Contingent Matters (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		6 Months Ended
	Aug. 16, 2018	Jun. 30, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Loss Contingency [Abstract]
Contractual obligation		$ 1,700	$ 1,500
Percentage of potential contingent liability on unpaid balance		1.75%
Maximum exposure		$ 600
Loss contingency accrual		$ 2,100
Maximum maturity date of customer debt		Dec. 31, 2023
Pending Litigation
Loss Contingency [Abstract]
Loss contingency accrual		$ 600
Loss contingency, damages sought, value	$ 8,500
Maximum
Loss Contingency [Abstract]
Amount of letters of credit outstanding		11,500
Letter of Credit Lender
Loss Contingency [Abstract]
Amount of letters of credit outstanding		8,800
Astec Brazil Working Capital Loans
Loss Contingency [Abstract]
Contingent liabilities for letters of credit issued on behalf of foreign subsidiaries		$ 3,200
Letter of Credit | Maximum
Loss Contingency [Abstract]
Letter of credit expiration date		Apr. 30, 2021
Performance Guarantee
Loss Contingency [Abstract]
Contingent liabilities for letters of credit issued on behalf of foreign subsidiaries		$ 2,700