RATIONALIZATION AND ASSET IMPAIRMENTS (Summary of Activity Related to Rationalization Liabilities by Segment) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2013
Rationalization and Asset Impairments
Balance at the beginning of the period	$ 3,057
Payments for Restructuring	(657)
Charged to expense	940
Balance at the end of the period	3,340
North America Welding
Rationalization and Asset Impairments
Balance at the beginning of the period	0
Payments for Restructuring	(27)
Charged to expense	860
Balance at the end of the period	833
Europe Welding
Rationalization and Asset Impairments
Balance at the beginning of the period	2,013
Payments for Restructuring	(458)
Charged to expense	(4)
Balance at the end of the period	1,551
Asia Pacific Welding
Rationalization and Asset Impairments
Balance at the beginning of the period	1,044
Payments for Restructuring	(172)
Charged to expense	84
Balance at the end of the period	$ 956