Other-net (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
Mar. 30, 2012	Apr. 01, 2011
Summary of other-net expense
Foreign currency exchange/translation gain (loss)	$ 243	$ (344)
Amortization of intangible assets	(1,435)	(1,509)
Metal consignment fees	(2,221)	(2,129)
Other items	(375)	311
Total	$ (3,788)	$ (3,671)

The aggregate expense charged against earnings to allocate the cost of intangible assets (nonphysical assets not used in production) in a systematic and rational manner to the periods expected to benefit from such assets. As a noncash expense, this element is added back to net income when calculating cash provided by or used in operations using the indirect method.

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The aggregate foreign currency transaction gain (loss) (both realized and unrealized) included in determining net income for the reporting period. Excludes foreign currency transactions designated as hedges of net investment in a foreign entity and intercompany foreign currency transactions that are of a long-term nature, when the entities to the transaction are consolidated, combined, or accounted for by the equity method in the reporting enterprise's financial statements. For certain enterprises, primarily banks, that are dealers in foreign exchange, foreign currency transaction gains (losses) may be disclosed as dealer gains (losses).

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