Acquisitions Integration Charges [Abstract]
Acquisitions Integration Charges [Abstract]
Acquisition Integration Charges
Restructuring and Related Costs [Table Text Block]
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Restructuring Charges by Type
Restructuring Charges by Type [Table Text Block]
Summary of restructuring charges by type.
Restructuring Charges by Segment
Restructuring Charges by Segment [Table Text Block]
Restructuring Charges by Segment [Table Text Block] - Summary of restructuring charges by segment.
Restructuring Liability Rollforward
Restructuring Liability Rollforward [Table Text Block]
Restructuring Liability Rollforward [Table Text Block] - Roll Forward of restructuring liability.
Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table]
Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table]
Segments [Axis]
Segments [Axis]
Segments [Domain]
Segments [Domain]
Electrical Products [Member]
Electrical Products [Member]
Electrical Products [Member]
Electrical Systems and Services [Member]
Electrical Systems and Services [Member]
Electrical Systems and Services [Member]
Hydraulics [Member]
Hydraulics [Member]
Hydraulics [Member]
Aerospace [Member]
Aerospace [Member]
Aerospace [Member]
Vehicle [Member]
Vehicle [Member]
Vehicle [Member]
Corporate, Non-Segment [Member]
Corporate, Non-Segment [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges
Restructuring Charges
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Effective tax rate
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivative Financial Instruments Recognized in Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet
Schedule of Derivative Instruments [Table Text Block]
Amounts Recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Schedule of Cash Flow Hedges Included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Amounts recognized in Net Income
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Raw materials
Inventory, Raw Materials, Gross
Work-in-process
Inventory, Work in Process, Gross
Finished goods
Inventory, Finished Goods, Gross
Inventory at FIFO
FIFO Inventory Amount
Excess of FIFO over LIFO cost
Inventory, LIFO Reserve
Total inventory
Inventory, Net
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table]
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table]
Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures, Defined Benefit Plans [Axis]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis]
Defined Benefit Plans [Domain]
Defined Benefit Plan and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Domain]
United States pension benefit expense [Member]
United States Pension Plan of US Entity [Member]
Non-United States pension benefit expense [Member]
Foreign Pension Plan [Member]
Other postretirement benefits expense [Member]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Retirement benefits plans expense
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Service cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost
Interest cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost
Expected return on plan assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets
Amortization
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gains (Losses)
Total
Benefit Plans
Total Benefit Plans.
Settlements and curtailments
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Settlements
Total expense
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis [Table]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table]
Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis]
Summary of financial instruments recognized at fair value and fair value measurement used [Domain]
Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain]
Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash
Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value
Short-term investments
Short-term Investments
Net derivative contracts
Derivative, Fair Value, Net
Long-term debt converted to floating interest rates by interest rate swaps - net
Interest Rate Fair Value Hedge Derivative at Fair Value, Net
Scenario [Axis]
Scenario [Axis]
Scenario, Unspecified [Domain]
Scenario, Unspecified [Domain]
Scenario, Forecast [Member]
Scenario, Forecast [Member]
Restructuring Type [Axis]
Restructuring Type [Axis]
Type of Restructuring [Domain]
Type of Restructuring [Domain]
Employee Severance [Member]
Employee Severance [Member]
Charges associated with restructuring activities
Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Business Segment Information
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block]
RETIREMENT BENEFITS PLANS
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]
Business Combinations [Abstract]
ACQUISITION OF BUSINESSES
Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block]
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]
Changes in Shareholders' equity
Schedule of Stockholders Equity [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Reclassification Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block]
Calculation of Net Income Per Ordinary Share Attributable to Shareholders
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
DEBT
Long-term Debt [Text Block]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table]
Share Repurchase Program [Axis]
Share Repurchase Program [Axis]
Share Repurchase Program [Domain]
Share Repurchase Program [Domain]
2013 Program [Member]
2013 Member [Member]
2013 Member [Member]
2016 Program [Member]
2016 Program [Member]
2016 Program [Member]
Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Component [Domain]
Equity Component [Domain]
Parent [Member]
Parent [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Number of shares authorized to be repurchased (in shares)
Stock Repurchase Program, Number of Shares Authorized to be Repurchased
Ordinary shares purchased (in shares)
Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares
Amount of shares repurchased (up to)
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount
Changes in Shareholders' equity
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Net income (loss)
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Other comprehensive income
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent
Cash dividends paid
Dividends, Common Stock, Cash
Issuance of shares under equity-based compensation plans - net
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures
Repurchase of shares
Stock Repurchased During Period, Value
Ending balance
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Goodwill
Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block]
Fair Value Measurements, Other [Table]
Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis]
Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain]
Level 2 [Member]
Other Fair Value Measurements [Line Items]
Carrying value of long-term debt and current portion of long-term debt
Long-term Debt
Fair value of long-term debt and current portion of long-term debt
Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
BASIS OF PRESENTATION
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block]
Condensed Statements of Cash Flows [Abstract]
Condensed Statements of Cash Flows [Abstract]
Condensed Consolidating Statements of Cash Flows [Table]
Condensed Cash Flow Statement [Table]
Consolidation Items [Axis]
Consolidation Items [Axis]
Consolidation Items [Domain]
Consolidation Items [Domain]
Consolidation, Eliminations [Member]
Consolidation, Eliminations [Member]
Legal Entity [Axis]
Legal Entity [Axis]
Entity [Domain]
Entity [Domain]
Eaton Corporation plc [Member]
Eaton Corporation plc [Member]
Eaton Corporation plc [Member]
Eaton Corporation [Member]
Eaton Corporation [Member]
Eaton Corporation [Member]
Guarantors [Member]
Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member]
Other subsidiaries [Member]
Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member]
Condensed Consolidating Statements of Cash Flows, Captions [Line Items]
Condensed Cash Flow Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities
Investing activities
Payments for Investing Activities [Abstract]
Capital expenditures for property, plant and equipment
Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment
Cash received from (paid for) acquisitions of businesses, net of cash acquired
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired
Sales (purchases) of short-term investments - net
Payments for (Proceeds from) Short-term Investments
Investments in affiliates
Payments to Acquire Investments
Return of investments in affiliates
Return of capital contributions from affiliates
Return of capital contributions from affiliates - repayment of contributions from affiliates.
Loans to affiliates
Increase (Decrease) in Due to Affiliates
Repayments of loans from affiliates
Proceeds from (Repayments of) Related Party Debt
Proceeds from sale of businesses
Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses
Other - net
Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities
Net cash used in investing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities
Financing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract]
Proceeds from borrowings
Proceeds from Issuance of Debt
Payments on borrowings
Repayments of Debt
Proceeds from borrowings from affiliates
Proceeds from borrowings from affiliates
Proceeds from borrowings from affiliates
Payments on borrowings from affiliates
Payments on borrowings from affiliates
Payments on borrowings from affiliates
Capital contributions from affiliates
Proceeds from Contributions from Affiliates
Return of capital to affiliates
Return of capital contributions to affiliates
Return of capital contributions to affiliates - repayment of capital contributions to affiliates.
Other intercompany financing activities
Other intercompany financing activities
Other intercompany financing activities
Cash dividends paid
Payments of Dividends
Exercise of employee stock options
Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised
Repurchase of shares
Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock
Excess tax benefit from equity-based compensation
Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Financing Activities
Other - net
Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities
Net cash used in financing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities
Effect of currency on cash
Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents
Total increase (decrease) in cash
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease)
Cash at the beginning of the period
Cash at the end of the period
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Loss Contingencies [Table]
Loss Contingencies [Table]
Litigation Status [Axis]
Litigation Status [Axis]
Litigation Status [Domain]
Litigation Status [Domain]
Raysul [Member]
Raysul [Member]
Raysul [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Loss contingency accrual
Loss Contingency Accrual
Condensed Consolidating Financial Information [Abstract]
Condensed Consolidating Financial Information [Abstract]
Condensed Consolidating Financial Statements
Condensed Financial Statements [Table Text Block]
ACQUISITION INTEGRATION CHARGES
Business Acquisition, Integration, Restructuring and Other Related Costs [Text Block]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Income Statement Location [Axis]
Income Statement Location [Axis]
Income Statement Location [Domain]
Income Statement Location [Domain]
Interest expense - net [Member]
Interest Expense [Member]
Cost of products sold [Member]
Cost of Sales [Member]
Cost of products sold or Interest expense - net [Member]
Cost of products sold or Interest expense - net [Member]
Cost of products sold or Interest expense - net [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis]
Derivative Instrument [Axis]
Derivative Contract Type [Domain]
Derivative Contract [Domain]
Forward Starting Floating-to-Fixed Interest Rate Swap [Domain]
Forward Starting Floating-to-Fixed Interest Rate Swap [Domain]
Forward Starting Floating-to-Fixed Interest Rate Swap [Domain]
Currency exchange contracts [Member]
Foreign Exchange Contract [Member]
Commodity contracts [Member]
Commodity Contract [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship [Axis]
Hedging Relationship [Axis]
Hedging Relationship [Domain]
Hedging Relationship [Domain]
Cash flow hedges [Member]
Cash Flow Hedging [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Gain (loss) recognized in other comprehensive (loss) income
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Effective Portion, Net
Gain (loss) reclassified from Accumulated other comprehensive loss
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net
EQUITY
Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block]
INVENTORY
Inventory Disclosure [Text Block]
BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]
Workforce reductions
Severance Costs
Plant closings and other
Restructuring Payments for Plant Closing and Other
Restructuring Payments for Plant Closing and Other - cash settlements related to plant closing and other restructuring liabilities.
Total
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Table]
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table]
Income Statement Location [Axis]
Derivative Instrument [Axis]
Currency exchange contracts [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Actuarial loss and prior service cost
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Amortization Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax
Tax benefit
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Amortization Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net Prior Service Cost (Credit), Tax
Total, net of tax
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Amortization Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net Prior Service Cost (Credit), Net of Tax
Currency exchange contracts
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, before Tax
Tax benefit
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, Tax
Total, net of tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, Net of Tax
Total reclassifications for the period
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax
Calculation of net income per ordinary share attributable to ordinary shareholders
Earnings Per Share Reconciliation [Abstract]
Net income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent
Weighted-average number of ordinary shares outstanding - diluted (shares)
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted
Less dilutive effect of equity-based compensation (shares)
Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment
Weighted-average number of ordinary shares outstanding - basic (shares)
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic
Net income per share attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Diluted (usd per share)
Earnings Per Share, Diluted
Basic (usd per share)
Earnings Per Share, Basic
Stock options excluded from calculation of diluted net income per ordinary share (shares)
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income
Less net loss for noncontrolling interests
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Net income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Currency translation and related hedging instruments
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax
Pensions and other postretirement benefits
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax
Cash flow hedges
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax
Other comprehensive (loss) income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders
Total comprehensive income attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent
LEGAL CONTINGENCIES
Legal Matters and Contingencies [Text Block]
Acquisition integration charges [Table]
Corporate [Member]
Total business segments [Member]
Operating Segments [Member]
Acquisition integration charges [Line Items]
Acquisition integration charges
Business Combination, Integration Related Costs
Income taxes
Income Tax Effect on Acquisition Integration Charges
Income Tax Effect on Acquisition Integration Charges - Tax effect on charges incurred to integrate acquired businesses. Typically a benefit in nature.
Total after income taxes
Acquisition Integration After Tax Charges
Acquisition Integration After Tax Charges.
Per ordinary share - diluted (dollars per share)
Acquisition Integration Charges Per Common Share
Acquisition Integration Charges Per Common Share.
Eaton and certain other 100% owned subsidiaries guarantee of Senior Debt
Eaton Corp. and certain other subsidiaries guarantee of Senior Debt
Eaton Corp. and certain other subsidiaries guarantee of Senior Debt
Income Statement [Abstract]
Net sales
Revenue, Net
Cost of products sold
Cost of Revenue
Selling and administrative expense
Selling, General and Administrative Expense
Research and development expense
Research and Development Expense
Interest expense - net
Interest Income (Expense), Net
Other income - net
Other Nonoperating Income (Expense)
Income before income taxes
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest
Income tax expense
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Net income
Weighted-average number of ordinary shares outstanding
Earnings Per Share, Diluted, Other Disclosures [Abstract]
Diluted (shares)
Basic (shares)
Cash dividends declared per ordinary share (usd per share)
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared
Currency translation and related hedging instruments [Member]
Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member]
Pensions and other postretirement benefits [Member]
Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment, Net Prior Service Attributable to Parent [Member]
Cash flow hedges [Member]
Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges Attributable to Parent [Member]
Total AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member]
AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member]
AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications
OCI, before Reclassifications, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent
Amounts reclassified from Accumulated other comprehensive loss (income)
Net current-period Other comprehensive income (loss)
Ending balance
Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table]
Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table]
Range [Axis]
Range [Axis]
Range [Domain]
Range [Domain]
Minimum [Member]
Minimum [Member]
Maximum [Member]
Maximum [Member]
Hedging Designation [Axis]
Hedging Designation [Axis]
Hedging Designation [Domain]
Hedging Designation [Domain]
Derivatives designated as hedges [Member]
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivatives not designated as hedges [Member]
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Fair value hedging [Member]
Fair Value Hedging [Member]
Derivative Contract Type [Domain]
Forward Starting Floating-to-Fixed Interest Rate Swap [Member]
Forward Starting Floating-to-Fixed Interest Rate Swap [Member]
Forward Starting Floating-to-Fixed Interest Rate Swap [Member]
Fixed-to-floating interest rate swaps [Member]
Interest Rate Contract [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Location [Axis]
Balance Sheet Location [Axis]
Balance Sheet Location [Domain]
Balance Sheet Location [Domain]
Other current assets [Member]
Other Assets [Member]
Other noncurrent assets [Member]
Other Long Term Assets [Member]
Included In Other Long Term Assets.
Other current liabilities [Member]
Other Liabilities [Member]
Other noncurrent liabilities [Member]
Other long-term liabilites [Member]
Other long-term liabilites [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Foreign Currency Note Payable, Noncurrent, after-tax
Foreign Currency Note Payable, Noncurrent, after-tax
Foreign Currency Note Payable, Noncurrent, after-tax - Foreign currency denominated debt designated as a non-derivative net investment hedging instrument on an after-tax basis.
Foreign Currency Note Payable, Noncurrent, pre-tax
Foreign Currency Note Payable, Noncurrent, pre-tax
Foreign Currency Note Payable, Noncurrent, pre-tax - Foreign currency denominated debt designated as non-derivative net investment hedging instrument on a pre-tax basis.
Derivative, term of contract
Derivative, Term of Contract
Derivatives designated as hedges
Derivatives Designated As Hedges Abstract
Derivatives designated as hedges.
Derivative asset designated as hedging instrument
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset
Derivative liability designated as hedging instrument
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability
Notional amount
Derivative, Notional Amount
Derivatives not designated as hedges
Derivatives Not Designated As Hedges Abstract
Derivatives not designated as hedges.
Derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments, asset, at fair value
Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Asset, at Fair Value
Derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments, liability, at fair value
Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Liability, at Fair Value
Percentage of intercompany balance sheet exposure
Percentage of intercompany balance sheet exposure
Percentage of intercompany balance sheet exposure.
DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block]
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]
Operating activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Adjustments to reconcile to net cash provided by operating activities
Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Depreciation and amortization
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization
Deferred income taxes
Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Income Taxes
Pension and other postretirement benefits expense
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Expense
Contributions to pension plans
Pension Contributions
Contributions to other postretirement benefits plans
Other Postretirement Benefits Payments
Changes in working capital
Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital
Other - net
Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net
Net cash provided by operating activities
Investing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract]
Capital expenditures for property, plant and equipment
Cash received from (paid for) acquisitions of businesses, net of cash acquired
Sales (purchases) of short-term investments - net
Financing activities
Payments on borrowings
Exercise of employee stock options
Effect of currency on cash
Total increase (decrease) in cash
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Document and Entity Information.
Entity Registrant Name
Entity Registrant Name
Trading Symbol
Trading Symbol
Entity Central Index Key
Entity Central Index Key
Document Type
Document Type
Document Period End Date
Document Period End Date
Amendment Flag
Amendment Flag
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Current Fiscal Year End Date
Current Fiscal Year End Date
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer
Entity Voluntary Filers
Entity Voluntary Filers
Entity Current Reporting Status
Entity Current Reporting Status
Entity Filer Category
Entity Filer Category
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding (in shares)
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding
GOODWILL
Goodwill Disclosure [Text Block]
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Text Block]
Condensed Balance Sheet [Abstract]
Condensed Balance Sheet [Abstract]
Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheets [Table]
Condensed Balance Sheet Statement [Table]
Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member]
Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheets, Captions [Line Items]
Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Assets
Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value [Abstract]
Current assets
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Cash
Short-term investments
Accounts receivable - net
Receivables, Net, Current
Intercompany accounts receivable
Intercompany accounts receivable
Intercompany accounts receivable
Inventory
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current
Total current assets
Assets, Current
Property, plant and equipment - net
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
Other noncurrent assets
Assets [Abstract]
Goodwill
Goodwill
Other intangible assets
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill)
Deferred income taxes
Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Noncurrent
Investment in subsidiaries
Equity Method Investments
Intercompany loans receivables
Intercompany loans receivables
Intercompany loans receivables
Other assets
Other Assets, Noncurrent
Total assets
Assets
Liabilities and shareholders’ equity
Short-term Debt, Other Disclosures [Abstract]
Short-term debt
Short-term Debt
Current portion of long-term debt
Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current
Accounts payable
Accounts Payable, Current
Intercompany accounts payable
Intercompany accounts payable
Intercompany accounts payable
Accrued compensation
Employee-related Liabilities, Current
Other current liabilities
Other Liabilities, Current
Total current liabilities
Liabilities, Current
Noncurrent liabilities
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities [Abstract]
Long-term debt
Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations
Pension liabilities
Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Liabilities, Noncurrent
Other postretirement benefits liabilities
Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plan, Liabilities, Noncurrent
Deferred income taxes
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent
Intercompany loans payable
Intercompany loans payable
Intercompany loans payable
Other noncurrent liabilities
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent
Total noncurrent liabilities
Liabilities, Noncurrent
Shareholders’ equity
Liabilities and Equity [Abstract]
Eaton shareholders' equity
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent
Noncontrolling interests
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Total equity
Total liabilities and equity
Liabilities and Equity
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]
INCOME TAXES
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table]
Related long-term debt converted to floating interest rates by interest rate swaps [Member]
Related Long Term Debt Converted To Floating Interest Rates By Interest Rate Swaps [Member]
Related Long Term Debt Converted To Floating Interest Rates By Interest Rate Swaps.
Hedging Relationship [Axis]
Amounts recognized in net income
Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net
Summary of Financial Instruments Recognized at Fair Value and Fair Value Measurement Used
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table]
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table]
Business Acquisition [Axis]
Business Acquisition [Axis]
Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain]
Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain]
Ephesus Lighting, Inc. [Member]
Ephesus Lighting, Inc. [Member]
Ephesus Lighting, Inc. [Member]
Oxalis Group Ltd. [Member]
Oxalis Group Ltd. [Member]
Oxalis Group Ltd. [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Revenue Reported by acquired entity for last annual period
Business Acquisition, Revenue Reported by Acquired Entity for Last Annual Period
Reclassification of Debt Issuance Costs [Table]
Reclassification of Debt Issuance Costs [Table]
Reclassification of Debt Issuance Costs [Table]
Balance Sheet Location [Axis]
Balance Sheet Location [Domain]
Debt [Member]
Debt [Member]
Reclassification of Debt Issuance Costs [Line Items]
Reclassification of Debt Issuance Costs [Line Items]
[Line Items] for Reclassification of Debt Issuance Costs [Table]
Reclassification of debt issuance costs
Reclassification of Debt Issuance Costs
Reclassification of Debt Issuance Costs - Unamortized debt issuance costs reclassified from Other assets to Debt
Components of Inventory
Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block]
Basis of Accounting
Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Reclassifications
Reclassification, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Condensed Income Statement [Abstract]
Condensed Income Statement [Abstract]
Consolidating Statements of Comprehensive Income [Table]
Condensed Income Statement [Table]
Consolidating adjustments [Member]
Guarantors
Consolidating Statements of Comprehensive Income, Captions [Line Items]
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Interest expense (income) - net
Other expense (income) - net
Equity in loss (earnings) of subsidiaries, net of tax
Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments
Intercompany expense (income) - net
Intercompany expense (income)
Intercompany expense (income)
Income tax expense (benefit)
Less net loss (income) for noncontrolling interests
Total comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Eaton ordinary shareholders
Retirement Benefits Plans Expense
Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Credit Facility [Axis]
Credit Facility [Axis]
Credit Facility [Domain]
Credit Facility [Domain]
Refinanced five-year revolving credit facility [Member]
Refinanced five-year revolving credit facility [Member]
Refinanced five-year revolving credit facility [Member]
Five-year revolving credit facility, expires October 14, 2021 [Member]
Five-year revolving credit facility, expires October 14, 2021 [Member]
Five-year revolving credit facility, expires October 14, 2021 [Member]
Four-year revolving credit facility, expires October 3, 2018 [Member]
Four-year revolving credit facility, expires October 3, 2018 [Member]
Four-year revolving credit facility, expires October 3, 2018 [Member]
Five-year revolving credit facility, expires October 3, 2019 [Member]
Five-year revolving credit facility, expires October 3, 2019 [Member]
Five-year revolving credit facility, expires October 3, 2019 [Member]
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Subsequent Event Type [Axis]
Subsequent Event Type [Axis]
Subsequent Event Type [Domain]
Subsequent Event Type [Domain]
Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event [Member]
Scenario, Actual [Member]
Scenario, Actual [Member]
Long-term Debt, Type [Axis]
Long-term Debt, Type [Axis]
Long-term Debt, Type [Domain]
Long-term Debt, Type [Domain]
Senior Notes [Member]
Senior Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
Senior notes due 2024 [Member]
Senior notes due 2024 [Member]
Senior notes due 2024 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Issuance of senior notes
Issuance of senior notes
Issuance of senior notes
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage
Proceeds from issuance of senior notes
Proceeds from issuance of senior notes
Proceeds from issuance of senior notes
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity
Schedule of Goodwill [Table]
Schedule of Goodwill [Table]
Business Segments [Axis]
Segment [Domain]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance
Translation
Goodwill, Translation Adjustments
Ending balance
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Assets
Assets, Current [Abstract]
Current assets
Accounts receivable - net
Inventory
Property, plant and equipment - net
Other noncurrent assets
Other Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract]
Goodwill
Other intangible assets
Deferred income taxes
Liabilities and shareholders’ equity
Current liabilities
Liabilities, Current [Abstract]
Short-term debt
Current portion of long-term debt
Accounts payable
Accrued compensation
Other current liabilities
Noncurrent liabilities
Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract]
Long-term debt
Pension liabilities
Other postretirement benefits liabilities
Deferred income taxes
Shareholders’ equity
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Eaton shareholders’ equity
Noncontrolling interests
RESTRUCTURING CHARGES
Restructuring and Related Activities Disclosure [Text Block]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Business Segment Information
Segment operating profit
Operating Income (Loss)
Corporate
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Maturity Schedule [Abstract]
Amortization of intangible assets
Amortization of Intangible Assets
Pension and other postretirement benefits expense
Other corporate expense - net
Workforce reductions [Member]
Plant closings and other [Member]
Other Restructuring [Member]
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance
Restructuring Reserve
Liability recognized
Payments
Payments for Restructuring
Other adjustments
Restructuring Reserve, Translation and Other Adjustment
Ending balance