Severance and restructuring costs (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
Jan. 31, 2012	Oct. 31, 2011
Severance Restructuring Accruals (Textual) [Abstract]
Severance and restructuring costs	$ 811
Adhesive Dispensing Systems Georgia Operations [Member]
Severance Restructuring Accruals (Textual) [Abstract]
Severance costs and other termination fees associated with the restructuring	2,600
Severance and restructuring costs	687	1,557
Payments of expense made	1,091
Adhesive Dispensing System Germany [Member]
Severance Restructuring Accruals (Textual) [Abstract]
Severance costs and other termination fees associated with the restructuring	200
Severance and restructuring costs	124	32
Payments of expense made	$ 25

The charge against earnings in the period, comprised of costs associated with restructuring activities not otherwise specified in the taxonomy pursuant to a duly authorized plan, excluding a discontinued operation as defined by generally accepted accounting principles. Costs of such activities include those for one-time termination benefits, termination of an operating lease or other contract, consolidating or closing facilities, and relocating employees, but excludes costs associated with the retirement of a long-lived asset and severance costs associated with established compensation plans.

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Amount expected to be charged against earnings in the current and future periods for the specified restructuring cost.

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- Definition

Amount of cash paid in the period to fully or partially settle a specified, previously accrued type of restructuring cost.

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