.
	Goodwill – Goodwill represents the excess of cost over the fair value of net assets of businesses acquired. We analyze Goodwill on an annual basis as of year end and when an event occurs or circumstances change that may reduce the fair value of one of our reporting units below its carrying amount. A goodwill impairment occurs if the carrying amount of a reporting unit’s goodwill exceeds its fair value. In assessing the recoverability of Goodwill, we use an analysis of qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount as a basis for determining whether it is necessary to perform the two-step goodwill impairment test.
	Intangible Assets – Intangible Assets consist of definite lived customer lists, service contracts, an acquired trade name and technology. Intangible Assets with a definite life are amortized on a straight-line basis.
	Impairment of Long-lived Assets – We periodically review our intangible and long-lived assets for impairment and assess whether events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable. We generally deem an asset group to be impaired if an estimate of undiscounted future operating cash flows is less than its carrying amount. If impaired, an impairment loss is recognized based on the excess of the carrying amount of the individual asset group over its fair value.
	Purchases of Common Stock – We repurchase our Common Stock under a 2012 repurchase program authorized by our Board of Directors. This program allows us to repurchase up to 1,000,000 shares of our Common Stock. Upon repurchase, the par value is charged to Common Stock and the remaining purchase price is charged to Additional Paid-in Capital. If the amount of the remaining purchase price causes the Additional Paid-in Capital account to be in a debit position, this amount is then reclassified to Retained Earnings. Common Stock repurchased is included in shares authorized but is not included in shares outstanding.
	Warranty – We record a liability for estimated warranty claims at the time of sale. The amount of the liability is based on the trend in the historical ratio of claims to sales, the historical length of time between the sale and resulting warranty claim, new product introductions and other factors. In the event we determine that our current or future product repair and replacement costs exceed our estimates, an adjustment to these reserves would be charged to earnings in the period such determination is made. Warranty terms on machines range from one to four years. However, the majority of our claims are paid out within the first six to nine months following a sale. The majority of the liability for estimated warranty claims represents amounts to be paid out in the near term for qualified warranty issues, with immaterial amounts reserved to be paid out for older equipment warranty issues.
	Environmental – We record a liability for environmental clean-up on an undiscounted basis when a loss is probable and can be reasonably estimated.
	Pension and Profit Sharing Plans – We have pension and/or profit sharing plans covering substantially all of our employees. Pension plan costs are accrued based on actuarial estimates with the required pension cost funded annually, as needed. No new participants have entered the pension plan since 2000.
	Postretirement Benefits – We accrue and recognize the cost of retiree health benefits over the employees’ period of service based on actuarial estimates. Benefits are only available for U.S. employees hired before January 1, 1999.
	Derivative Financial Instruments – We use derivative instruments to manage exposures to foreign currency only in an attempt to limit underlying exposures from currency fluctuations and not for trading purposes. We periodically enter into various contracts, principally forward exchange contracts, to protect the value of certain of our foreign currency-denominated assets and liabilities (principally the Euro, Australian and Canadian dollars, British pound, Japanese yen, Chinese yuan, Brazilian real and Mexican peso). We have elected not to apply hedge accounting treatment to these contracts as our contracts are for a short duration. These contracts are marked-to-market with the related asset or liability recorded in Other Current Assets or Other Current Liabilities, as applicable. The gains and losses on these contracts generally approximate changes in the value of the related assets and liabilities. Gains or losses on forward foreign exchange contracts to economically hedge foreign currency-denominated net assets and liabilities are recognized in Other Income (Expense) under Net Foreign Currency Transaction Losses within the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.
	Revenue Recognition – We recognize revenue when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, title and risk of ownership have passed to the customer, the sales price is fixed or determinable and collectability is reasonably assured. Generally, these criteria are met at the time the product is shipped. Provisions for estimated returns, rebates and discounts are provided for at the time the related revenue is recognized. Freight revenue billed to customers is included in Net Sales and the related shipping expense is included in Cost of Sales. Service revenue is recognized in the period the service is performed or ratably over the period of the related service contract.
	Customers may obtain financing through third-party leasing companies to assist in their acquisition of our equipment products. Certain lease transactions classified as operating leases contain retained ownership provisions or guarantees, which results in recognition of revenue over the lease term. As a result, we defer the sale of these transactions and record the sales proceeds as collateralized borrowings or deferred revenue. The underlying equipment relating to operating leases is depreciated on a straight-line basis, not to exceed the equipment’s estimated useful life.
	Revenues from contracts with multiple element arrangements are recognized as each element is earned. We offer service contracts in conjunction with equipment sales in addition to selling equipment and service contracts separately. Sales proceeds related to service contracts are deferred if the proceeds are received in advance of the service and recognized ratably over the contract period.
	Share-based Compensation – We account for employee share-based compensation using the fair value based method. Our share-based compensation plans are more fully described in Note 15 of the Consolidated Financial Statements.
	Research and Development – Research and development costs are expensed as incurred.
	Advertising Costs – We advertise products, technologies and solutions to customers and prospective customers through a variety of marketing campaign and promotional efforts. These efforts include tradeshows, online advertising, e-mail marketing, mailings, sponsorships and telemarketing. Advertising costs are expensed as incurred. In 2014, 2013 and 2012 such activities amounted to $8,583, $6,412 and $6,466, respectively.
	Income Taxes – Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between the book and tax bases of existing assets and liabilities. A valuation allowance is provided when, in management’s judgment, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. We have established contingent tax liabilities using management’s best judgment. We follow guidance provided by Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 740, Income Taxes, regarding uncertainty in income taxes, to record these contingent tax liabilities (refer to Note 14 of the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information). We adjust these liabilities as facts and circumstances change. Interest Expense is recognized in the first period the interest would begin accruing. Penalties are recognized in the period we claim or expect to claim the position in our tax return. Interest and penalties expenses are classified as an income tax expense.
	Sales Tax – Sales taxes collected from customers and remitted to governmental authorities are presented on a net basis.
	Earnings per Share – Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing Net Earnings by the Weighted Average Shares Outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share assume conversion of potentially dilutive stock options and restricted share awards. Performance-based shares are included in the calculation of diluted earnings per share in the quarter in which the performance targets have been achieved.

Newly_Adopted_Accounting_Princ

Newly Adopted Accounting Principles	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract]
Newly Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
	2	New Accounting Pronouncements
	Presentation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits
	In July 2013, the FASB issued amendments to guidance on the financial statement presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit when a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss or a tax credit carryforward exists. The amendments are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2013. Adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact on our results of operations or financial position.

Management_Actions

Management Actions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Management Actions
	3	Management Actions
	Q4 2013 Action – During the fourth quarter of 2013, we implemented a restructuring action to right size the cost structure in our European operations, primarily as a result of the strategic decision to adjust our Direct versus Distribution selling efforts, to enhance our go-to-market approach which was designed to improve profitability and increase customer satisfaction. A pre-tax charge of $1,577 recognized in the fourth quarter of 2013 consisted primarily of severance and was included within Selling and Administrative Expense in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings. We believe the anticipated savings will offset the pre-tax charge in approximately 1.5 years from the date of the action. The charge impacts our EMEA operating segment, which has no goodwill balance. We do not expect additional costs will be incurred related to this restructuring action.
	A reconciliation of the beginning and ending liability balances is as follows:
		Severance and Related Costs
	Q4 2013 restructuring action	$	1,577
	December 31, 2013 balance	$	1,577
	2014 utilization:
	Cash Payments	(1,151		)
	Foreign currency adjustments	(65		)
	Change in estimate	5
	December 31, 2014 balance	366
	Q1 2013 Action – During the first quarter of 2013, we implemented a restructuring action to right size the cost structure of our European operations, primarily focused on reducing the size of our sales and service organization, in response to the challenging economic conditions. The pre-tax charge of $1,440 recognized in the first quarter of 2013 consisted primarily of severance and was included within Selling and Administrative Expense in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Earnings. We estimated the savings would offset the pre-tax charge charge approximately one year from the date of the action. The charge impacted our EMEA operating segment, which has no goodwill balance. We do not expect additional costs will be incurred related to this restructuring action.
	A reconciliation of the beginning and ending liability balances is as follows:
		Severance and Related Costs
	Q1 2013 restructuring action	$	1,440
	Cash payments	(1,110		)
	Foreign currency adjustments	17
	December 31, 2013 balance	$	347
	2014 utilization:
	Cash payments	(341		)
	Foreign currency adjustments	(6		)
	December 31, 2014 balance	$	—

Acquisitions_and_Divestitures

Acquisitions and Divestitures	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Acquisitions and Divestitures
	4	Acquisitions and Divestitures
	Acquisitions
	On May 31, 2011, we acquired Water Star, Inc. (“Water Star”), a Newbury, Ohio firm specializing in electrochemistry for $4,456. The total purchase price of $4,456 was comprised of $2,956 paid at closing and two $750 installment payments were paid in cash on May 31, 2012 and 2013. This acquisition is consistent with our strategy to expand our intellectual property in support of our long-term vision to deliver sustainable, breakthrough innovations.
	Divestitures
	On July 31, 2012, we entered into a Share Purchase Agreement (“SPA”) with M&F Management and Financing GmbH (“M&F”) for the sale of ownership of our subsidiary, Tennant CEE GmbH, and our minority interest in a joint venture, OOO Tennant. In exchange for the ownership of these entities, we received €815, or $1,014, in cash, as of the date of sale and financed the remaining €5,351, for a total purchase price of €6,166. A total of €2,126, or $2,826, was received in equal quarterly payments during 2013 and the first anniversary payment of €1,075, or $1,435 was received on July 31, 2013. The second anniversary payment of €1,075, or $1,418, was received on July 31, 2014. The remaining €1,075, or $1,301 as of December 31, 2014, will be received on the third anniversary date of the divestiture, which is July 31, 2015. As a result of this divestiture, we recorded a pre-tax gain of $784 in our Profit from Operations in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings for the year ended December 31, 2012.
	M&F is now a master distributor of Tennant products in the Central Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa markets. In addition, as further discussed in Note 19, M&F was a related party to Tennant at the time of the transaction. We have identified M&F as a variable interest entity (“VIE”) and have performed a qualitative assessment that considered M&F's purpose and design, our involvement and the risks and benefits and determined that Tennant is not the primary beneficiary of this VIE. The only financing Tennant has provided to M&F was related to the SPA as noted above and there are no arrangements that would require us to provide significant financial support in the future.

Inventories

Inventories	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Inventories
	5	Inventories
	Inventories as of December 31, consisted of the following:
		2014			2013
	Inventories carried at LIFO:
	Finished goods	$	41,687		$	36,238
	Raw materials, production parts and work-in-process	24,458			13,922
	LIFO reserve	(28,166		)	(27,463		)
	Total LIFO inventories	37,979			22,697
	Inventories carried at FIFO:
	Finished goods	29,851			31,489
	Raw materials, production parts and work-in-process	12,681			12,720
	Total FIFO inventories	42,532			44,209
	Total Inventories	$	80,511		$	66,906
	The LIFO reserve approximates the difference between LIFO carrying cost and FIFO.

Property_Plant_and_Equipment

Property, Plant and Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment
	6	Property, Plant and Equipment
	Property, Plant and Equipment and related Accumulated Depreciation, including equipment under capital leases, as of December 31, consisted of the following:
		2014			2013
	Land	$	4,265		$	4,311
	Buildings and improvements	52,962			53,490
	Machinery and manufacturing equipment	117,622			143,413
	Office equipment	73,677			91,048
	Work in progress	13,688			8,644
	Total Property, Plant and Equipment	262,214			300,906
	Less: Accumulated Depreciation	(175,671		)	(217,430		)
	Net Property, Plant and Equipment	$	86,543		$	83,476
	Depreciation expense was $17,694 in 2014, $17,686 in 2013 and $18,072 in 2012.

Goodwill_and_Intangible_Assets

Goodwill and Intangible Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets
	7	Goodwill and Intangible Assets
	For purposes of performing our goodwill impairment analysis, we have identified our reporting units as North America; Latin America; EMEA and Asia Pacific. As of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, we performed an analysis of qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount as a basis for determining whether it is necessary to perform the two-step goodwill impairment test. Based on our analysis of qualitative factors, we determined that it was not necessary to perform the two-step goodwill impairment test for any of our reporting units.
	The changes in the carrying amount of Goodwill are as follows:
		Goodwill			Accumulated			Total
					Impairment
					Losses
	Balance as of December 31, 2012	$	68,585		$	(48,868	)	$	19,717
	Foreign currency fluctuations	321			(1,109		)	(788		)
	Balance as of December 31, 2013	$	68,906		$	(49,977	)	$	18,929
	Foreign currency fluctuations	(4,048		)	3,474			(574		)
	Balance as of December 31, 2014	$	64,858		$	(46,503	)	$	18,355
	The balances of acquired Intangible Assets, excluding Goodwill, as of December 31, are as follows:
		Customer Lists			Trade			Technology			Total
		and			Name
		Service Contracts
	Balance as of December 31, 2014
	Original cost	$	21,946		$	4,300		$	6,915		$	33,161
	Accumulated amortization	(12,099		)	(2,068		)	(3,406		)	(17,573		)
	Carrying amount	$	9,847		$	2,232		$	3,509		$	15,588
	Weighted-average original life (in years)	15			14			13
	Balance as of December 31, 2013
	Original cost	$	23,763		$	4,836		$	7,347		$	35,946
	Accumulated amortization	(11,609		)	(1,976		)	(3,333		)	(16,918		)
	Carrying amount	$	12,154		$	2,860		$	4,014		$	19,028
	Weighted-average original life (in years)	15			14			13
	Amortization expense on Intangible Assets was $2,369, $2,560 and $2,800 for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	Estimated aggregate amortization expense based on the current carrying amount of amortizable Intangible Assets for each of the five succeeding years is as follows:
	2015	$	2,039
	2016	1,743
	2017	1,644
	2018	1,637
	2019	1,516
	Thereafter	7,009
	Total	$	15,588

Debt

Debt	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Debt
	8	Debt
	Debt as of December 31, consisted of the following:
		2014			2013
	Short-Term Debt:
	Credit facility borrowings	$	—		$	1,500
	Long-Term Debt:
	Bank borrowings	—			9
	Credit facility borrowings	28,000			30,000
	Collateralized borrowings	7			11
	Capital lease obligations	130			283
	Total Debt	28,137			31,803
	Less: current portion	(3,566		)	(3,803		)
	Long-term portion	$	24,571		$	28,000
	As of December 31, 2014, we had committed lines of credit totaling approximately $125,000 and uncommitted lines of credit totaling approximately $87,421. There were $10,000 in outstanding borrowings under our JPMorgan facility (described below) and $18,000 outstanding borrowings under our Prudential facility (described below) as of December 31, 2014. In addition, we had stand alone letters of credit of approximately $2,409 outstanding and bank guarantees in the amount of $211. Commitment fees on unused lines of credit for the year ended December 31, 2014 were $324.
	Our most restrictive covenants are part of our 2011 Credit Agreement with JPMorgan (as defined below), which are the same covenants in our Shelf Agreement (as defined below) with Prudential (as defined below), and require us to maintain an indebtedness to EBITDA ratio of not greater than 3.00 to 1 and to maintain an EBITDA to interest expense ratio of no less than 3.50 to 1 as of the end of each quarter. As of December 31, 2014, our indebtedness to EBITDA ratio was 0.34 to 1 and our EBITDA to interest expense ratio was 52.86 to 1.
	Credit Facilities
	JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association
	On April 25, 2013, we entered into Amendment No. 1 to our 2011 Credit Agreement which amends the Credit Agreement, dated as of May 5, 2011, with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N. A. (“JPMorgan”), as administrative agent and collateral agent, U.S. Bank National Association, as syndication agent, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, and RBS Citizens, N.A., as co-documentation agents, and the Lenders (including JPMorgan) from time to time party thereto (the “2011 Credit Agreement”). Under the original terms, the 2011 Credit Agreement provides us and certain of our foreign subsidiaries access to a senior unsecured credit facility until May 5, 2016, in the amount of $125,000, with an option to expand by up to $62,500 to a total of $187,500. Borrowings may be denominated in U.S. Dollars or certain other currencies. The 2011 Credit Agreement contains a $100,000 sublimit on borrowings by foreign subsidiaries.
	Under the original terms of the 2011 Credit Agreement, the fee for committed funds ranges from an annual rate of 0.25% to 0.40%, depending on our leverage ratio. Eurocurrency borrowings under the 2011 Credit Agreement bear interest at a rate per annum equal to adjusted LIBOR plus an additional spread of 1.50% to 2.10%, depending on our leverage ratio. Alternate Base Rate (“ABR”) borrowings bear interest at a rate per annum equal to the greatest of (a) the prime rate, (b) the federal funds rate plus 0.50% and (c) the adjusted LIBOR rate for a one month period plus 1.0%, plus, in any such case, an additional spread of 0.50% to 1.10%, depending on our leverage ratio.
	Effective April 25, 2013, Amendment No. 1 to the 2011 Credit Agreement principally provides the following changes to the 2011 Credit Agreement:
	•	extends the maturity date of the 2011 Credit Agreement to March 1, 2018;
	•	changes the fees for committed funds under the 2011 Credit Agreement to an annual rate ranging from 0.20% to 0.35%, depending on our leverage ratio;
	•	changes the per annum interest rate on Eurocurrency borrowings to adjusted LIBOR plus an additional spread of 1.30% to 1.90%, depending on our leverage ratio;
	•	changes the ABR rate at which borrowings bear interest to a rate per annum equal to the greatest of (a) the prime rate, (b) the federal funds rate plus 0.50% and (c) the adjusted LIBOR rate for a one month period plus 1.0%, plus, in any such case, an additional spread of 0.30% to 0.90%, depending on our leverage ratio; and
	•	changes related to new or recently revised financial regulations.
	The 2011 Credit Agreement gives the Lenders a pledge of 65% of the stock of certain first tier foreign subsidiaries. The obligations under the 2011 Credit Agreement are also guaranteed by certain of our first tier domestic subsidiaries.
	The 2011 Credit Agreement contains customary representations, warranties and covenants, including but not limited to covenants restricting our ability to incur indebtedness and liens and merge or consolidate with another entity. Further, the 2011 Credit Agreement contains the following covenants:
	•	a covenant requiring us to maintain an indebtedness to EBITDA ratio as of the end of each quarter of not greater than 3.00 to 1;
	•	a covenant requiring us to maintain an EBITDA to interest expense ratio as of the end of each quarter of no less than 3.50 to 1;
	•	a covenant restricting us from paying dividends or repurchasing stock if, after giving effect to such payments, our leverage ratio is greater than 2.00 to 1, in such case limiting such payments to an amount ranging from $50,000 to $75,000 during any fiscal year based on our leverage ratio after giving effect to such payments; and
	•	a covenant restricting our ability to make acquisitions, if, after giving pro-forma effect to such acquisition, our leverage ratio is greater than 2.75 to 1, in such case limiting acquisitions to $25,000.
	As of December 31, 2014, we were in compliance with all covenants under this Credit Agreement. There were $10,000 in outstanding borrowings under this facility at December 31, 2014, with a weighted average interest rate of 1.46%.
	Prudential Investment Management, Inc.
	On July 29, 2009, we entered into a Private Shelf Agreement (the “Shelf Agreement”) with Prudential Investment Management, Inc. (“Prudential”) and Prudential affiliates from time to time party thereto. The Shelf Agreement provides us and our subsidiaries access to an uncommitted, senior secured, maximum aggregate principal amount of $80,000 of debt capital. The Shelf Agreement contains representations, warranties and covenants, including but not limited to covenants restricting our ability to incur indebtedness and liens and to merge or consolidate with another entity. The Shelf Agreement limits the payment of dividends or repurchases of stock to an amount ranging from $12,000 to $40,000 based on our leverage ratio after giving effect to such payments.
	On May 5, 2011, we entered into Amendment No. 1 to our Private Shelf Agreement (the “Amendment”).
	The Amendment principally provides the following changes to the Shelf Agreement:
	•	elimination of the security interest in our personal property and subsidiaries;
	•	an amendment to the maximum leverage ratio to not greater than 3.00 to 1 for any period ending on or after March 31, 2011;
	•	an amendment to our restriction regarding the payment of dividends or repurchase of stock to restrict us from paying dividends or repurchasing stock if, after giving effect to such payments, our leverage ratio is greater than 2.00 to 1, in such case limiting such payments to an amount ranging from $50,000 to $75,000 during any fiscal year based on our leverage ratio after giving effect to such payments; and
	•	an amendment to Permitted Acquisitions restricting our ability to make acquisitions, if, after giving pro-forma effect to such acquisition, our leverage ratio is greater than 2.75 to 1, in such case limiting acquisitions to $25,000.
	On July 24, 2012, we entered into Amendment No. 2 to our Private Shelf Agreement (“Amendment No. 2”), which amends the Shelf Agreement. The principal change effected by Amendment No. 2 is an extension of the Issuance Period for Shelf Notes under the Shelf Agreement. The Issuance Period now expires on July 24, 2015.
	As of December 31, 2014, there were $18,000 in outstanding borrowings under this facility, consisting of the $8,000 Series A notes issued in March 2011 with a fixed interest rate of 4.00% and a seven-year term serially maturing from 2014 to 2018 and the $10,000 Series B notes issued in June 2011 with a fixed interest rate of 4.10% and a 10-year term serially maturing from 2015 to 2021. The first payment of $2,000 on Series A notes was made during the first quarter of 2014. We were in compliance with all covenants under this Shelf Agreement as of December 31, 2014.
	The Royal Bank of Scotland Citizens, N.A.
	On September 14, 2010, we entered into an overdraft facility with The Royal Bank of Scotland Citizens, N.A. in the amount of €2,000, or approximately $2,421. There was no balance outstanding on this facility as of December 31, 2014.
	HSBC Bank (China) Company Limited, Shanghai Branch
	On June 20, 2012, we entered into a banking facility with the HSBC Bank (China) Company Limited, Shanghai Branch in the amount of $5,000. During the first quarter of 2014, we repaid previous borrowings under this facility amounting to $1,500 and, as of December 31, 2014, there were no outstanding borrowings on this facility.
	Collateralized Borrowings
	Collateralized borrowings represent deferred sales proceeds on certain leasing transactions with third-party leasing companies. These transactions are accounted for as borrowings, with the related assets capitalized as property, plant and equipment and depreciated straight-line over the lease term.
	Capital Lease Obligations
	Capital lease obligations outstanding are primarily related to sale-leaseback transactions with third-party leasing companies whereby we sell our manufactured equipment to the leasing company and lease it back. The equipment covered by these leases is rented to our customers over the lease term.
	The aggregate maturities of our outstanding debt, including capital lease obligations as of December 31, 2014, are as follows:
	2015	$	4,360
	2016	4,077
	2017	3,938
	2018	13,678
	2019	1,575
	Thereafter	2,974
	Total minimum obligations	$	30,602
	Less: amount representing interest	(2,465		)
	Total	$	28,137

Other_Current_Liabilities

Other Current Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Other Liabilities, Current [Abstract]
Other Current Liabilities
	9	Other Current Liabilities
	Other Current Liabilities as of December 31, consisted of the following:
		2014			2013
	Taxes, other than income taxes	$	7,052		$	6,565
	Warranty	9,686			9,663
	Deferred revenue	2,368			2,303
	Rebates	11,503			7,647
	Freight	5,006			4,593
	Miscellaneous accrued expenses	6,581			8,492
	Other	3,312			4,813
	Total	$	45,508		$	44,076
	The changes in warranty reserves for the three years ended December 31 were as follows:
		2014			2013			2012
	Beginning balance	$	9,663		$	9,357		$	8,759
	Product warranty provision	10,605			10,649			12,395
	(Divested) acquired reserves	—			—			(236		)
	Foreign currency	(215		)	(48		)	(15		)
	Claims paid	(10,367		)	(10,295		)	(11,546		)
	Ending balance	$	9,686		$	9,663		$	9,357

Fair_Value_Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements
	10	Fair Value Measurements
	Estimates of fair value for financial assets and financial liabilities are based on the framework established in the accounting guidance for fair value measurements. The framework defines fair value, provides guidance for measuring fair value and requires certain disclosures. The framework discusses valuation techniques, such as the market approach (comparable market prices), the income approach (present value of future income or cash flow) and the cost approach (cost to replace the service capacity of an asset or replacement cost). The framework utilizes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value into three broad levels. The following is a brief description of those three levels:
	•	Level 1: Observable inputs such as quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
	•	Level 2: Inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. These include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets and quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active.
	•	Level 3: Unobservable inputs that reflect the reporting entity’s own assumptions.
	Our population of assets and liabilities subject to fair value measurements at December 31, 2014 is as follows:
		Fair		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
		Value
	Assets:
	Foreign currency forward exchange contracts	$	130	$	—	$	130	$	—
	Total Assets	$	130	$	—	$	130	$	—
	Liabilities:
	Foreign currency forward exchange contracts	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	—
	Total Liabilities	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	—
	Our foreign currency forward exchange contracts are valued based on quoted forward foreign exchange prices at the reporting date.
	We use derivative instruments to manage exposures to foreign currency only in an attempt to limit underlying exposures from currency fluctuations and not for trading purposes. Gains or losses on forward foreign exchange contracts to economically hedge foreign currency-denominated assets and liabilities are recognized in Other Current Assets and Other Current Liabilities within the Consolidated Balance Sheets and are recognized in Other Income (Expense) under Net Foreign Currency Transaction Losses within the Consolidated Statements of Earnings. As of December 31, 2014, the fair value of such contracts outstanding was an asset of $130. There were no outstanding liabilities. As of December 31, 2013, the fair value of such contracts outstanding was an asset of $16 and a liability of $109. We recognized a net gain of $2,384 during 2014, a net gain of $1,068 during 2013 and a net gain of $1,026 during 2012. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, the notional amounts of foreign currency forward exchange contracts outstanding were $34,631 and $30,280, respectively.
	The carrying amounts reported in the Consolidated Balance Sheets for Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash, Receivables, Other Current Assets, Short-Term Debt, Accounts Payable and Other Current Liabilities approximate fair value due to their short-term nature.
	The fair market value of our Long-Term Debt approximates cost, based on the borrowing rates currently available to us for bank loans with similar terms and remaining maturities.

Retirement_Benefit_Plans

Retirement Benefit Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Defined Contribution Pension and Other Postretirement Plans Disclosure [Abstract]
Retirement Benefit Plans
	11	Retirement Benefit Plans
	Substantially all U.S. employees are covered by various retirement benefit plans, including defined benefit pension plans, post-retirement medical plans and defined contribution savings plans. Retirement benefits for eligible employees in foreign locations are funded principally through defined benefit plans, annuity or government programs. The total cost of benefits for our plans was $11,334, $11,766 and $11,192 in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	We have a qualified, funded defined benefit retirement plan (the “U.S. Pension Plan”) covering certain current and retired employees in the U.S. Plan benefits are based on the years of service and compensation during the highest five consecutive years of service in the final ten years of employment. No new participants have entered the plan since 2000. The plan has 394 participants including 81 active employees as of December 31, 2014.
	We have a U.S. postretirement medical benefit plan (the “U.S. Retiree Plan”) to provide certain healthcare benefits for U.S. employees hired before January 1, 1999. Eligibility for those benefits is based upon a combination of years of service with Tennant and age upon retirement.
	Our defined contribution savings plan (“401(k)”) covers substantially all U.S. employees. Under this plan, we match up to 3% of the employee’s annual compensation in cash to be invested per their election. We also make a profit sharing contribution to the 401(k) plan for employees with more than one year of service in accordance with our Profit Sharing Plan. This contribution is based upon our financial performance and can be funded in the form of Tennant stock, cash or a combination of both. Expenses for the 401(k) plan were $7,475, $6,423 and $6,226 during 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	We have a U.S. nonqualified supplemental benefit plan (the “U.S. Nonqualified Plan”) to provide additional retirement benefits for certain employees whose benefits under our 401(k) plan or U.S. Pension Plan are limited by either the Employee Retirement Income Security Act or the Internal Revenue Code.
	We also have defined pension benefit plans in the United Kingdom and Germany (the “U.K. Pension Plan” and the “German Pension Plan”). The U.K. Pension Plan and German Pension Plan cover certain current and retired employees and both plans are closed to new participants.
	On March 23, 2010, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (the “PPACA”) was signed into law, and, on March 30, 2010, the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 (the “HCERA” and, together with PPACA, the “Acts”), which makes various amendments to certain aspects of the PPACA, was signed into law. The Acts effectively change the tax treatment of federal subsidies paid to sponsors of retiree health benefit plans that provide prescription drug benefits that are at least actuarially equivalent to the corresponding benefits provided under Medicare Part D. Under the Acts, an employer’s income tax deduction for the costs of providing Medicare Part D-equivalent prescription drug benefits to retirees will be reduced by the amount of the federal subsidy beginning in 2013. Under U.S. GAAP, any impact from a change in tax law must be recognized in earnings in the period enacted regardless of the effective date. The Acts did not have a material impact on our financial position or results of operations.
	We expect to contribute approximately $185 to our U.S. Nonqualified Plan, $947 to our U.S. Retiree Plan, $305 to our U.K. Pension Plan and $37 to our German Pension Plan in 2015. No contributions to the U.S. Pension Plan are expected to be required during 2015. There were no contributions made to the U.S. Pension Plan during 2014. During 2012, we made a $15,000 discretionary contribution to the U.S. Pension Plan in addition to the minimum funding requirements for 2011 and 2012.
	Weighted-average asset allocations by asset category of the U.S. and U.K. Pension Plans as of December 31, 2014 are as follows:
	Asset Category	Fair Value				Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets				Significant Observable Inputs			Significant Unobservable Inputs
						(Level 1)				(Level 2)			(Level 3)
	Cash and Cash Equivalents	$	505			$	505			$	—		$	—
	Mutual Funds:
	U.S. Large-Cap	12,955				12,955				—			—
	U.S. Small-Cap	4,004				4,004				—			—
	International Equities	3,788				3,788				—			—
	Fixed-Income Domestic	30,652				30,652				—			—
	Investment Account held by Pension Plan (1)	9,989				—				—			9,989
	Total	$	61,893			$	51,904			$	—		$	9,989
	-1	This category is comprised of investments in insurance contracts.
	Weighted-average asset allocations by asset category of the U.S. and U.K. Pension Plans as of December 31, 2013 are as follows:
	Asset Category	Fair Value				Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets				Significant Observable Inputs			Significant Unobservable Inputs
						(Level 1)				(Level 2)			(Level 3)
	Cash and Cash Equivalents	$	746			$	746			$	—		$	—
	Mutual Funds:
	U.S. Large-Cap	20,597				20,597				—			—
	U.S. Small-Cap	6,971				6,971				—			—
	International Equities	6,328				6,328				—			—
	Fixed-Income Domestic	17,755				17,755				—			—
	Investment Account held by Pension Plan (1)	9,733				—				—			9,733
	Total	$	62,130			$	52,397			$	—		$	9,733
	-1	This category is comprised of investments in insurance contracts.
	Estimates of the fair value of U.S. and U.K Pension Plan assets are based on the framework established in the accounting guidance for fair value measurements. A brief description of the three levels can be found in Note 10. Equity Securities and Mutual Funds traded in active markets are classified as Level 1. The Investment Account held by Pension Plan invests in insurance contracts for purposes of funding the U.K. Pension Plan and is classified as Level 3. The fair value of the Investment Account is the cash surrender values as determined by the provider which are the amounts the plan would receive if the contracts were cashed out at year end. The underlying assets held by these contracts are primarily invested in assets traded in active markets.
	A reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of the Level 3 investments of our U.K. Pension Plan during the years ended are as follows:
		2014				2013
	Fair value at beginning of year	$	9,733			$	8,855
	Purchases, sales, issuances and settlements, net	(96		)		74
	Net gain	974				601
	Foreign currency	(622		)		203
	Fair value at end of year	$	9,989			$	9,733
	The primary objective of our U.S. and U.K. Pension Plans is to meet retirement income commitments to plan participants at a reasonable cost to us and to maintain a sound actuarially funded status. This objective is accomplished through growth of capital and safety of funds invested. The pension plans' assets are invested in securities to achieve growth of capital over inflation through appreciation and accumulation and reinvestment of dividend and interest income. Investments are diversified to control risk. The target allocation for the U.S. Pension Plan is 60% debt securities and 40% equity. Equity securities within the U.S. Pension Plan do not include any direct investments in Tennant Company Common Stock. The U.K. Pension Plan is invested in insurance contracts with underlying investments primarily in equity and fixed income securities. Our German Pension Plan is unfunded, which is customary in that country.
	Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations as of December 31 are as follows:
		U.S. Pension Benefits						Non-U.S.					Postretirement
								Pension Benefits					Medical Benefits
		2014			2013			2014			2013		2014			2013
	Discount rate	3.76	%		4.63	%		3.38	%		4.33	%	3.39	%		4.1	%
	Rate of compensation increase	3	%		3	%		3.5	%		4.5	%	—			—
	Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit costs as of December 31 are as follows:
		U.S. Pension Benefits									Non-U.S.								Postretirement
											Pension Benefits								Medical Benefits
		2014			2013			2012			2014		2013			2012			2014			2013		2012
	Discount rate	4.63	%		3.79	%		4.39	%		4.33	%	4.41	%		4.94	%		4.1	%		3.27	%	4.2	%
	Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets	5.7	%		6.5	%		7.7	%		5.6	%	4.7	%		4.8	%		—			—		—
	Rate of compensation increase	3	%		3	%		3	%		4.5	%	4.5	%		4.6	%		—			—		—
	The discount rate is used to discount future benefit obligations back to today’s dollars. Our discount rates were determined based on high-quality fixed income investments. The resulting discount rates are consistent with the duration of plan liabilities. The Citigroup Above Median Spot Rate is used in determining the discount rate for the U.S. Plans. The expected return on assets assumption on the investment portfolios for the pension plans is based on the long-term expected returns for the investment mix of assets currently in the portfolio. Management uses historic return trends of the asset portfolio combined with recent market conditions to estimate the future rate of return.
	The accumulated benefit obligations as of December 31, for all defined benefit plans are as follows:
		2014				2013
	U.S. Pension Plans	$	45,695			$	42,241
	U.K. Pension Plan	10,658				9,803
	German Pension Plan	1,027				897
	Information for our plans with an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets as of December 31 is as follows:
		2014				2013
Accumulated benefit obligation	$	13,872			$	12,778
Fair value of plan assets	9,989				9,733
As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the U.S. Nonqualified, the U.K. Pension and the German Pension Plans had an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets.
Information for our plans with a projected benefit obligation in excess of plan assets as of December 31 is as follows:
	2014				2013
Projected benefit obligation	$	14,207			$	13,481
Fair value of plan assets	9,989				9,733
As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the U.S. Nonqualified, the U.K. Pension and the German Pension Plans had a projected benefit obligation in excess of plan assets.
Assumed healthcare cost trend rates as of December 31 are as follows:
	2014			2013
Healthcare cost trend rate assumption for the next year	7.5	%		8.3	%
Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline (the ultimate trend rate)	5	%		5	%
Year that the rate reaches the ultimate trend rate	2031			2031
Assumed healthcare cost trend rates have a significant effect on the amounts reported for healthcare plans. To illustrate, a one-percentage-point change in assumed healthcare cost trends would have the following effects:
	1-Percentage-				1-Percentage-
	Point				Point
	Decrease				Increase
Effect on total of service and interest cost components	$	(46	)		$	52
Effect on postretirement benefit obligation	$	(981	)		$	1,113
Summaries related to changes in benefit obligations and plan assets and to the funded status of our defined benefit and postretirement medical benefit plans are as follows:
	U.S. Pension Benefits								Non-U.S.							Postretirement
									Pension Benefits							Medical Benefits
	2014				2013				2014			2013				2014				2013
Change in benefit obligation:
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	$	43,653			$	48,824			$	11,238		$	10,011			$	13,186			$	14,090
Service cost	493				690				155			142				128				154
Interest cost	1,964				1,803				476			422				497				443
Plan participants' contributions	—				—				21			23				—				—
Actuarial loss (gain)	5,907				(4,901		)		1,421			668				591				(1,001		)
Foreign exchange	—				—				(815		)	265				—				—
Benefits paid	(1,706		)		(2,763		)		(482		)	(293		)		(1,110		)		(500		)
Settlement	(3,284		)		—				—			—				—				—
Benefit obligation at end of year	$	47,027			$	43,653			$	12,014		$	11,238			$	13,292			$	13,186
Change in fair value of plan assets and net accrued liabilities:
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	$	52,397			$	46,942			$	9,733		$	8,855			$	—			$	—
Actual return on plan assets	4,236				7,827				974			601				—				—
Employer contributions	242				391				365			343				1,110				500
Plan participants' contributions	—				—				21			23				—				—
Foreign exchange	—				—				(622		)	204				—				—
Benefits paid	(1,706		)		(2,763		)		(482		)	(293		)		(1,110		)		(500		)
Settlement	(3,284		)		—				—			—				—				—
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	51,885				52,397				9,989			9,733				—				—
Funded status at end of year	$	4,858			$	8,744			$	(2,025	)	$	(1,505	)		$	(13,292	)		$	(13,186	)
Amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets consist of:
Noncurrent Other Assets	$	7,051			$	10,987			$	—		$	—			$	—			$	—
Current Liabilities	(185		)		(149		)		(37		)	(41		)		(947		)		(919		)
Long-Term Liabilities	(2,008		)		(2,094		)		(1,988		)	(1,464		)		(12,345		)		(12,267		)
Net accrued asset (liability)	$	4,858			$	8,744			$	(2,025	)	$	(1,505	)		$	(13,292	)		$	(13,186	)
Amounts recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss consist of:
Prior service (cost) credit	$	(109	)		$	(152	)		$	—		$	—			$	—			$	6
Net actuarial loss	(5,993		)		(2,142		)		(1,682		)	(704		)		(2,178		)		(1,587		)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	$	(6,102	)		$	(2,294	)		$	(1,682	)	$	(704	)		$	(2,178	)		$	(1,581	)
The components of the net periodic benefit cost for the three years ended December 31 were as follows:
	U.S. Pension Benefits											Non-U.S.											Postretirement
												Pension Benefits											Medical Benefits
	2014				2013				2012			2014				2013				2012			2014			2013			2012
Service cost	$	493			$	690			$	686		$	155			$	142			$	138		$	128		$	154		$	142
Interest cost	1,964				1,803				1,928			476				422				437			497			443			551
Expected return on plan assets	(2,683		)		(2,911		)		(2,279		)	(539		)		(402		)		(387		)	—			—			—
Amortization of net actuarial loss	147				1,751				1,131			9				9				—			—			201			57
Amortization of prior service cost (credit)	43				73				382			—				—				—			(6		)	(103		)	(580		)
Foreign currency	—				—				—			(61		)		21				16			—			—			—
Settlement credit	356				—				—			—				—				—			—			—			—
Net periodic benefit cost	$	320			$	1,406			$	1,848		$	40			$	192			$	204		$	619		$	695		$	170
The changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss for the three years ended December 31 were as follows:
	U.S. Pension Benefits											Non-U.S.											Postretirement
												Pension Benefits											Medical Benefits
	2014				2013				2012			2014				2013				2012			2014			2013			2012
Net actuarial loss (gain)	4,353				(9,817		)		2,355			987				467				244			591			(1,001		)	926
Amortization of prior service (cost) credit	(43		)		(73		)		(382		)	—				—				—			6			103			580
Amortization of net actuarial loss	(503		)		(1,751		)		(1,132		)	(9		)		(9		)		—			—			(201		)	(57		)
Total recognized in other comprehensive loss (income)	$	3,807			$	(11,641	)		$	841		$	978			$	458			$	244		$	597		$	(1,099	)	$	1,449
Total recognized in net periodic benefit (cost) and other comprehensive loss (income)	$	4,127			$	(10,235	)		$	2,689		$	1,018			$	650			$	448		$	1,216		$	(404	)	$	1,619
The following benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, are expected to be paid for our U.S. and Non-U.S. plans:
	U.S. Pension Benefits				Non-U.S.				Postretirement
					Pension Benefits				Medical Benefits
2015	$	2,239			$	229			$	947
2016	2,419				235				1,012
2017	2,577				241				1,063
2018	2,724				247				1,064
2019	2,822				254				1,089
2020 to 2024	15,135				1,384				5,294
Total	$	27,916			$	2,590			$	10,469
The following amounts are included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss as of December 31, 2014 and are expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost during 2015:
	Pension				Postretirement
	Benefits				Medical
					Benefits
Net actuarial loss	$	1,561			$	140
Prior service cost	42				—

Shareholders_Equity

Shareholders' Equity	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]
Shareholders' Equity
	12	Shareholders' Equity
	Authorized Shares
	We are authorized to issue an aggregate of 61,000,000 shares; 60,000,000 are designated as Common Stock, having a par value of $0.375 per share, and 1,000,000 are designated as Preferred Stock, having a par value of $0.02 per share. The Board of Directors is authorized to establish one or more series of preferred stock, setting forth the designation of each such series, and fixing the relative rights and preferences of each such series.
	Purchase Rights
	On November 10, 2006, the Board of Directors approved a Rights Agreement and declared a dividend of one preferred share purchase right for each outstanding share of Common Stock. Each right entitles the registered holder to purchase from us one one-hundredth of a Series A Junior Participating Preferred Share of the par value of $0.02 per share at a price of $100 per one hundredth of a Preferred Share, subject to adjustment. The rights are not exercisable or transferable apart from the Common Stock until the earlier of: (i) the close of business on the fifteenth day following a public announcement that a person or group of affiliated or associated persons has become an “Acquiring Person” (i.e., has become, subject to certain exceptions, including for stock ownership by employee benefit plans, the beneficial owner of 20% or more of the outstanding Common Stock), or (ii) the close of business on the fifteenth day following the first public announcement of a tender offer or exchange offer the consummation of which would result in a person or group of affiliated or associated persons becoming, subject to certain exceptions, the beneficial owner of 20% or more of the outstanding Common Stock (or such later date as may be determined by our Board of Directors prior to a person or group of affiliated or associated persons becoming an Acquiring Person). After a person or group becomes an Acquiring Person, each holder of a Right (other than an Acquiring Person) will be able to exercise the right at the current exercise price of the Right and receive the number of shares of Common Stock having a market value of two times the exercise price of the right, or, depending upon the circumstances in which the rights became exercisable, the number of common shares of the Acquiring Person having a market value of two times the exercise price of the right. At no time do the rights have any voting power. We may redeem the rights for $0.001 per right at any time prior to a person or group acquiring 20% or more of the Common Stock. Under certain circumstances, the Board of Directors may exchange the rights for our Common Stock or reduce the 20% thresholds to not less than 10%. The rights will expire on December 26, 2016, unless extended or earlier redeemed or exchanged by us.
	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
	Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss, net of tax, within the Consolidated Balance Sheets and Statements of Shareholders' Equity as of December 31 are as follows:
		2014			2013			2012
	Foreign currency translation adjustments	$	(32,090	)	$	(21,991	)	$	(19,734	)
	Pension and retiree medical benefits	(6,503		)	(2,980		)	(10,599		)
	Total Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	$	(38,593	)	$	(24,971	)	$	(30,333	)
	The changes in components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss, net of tax, are as follows:
		Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments			Pension and Post Retirement Benefits			Total
	December 31, 2013	$	(21,991	)	$	(2,980	)	$	(24,971	)
	Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications	(10,099		)	(3,868		)	(13,967		)
	Amounts reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	—			345			345
	Net current period other comprehensive loss	(10,099		)	(3,523		)	(13,622		)
	December 31, 2014	$	(32,090	)	$	(6,503	)	$	(38,593	)
	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss associated with pension and postretirement benefits are included in Note 11.

Commitments_and_Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies
	13	Commitments and Contingencies
	We lease office and warehouse facilities, vehicles and office equipment under operating lease agreements, which include both monthly and longer-term arrangements. Leases with initial terms of one year or more expire at various dates through 2020 and generally provide for extension options. Rent expense under the leasing agreements (exclusive of real estate taxes, insurance and other expenses payable under the leases) amounted to $18,446, $17,873 and $17,524 in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	The minimum rentals for aggregate lease commitments as of December 31, 2014, were as follows:
	2015	$	7,738
	2016	4,675
	2017	2,930
	2018	1,605
	2019	866
	Thereafter	554
	Total	$	18,368
	Certain operating leases for vehicles contain residual value guarantee provisions, which would become due at the expiration of the operating lease agreement if the fair value of the leased vehicles is less than the guaranteed residual value. The aggregate residual value at lease expiration of those leases is $11,764, of which we have guaranteed $9,530. As of December 31, 2014, we have recorded a liability for the estimated end-of-term loss related to this residual value guarantee of $220 for certain vehicles within our fleet. Our fleet also contains vehicles we estimate will settle at a gain. Gains on these vehicles will be recognized at the end of the lease term.
	During the fourth quarter of 2014, we entered into an agreement with a supplier, commencing April 1, 2015, with a total commitment of $2,487 extending through December 31, 2015.
	During the second quarter of 2014, we entered into a three year software licensing agreement with a total commitment of $1,198.
	During the second quarter of 2012, we entered into a three year agreement with a supplier, commencing January 1, 2013, with a total commitment of $2,102 of which $801 remains outstanding as of December 31, 2014.
	In the ordinary course of business, we may become liable with respect to pending and threatened litigation, tax, environmental and other matters. While the ultimate results of current claims, investigations and lawsuits involving us are unknown at this time, we do not expect that these matters will have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position or results of operations. Legal costs associated with such matters are expensed as incurred.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes
	14	Income Taxes
	Income from continuing operations for the three years ended December 31 was as follows:
		2014				2013				2012
	U.S. operations	$	52,315			$	54,702			$	47,220
	Foreign operations	17,223				5,176				12,670
	Total	$	69,538			$	59,878			$	59,890
	Income tax expense (benefit) for the three years ended December 31 was as follows:
		2014				2013				2012
	Current:
	Federal	$	11,903			$	13,551			$	8,158
	Foreign	3,373				3,567				4,633
	State	1,543				1,136				1,089
		$	16,819			$	18,254			$	13,880
	Deferred:
	Federal	$	2,650			$	1,856			$	4,423
	Foreign	(524		)		(424		)		(126		)
	State	(58		)		(39		)		129
		$	2,068			$	1,393			$	4,426
	Total:
	Federal	$	14,553			$	15,407			$	12,581
	Foreign	2,849				3,143				4,507
	State	1,485				1,097				1,218
	Total Income Tax Expense	$	18,887			$	19,647			$	18,306
	U.S. income taxes have not been provided on approximately $28,434 of undistributed earnings of non-U.S. subsidiaries. We do not have any plans to repatriate the undistributed earnings. Any repatriation from foreign subsidiaries that would result in incremental U.S. taxation is not being considered. It is management’s belief that reinvesting these earnings outside the U.S. is the most efficient use of capital.
	We have Dutch and German tax loss carryforwards of approximately $13,012 and $13,492, respectively. If unutilized, the Dutch tax loss carryforward will expire after 9 years. The German tax loss carryforward has no expiration date. Because of the uncertainty regarding realization of the Dutch tax loss carryforward, a valuation allowance was established. This valuation allowance decreased in 2014 due to results of operations.
	We have Dutch foreign tax credit carryforwards of $1,043. Because of the uncertainty regarding utilization of the Dutch foreign tax credit carryforward, a valuation allowance was established.
	A valuation allowance for the remaining deferred tax assets is not required since it is more likely than not that they will be realized through carryback to taxable income in prior years, future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences and future taxable income.
	Our effective income tax rate varied from the U.S. federal statutory tax rate for the three years ended December 31 as follows:
		2014			2013			2012
	Tax at statutory rate	35	%		35	%		35	%
	Increases (decreases) in the tax rate from:
	State and local taxes, net of federal benefit	1.7			1.7			1
	Effect of foreign operations	(4.6	)		(3.3	)		(6.2	)
	Effect of changes in valuation allowances	(0.9	)		3.7			2.3
	Domestic production activities deduction	(1.6	)		(1.6	)		(1.5	)
	Other, net	(2.4	)		(2.7	)		—
	Effective income tax rate	27.2	%		32.8	%		30.6	%
	Deferred tax assets and liabilities were comprised of the following as of December 31:
		2014				2013
	Deferred Tax Assets:
	Employee wages and benefits, principally due to accruals for financial reporting purposes	16,696				14,831
	Warranty reserves accrued for financial reporting purposes	2,895				2,803
	Receivables, principally due to allowance for doubtful accounts and tax accounting method for equipment rentals	1,549				1,593
	Tax loss carryforwards	6,845				8,696
	Tax credit carryforwards	1,043				4,078
	Other	1,246				2,523
	Gross Deferred Tax Assets	$	30,274			$	34,524
	Less: valuation allowance	(5,699		)		(7,243		)
	Total Net Deferred Tax Assets	$	24,575			$	27,281
	Deferred Tax Liabilities:
	Inventories, principally due to changes in inventory reserves	$	305			$	306
	Property, Plant and Equipment, principally due to differences in depreciation and related gains	6,745				7,446
	Goodwill and Intangible Assets	5,611				6,253
	Total Deferred Tax Liabilities	$	12,661			$	14,005
	Net Deferred Tax Assets	$	11,914			$	13,276
	The valuation allowance at December 31, 2014 principally applies to Dutch tax loss and tax credit carryforwards that, in the opinion of management, are more likely than not to expire unutilized. However, to the extent that tax benefits related to these carryforwards are realized in the future, the reduction in the valuation allowance will reduce income tax expense.
	A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:
		2014				2013
	Balance at January 1,	$	3,660			$	3,480
	Increases as a result of tax positions taken during a prior period	—				155
	Increases as a result of tax positions taken during the current year	610				508
	Decreases relating to settlement with tax authorities	(6		)		—
	Reductions as a result of a lapse of the applicable statute of limitations	(1,033		)		(295		)
Decreases as a result of foreign currency fluctuations	(202		)		(188		)
Balance at December 31,	$	3,029			$	3,660
Included in the balance of unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, 2014 and 2013 are potential benefits of $2,684 and $3,384, respectively, that if recognized, would affect the effective tax rate from continuing operations.
We recognize potential accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income tax expense. In addition to the liability of $3,029 and $3,660 for unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, there was approximately $557 and $525, respectively, for accrued interest and penalties. To the extent interest and penalties are not assessed with respect to uncertain tax positions, the amounts accrued will be revised and reflected as an adjustment to income tax expense.
We and our subsidiaries are subject to U.S. federal income tax as well as income tax of numerous state and foreign jurisdictions. We are generally no longer subject to U.S. federal tax examinations for taxable years before 2011 and, with limited exceptions, state and foreign income tax examinations for taxable years before 2007.
We are currently undergoing income tax examinations in various state and foreign jurisdictions covering 2007 to 2011. Although the final outcome of these examinations cannot be currently determined, we believe that we have adequate reserves with respect to these examinations.
We do not anticipate that total unrecognized tax benefits will change significantly within the next 12 months.

ShareBased_Compensation

Share-Based Compensation	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Share-based Compensation [Abstract]
Share-Based Compensation
	15	Share-Based Compensation
	We have four plans under which we have awarded share-based compensation grants: The 1999 Amended and Restated Stock Incentive Plan (“1999 Plan”), which provided for share-based compensation grants to our executives and key employees, the 1997 Non-Employee Directors Option Plan (“1997 Plan”), which provided for stock option grants to our non-employee Directors, the 2007 Stock Incentive Plan (“2007 Plan”) and the Amended and Restated 2010 Stock Incentive Plan, as Amended (“2010 Plan”), which were adopted as a continuing step toward aggregating our equity compensation programs to reduce the complexity of our equity compensation programs.
	The 1997 Plan was terminated in 2006 and all remaining shares were transferred to the 1999 Plan as approved by the shareholders in 2006. Awards granted under the 1997 Plan prior to 2006 that remain outstanding continue to be governed by the respective plan under which the grant was made. Upon approval of the 1999 Plan in 2006, we ceased making grants of future awards under these plans and subsequent grants of future awards were made from the 1999 Plan and governed by its terms.
	The 2007 Plan terminated our rights to grant awards under the 1999 Plan. Awards previously granted under the 1999 Plan remain outstanding and continue to be governed by the terms of that plan.
	The 2010 Plan, originally approved by our shareholders on April 28, 2010 and amended and restated by our shareholders on April 25, 2012, terminated our rights to grant awards under the 2007 Plan; however, any awards granted under the 2007 or 2010 Plans that do not result in the issuance of shares of Common Stock may again be used for an award under the 2010 Plan. The 2010 Plan was amended and restated by our shareholders on April 24, 2013, increasing the number of shares available under the amended 2010 Plan from 1,500,000 shares to 2,600,000 shares.
	As of December 31, 2014, there were 252,597 shares reserved for issuance under the 1997 Plan, the 1999 Plan and the 2007 Plan for outstanding compensation awards and 1,446,182 shares were available for issuance under the 2010 Plan for current and future equity awards. The Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors determines the number of shares awarded and the grant date, subject to the terms of our equity award policy.
	We recognized total Share-Based Compensation Expense of $7,314, $6,116 and $9,092, respectively, during the years ended 2014, 2013 and 2012. The total excess tax benefit recognized for share-based compensation arrangements during the years ended 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $1,793, $5,178 and $2,047, respectively.
	Stock Option Awards
	We determined the fair value of our stock option awards using the Black-Scholes valuation model that uses the assumptions noted in the table below. The expected life selected for stock options granted during the year represents the period of time that the stock options are expected to be outstanding based on historical data of stock option holder exercise and termination behavior of similar grants. The risk-free interest rate for periods within the contractual life of the stock option is based on the U.S. Treasury rate over the expected life at the time of grant. Expected volatilities are based upon historical volatility of our stock over a period equal to the expected life of each stock option grant. Dividend yield is estimated over the expected life based on our dividend policy and historical dividends paid. We use historical data to estimate pre-vesting forfeiture rates and revise those estimates in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates.
	The following table illustrates the valuation assumptions used for the 2014, 2013 and 2012 grants:
		2014		2013		2012
	Expected volatility	47 - 50%		51%		51 - 52%
	Weighted-average expected volatility	50%		51%		52%
	Expected dividend yield	1.1 - 1.3%		1.60%		1.6 - 1.7%
	Weighted-average expected dividend yield	1.30%		1.60%		1.70%
	Expected term, in years	6		6		0.2 - 6
	Risk-free interest rate	1.8 - 2.0%		0.9 - 1.1%		0.1 - 1.1%
	Employee stock option awards prior to 2005 included a reload feature for options granted to key employees. This feature allowed employees to exercise options through a stock-for-stock exercise using mature shares, and employees were granted a new stock option (reload option) equal to the number of shares of Common Stock used to satisfy both the exercise price of the option and the minimum tax withholding requirements. The reload options granted had an exercise price equal to the fair market value of the Common Stock on the grant date. Stock options granted in conjunction with reloads vested immediately and had a term equal to the remaining life of the initial grant. Compensation expense was fully recognized for reload stock options as of the reload date. The final reload options outstanding were exercised in January 2014.
	Beginning in 2004, new stock option awards granted vest one-third each year over a three year period and have a 10 year contractual term. These grants do not contain a reload feature. Compensation expense equal to the grant date fair value is recognized for these awards over the vesting period. Stock options granted to employees are subject to accelerated expensing if the option holder meets the retirements definition set forth in the 2010 Plan.
	In addition to stock options, we also occasionally grant cash-settled stock appreciation rights (“SARs”) to employees in certain foreign locations. There were no outstanding SARs as of December 31, 2014 and no SARs were granted during 2014, 2013 or 2012.
	The following table summarizes the activity during the year ended December 31, 2014 for stock option awards:
		Shares			Weighted-Average Exercise Price
	Outstanding at beginning of year	877,322			$	30.42
	Granted	118,359			61.83
	Exercised	(74,852	)		30.31
	Forfeited	(12,799	)		52.55
	Outstanding at end of year	908,030			$	34.21
	Exercisable at end of year	677,790			$	27.74
	The weighted-average grant date fair value of stock options granted during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $26.93, $19.62 and $16.60, respectively. The total intrinsic value of stock options exercised during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $2,972, $15,641 and $5,826, respectively. The aggregate intrinsic value of options outstanding and exercisable at December 31, 2014 was $34,486 and $30,116, respectively. The weighted-average remaining contractual life for options outstanding and exercisable as of December 31, 2014, was 6 years and 5 years, respectively. As of December 31, 2014, there was unrecognized compensation cost for nonvested options of $3,221 which is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.4 years.
	Restricted Share Awards
	Restricted share awards for employees generally have a three year vesting period from the effective date of the grant. Restricted share awards to non-employee directors vest upon a change of control or upon termination of service as a director occurring at least six months after grant date of the award so long as termination is for one of the following reasons: death; disability; retirement in accordance with Tennant policy (e.g., age, term limits, etc.); resignation at request of Board (other than for gross misconduct); resignation following at least six months’ advance notice; failure to be renominated (unless due to unwillingness to serve) or reelected by shareholders; or removal by shareholders.
	The following table summarizes the activity during the year ended December 31, 2014, for nonvested restricted share awards:
		Shares			Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value
	Nonvested at beginning of year	150,943			$	37.89
	Granted	21,417			62.48
	Vested	(20,303	)		40.38
	Forfeited	(7,582	)		50.87
	Nonvested at end of year	144,475			$	40.51
	The total fair value of shares vested during the year ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $827, $643 and $861, respectively. As of December 31, 2014, there was $1,671 of total unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested shares which is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2.0 years.
	Performance Share Awards
	We grant performance share awards to key employees as a part of our long-term management compensation program. These awards are earned based upon achievement of certain financial performance targets over a three year period. We determine the fair value of these awards as of the date of grant and recognize the expense over a three year performance period. Performance shares are granted in restricted stock units. They are payable in stock and vest solely upon achievement of certain financial performance targets during this three year period.
	The 2014 performance share award covers the three year performance period from the beginning of fiscal year 2014 to the end of fiscal year 2016. The 2013 performance share award covers the three year performance period from the beginning of fiscal year 2013 to the end of fiscal year 2015. The 2012 performance share award covered the three year performance period from the beginning of fiscal year 2012 to the end of fiscal year 2014.
	The 2011 performance share award covered the three year performance period from the beginning of fiscal year 2011 to the end of fiscal year 2013. Performance shares were granted in restricted stock units. They were paid in stock and vested solely upon achievement of certain financial performance targets during this three year period.
	The 2010 performance share award covered the three year performance period from the beginning of fiscal year 2010 to the end of fiscal year 2012. Performance shares were granted in restricted stock units. They were paid in cash and vested solely upon achievement of certain financial performance targets during this three year period.
	Share-Based Liabilities
	As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, we had $139 and $292 in total share-based liabilities recorded on our Consolidated Balance Sheets, respectively. During the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, we paid out $275, $3,134 and $2,212 related to 2011, 2010 and 2009 share-based liability awards, respectively.

Earnings_Per_Share

Earnings Per Share	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings Per Share
	16	Earnings Per Share
	The computations of Basic and Diluted Earnings per Share for the years ended December 31 were as follows:
		2014		2013		2012
	Numerator:
	Net Earnings	$	50,651	$	40,231	$	41,584
	Denominator:
	Basic - Weighted Average Shares Outstanding	18,217,384		18,297,371		18,544,896
	Effect of dilutive securities:
	Employee stock options	523,474		536,082		557,120
	Diluted - Weighted Average Shares Outstanding	18,740,858		18,833,453		19,102,016
	Basic Earnings per Share	$	2.78	$	2.2	$	2.24
	Diluted Earnings per Share	$	2.7	$	2.14	$	2.18
	Options to purchase 91,199, 132,803 and 233,655 shares of Common Stock were outstanding during 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, but were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share. These exclusions are made if the exercise prices of these options are greater than the average market price of our Common Stock for the period, if the number of shares we can repurchase under the treasury stock method exceeds the weighted shares outstanding in the options, or if we have a net loss, as the effects are anti-dilutive.

Segment_Reporting

Segment Reporting	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Reporting
	17	Segment Reporting
	We are organized into four operating segments: North America; Latin America; Europe, Middle East, Africa; and Asia Pacific. We combine our North America and Latin America operating segments into the “Americas” for reporting Net Sales by geographic area. In accordance with the objective and basic principles of the applicable accounting guidance, we aggregate our operating segments into one reportable segment that consists of the design, manufacture and sale of products used primarily in the maintenance of nonresidential surfaces.
	The following table presents Net Sales by operating segment for the years ended December 31:
		2014		2013		2012
	Net Sales:
	Americas	$	569,004	$	514,544	$	491,661
	Europe, Middle East, Africa	165,686		157,208		166,208
	Asia Pacific	87,293		80,259		81,111
	Total	$	821,983	$	752,011	$	738,980
	The following table presents long lived assets by operating segment as of December 31:
		2014		2013		2012
	Long-lived assets:
	Americas	$	103,958	$	106,409	$	100,662
	Europe, Middle East, Africa	24,051		28,296		31,164
	Asia Pacific	3,669		3,882		4,499
	Total	$	131,678	$	138,587	$	136,325
	Accounting policies of the operations in the various operating segments are the same as those described in Note 1 of the Consolidated Financial Statements. Net Sales are attributed to each operating segment based on the country from which the product is shipped and are net of intercompany sales. Information regarding sales to customers geographically located in the United States is provided in Item 1, Business - Segment and Geographic Area Financial Information. No single customer represents more than 10% of our consolidated Net Sales. Long-lived assets consist of Property, Plant and Equipment, Goodwill, Intangible Assets and certain other assets.
	The following table presents revenues for groups of similar products and services for the years ended December 31:
		2014		2013		2012
	Net Sales:
	Equipment	$	500,141	$	444,773	$	435,900
	Parts and consumables	182,845		176,442		175,782
	Service and other	114,027		109,533		106,048
	Specialty surface coatings	24,970		21,263		21,250
	Total	$	821,983	$	752,011	$	738,980

Consolidated_Quarterly_Data

Consolidated Quarterly Data	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Consolidated Quarterly Data (Unaudited)
	18	Consolidated Quarterly Data (Unaudited)
		2014
		Q1		Q2		Q3		Q4
	Net Sales	$	183,979	$	219,084	$	202,643	$	216,277
	Gross Profit	76,917		95,263		87,163		93,084
	Net Earnings	5,795		15,523		11,792		17,541
	Basic Earnings per Share	$	0.32	$	0.85	$	0.65	$	0.96
	Diluted Earnings per Share	$	0.31	$	0.83	$	0.63	$	0.93
		2013
		Q1		Q2		Q3		Q4
	Net Sales	$	168,092	$	200,238	$	188,541	$	195,140
	Gross Profit	72,523		87,741		81,862		83,782
	Net Earnings	5,059		14,254		10,617		10,301
	Basic Earnings per Share	$	0.28	$	0.78	$	0.58	$	0.56
	Diluted Earnings per Share	$	0.27	$	0.76	$	0.56	$	0.55
	The summation of quarterly data may not equate to the calculation for the full fiscal year as quarterly calculations are performed on a discrete basis.
	Regular quarterly dividends aggregated to $0.78 per share in 2014, or $0.18 per share for the first quarter of 2014 and $0.20 per share for the last three quarters of 2014, and $0.72 per share in 2013, or $0.18 per share per quarter.

Related_Party_Transactions

Related Party Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Related Party Transactions
	19	Related Party Transactions
	On July 31, 2012, we entered into a share purchase agreement with M&F, as further discussed in Note 4. Two of the M&F shareholders are individuals who were employed by Tennant prior to the transaction date and are no longer employed by Tennant as of the transaction date.
	During the first quarter of 2008, we acquired Sociedade Alfa Ltda. and entered into lease agreements for certain properties owned by or partially owned by the former owners of this entity. Some of these individuals are current employees of Tennant. Lease payments made under these lease agreements are not material to our financial position or results of operations.

Schedule_II_Valuation_and_Qual

Schedule II Valuation and Qualifying Accounts	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]
Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts	Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
	(In thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Allowance for Doubtful Accounts and Returns:
	Balance at beginning of year	$	4,526		$	4,399		$	4,829
	Charged to costs and expenses	999			1,279			1,427
	Charged to other accounts (1)	(319		)	102			35
	Deductions (2)	(1,270		)	(1,254		)	(1,892		)
	Balance at end of year	$	3,936		$	4,526		$	4,399
	Inventory Reserves:
	Balance at beginning of year	$	3,250		$	3,724		$	4,173
	Charged to costs and expenses	622			1,044			2,178
	Charged to other accounts (1)	(194		)	(88		)	(2		)
	Deductions (3)	(406		)	(1,430		)	(2,625		)
	Balance at end of year	$	3,272		$	3,250		$	3,724
	Valuation Allowance for Deferred Tax Assets:
	Balance at beginning of year	$	7,243		$	4,719		$	3,229
	Charged to costs and expenses	(636		)	2,239			687
	Charged to other accounts (1)	(908		)	285			803
	Balance at end of year	$	5,699		$	7,243		$	4,719
	(1) Primarily includes impact from foreign currency fluctuations.
	(2) Includes accounts determined to be uncollectible and charged against reserves, net of collections on accounts previously charged against reserves.
	(3) Includes inventory identified as excess, slow moving or obsolete and charged against reserves.
	All other schedules are omitted because they are not applicable or the required information is shown in the Consolidated Financial Statements or notes thereto.

Summary_of_Significant_Account1

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Nature of Operations	Nature of Operations – Our primary business is in designing, manufacturing and marketing solutions that empower customers to achieve quality cleaning performance, significantly reduce their environmental impact and help create a cleaner, safer, healthier world. Tennant is committed to creating and commercializing breakthrough, sustainable cleaning innovations to enhance its broad suite of products including: floor maintenance and outdoor cleaning equipment, chemical-free and other sustainable cleaning technologies, specialty surface coatings, aftermarket parts and consumables, equipment maintenance and repair service. Tennant products are used in retail establishments and distribution centers, factories and warehouses, public venues such as arenas and stadiums, office buildings, schools and universities, hospitals and clinics, parking lots and streets, and other environments. Customers include building service contract cleaners to whom organizations outsource facilities maintenance, as well as businesses that perform facilities maintenance themselves. The Company reaches these customers through the industry's largest direct sales and service organization and through a strong and well-supported network of authorized distributors worldwide.
Consolidation	Consolidation – The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of Tennant Company and its subsidiaries. All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated. In these Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, Tennant Company is referred to as “Tennant,” “we,” “us,” or “our.”
Translations of Non-U.S. Currency	Translation of Non-U.S. Currency – Foreign currency-denominated assets and liabilities have been translated to U.S. dollars at year-end exchange rates, while income and expense items are translated at average exchange rates prevailing during the year. Gains or losses resulting from translation are included as a separate component of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss. The balance of cumulative foreign currency translation adjustments recorded within Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss as of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 was a net loss of $32,090, $21,991 and $19,734, respectively. The majority of translation adjustments are not adjusted for income taxes as substantially all translation adjustments relate to permanent investments in non-U.S. subsidiaries. Net Foreign Currency Transaction Losses are included in Other Income (Expense).
Use of Estimates	Use of Estimates – In preparing the consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("U.S. GAAP"), management must make decisions that impact the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses and the related disclosures, including disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities. Such decisions include the selection of the appropriate accounting principles to be applied and the assumptions on which to base accounting estimates. Estimates are used in determining, among other items, sales promotions and incentives accruals, inventory valuation, warranty reserves, allowance for doubtful accounts, pension and postretirement accruals, useful lives for intangible assets, and future cash flows associated with impairment testing for goodwill and other long-lived assets. These estimates and assumptions are based on management’s best estimates and judgments. Management evaluates its estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis using historical experience and other factors that management believes to be reasonable under the circumstances. We adjust such estimates and assumptions when facts and circumstances dictate. A number of these factors include, among others, economic conditions, credit markets, foreign currency, commodity cost volatility and consumer spending and confidence, all of which have combined to increase the uncertainty inherent in such estimates and assumptions. As future events and their effects cannot be determined with precision, actual amounts could differ significantly from those estimated at the time the consolidated financial statements are prepared. Changes in those estimates resulting from continuing changes in the economic environment will be reflected in the financial statements in future periods.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents – We consider all highly liquid investments with maturities of three months or less from the date of purchase to be cash equivalents.
Restricted Cash	Restricted Cash – We have a total of $352 as of December 31, 2014 that serves as collateral backing certain bank guarantees and is therefore restricted. This money is invested in time deposits.
Receivables	Receivables – Credit is granted to our customers in the normal course of business. Receivables are recorded at original carrying value less reserves for estimated uncollectible accounts and sales returns. To assess the collectability of these receivables, we perform ongoing credit evaluations of our customers’ financial condition. Through these evaluations, we may become aware of a situation where a customer may not be able to meet its financial obligations due to deterioration of its financial viability, credit ratings or bankruptcy. The reserve requirements are based on the best facts available to us and are reevaluated and adjusted as additional information becomes available. Our reserves are also based on amounts determined by using percentages applied to trade receivables. These percentages are determined by a variety of factors including, but not limited to, current economic trends, historical payment and bad debt write-off experience. An account is considered past-due or delinquent when it has not been paid within the contractual terms. Uncollectible accounts are written off against the reserves when it is deemed that a customer account is uncollectible.
Inventories	Inventories – Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined on a first-in, first-out (“FIFO”) basis except for Inventories in North America, which are determined on a last-in, first-out (“LIFO”) basis.
Property, Plant and Equipment	Property, Plant and Equipment – Property, plant and equipment is carried at cost. Additions and improvements that extend the lives of the assets are capitalized while expenditures for repairs and maintenance are expensed as incurred. We generally depreciate buildings and improvements by the straight-line method over a life of 30 years. Other property, plant and equipment are generally depreciated using the straight-line method based on lives of 3 years to 15 years.
Goodwill	Goodwill – Goodwill represents the excess of cost over the fair value of net assets of businesses acquired. We analyze Goodwill on an annual basis as of year end and when an event occurs or circumstances change that may reduce the fair value of one of our reporting units below its carrying amount. A goodwill impairment occurs if the carrying amount of a reporting unit’s goodwill exceeds its fair value. In assessing the recoverability of Goodwill, we use an analysis of qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount as a basis for determining whether it is necessary to perform the two-step goodwill impairment test.
Intangible Assets	Intangible Assets – Intangible Assets consist of definite lived customer lists, service contracts, an acquired trade name and technology. Intangible Assets with a definite life are amortized on a straight-line basis.
Impairment of Long-lived Assets	Impairment of Long-lived Assets – We periodically review our intangible and long-lived assets for impairment and assess whether events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable. We generally deem an asset group to be impaired if an estimate of undiscounted future operating cash flows is less than its carrying amount. If impaired, an impairment loss is recognized based on the excess of the carrying amount of the individual asset group over its fair value.
Purchases of Common Stock	Purchases of Common Stock – We repurchase our Common Stock under a 2012 repurchase program authorized by our Board of Directors. This program allows us to repurchase up to 1,000,000 shares of our Common Stock. Upon repurchase, the par value is charged to Common Stock and the remaining purchase price is charged to Additional Paid-in Capital. If the amount of the remaining purchase price causes the Additional Paid-in Capital account to be in a debit position, this amount is then reclassified to Retained Earnings. Common Stock repurchased is included in shares authorized but is not included in shares outstanding.
Warranty	Warranty – We record a liability for estimated warranty claims at the time of sale. The amount of the liability is based on the trend in the historical ratio of claims to sales, the historical length of time between the sale and resulting warranty claim, new product introductions and other factors. In the event we determine that our current or future product repair and replacement costs exceed our estimates, an adjustment to these reserves would be charged to earnings in the period such determination is made. Warranty terms on machines range from one to four years. However, the majority of our claims are paid out within the first six to nine months following a sale. The majority of the liability for estimated warranty claims represents amounts to be paid out in the near term for qualified warranty issues, with immaterial amounts reserved to be paid out for older equipment warranty issues.
Environmental	Environmental – We record a liability for environmental clean-up on an undiscounted basis when a loss is probable and can be reasonably estimated.
Pension and Profit Sharing Plans	Pension and Profit Sharing Plans – We have pension and/or profit sharing plans covering substantially all of our employees. Pension plan costs are accrued based on actuarial estimates with the required pension cost funded annually, as needed. No new participants have entered the pension plan since 2000.
Postretirement Benefits	Postretirement Benefits – We accrue and recognize the cost of retiree health benefits over the employees’ period of service based on actuarial estimates. Benefits are only available for U.S. employees hired before January 1, 1999.
Derivative Financial Instruments	Derivative Financial Instruments – We use derivative instruments to manage exposures to foreign currency only in an attempt to limit underlying exposures from currency fluctuations and not for trading purposes. We periodically enter into various contracts, principally forward exchange contracts, to protect the value of certain of our foreign currency-denominated assets and liabilities (principally the Euro, Australian and Canadian dollars, British pound, Japanese yen, Chinese yuan, Brazilian real and Mexican peso). We have elected not to apply hedge accounting treatment to these contracts as our contracts are for a short duration. These contracts are marked-to-market with the related asset or liability recorded in Other Current Assets or Other Current Liabilities, as applicable. The gains and losses on these contracts generally approximate changes in the value of the related assets and liabilities. Gains or losses on forward foreign exchange contracts to economically hedge foreign currency-denominated net assets and liabilities are recognized in Other Income (Expense) under Net Foreign Currency Transaction Losses within the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition – We recognize revenue when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, title and risk of ownership have passed to the customer, the sales price is fixed or determinable and collectability is reasonably assured. Generally, these criteria are met at the time the product is shipped. Provisions for estimated returns, rebates and discounts are provided for at the time the related revenue is recognized. Freight revenue billed to customers is included in Net Sales and the related shipping expense is included in Cost of Sales. Service revenue is recognized in the period the service is performed or ratably over the period of the related service contract.
	Customers may obtain financing through third-party leasing companies to assist in their acquisition of our equipment products. Certain lease transactions classified as operating leases contain retained ownership provisions or guarantees, which results in recognition of revenue over the lease term. As a result, we defer the sale of these transactions and record the sales proceeds as collateralized borrowings or deferred revenue. The underlying equipment relating to operating leases is depreciated on a straight-line basis, not to exceed the equipment’s estimated useful life.
	Revenues from contracts with multiple element arrangements are recognized as each element is earned. We offer service contracts in conjunction with equipment sales in addition to selling equipment and service contracts separately. Sales proceeds related to service contracts are deferred if the proceeds are received in advance of the service and recognized ratably over the contract period.
Share-based Compensation	Share-based Compensation – We account for employee share-based compensation using the fair value based method. Our share-based compensation plans are more fully described in Note 15 of the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Research and Development	Research and Development – Research and development costs are expensed as incurred.
Advertising Costs	Advertising Costs – We advertise products, technologies and solutions to customers and prospective customers through a variety of marketing campaign and promotional efforts. These efforts include tradeshows, online advertising, e-mail marketing, mailings, sponsorships and telemarketing. Advertising costs are expensed as incurred. In 2014, 2013 and 2012 such activities amounted to $8,583, $6,412 and $6,466, respectively.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes – Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between the book and tax bases of existing assets and liabilities. A valuation allowance is provided when, in management’s judgment, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. We have established contingent tax liabilities using management’s best judgment. We follow guidance provided by Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 740, Income Taxes, regarding uncertainty in income taxes, to record these contingent tax liabilities (refer to Note 14 of the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information). We adjust these liabilities as facts and circumstances change. Interest Expense is recognized in the first period the interest would begin accruing. Penalties are recognized in the period we claim or expect to claim the position in our tax return. Interest and penalties expenses are classified as an income tax expense.
Sales Tax	Sales Tax – Sales taxes collected from customers and remitted to governmental authorities are presented on a net basis.
Earnings per Share	Earnings per Share – Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing Net Earnings by the Weighted Average Shares Outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share assume conversion of potentially dilutive stock options and restricted share awards. Performance-based shares are included in the calculation of diluted earnings per share in the quarter in which the performance targets have been achieved.

Management_Actions_Tables

Management Actions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Q4 2013 Action
Restructuring Cost and Reserve
Reconciliation of beginning and ending liability balances	A reconciliation of the beginning and ending liability balances is as follows:
		Severance and Related Costs
	Q4 2013 restructuring action	$	1,577
	December 31, 2013 balance	$	1,577
	2014 utilization:
	Cash Payments	(1,151		)
	Foreign currency adjustments	(65		)
	Change in estimate	5
	December 31, 2014 balance	366
Q1 2013 Action
Restructuring Cost and Reserve
Reconciliation of beginning and ending liability balances	A reconciliation of the beginning and ending liability balances is as follows:
		Severance and Related Costs
	Q1 2013 restructuring action	$	1,440
	Cash payments	(1,110		)
	Foreign currency adjustments	17
	December 31, 2013 balance	$	347
	2014 utilization:
	Cash payments	(341		)
	Foreign currency adjustments	(6		)
	December 31, 2014 balance	$	—

Inventories_Tables

Inventories (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Inventories	Inventories as of December 31, consisted of the following:
		2014			2013
	Inventories carried at LIFO:
	Finished goods	$	41,687		$	36,238
	Raw materials, production parts and work-in-process	24,458			13,922
	LIFO reserve	(28,166		)	(27,463		)
	Total LIFO inventories	37,979			22,697
	Inventories carried at FIFO:
	Finished goods	29,851			31,489
	Raw materials, production parts and work-in-process	12,681			12,720
	Total FIFO inventories	42,532			44,209
	Total Inventories	$	80,511		$	66,906

Property_Plant_and_Equipment_T

Property, Plant and Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment	Property, Plant and Equipment and related Accumulated Depreciation, including equipment under capital leases, as of December 31, consisted of the following:
		2014			2013
	Land	$	4,265		$	4,311
	Buildings and improvements	52,962			53,490
	Machinery and manufacturing equipment	117,622			143,413
	Office equipment	73,677			91,048
	Work in progress	13,688			8,644
	Total Property, Plant and Equipment	262,214			300,906
	Less: Accumulated Depreciation	(175,671		)	(217,430		)
	Net Property, Plant and Equipment	$	86,543		$	83,476

Goodwill_and_Intangible_Assets1

Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Changes in the carrying amount of Goodwill	The changes in the carrying amount of Goodwill are as follows:
		Goodwill			Accumulated			Total
					Impairment
					Losses
	Balance as of December 31, 2012	$	68,585		$	(48,868	)	$	19,717
	Foreign currency fluctuations	321			(1,109		)	(788		)
	Balance as of December 31, 2013	$	68,906		$	(49,977	)	$	18,929
	Foreign currency fluctuations	(4,048		)	3,474			(574		)
	Balance as of December 31, 2014	$	64,858		$	(46,503	)	$	18,355
Acquired Intangible Assets excluding Goodwill	The balances of acquired Intangible Assets, excluding Goodwill, as of December 31, are as follows:
		Customer Lists			Trade			Technology			Total
		and			Name
		Service Contracts
	Balance as of December 31, 2014
	Original cost	$	21,946		$	4,300		$	6,915		$	33,161
	Accumulated amortization	(12,099		)	(2,068		)	(3,406		)	(17,573		)
	Carrying amount	$	9,847		$	2,232		$	3,509		$	15,588
	Weighted-average original life (in years)	15			14			13
	Balance as of December 31, 2013
	Original cost	$	23,763		$	4,836		$	7,347		$	35,946
	Accumulated amortization	(11,609		)	(1,976		)	(3,333		)	(16,918		)
	Carrying amount	$	12,154		$	2,860		$	4,014		$	19,028
	Weighted-average original life (in years)	15			14			13
Estimated aggregate amortization expense of Intangible Assets	Estimated aggregate amortization expense based on the current carrying amount of amortizable Intangible Assets for each of the five succeeding years is as follows:
	2015	$	2,039
	2016	1,743
	2017	1,644
	2018	1,637
	2019	1,516
	Thereafter	7,009
	Total	$	15,588

Debt_Tables

Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Short-term and Long-term Debt	Debt as of December 31, consisted of the following:
		2014			2013
	Short-Term Debt:
	Credit facility borrowings	$	—		$	1,500
	Long-Term Debt:
	Bank borrowings	—			9
	Credit facility borrowings	28,000			30,000
	Collateralized borrowings	7			11
	Capital lease obligations	130			283
	Total Debt	28,137			31,803
	Less: current portion	(3,566		)	(3,803		)
	Long-term portion	$	24,571		$	28,000
Aggregate maturities of outstanding debt including capital lease obligations	The aggregate maturities of our outstanding debt, including capital lease obligations as of December 31, 2014, are as follows:
	2015	$	4,360
	2016	4,077
	2017	3,938
	2018	13,678
	2019	1,575
	Thereafter	2,974
	Total minimum obligations	$	30,602
	Less: amount representing interest	(2,465		)
	Total	$	28,137

Other_Current_Liabilities_Tabl

Other Current Liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Other Liabilities, Current [Abstract]
Other Current Liabilities	Other Current Liabilities as of December 31, consisted of the following:
		2014			2013
	Taxes, other than income taxes	$	7,052		$	6,565
	Warranty	9,686			9,663
	Deferred revenue	2,368			2,303
	Rebates	11,503			7,647
	Freight	5,006			4,593
	Miscellaneous accrued expenses	6,581			8,492
	Other	3,312			4,813
	Total	$	45,508		$	44,076
Changes in warranty reserves	The changes in warranty reserves for the three years ended December 31 were as follows:
		2014			2013			2012
	Beginning balance	$	9,663		$	9,357		$	8,759
	Product warranty provision	10,605			10,649			12,395
	(Divested) acquired reserves	—			—			(236		)
	Foreign currency	(215		)	(48		)	(15		)
	Claims paid	(10,367		)	(10,295		)	(11,546		)
	Ending balance	$	9,686		$	9,663		$	9,357

Fair_Value_Measurements_Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair value measurements of assets and liabilities	Our population of assets and liabilities subject to fair value measurements at December 31, 2014 is as follows:
		Fair		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
		Value
	Assets:
	Foreign currency forward exchange contracts	$	130	$	—	$	130	$	—
	Total Assets	$	130	$	—	$	130	$	—
	Liabilities:
	Foreign currency forward exchange contracts	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	—
	Total Liabilities	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	—

Retirement_Benefit_Plans_Table

Retirement Benefit Plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Defined Contribution Pension and Other Postretirement Plans Disclosure [Abstract]
Weighted-average asset allocations by asset category of the U.S. and U.K. Pension Plans	Weighted-average asset allocations by asset category of the U.S. and U.K. Pension Plans as of December 31, 2014 are as follows:
	Asset Category	Fair Value				Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets				Significant Observable Inputs			Significant Unobservable Inputs
						(Level 1)				(Level 2)			(Level 3)
	Cash and Cash Equivalents	$	505			$	505			$	—		$	—
	Mutual Funds:
	U.S. Large-Cap	12,955				12,955				—			—
	U.S. Small-Cap	4,004				4,004				—			—
	International Equities	3,788				3,788				—			—
	Fixed-Income Domestic	30,652				30,652				—			—
	Investment Account held by Pension Plan (1)	9,989				—				—			9,989
	Total	$	61,893			$	51,904			$	—		$	9,989
	-1	This category is comprised of investments in insurance contracts.
	Weighted-average asset allocations by asset category of the U.S. and U.K. Pension Plans as of December 31, 2013 are as follows:
	Asset Category	Fair Value				Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets				Significant Observable Inputs			Significant Unobservable Inputs
						(Level 1)				(Level 2)			(Level 3)
	Cash and Cash Equivalents	$	746			$	746			$	—		$	—
	Mutual Funds:
	U.S. Large-Cap	20,597				20,597				—			—
	U.S. Small-Cap	6,971				6,971				—			—
	International Equities	6,328				6,328				—			—
	Fixed-Income Domestic	17,755				17,755				—			—
	Investment Account held by Pension Plan (1)	9,733				—				—			9,733
	Total	$	62,130			$	52,397			$	—		$	9,733
	-1	This category is comprised of investments in insurance contracts.
Reconciliation of beginning and ending balances of Level 3 plan assets	A reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of the Level 3 investments of our U.K. Pension Plan during the years ended are as follows:
		2014				2013
	Fair value at beginning of year	$	9,733			$	8,855
	Purchases, sales, issuances and settlements, net	(96		)		74
	Net gain	974				601
	Foreign currency	(622		)		203
	Fair value at end of year	$	9,989			$	9,733
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations and net periodic benefit costs	Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations as of December 31 are as follows:
		U.S. Pension Benefits						Non-U.S.					Postretirement
								Pension Benefits					Medical Benefits
		2014			2013			2014			2013		2014			2013
	Discount rate	3.76	%		4.63	%		3.38	%		4.33	%	3.39	%		4.1	%
	Rate of compensation increase	3	%		3	%		3.5	%		4.5	%	—			—
	Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit costs as of December 31 are as follows:
		U.S. Pension Benefits									Non-U.S.								Postretirement
											Pension Benefits								Medical Benefits
		2014			2013			2012			2014		2013			2012			2014			2013		2012
	Discount rate	4.63	%		3.79	%		4.39	%		4.33	%	4.41	%		4.94	%		4.1	%		3.27	%	4.2	%
	Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets	5.7	%		6.5	%		7.7	%		5.6	%	4.7	%		4.8	%		—			—		—
	Rate of compensation increase	3	%		3	%		3	%		4.5	%	4.5	%		4.6	%		—			—		—
Accumulated benefit obligations for all defined benefit plans	The accumulated benefit obligations as of December 31, for all defined benefit plans are as follows:
		2014				2013
	U.S. Pension Plans	$	45,695			$	42,241
	U.K. Pension Plan	10,658				9,803
	German Pension Plan	1,027				897
Plans with accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets	Information for our plans with an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets as of December 31 is as follows:
		2014				2013
	Accumulated benefit obligation	$	13,872			$	12,778
	Fair value of plan assets	9,989				9,733
Plans with projected benefit obligations in excess of plan assets	Information for our plans with a projected benefit obligation in excess of plan assets as of December 31 is as follows:
		2014				2013
	Projected benefit obligation	$	14,207			$	13,481
	Fair value of plan assets	9,989				9,733
Assumed healthcare cost trend rates	Assumed healthcare cost trend rates as of December 31 are as follows:
		2014			2013
	Healthcare cost trend rate assumption for the next year	7.5	%		8.3	%
	Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline (the ultimate trend rate)	5	%		5	%
	Year that the rate reaches the ultimate trend rate	2031			2031
Effect of one-percentage-point change in assumed healthcare cost trends	To illustrate, a one-percentage-point change in assumed healthcare cost trends would have the following effects:
		1-Percentage-				1-Percentage-
		Point				Point
		Decrease				Increase
	Effect on total of service and interest cost components	$	(46	)		$	52
	Effect on postretirement benefit obligation	$	(981	)		$	1,113
Changes in benefit obligations and plan assets and funded status	Summaries related to changes in benefit obligations and plan assets and to the funded status of our defined benefit and postretirement medical benefit plans are as follows:
		U.S. Pension Benefits								Non-U.S.							Postretirement
										Pension Benefits							Medical Benefits
		2014				2013				2014			2013				2014				2013
	Change in benefit obligation:
	Benefit obligation at beginning of year	$	43,653			$	48,824			$	11,238		$	10,011			$	13,186			$	14,090
	Service cost	493				690				155			142				128				154
	Interest cost	1,964				1,803				476			422				497				443
	Plan participants' contributions	—				—				21			23				—				—
	Actuarial loss (gain)	5,907				(4,901		)		1,421			668				591				(1,001		)
	Foreign exchange	—				—				(815		)	265				—				—
	Benefits paid	(1,706		)		(2,763		)		(482		)	(293		)		(1,110		)		(500		)
	Settlement	(3,284		)		—				—			—				—				—
	Benefit obligation at end of year	$	47,027			$	43,653			$	12,014		$	11,238			$	13,292			$	13,186
	Change in fair value of plan assets and net accrued liabilities:
	Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	$	52,397			$	46,942			$	9,733		$	8,855			$	—			$	—
	Actual return on plan assets	4,236				7,827				974			601				—				—
	Employer contributions	242				391				365			343				1,110				500
	Plan participants' contributions	—				—				21			23				—				—
	Foreign exchange	—				—				(622		)	204				—				—
	Benefits paid	(1,706		)		(2,763		)		(482		)	(293		)		(1,110		)		(500		)
	Settlement	(3,284		)		—				—			—				—				—
	Fair value of plan assets at end of year	51,885				52,397				9,989			9,733				—				—
	Funded status at end of year	$	4,858			$	8,744			$	(2,025	)	$	(1,505	)		$	(13,292	)		$	(13,186	)
	Amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets consist of:
	Noncurrent Other Assets	$	7,051			$	10,987			$	—		$	—			$	—			$	—
	Current Liabilities	(185		)		(149		)		(37		)	(41		)		(947		)		(919		)
	Long-Term Liabilities	(2,008		)		(2,094		)		(1,988		)	(1,464		)		(12,345		)		(12,267		)
	Net accrued asset (liability)	$	4,858			$	8,744			$	(2,025	)	$	(1,505	)		$	(13,292	)		$	(13,186	)
	Amounts recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss consist of:
	Prior service (cost) credit	$	(109	)		$	(152	)		$	—		$	—			$	—			$	6
	Net actuarial loss	(5,993		)		(2,142		)		(1,682		)	(704		)		(2,178		)		(1,587		)
	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	$	(6,102	)		$	(2,294	)		$	(1,682	)	$	(704	)		$	(2,178	)		$	(1,581	)
Components of the net periodic benefit cost	The components of the net periodic benefit cost for the three years ended December 31 were as follows:
		U.S. Pension Benefits											Non-U.S.											Postretirement
													Pension Benefits											Medical Benefits
		2014				2013				2012			2014				2013				2012			2014			2013			2012
	Service cost	$	493			$	690			$	686		$	155			$	142			$	138		$	128		$	154		$	142
	Interest cost	1,964				1,803				1,928			476				422				437			497			443			551
	Expected return on plan assets	(2,683		)		(2,911		)		(2,279		)	(539		)		(402		)		(387		)	—			—			—
	Amortization of net actuarial loss	147				1,751				1,131			9				9				—			—			201			57
	Amortization of prior service cost (credit)	43				73				382			—				—				—			(6		)	(103		)	(580		)
	Foreign currency	—				—				—			(61		)		21				16			—			—			—
	Settlement credit	356				—				—			—				—				—			—			—			—
	Net periodic benefit cost	$	320			$	1,406			$	1,848		$	40			$	192			$	204		$	619		$	695		$	170
Changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss	The changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss for the three years ended December 31 were as follows:
		U.S. Pension Benefits											Non-U.S.											Postretirement
													Pension Benefits											Medical Benefits
		2014				2013				2012			2014				2013				2012			2014			2013			2012
	Net actuarial loss (gain)	4,353				(9,817		)		2,355			987				467				244			591			(1,001		)	926
	Amortization of prior service (cost) credit	(43		)		(73		)		(382		)	—				—				—			6			103			580
	Amortization of net actuarial loss	(503		)		(1,751		)		(1,132		)	(9		)		(9		)		—			—			(201		)	(57		)
	Total recognized in other comprehensive loss (income)	$	3,807			$	(11,641	)		$	841		$	978			$	458			$	244		$	597		$	(1,099	)	$	1,449
	Total recognized in net periodic benefit (cost) and other comprehensive loss (income)	$	4,127			$	(10,235	)		$	2,689		$	1,018			$	650			$	448		$	1,216		$	(404	)	$	1,619
Expected future benefit payments	The following benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, are expected to be paid for our U.S. and Non-U.S. plans:
		U.S. Pension Benefits				Non-U.S.				Postretirement
						Pension Benefits				Medical Benefits
	2015	$	2,239			$	229			$	947
	2016	2,419				235				1,012
	2017	2,577				241				1,063
	2018	2,724				247				1,064
	2019	2,822				254				1,089
	2020 to 2024	15,135				1,384				5,294
	Total	$	27,916			$	2,590			$	10,469
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive loss to be recognized over next fiscal year	The following amounts are included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss as of December 31, 2014 and are expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost during 2015:
		Pension				Postretirement
		Benefits				Medical
						Benefits
	Net actuarial loss	$	1,561			$	140
	Prior service cost	42				—

Shareholders_Equity_Tables

Shareholders' Equity (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]
Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss, net of tax	Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss, net of tax, within the Consolidated Balance Sheets and Statements of Shareholders' Equity as of December 31 are as follows:
		2014			2013			2012
	Foreign currency translation adjustments	$	(32,090	)	$	(21,991	)	$	(19,734	)
	Pension and retiree medical benefits	(6,503		)	(2,980		)	(10,599		)
	Total Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	$	(38,593	)	$	(24,971	)	$	(30,333	)
Changes in components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss, net of tax	The changes in components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss, net of tax, are as follows:
		Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments			Pension and Post Retirement Benefits			Total
	December 31, 2013	$	(21,991	)	$	(2,980	)	$	(24,971	)
	Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications	(10,099		)	(3,868		)	(13,967		)
	Amounts reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	—			345			345
	Net current period other comprehensive loss	(10,099		)	(3,523		)	(13,622		)
	December 31, 2014	$	(32,090	)	$	(6,503	)	$	(38,593	)

Commitments_and_Contingencies_

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Minimum rentals for aggregate lease commitments	The minimum rentals for aggregate lease commitments as of December 31, 2014, were as follows:
	2015	$	7,738
	2016	4,675
	2017	2,930
	2018	1,605
	2019	866
	Thereafter	554
	Total	$	18,368

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income from continuing operations	Income from continuing operations for the three years ended December 31 was as follows:
		2014				2013				2012
	U.S. operations	$	52,315			$	54,702			$	47,220
	Foreign operations	17,223				5,176				12,670
	Total	$	69,538			$	59,878			$	59,890
Income tax expense (benefit)	Income tax expense (benefit) for the three years ended December 31 was as follows:
		2014				2013				2012
	Current:
	Federal	$	11,903			$	13,551			$	8,158
	Foreign	3,373				3,567				4,633
	State	1,543				1,136				1,089
		$	16,819			$	18,254			$	13,880
	Deferred:
	Federal	$	2,650			$	1,856			$	4,423
	Foreign	(524		)		(424		)		(126		)
	State	(58		)		(39		)		129
		$	2,068			$	1,393			$	4,426
	Total:
	Federal	$	14,553			$	15,407			$	12,581
	Foreign	2,849				3,143				4,507
	State	1,485				1,097				1,218
	Total Income Tax Expense	$	18,887			$	19,647			$	18,306
Effective tax rate reconciliation	Our effective income tax rate varied from the U.S. federal statutory tax rate for the three years ended December 31 as follows:
		2014			2013			2012
	Tax at statutory rate	35	%		35	%		35	%
	Increases (decreases) in the tax rate from:
	State and local taxes, net of federal benefit	1.7			1.7			1
	Effect of foreign operations	(4.6	)		(3.3	)		(6.2	)
	Effect of changes in valuation allowances	(0.9	)		3.7			2.3
	Domestic production activities deduction	(1.6	)		(1.6	)		(1.5	)
	Other, net	(2.4	)		(2.7	)		—
	Effective income tax rate	27.2	%		32.8	%		30.6	%
Deferred tax assets and liabilities	Deferred tax assets and liabilities were comprised of the following as of December 31:
		2014				2013
	Deferred Tax Assets:
	Employee wages and benefits, principally due to accruals for financial reporting purposes	16,696				14,831
	Warranty reserves accrued for financial reporting purposes	2,895				2,803
	Receivables, principally due to allowance for doubtful accounts and tax accounting method for equipment rentals	1,549				1,593
	Tax loss carryforwards	6,845				8,696
	Tax credit carryforwards	1,043				4,078
	Other	1,246				2,523
	Gross Deferred Tax Assets	$	30,274			$	34,524
	Less: valuation allowance	(5,699		)		(7,243		)
	Total Net Deferred Tax Assets	$	24,575			$	27,281
	Deferred Tax Liabilities:
	Inventories, principally due to changes in inventory reserves	$	305			$	306
	Property, Plant and Equipment, principally due to differences in depreciation and related gains	6,745				7,446
	Goodwill and Intangible Assets	5,611				6,253
	Total Deferred Tax Liabilities	$	12,661			$	14,005
	Net Deferred Tax Assets	$	11,914			$	13,276
Reconciliation of unrecognized tax benefits	A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:
		2014				2013
	Balance at January 1,	$	3,660			$	3,480
	Increases as a result of tax positions taken during a prior period	—				155
	Increases as a result of tax positions taken during the current year	610				508
	Decreases relating to settlement with tax authorities	(6		)		—
	Reductions as a result of a lapse of the applicable statute of limitations	(1,033		)		(295		)
	Decreases as a result of foreign currency fluctuations	(202		)		(188		)
	Balance at December 31,	$	3,029			$	3,660

ShareBased_Compensation_Tables

Share-Based Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Share-based Compensation [Abstract]
Assumptions used for the grants	The following table illustrates the valuation assumptions used for the 2014, 2013 and 2012 grants:
		2014		2013		2012
	Expected volatility	47 - 50%		51%		51 - 52%
	Weighted-average expected volatility	50%		51%		52%
	Expected dividend yield	1.1 - 1.3%		1.60%		1.6 - 1.7%
	Weighted-average expected dividend yield	1.30%		1.60%		1.70%
	Expected term, in years	6		6		0.2 - 6
	Risk-free interest rate	1.8 - 2.0%		0.9 - 1.1%		0.1 - 1.1%
Stock option activity	The following table summarizes the activity during the year ended December 31, 2014 for stock option awards:
		Shares			Weighted-Average Exercise Price
	Outstanding at beginning of year	877,322			$	30.42
	Granted	118,359			61.83
	Exercised	(74,852	)		30.31
	Forfeited	(12,799	)		52.55
	Outstanding at end of year	908,030			$	34.21
	Exercisable at end of year	677,790			$	27.74
Nonvested restricted shares activity	The following table summarizes the activity during the year ended December 31, 2014, for nonvested restricted share awards:
		Shares			Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value
	Nonvested at beginning of year	150,943			$	37.89
	Granted	21,417			62.48
	Vested	(20,303	)		40.38
	Forfeited	(7,582	)		50.87
	Nonvested at end of year	144,475			$	40.51

Earnings_Per_Share_Tables

Earnings Per Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Computation of Basic and Diluted Earnings per Share	The computations of Basic and Diluted Earnings per Share for the years ended December 31 were as follows:
		2014		2013		2012
	Numerator:
	Net Earnings	$	50,651	$	40,231	$	41,584
	Denominator:
	Basic - Weighted Average Shares Outstanding	18,217,384		18,297,371		18,544,896
	Effect of dilutive securities:
	Employee stock options	523,474		536,082		557,120
	Diluted - Weighted Average Shares Outstanding	18,740,858		18,833,453		19,102,016
	Basic Earnings per Share	$	2.78	$	2.2	$	2.24
	Diluted Earnings per Share	$	2.7	$	2.14	$	2.18

Segment_Reporting_Tables

Segment Reporting (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014							Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Net Sales by operating segment								The following table presents Net Sales by operating segment for the years ended December 31:
									2014		2013		2012
								Net Sales:
								Americas	$	569,004	$	514,544	$	491,661
								Europe, Middle East, Africa	165,686		157,208		166,208
								Asia Pacific	87,293		80,259		81,111
								Total	$	821,983	$	752,011	$	738,980
Long lived assets by operating segment								The following table presents long lived assets by operating segment as of December 31:
									2014		2013		2012
								Long-lived assets:
								Americas	$	103,958	$	106,409	$	100,662
								Europe, Middle East, Africa	24,051		28,296		31,164
								Asia Pacific	3,669		3,882		4,499
								Total	$	131,678	$	138,587	$	136,325
Net Sales by groups of similar products and services	The following table presents revenues for groups of similar products and services for the years ended December 31:
		2014		2013		2012
	Net Sales:
	Equipment	$	500,141	$	444,773	$	435,900
	Parts and consumables	182,845		176,442		175,782
	Service and other	114,027		109,533		106,048
	Specialty surface coatings	24,970		21,263		21,250
	Total	$	821,983	$	752,011	$	738,980

Consolidated_Quarterly_Data_Ta

Consolidated Quarterly Data (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Consolidated Quarterly Data (Unaudited)
	18	Consolidated Quarterly Data (Unaudited)
		2014
		Q1		Q2		Q3		Q4
	Net Sales	$	183,979	$	219,084	$	202,643	$	216,277
	Gross Profit	76,917		95,263		87,163		93,084
	Net Earnings	5,795		15,523		11,792		17,541
	Basic Earnings per Share	$	0.32	$	0.85	$	0.65	$	0.96
	Diluted Earnings per Share	$	0.31	$	0.83	$	0.63	$	0.93
		2013
		Q1		Q2		Q3		Q4
	Net Sales	$	168,092	$	200,238	$	188,541	$	195,140
	Gross Profit	72,523		87,741		81,862		83,782
	Net Earnings	5,059		14,254		10,617		10,301
	Basic Earnings per Share	$	0.28	$	0.78	$	0.58	$	0.56
	Diluted Earnings per Share	$	0.27	$	0.76	$	0.56	$	0.55

Summary_of_Significant_Account2

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax	($32,090)	($21,991)	($19,734)
Restricted Cash	352	393
Number of shares authorized to be repurchased under our stock repurchase programs	1,000,000
Machine warranty, range minimum (in years)	1 year
Machine warranty, range maximum (in years)	4 years
Advertising Costs	$8,583	$6,412	$6,466
Buildings and improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful life, Average	30 years
Property, Plant and Equipment, Other Types
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful life, Minimum	3 years
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful life, Maximum	15 years

Management_Actions_Details

Management Actions (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Q4 2013 Action
Reconciliation of restructuring liability
Restructuring Reserve beginning balance	$1,577
Restructuring action		1,577
Cash payments	-1,151
Foreign currency adjustments	-65
Change in estimate	5
Restructuring Reserve ending balance	366	1,577
Q1 2013 Action
Reconciliation of restructuring liability
Restructuring Reserve beginning balance	347
Restructuring action		1,440
Cash payments	-341	-1,110
Foreign currency adjustments	-6	17
Restructuring Reserve ending balance	$0	$347

Management_Actions_Narrative_D

Management Actions Narrative (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013
Q4 2013 Action
Restructuring Cost and Reserve
Restructuring Charges	$1,577
Approximate time anticipated savings will offset the restructuring charge	1 year 6 months
Q1 2013 Action
Restructuring Cost and Reserve
Restructuring Charges	$1,440
Approximate time anticipated savings will offset the restructuring charge	1 year

Acquisitions_Details

Acquisitions (Details) (Water Star, Inc., USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Water Star, Inc.
Business Acquisition
Business Acquisition, Effective Date of Acquisition	31-May-11
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred				$4,456
Payments to acquire business, gross				2,956
Number of installment payments paid to acquire Water Star	2
Amount of each installment payment paid		$750	$750

Divestitures_Details

Divestitures (Details)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Jul. 31, 2012	Jul. 31, 2012
	USD ($)	USD ($)	USD ($)	Tennant CEE GmbH and OOO Tennant	Tennant CEE GmbH and OOO Tennant	Tennant CEE GmbH and OOO Tennant	Tennant CEE GmbH and OOO Tennant	Tennant CEE GmbH and OOO Tennant	Tennant CEE GmbH and OOO Tennant	Tennant CEE GmbH and OOO Tennant
				USD ($)	EUR (€)	USD ($)	EUR (€)	USD ($)	USD ($)	EUR (€)
Divestitures
Date of divestiture				31-Jul-12	31-Jul-12
Cash received as part of selling price									$1,014	€ 815
Amount financed as part of selling price										5,351
Total selling price										6,166
Total amount of installment payments received quarterly in 2013						2,826	2,126
Total amount of first anniversary payment received						1,435	1,075
Total amount of second anniversary payment received				1,418	1,075
Remaining amount of payments to be received on third anniversary date				1,301	1,075
Gain on Sale of Business	$0	$0	$784					$784

Inventories_Details

Inventories (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Inventories carried at LIFO:
Finished goods	$41,687	$36,238
Raw materials, production parts and work-in-process	24,458	13,922
LIFO Reserve	-28,166	-27,463
Total LIFO inventories	37,979	22,697
Inventories carried at FIFO:
Finished goods	29,851	31,489
Raw materials, production parts and work-in-process	12,681	12,720
Total FIFO inventories	42,532	44,209
Inventories	$80,511	$66,906

Property_Plant_and_Equipment_D

Property, Plant and Equipment (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment	$262,214	$300,906
Accumulated Depreciation	-175,671	-217,430
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net	86,543	83,476
Depreciation expense	17,694	17,686	18,072
Land
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment	4,265	4,311
Buildings and improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment	52,962	53,490
Machinery and manufacturing equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment	117,622	143,413
Office equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment	73,677	91,048
Work in progress
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment	$13,688	$8,644

Goodwill_and_Intangible_Assets2

Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Goodwill, Gross
Balance, beginning of period	$68,906	$68,585
Foreign currency fluctuations	-4,048		321
Balance, end of period	64,858	68,906	68,585
Accumulated Impairment Losses
Balance, beginning of period	-49,977	-48,868
Foreign currency fluctuations	3,474		-1,109
Balance, end of period	-46,503	-49,977	-48,868
Goodwill, Net
Balance, beginning of period	18,929	19,717
Foreign currency fluctuations	574		-788
Balance, end of period	18,355	18,929	19,717
Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets
Original cost	33,161	35,946
Accumulated amortization	-17,573	-16,918
Intangible Assets, Net	15,588	19,028
Amortization expense	2,369	2,560	2,800
Estimated aggregate amortization expense of Intangible Assets
2015	2,039
2016	1,743
2017	1,644
2018	1,637
2019	1,516
Thereafter	7,009
Total	15,588
Customer Lists and Service Contracts
Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets
Original cost	21,946	23,763
Accumulated amortization	-12,099	-11,609
Intangible Assets, Net	9,847	12,154
Weighted-average original life (in years)	15 years	15 years
Trade Name
Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets
Original cost	4,300	4,836
Accumulated amortization	-2,068	-1,976
Intangible Assets, Net	2,232	2,860
Weighted-average original life (in years)	14 years	14 years
Technology
Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets
Original cost	6,915	7,347
Accumulated amortization	-3,406	-3,333
Intangible Assets, Net	$3,509	$4,014
Weighted-average original life (in years)	13 years	13 years

Debt_Part_1_Details

Debt Part 1 (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Debt Instrument
Total Debt	$28,137	$31,803
Less: current portion	-3,566	-3,803
Long-Term Debt	24,571	28,000
Committed lines of credit	125,000
Uncommitted lines of credit	87,421
Letters of credit, Outstanding amount	2,409
Bank Guarantees	211
Commitment fees on unused lines of credit	324
Indebtedness to EBITDA ratio	0.34 to 1
EBITDA to interest expense ratio	52.86 to 1
Aggregate maturities of outstanding debt including capital lease obligations
2015	4,360
2016	4,077
2017	3,938
2018	13,678
2019	1,575
Thereafter	2,974
Total minimum obligations	30,602
Less: amount representing interest	-2,465
Total	28,137	31,803
Credit facility borrowings, Short-Term
Debt Instrument
Total Debt	0	1,500
Aggregate maturities of outstanding debt including capital lease obligations
Total	0	1,500
Amended Prudential Investment Management
Debt Instrument
Outstanding Borrowings	18,000
Bank borrowings
Debt Instrument
Total Debt	0	9
Aggregate maturities of outstanding debt including capital lease obligations
Total	0	9
Credit facility borrowings, Long-Term
Debt Instrument
Total Debt	28,000	30,000
Aggregate maturities of outstanding debt including capital lease obligations
Total	28,000	30,000
Collateralized Debt
Debt Instrument
Total Debt	7	11
Aggregate maturities of outstanding debt including capital lease obligations
Total	7	11
Capital lease obligations
Debt Instrument
Total Debt	130	283
Aggregate maturities of outstanding debt including capital lease obligations
Total	$130	$283

Debt_Part_2_Details

Debt Part 2 (Details)

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

In Thousands, unless otherwise specified

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2014

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2014

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2014

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association

Amendment No. 1 to the 2011 Credit Agreement Effective April 25 , 2013

Prudential Investment Management, Inc. Private Shelf Agreement

Amended Prudential Investment Management

Series A Notes

Series A Notes

Series B Notes

Royal Bank of Scotland Citizens, N.A.

Royal Bank of Scotland Citizens, N.A.

HSBC Bank (China) Company Limited, Shanghai Branch

HSBC Bank (China) Company Limited, Shanghai Branch

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

EUR (€)

USD ($)

USD ($)

Line of Credit Facility

Expiration date

5-May-16

1-Mar-18

24-Jul-15

Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity

$125,000

Maximum borrowing capacity

187,500

80,000

2,421

2,000

5,000

Additional borrowing capacity available

62,500

Sublimit on borrowings by foreign subsidiaries

100,000

Minimum commitment fee percentage

0.25%

0.20%

Maximum commitment fee percentage

0.40%

0.35%

Minimum interest rate spread added to adjusted LIBOR rate based on leverage ratio on Eurocurrency borrowings

1.50%

1.30%

Maximum interest rate spread added to adjusted LIBOR rate based on leverage ratio on Eurocurrency borrowings

2.10%

1.90%

Interest rate spread added to the federal funds rate on Alternate Base Rate borrowings

0.50%

0.50%

Interest rate spread added to LIBOR rate for one month on Alternate Base Rate borrowings

1.00%

1.00%

Minimum interest rate spread added to LIBOR rate on Alternate Base Rate borrowings

0.50%

0.30%

Maximum interest rate spread added to LIBOR rate on Alternate Base Rate borrowings

1.10%

0.90%

Percentage collateral in stock of certain subsidiaries

65.00%

Covenant restriction, Maximum indebtedness to EBITDA

3.00 to 1

3.00 to 1

Covenant restriction, Minimum EBITDA to interest expense

3.50 to 1

Covenant restriction, Maximum leverage after paying dividends or repuchasing stock

2.00 to 1

2.00 to 1

Restriction on dividends and repurchases of common stock, Minimum

50,000

12,000

50,000

Restriction on dividends and repurchases of common stock, Maximum

75,000

40,000

75,000

Covenant restriction, Maximum leverage after acquisitions

2.75 to 1

2.75 to 1

Covenant restriction, Maximum level that can be paid for acquisitions

25,000

25,000

Weighted average interest rate at end of period

1.46%

Face amount

8,000

10,000

Interest rate, Stated percentage

4.00%

4.10%

Payment Terms

seven-year

10-year

Maturity date range, Start

11-Mar-14

1-Jun-15

Maturity date range, End

11-Mar-18

1-Jun-21

Repayments of Long-term Debt

2,000

Payments of Short-term Debt

1,500

0

0

1,500

Outstanding Borrowings

$10,000

$18,000

$0

$0

Other_Current_Liabilities_Deta

Other Current Liabilities (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Taxes, other than income taxes	$7,052	$6,565
Warranty	9,686	9,663
Deferred revenue	2,368	2,303
Rebates	11,503	7,647
Freight	5,006	4,593
Miscellaneous accrued expenses	6,581	8,492
Other	3,312	4,813
Total	45,508	44,076
Changes in warranty reserves
Beginning balance	9,663	9,357	8,759
Product warranty provision	10,605	10,649	12,395
(Divested) acquired reserves	0	0	-236
Foreign currency	-215	-48	-15
Claims paid	-10,367	-10,295	-11,546
Ending balance	$9,686	$9,663	$9,357

Fair_Value_Measurements_Detail

Fair Value Measurements (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Assets:
Foreign currency forward exchange contracts		$16
Liabilities:
Foreign currency forward exchange contracts		109
Gain (loss) on forward exchange contracts	2,384	1,068	1,026
Notional amount of foreign currency derivatives	34,631	30,280
Fair Value
Assets:
Foreign currency forward exchange contracts	130
Total Assets	130
Liabilities:
Foreign currency forward exchange contracts	0
Total Liabilities	0
Level 1
Assets:
Foreign currency forward exchange contracts	0
Total Assets	0
Liabilities:
Foreign currency forward exchange contracts	0
Total Liabilities	0
Level 2
Assets:
Foreign currency forward exchange contracts	130
Total Assets	130
Liabilities:
Foreign currency forward exchange contracts	0
Total Liabilities	0
Level 3
Assets:
Foreign currency forward exchange contracts	0
Total Assets	0
Liabilities:
Foreign currency forward exchange contracts	0
Total Liabilities	$0

Retirement_Benefit_Plans_Part_

Retirement Benefit Plans Part 1 (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Defined Contribution Pension and Other Postretirement Plans Disclosure [Abstract]
Total cost of benefit for U.S. and Non-U.S. Plans	$11,334		$11,766		$11,192
Maximum employer contribution to 401(k) Plan as a percentage of employee's compensation	3.00%
Minimum service period required to be eligible for profit sharing contribution to 401(k) plan (in years)	1
Expenses for 401(k) Plan	7,475		6,423		6,226
U.K. Pension Plan
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Fair value at beginning of year	9,733		8,855
Purchases, sales, issuances and settlements, net	-96		74
Net gain	974		601
Foreign currency	-622		203
Fair value at end of year	9,989		9,733
U.S. and U.K. Pension Plans | Fair Value
Fair Value of Plan Assets by Investment Type
Fair value of plan assets	61,893		62,130
U.S. and U.K. Pension Plans | Level 1
Fair Value of Plan Assets by Investment Type
Fair value of plan assets	51,904		52,397
U.S. and U.K. Pension Plans | Level 2
Fair Value of Plan Assets by Investment Type
Fair value of plan assets	0		0
U.S. and U.K. Pension Plans | Level 3
Fair Value of Plan Assets by Investment Type
Fair value of plan assets	9,989		9,733
U.S. and U.K. Pension Plans | Cash and Cash Equivalents | Fair Value
Fair Value of Plan Assets by Investment Type
Fair value of plan assets	505		746
U.S. and U.K. Pension Plans | Cash and Cash Equivalents | Level 1
Fair Value of Plan Assets by Investment Type
Fair value of plan assets	505		746
U.S. and U.K. Pension Plans | Cash and Cash Equivalents | Level 2
Fair Value of Plan Assets by Investment Type
Fair value of plan assets	0		0
U.S. and U.K. Pension Plans | Cash and Cash Equivalents | Level 3
Fair Value of Plan Assets by Investment Type
Fair value of plan assets	0		0
U.S. and U.K. Pension Plans | Mutual Funds - U.S. Large-Cap | Fair Value
Fair Value of Plan Assets by Investment Type
Fair value of plan assets	12,955		20,597
U.S. and U.K. Pension Plans | Mutual Funds - U.S. Large-Cap | Level 1
Fair Value of Plan Assets by Investment Type
Fair value of plan assets	12,955		20,597
U.S. and U.K. Pension Plans | Mutual Funds - U.S. Large-Cap | Level 2
Fair Value of Plan Assets by Investment Type
Fair value of plan assets	0		0
U.S. and U.K. Pension Plans | Mutual Funds - U.S. Large-Cap | Level 3
Fair Value of Plan Assets by Investment Type
Fair value of plan assets	0		0
U.S. and U.K. Pension Plans | Mutual Funds - U.S. Small-Cap | Fair Value
Fair Value of Plan Assets by Investment Type
Fair value of plan assets	4,004		6,971
U.S. and U.K. Pension Plans | Mutual Funds - U.S. Small-Cap | Level 1
Fair Value of Plan Assets by Investment Type
Fair value of plan assets	4,004		6,971
U.S. and U.K. Pension Plans | Mutual Funds - U.S. Small-Cap | Level 2
Fair Value of Plan Assets by Investment Type
Fair value of plan assets	0		0
U.S. and U.K. Pension Plans | Mutual Funds - U.S. Small-Cap | Level 3
Fair Value of Plan Assets by Investment Type
Fair value of plan assets	0		0
U.S. and U.K. Pension Plans | Mutual Funds - International Equities | Fair Value
Fair Value of Plan Assets by Investment Type
Fair value of plan assets	3,788		6,328
U.S. and U.K. Pension Plans | Mutual Funds - International Equities | Level 1
Fair Value of Plan Assets by Investment Type
Fair value of plan assets	3,788		6,328
U.S. and U.K. Pension Plans | Mutual Funds - International Equities | Level 2
Fair Value of Plan Assets by Investment Type
Fair value of plan assets	0		0
U.S. and U.K. Pension Plans | Mutual Funds - International Equities | Level 3
Fair Value of Plan Assets by Investment Type
Fair value of plan assets	0		0
U.S. and U.K. Pension Plans | Mutual Funds - Fixed-Income Domestic | Fair Value
Fair Value of Plan Assets by Investment Type
Fair value of plan assets	30,652		17,755
U.S. and U.K. Pension Plans | Mutual Funds - Fixed-Income Domestic | Level 1
Fair Value of Plan Assets by Investment Type
Fair value of plan assets	30,652		17,755
U.S. and U.K. Pension Plans | Mutual Funds - Fixed-Income Domestic | Level 2
Fair Value of Plan Assets by Investment Type
Fair value of plan assets	0		0
U.S. and U.K. Pension Plans | Mutual Funds - Fixed-Income Domestic | Level 3
Fair Value of Plan Assets by Investment Type
Fair value of plan assets	0		0
U.S. and U.K. Pension Plans | Investment Account Held By Pension Plan | Fair Value
Fair Value of Plan Assets by Investment Type
Fair value of plan assets	9,989	[1]	9,733	[1]
U.S. and U.K. Pension Plans | Investment Account Held By Pension Plan | Level 1
Fair Value of Plan Assets by Investment Type
Fair value of plan assets	0	[1]	0	[1]
U.S. and U.K. Pension Plans | Investment Account Held By Pension Plan | Level 2
Fair Value of Plan Assets by Investment Type
Fair value of plan assets	0	[1]	0	[1]
U.S. and U.K. Pension Plans | Investment Account Held By Pension Plan | Level 3
Fair Value of Plan Assets by Investment Type
Fair value of plan assets	$9,989	[1]	$9,733	[1]
[1]	This category is comprised of investments in insurance contracts.

Retirement_Benefit_Plans_Part_1

Retirement Benefit Plans Part 2 (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans
Discretionary contribution made to pension plan	$0	$0	$16,731
Plans with accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets
Accumulated benefit obligation	13,872	12,778
Fair value of plan assets	9,989	9,733
Plans with projected benefit obligation in excess of plan assets
Projected benefit obligation	14,207	13,481
Fair value of plan assets	9,989	9,733
Changes in accumulated other comprehensive income:
Total recognized in other comprehensive loss (income)	5,382	-12,282	2,534
Pension Benefits
Amounts that will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in next fiscal year
Net actuarial loss	1,561
Prior service cost	42
U.S. Pension Plan
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans
Number of participants in U.S. Pension Plan	394
Number of active employees participating in U.S. Pension Plan	81
Discretionary contribution made to pension plan			15,000
Expected future employer contributions in the next fiscal year	0
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligation
Discount rate	3.76%	4.63%
Rate of compensation increase	3.00%	3.00%
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit costs
Discount rate	4.63%	3.79%	4.39%
Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets	5.70%	6.50%	7.70%
Rate of compensation increase	3.00%	3.00%	3.00%
Accumulated benefit obligations
Accumulated benefit obligations	45,695	42,241
Change in benefit obligation:
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	43,653	48,824
Service cost	493	690	686
Interest cost	1,964	1,803	1,928
Plan participants' contributions	0	0
Actuarial loss (gain)	5,907	-4,901
Foreign exchange	0	0
Benefits paid	-1,706	-2,763
Settlement	-3,284	0
Benefit obligation at end of year	47,027	43,653	48,824
Change in fair value of plan assets and net accrued liabilities:
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	52,397	46,942
Actual return on plan assets	4,236	7,827
Employer contributions	242	391
Plan participants' contributions	0	0
Foreign exchange	0	0
Benefits paid	-1,706	-2,763
Settlement	-3,284	0
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	51,885	52,397	46,942
Funded status at end of year	4,858	8,744
Amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets consist of:
Noncurrent Other Assets	7,051	10,987
Current Liabilities	-185	-149
Long-Term Liabilities	-2,008	-2,094
Net accrued asset (liability)	4,858	8,744
Amounts recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss consist of:
Prior service (cost) credit	-109	-152
Net actuarial loss	-5,993	-2,142
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	-6,102	-2,294
Components of the net periodic benefit cost
Service cost	493	690	686
Interest cost	1,964	1,803	1,928
Expected return on plan assets	-2,683	-2,911	-2,279
Amortization of net actuarial loss	147	1,751	1,131
Amortization of prior service cost (credit)	43	73	382
Foreign currency	0	0	0
Settlement credit	356	0	0
Net periodic benefit cost	320	1,406	1,848
Changes in accumulated other comprehensive income:
Net actuarial loss (gain)	4,353	-9,817	2,355
Amortization of prior service (cost) credit	-43	-73	-382
Amortization of net actuarial loss	-503	-1,751	-1,132
Total recognized in other comprehensive loss (income)	3,807	-11,641	841
Total recognized in net periodic benefit (cost) and other comprehensive loss (income)	4,127	-10,235	2,689
Expected future benefit payments
2015	2,239
2016	2,419
2017	2,577
2018	2,724
2019	2,822
2020 to 2024	15,135
Total	27,916
U.S. Pension Plan | Debt Securities
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans
Target allocation of investments	60.00%
U.S. Pension Plan | Equity Securities
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans
Target allocation of investments	40.00%
U.S. Nonqualified Plan
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans
Expected future employer contributions in the next fiscal year	185
Non-U.S. Pension Benefits
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligation
Discount rate	3.38%	4.33%
Rate of compensation increase	3.50%	4.50%
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit costs
Discount rate	4.33%	4.41%	4.94%
Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets	5.60%	4.70%	4.80%
Rate of compensation increase	4.50%	4.50%	4.60%
Change in benefit obligation:
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	11,238	10,011
Service cost	155	142	138
Interest cost	476	422	437
Plan participants' contributions	21	23
Actuarial loss (gain)	1,421	668
Foreign exchange	-815	265
Benefits paid	-482	-293
Settlement	0	0
Benefit obligation at end of year	12,014	11,238	10,011
Change in fair value of plan assets and net accrued liabilities:
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	9,733	8,855
Actual return on plan assets	974	601
Employer contributions	365	343
Plan participants' contributions	21	23
Foreign exchange	-622	204
Benefits paid	-482	-293
Settlement	0	0
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	9,989	9,733	8,855
Funded status at end of year	-2,025	-1,505
Amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets consist of:
Noncurrent Other Assets	0	0
Current Liabilities	-37	-41
Long-Term Liabilities	-1,988	-1,464
Net accrued asset (liability)	-2,025	-1,505
Amounts recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss consist of:
Prior service (cost) credit	0	0
Net actuarial loss	-1,682	-704
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	-1,682	-704
Components of the net periodic benefit cost
Service cost	155	142	138
Interest cost	476	422	437
Expected return on plan assets	-539	-402	-387
Amortization of net actuarial loss	9	9	0
Amortization of prior service cost (credit)	0	0	0
Foreign currency	-61	21	16
Settlement credit	0	0	0
Net periodic benefit cost	40	192	204
Changes in accumulated other comprehensive income:
Net actuarial loss (gain)	987	467	244
Amortization of prior service (cost) credit	0	0	0
Amortization of net actuarial loss	-9	-9	0
Total recognized in other comprehensive loss (income)	978	458	244
Total recognized in net periodic benefit (cost) and other comprehensive loss (income)	1,018	650	448
Expected future benefit payments
2015	229
2016	235
2017	241
2018	247
2019	254
2020 to 2024	1,384
Total	2,590
U.K. Pension Plan
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans
Expected future employer contributions in the next fiscal year	305
Accumulated benefit obligations
Accumulated benefit obligations	10,658	9,803
German Pension Plan
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans
Expected future employer contributions in the next fiscal year	37
Accumulated benefit obligations
Accumulated benefit obligations	1,027	897
Postretirement Medical Benefits
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans
Expected future employer contributions in the next fiscal year	947
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligation
Discount rate	3.39%	4.10%
Rate of compensation increase	0.00%	0.00%
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit costs
Discount rate	4.10%	3.27%	4.20%
Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%
Rate of compensation increase	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%
Assumed healthcare cost trend rates
Healthcare cost trend rate assumption for the next year	7.50%	8.30%
Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline (the ultimate trend rate)	5.00%	5.00%
Year that the rate reaches the ultimate trend rate	2031	2031
Effect of one-percentage-point change in assumed healthcare cost trends
Effect of one-percentage-point decrease on total of service and interest cost components	-46
Effect of one-percentage-point increase on total of service and interest cost components	52
Effect of one-percentage-point decrease on postretirement benefit obligation	-981
Effect of one-percentage-point increase on postretirement benefit obligation	1,113
Change in benefit obligation:
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	13,186	14,090
Service cost	128	154	142
Interest cost	497	443	551
Plan participants' contributions	0	0
Actuarial loss (gain)	591	-1,001
Foreign exchange	0	0
Benefits paid	-1,110	-500
Settlement	0	0
Benefit obligation at end of year	13,292	13,186	14,090
Change in fair value of plan assets and net accrued liabilities:
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	0	0
Actual return on plan assets	0	0
Employer contributions	1,110	500
Plan participants' contributions	0	0
Foreign exchange	0	0
Benefits paid	-1,110	-500
Settlement	0	0
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	0	0	0
Funded status at end of year	-13,292	-13,186
Amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets consist of:
Noncurrent Other Assets	0	0
Current Liabilities	-947	-919
Long-Term Liabilities	-12,345	-12,267
Net accrued asset (liability)	-13,292	-13,186
Amounts recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss consist of:
Prior service (cost) credit	0	6
Net actuarial loss	-2,178	-1,587
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	-2,178	-1,581
Components of the net periodic benefit cost
Service cost	128	154	142
Interest cost	497	443	551
Expected return on plan assets	0	0	0
Amortization of net actuarial loss	0	201	57
Amortization of prior service cost (credit)	-6	-103	-580
Foreign currency	0	0	0
Settlement credit	0	0	0
Net periodic benefit cost	619	695	170
Changes in accumulated other comprehensive income:
Net actuarial loss (gain)	591	-1,001	926
Amortization of prior service (cost) credit	6	103	580
Amortization of net actuarial loss	0	-201	-57
Total recognized in other comprehensive loss (income)	597	-1,099	1,449
Total recognized in net periodic benefit (cost) and other comprehensive loss (income)	1,216	-404	1,619
Expected future benefit payments
2015	947
2016	1,012
2017	1,063
2018	1,064
2019	1,089
2020 to 2024	5,294
Total	10,469
Amounts that will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in next fiscal year
Net actuarial loss	140
Prior service cost	$0

Shareholders_Equity_Part_1_Det

Shareholders' Equity Part 1 (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]
Common Stock, authorized (in shares)	60,000,000	60,000,000
Common Stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$0.38	$0.38
Preferred Stock, authorized (in shares)	1,000,000	1,000,000
Preferred Stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$0.02	$0.02
Class of Warrant or Right
Number of shares authorized for issue	61,000,000
Preferred Share purchase rights expiration date	26-Dec-16
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss, Net of Tax
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments	($32,090)	($21,991)	($19,734)
Pension and retiree medical benefits	-6,503	-2,980	-10,599
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	($38,593)	($24,971)	($30,333)
Purchase Rights
Class of Warrant or Right
Preferred Share purchase right dividend declared per common share outstanding (in shares)	1
Exercise price per each Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock (in dollars per share)	$100
Number of Series A Junior Participating Preferred shares the Rights holder is entitled to purchase (in shares)	0.01
Maximum threshold of common stock ownership	20.00%
Redemption price per right	$0.00
Minimum threshold of common stock ownership	10.00%

Shareholders_Equity_Part_2_Det

Shareholders' Equity Part 2 (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Balance at the beginning of the year	($24,971)	($30,333)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	-13,967
Amounts reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	345
Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), net of tax	-13,622	5,362	-1,096
Balance at the end of the year	-38,593	-24,971	-30,333
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Balance at the beginning of the year	-21,991
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	-10,099
Amounts reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	0
Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), net of tax	-10,099
Balance at the end of the year	-32,090
Pension and Post-retirement Benefits
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Balance at the beginning of the year	-2,980
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	-3,868
Amounts reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	345
Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), net of tax	-3,523
Balance at the end of the year	($6,503)

Commitments_and_Contingencies_1

Commitments and Contingencies (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Lease expiration date, maximum	31-Dec-20
Rent expense	$18,446	$17,873	$17,524
Minimum rentals for aggregate lease commitments
2015	7,738
2016	4,675
2017	2,930
2018	1,605
2019	866
Thereafter	554
Total	18,368
Aggregate residual value at lease expiration for vehicle leases	11,764
Guaranteed aggregate residual value at lease expiration for vehicle leases	9,530
Liability for the estimated end-of-term loss related to residual value guarantee	220
2014 Purchase Commitment
Purchase Commitment
Short-term purchase commitment, amount	2,487
Software License Arrangement
Purchase Commitment
Term of unrecorded unconditional purchase obligation	three year
Minimum purchase obligation	1,198
2012 Purchase Commitment
Purchase Commitment
Term of unrecorded unconditional purchase obligation			three year
Minimum purchase obligation			2,102
Remaining minimum purchase obligation	$801

Income_Taxes_Details

Income Taxes (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income from continuing operations
U.S. operations	$52,315	$54,702	$47,220
Foreign operations	17,223	5,176	12,670
Profit Before Income Taxes	69,538	59,878	59,890
Current:
Federal	11,903	13,551	8,158
Foreign	3,373	3,567	4,633
State	1,543	1,136	1,089
Current Income Tax Expense	16,819	18,254	13,880
Deferred:
Federal	2,650	1,856	4,423
Foreign	-524	-424	-126
State	-58	-39	129
Deferred Income Tax Expense	2,068	1,393	4,426
Total:
Federal	14,553	15,407	12,581
Foreign	2,849	3,143	4,507
State	1,485	1,097	1,218
Total Income Tax Expense	18,887	19,647	18,306
Effective income tax rate reconciliation
Tax at statutory rate	35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
Increases (decreases) in the tax rate from:
State and local taxes, net of federal benefit	1.70%	1.70%	1.00%
Effect of foreign operations	-4.60%	-3.30%	-6.20%
Effect of changes in valuation allowances	-0.90%	3.70%	2.30%
Domestic production activities deduction	-1.60%	-1.60%	-1.50%
Other, net	-2.40%	-2.70%	0.00%
Effective income tax rate	27.20%	32.80%	30.60%
Deferred Tax Assets:
Employee wages and benefits, principally due to accruals for financial reporting purposes	16,696	14,831
Warranty reserves accrued for financial reporting purposes	2,895	2,803
Receivable, principally due to allowance for doubtful accounts and tax accounting method for equipment rentals	1,549	1,593
Tax loss carryforwards	6,845	8,696
Tax credit carryforwards	1,043	4,078
Other	1,246	2,523
Gross Deferred Tax Assets	30,274	34,524
Less: valuation allowance	-5,699	-7,243
Total Net Deferred Tax Assets	24,575	27,281
Deferred Tax Liabilities:
Inventories, principally due to changes in inventory reserves	305	306
Property, Plant and Equipment, principally due to differences in depreciation and related gains	6,745	7,446
Goodwill and Intangible Assets	5,611	6,253
Total Deferred Tax Liabilities	12,661	14,005
Net Deferred Tax Assets	11,914	13,276
Reconciliation of unrecognized tax benefits
Balance at January 1,	3,660	3,480
Increases as a result of tax positions taken during a prior period	0	155
Increases as a result of tax positions taken during the current year	610	508
Decreases relating to settlement with tax authorities	-6	0
Reductions as a result of a lapse of the applicable statute of limitations	-1,033	-295
Decreases as a result of foreign currency fluctuations	-202	-188
Balance at December 31,	3,029	3,660	3,480
Unrecognized tax benefits that would impact the effective tax rate	2,684	3,384
Unrecognized Tax Benefits	3,029	3,660	3,480
Accrued interest and penalties	557	525
Maximum
Operating loss carryforwards
Income Tax Examination, Year under Examination	2011
Minimum
Operating loss carryforwards
Income Tax Examination, Year under Examination	2007
U.S.
Operating loss carryforwards
Undistributed earnings of non-U.S. subsidiaries	28,434
Dutch
Operating loss carryforwards
Tax loss carryforwards	13,012
Tax loss carryforwards expiration	9 years
Foreign tax credit carryforwards	1,043
German
Operating loss carryforwards
Tax loss carryforwards	$13,492

ShareBased_Compensation_Detail

Share-Based Compensation (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Number of stock appreciation rights granted and outstanding	0
Share-Based Compensation Information
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of plans	4
Share-based compensation expense	$7,314	$6,116	$9,092
Excess Tax Benefit on Stock Plans	1,793	5,178	2,047
Valuation assumptions used for the 2012, 2011 and 2010 grants
Expected volatility, minimum	47.00%	51.00%	51.00%
Expected volatiity, maximum	50.00%	51.00%	52.00%
Weighted-average expected volatility	50.00%	51.00%	52.00%
Expected dividend yield, minimum	1.10%	1.60%	1.60%
Expected dividend yield, maximum	1.30%	1.60%	1.70%
Weighted-average expected dividend yield	1.30%	1.60%	1.70%
Expected term, minimum (in years)	6	6	0
Expected term, maximum (in years)	6	6	6
Risk-free interest rate, minimum	1.80%	0.90%	0.10%
Risk-free interest rate, maximum	2.00%	1.10%	1.10%
2010 Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Shares authorized for future awards (in shares)	1,500,000
Amended 2010 Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Shares authorized for future awards (in shares)	2,600,000
Shares reserved for issuance (in shares)	1,446,182
All Plans Excluding 2010 Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Shares reserved for issuance (in shares)	252,597
Stock Options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Ratio of new awards that vest each year	one-third
Vesting period of new awards granted (in years)	3 years
Contractual term of new awards (in years)	10 years
Shares activity
Outstanding at beginning of year (in shares)	877,322
Granted (in shares)	118,359
Exercised (in shares)	-74,852
Forfeited (in shares)	-12,799
Outstanding at end of year (in shares)	908,030	877,322
Exercisable at end of year (in shares)	677,790
Weighted-Average Exercise Price
Outstanding at beginning of year (in dollars per share)	$30.42
Granted (in dollars per share)	$61.83
Exercised (in dollars per share)	$30.31
Forfeited (in dollars per share)	$52.55
Outstanding at end of year (in dollars per share)	$34.21	$30.42
Exercisable at end of year	$27.74
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract]
Weighted-average grant date fair value (in dollars per share)	$26.93	$19.62	$16.60
Total intrinsic value of stock options exercised	2,972	15,641	5,826
Aggregate intrinsic value of options outstanding	34,486
Aggregate intrinsic value of options exercisable		30,116
Weighted-average remaining contractual life for options outstanding (in years)	6 years
Weighted-average remaining contractual life for options exercisable (in years)	5 years
Unrecognized compensation cost for nonvested options	3,221
Compensation cost not yet recognized, weighted-average period for recognition (in years)	1 year 4 months 24 days
Restricted Share Awards
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Vesting period of new awards granted (in years)	3 years
Shares activity
Nonvested at beginning of year (in shares)	150,943
Granted (in shares)	21,417
Vested (in shares)	-20,303
Forfeited (in shares)	-7,582
Nonvested at end of year (in shares)	144,475	150,943
Weighted-Average Exercise Price
Nonvested at beginning of year (in dollars per share)	$37.89
Granted (in dollars per share)	$62.48
Vested (in dollars per share)	$40.38
Forfeited (in dollars per share)	$50.87
Nonvested at end of year (in dollars per share)	$40.51	$37.89
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair value of shares vested	827	643	861
Unrecognized compensation cost for nonvested options	1,671
Compensation cost not yet recognized, weighted-average period for recognition (in years)	2 years
Performance Shares Awards
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Vesting period of new awards granted (in years)	3 years
Share-Based Liabilities
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract]
Total share-based liabilities	139	292
Amounts paid out related to share-based liability awards	$275	$3,134	$2,212

Earnings_Per_Share_Details

Earnings Per Share (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Numerator:
Net Earnings	$17,541	$11,792	$15,523	$5,795	$10,301	$10,617	$14,254	$5,059	$50,651	$40,231	$41,584
Basic - Weighted Average Shares Outstanding									18,217,384	18,297,371	18,544,896
Effect of dilutive securities: Employee stock options									523,474	536,082	557,120
Diluted - Weighted Average Shares Outstanding									18,740,858	18,833,453	19,102,016
Basic Earnings per Share	$0.96	$0.65	$0.85	$0.32	$0.56	$0.58	$0.78	$0.28	$2.78	$2.20	$2.24
Diluted Earnings per Share	$0.93	$0.63	$0.83	$0.31	$0.55	$0.56	$0.76	$0.27	$2.70	$2.14	$2.18
Anti-dilutive securities excluded from earnings per share calculation (in shares)									91,199	132,803	233,655

Segment_Reporting_Details

Segment Reporting (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Number of operating segments									4
Number of customers exceeding ten percent of net sales									0
Concentration Risk, Percentage									10.00%
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets
Net Sales	$216,277	$202,643	$219,084	$183,979	$195,140	$188,541	$200,238	$168,092	$821,983	$752,011	$738,980
Long-Lived Assets	131,678				138,587				131,678	138,587	136,325
Equipment
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets
Net Sales									500,141	444,773	435,900
Parts and consumables
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets
Net Sales									182,845	176,442	175,782
Service and other
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets
Net Sales									114,027	109,533	106,048
Specialty surface coatings
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets
Net Sales									24,970	21,263	21,250
Americas
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets
Net Sales									569,004	514,544	491,661
Long-Lived Assets	103,958				106,409				103,958	106,409	100,662
Europe, Middle East, Africa
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets
Net Sales									165,686	157,208	166,208
Long-Lived Assets	24,051				28,296				24,051	28,296	31,164
Asia Pacific
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets
Net Sales									87,293	80,259	81,111
Long-Lived Assets	$3,669				$3,882				$3,669	$3,882	$4,499

Consolidated_Quarterly_Data_De

Consolidated Quarterly Data (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Quarterly financial data
Net Sales	$216,277	$202,643	$219,084	$183,979	$195,140	$188,541	$200,238	$168,092	$821,983	$752,011	$738,980
Gross Profit	93,084	87,163	95,263	76,917	83,782	81,862	87,741	72,523	352,427	325,908	325,296
Net Earnings	$17,541	$11,792	$15,523	$5,795	$10,301	$10,617	$14,254	$5,059	$50,651	$40,231	$41,584
Earnings Per Share, Basic	$0.96	$0.65	$0.85	$0.32	$0.56	$0.58	$0.78	$0.28	$2.78	$2.20	$2.24
Earnings Per Share, Diluted	$0.93	$0.63	$0.83	$0.31	$0.55	$0.56	$0.76	$0.27	$2.70	$2.14	$2.18
Cash Dividends Declared per Common Share	$0.20	$0.20	$0.20	$0.18	$0.18	$0.18	$0.18	$0.18	$0.78	$0.72	$0.69

Schedule_II_Valuation_and_Qual1

Schedule II Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure
Balance at end of year	$3,936		$4,526
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts and Returns
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure
Balance at beginning of year	4,526		4,399		4,829
Charged to costs and expenses	999		1,279		1,427
Charged to other accounts	-319	[1]	102	[1]	35	[1]
Deductions	-1,270	[2]	-1,254	[2]	-1,892	[2]
Balance at end of year	3,936		4,526		4,399
Inventory Reserves
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure
Balance at beginning of year	3,250		3,724		4,173
Charged to costs and expenses	622		1,044		2,178
Charged to other accounts	-194	[1]	-88	[1]	-2	[1]
Deductions	-406	[3]	-1,430	[3]	-2,625	[3]
Balance at end of year	3,272		3,250		3,724
Valuation Allowance for Deferred Tax Assets
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure
Balance at beginning of year	7,243		4,719		3,229
Charged to costs and expenses	-636		2,239		687
Charged to other accounts	-908		285		803
Balance at end of year	$5,699		$7,243		$4,719
[1]	Primarily includes impact from foreign currency fluctuations.
[2]	Includes accounts determined to be uncollectible and charged against reserves, net of collections on accounts previously charged against reserves.
[3]	Includes inventory identified as excess, slow moving or obsolete and charged against reserves.