Operating Segments - Reportable Segments (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended			6 Months Ended
	Apr. 30, 2015	Apr. 30, 2014		Apr. 30, 2015	Apr. 30, 2014
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net external sales	$ 400,727	$ 417,461		$ 779,735	$ 776,881
Operating profit (loss)	76,414	92,834		139,232	146,693
Operating Segments [Member] | Adhesive Dispensing Systems [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net external sales	203,273	231,954		397,486	441,425
Operating profit (loss)	50,780	62,699	[1]	94,109	110,619	[1]
Operating Segments [Member] | Advanced Technology Systems [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net external sales	129,482	127,628		261,700	225,169
Operating profit (loss)	24,770	30,842	[2]	51,588	41,220	[2]
Operating Segments [Member] | Industrial Coating Systems [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net external sales	67,972	57,879		120,549	110,287
Operating profit (loss)	11,514	9,335		15,278	14,291
Corporate [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating profit (loss)	$ (10,650)	$ (10,042)		$ (21,743)	$ (19,437)

[1] Includes $699 of severance and restructuring costs in the three and six months ended April 30, 2014.

[2] Includes $579 of severance and restructuring costs in the three and six months ended April 30, 2014.