Operating Segments - Sales and Operating Profits of Reportable Segments (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2014	Jul. 31, 2013	Jul. 31, 2014	Jul. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net external sales	$ 458,550	$ 402,960	$ 1,235,431	$ 1,132,103
Operating profit (loss)	114,455	93,216	261,148	236,982
Adhesive Dispensing Systems [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net external sales	226,762	195,992	668,187	575,750
Operating profit (loss)	60,806	50,998	171,425	146,011
Advanced Technology Systems [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net external sales	174,636	150,280	399,805	388,990
Operating profit (loss)	56,444	42,465	97,664	96,310
Industrial Coating Systems [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net external sales	57,152	56,688	167,439	167,363
Operating profit (loss)	7,471	7,585	21,762	22,896
Corporate [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating profit (loss)	$ (10,266)	$ (7,832)	$ (29,703)	$ (28,235)