Litigation and Uncertainties (Summary of asbestos related payments and insurance settlement proceeds - Table) (Details) (United States [Member], USD $) In Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2010	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2010
United States [Member]
Asbestos litigation, defense and case resolution payments	$ 12,100	$ 15,300	$ 48,700	$ 49,300
Insurance proceeds	(15,800)	(22,000)	(31,900)	(49,400)
Net asbestos-related payments/(proceeds)	$ (3,700)	$ (6,700)	$ 16,800	$ (100)