RATIONALIZATION AND ASSET IMPAIRMENTS (Summary of Activity Related to Rationalization Liabilities by Segment) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2013
Rationalization and Asset Impairments
Balance at the beginning of the period	$ 3,057
Payments for Restructuring	(2,063)
Charged to expense	1,819
Balance at the end of the period	2,813
North America Welding
Rationalization and Asset Impairments
Balance at the beginning of the period	0
Payments for Restructuring	(351)
Charged to expense	1,126
Balance at the end of the period	775
Europe Welding
Rationalization and Asset Impairments
Balance at the beginning of the period	2,013
Payments for Restructuring	(730)
Charged to expense	71
Balance at the end of the period	1,354
Asia Pacific Welding
Rationalization and Asset Impairments
Balance at the beginning of the period	1,044
Payments for Restructuring	(982)
Charged to expense	622
Balance at the end of the period	$ 684