<DefinitionAndReference>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationInterestExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_UseOfEstimatesPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>Use of Estimates Policy.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_MinorityInterestIncreaseFromStockIssuance">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityFilerCategory">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_AdjustmentRelatedToNotesAtFairValue">
    <definition>Adjustment related to notes at fair value.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFairValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearThree">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_RecordingOfAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedTextBlock">
    <definition>Recording of assets acquired and liabilities assumed.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationAllocationOfRecognizedPeriodCostsCapitalizedAmount">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_UncertainTaxPositionsTaxAssets">
    <definition>Uncertain tax positions, tax assets.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredFederalIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ForeignCurrencyTransactionsAndTranslationsPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_UncertainTaxPositionsTaxLiabilitiesNetOfAssets">
    <definition>Uncertain Tax Positions Tax Liabilities Net of Assets.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsDecreasesResultingFromSettlementsWithTaxingAuthorities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalCommonStock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfNetPriorServiceCostCredit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_NumberOfSharesForCashConsideration">
    <definition>Number Of Shares For Cash Consideration.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_QuarterlyDataUnaudited">
    <definition>Quarterly Data Unaudited.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueLevel3">
    <definition>The fair value of Level 3 plan assets of Defined Benefit Plan at the beginning and end of the year.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInNextTwelveMonths">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommercialPaper">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_PeriodForChangeOfUnrecognizedTaxBenefits">
    <definition>Period for change of Unrecognized tax benefits.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumptionsUsedCalculatingBenefitObligationSocialSecurity">
    <definition>Defined Benefit Plan Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation Social Security.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_OutstandingCommitmentsForPurchaseObligations">
    <definition>Outstanding commitments for purchase obligations.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaEarningsPerShareBasic">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeLowerRangeLimit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_SwapToThreeMonthLiborIsExpectedToBeEffective">
    <definition>Swap to three month Libor is expected to be effective.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInThreeYears">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsThatWouldImpactEffectiveTaxRate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_SegmentReportingReconcilingItemForOperatingProfitLossFromSegmentToConsolidatedAmount">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_Land">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExpirationsInPeriod">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedFutureBenefitPaymentsInYearTwo">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice">
    <definition>The weighted average price as of the balance sheet date at which grantees can acquire the shares reserved for issuance on stock options awarded under the plan during the reporting period.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriod">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProvisionForDoubtfulAccounts">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_SegmentReportingReconcilingItemForCapitalExpendituresFromSegmentToConsolidatedAmount">
    <definition>Segment Reporting Reconciling Item For Capital Expenditures From Segment To Consolidated Amount.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanServiceCost">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedDividendRate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationAssetsAcquiredLiabilitiesAssumedNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_DocumentType">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NotionalAmountOfForeignCurrencyDerivatives">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionOfLessThan100PercentNoncontrollingInterestFairValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFiveYears">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilityNotRecognizedAmountOfUnrecognizedDeferredTaxLiability">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanEffectOfOnePercentagePointIncreaseOnAccumulatedPostretirementBenefitObligation">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FutureAmortizationExpenseYearOne">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpenseCompensationAndBenefitsEmployeeBenefits">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_AssociatedWeightedAverageAssumptionsUsedToDetermineBenefitObligationsTextBlock">
    <definition>Associated weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccruedIncomeTaxesCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationAllocationOfRecognizedPeriodCostsTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationCurrentAssetsCashAndCashEquivalents">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfNetGainsLosses">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanActuarialNetGainsLosses">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_CashPaidPerShareOnMerger">
    <definition>Cash paid per share on merger.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireShortTermInvestments">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsOther">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_GeographicSourcesOfIncomeBeforeIncomeTaxesTextBlock">
    <definition>Geographic sources of income before income taxes.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncreaseDecreaseResultingFromPriorPeriodTaxPositions">
    <definition>Unrecognized Tax Benefits Increase Decrease Resulting From Prior Period Tax Positions.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_SegmentReportingDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationRepatriationOfForeignEarnings">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_FairValuesOfAssetsInNonUSPensionPlansByAssetCategoryAndByLevelsOfFairValueTextBlock">
    <definition>Fair values of the assets in the non-U.S. pension plans by asset category and by levels of fair value.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CumulativeEffectOfInitialAdoptionOfSFAS158">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InventoryRawMaterialsNetOfReserves">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationProfitLoss">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedFutureBenefitPaymentsInYearOne">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToShareBasedPaymentArrangements">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_DefinedBenefitPlanChangeInPlanAssetsOther">
    <definition>A component of the change in the plan assets for defined benefit plans for the period, not specifically attributable to any other defined components of changes in plan assets.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalSharebasedCompensationRequisiteServicePeriodRecognitionValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedGoodsAndNonemployeeServicesTransactionValuationMethodExpectedDividendRate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeExercisableOptionWeightedAverageExercisePrice">
    <definition>The weighted average price as of the end of the year at which grantees can acquire the shares reserved for issuance under the stock option plan.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_OptionsIssuedInExchangeOfAcquireesStockOption">
    <definition>Options Issued in Exchange of Acquirees Stock Option.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LitigationSettlementExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDerivativeInstrumentsGainLossInStatementOfFinancialPerformanceTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentEstimatedUsefulLives">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTaxIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_SummaryOfIncomeTaxContingenciesTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AcquiredFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetAmount">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_MachineryAndEquipmentGross">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_GainLossOnDispositionOfAssets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesUndistributedForeignEarnings">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_DefinedBenefitPlanEstimatedFutureBenefitPaymentsTextBlock">
    <definition>Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Benefit Payments.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromDivestitureOfBusinessesNetOfCashDivested">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueNewIssues">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaEarningsPerShareDiluted">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_DefinedBenefitPlanFundedStatusOfPlanTextBlock">
    <definition>Defined benefit plan funded status of plan.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_SpreadOverOneMonthLiborOnSwapOne">
    <definition>One month Libor plus spread on swap one.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeAssetDesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentFairValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InventoryPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_Goodwill">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommercialPaper">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_AcquiredIndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetWeightedAverageUsefulLife">
    <definition>Acquired Indefinite Lived Intangible Asset Weighted Average Useful Life.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationOtherNoncurrentAssets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsGross">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlanExercisePriceRangeExercisableOptionWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm">
    <definition>The weighted average period between the balance-sheet date and expiration for all vested stock options outstanding under the plan, which may be expressed in a decimal value for number of years.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesMinorityInterestAndIncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanEffectOfOnePercentagePointDecreaseOnAccumulatedPostretirementBenefitObligation">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityCentralIndexKey">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_ConsolidatedRevenuesForEachGroupOfSimilarProductsAndServicesTextBlock">
    <definition>Consolidated revenues for each group of similar products and services.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NatureOfOperations">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_QuotedPriceOfCommonStockToCalculateIntrinsicValueOfStockOption">
    <definition>The quated market price per share of common stock at the balance sheet date.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInInventories">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FutureAmortizationExpenseYearTwo">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShortTermInvestments">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfInvestments">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_TaxLiabilitiesForGrossUnrecognizedTaxBenefits">
    <definition>Tax liabilities for gross unrecognized tax benefits.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeDefinedBenefitPlansAdjustmentNetOfTaxPeriodIncreaseDecrease">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationIncomeTaxExpenseBenefitAtFederalStatutoryIncomeTaxRate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_AmendmentFlag">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodTotalFairValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_FairValueOfHedgedDebt">
    <definition>Fair value of hedged debt.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossDeferredTaxes">
    <definition>Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Deferred Taxes.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanTargetAllocationPercentage">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncomeTaxPenaltiesAccrued">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedFutureBenefitPaymentsInYearFive">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_SpreadOverThreeMonthLiborOnSwapTwo">
    <definition>Three months Libor plus spread on swap two.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearFour">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_FairValueEstimatesForIdentifiableIntangibleAssetsAndUsefulLivesTextBlock">
    <definition>Fair value estimates for identifiable intangible assets and useful lives.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_FairValuePerShareOfLookBackProvision">
    <definition>The fair value per share of the cash discount from the fair market value, at which shares are purchased under ESPP.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_CorporateAndOtherSegmentLossGainOnSaleOfProductLine">
    <definition>Corporate And Other Segment Loss Gain On Sale Of Product Line.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_DefinedBenefitPlanAmountsRecognizedInBalanceSheetTextBlock">
    <definition>Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsReceivable">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationExpendituresForAdditionsToLongLivedAssets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncreaseDecreaseDueToEffectsOfForeignCurrencyTranslation">
    <definition>Unrecognized Tax Benefits Increase Decrease Due To Effects Of Foreign Currency Translation.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanEffectOfOnePercentagePointDecreaseOnServiceAndInterestCostComponents">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmount">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_DisclosureOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentOptionTextBlock">
    <definition>Disclosure of share based compensation arrangements by share based payment option.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FutureAmortizationExpenseYearThree">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationRevenue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_DefinedBenefitPlanWeightedAverageAssumptionsUsedInCalculatingNetPeriodicBenefitCostTextBlock">
    <definition>Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeUpperRangeLimit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_CommittedRevolvingCreditFacility">
    <definition>Committed Revolving Credit Facility.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_DeferredTaxAssetsReceivables">
    <definition>Deferred tax assets receivables.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InventoryDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_MinorityInterest">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsLiabilitiesNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromRepaymentsOfShortTermDebt">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_RightToReceiveUnrestrictedShareOfStockAtEndOfStipulatedPeriod">
    <definition>Right to receive unrestricted share of stock at the end of a stipulated period.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_OperateUnderLegalForm">
    <definition>Operate under legal form.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_LiabilitiesForChangeInControlAndTransactionFees">
    <definition>Liabilities for change in control and transaction fees.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeNetGainsLossesBeforeTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LineOfCredit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardDiscountFromMarketPrice">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentOther">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestOutstandingAggregateIntrinsicValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanActualReturnOnPlanAssets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_GoodwillDeductibleForTaxPurposesAsResulfOfAcquisition">
    <definition>Goodwill deductible for tax purposes as a resulf of acquisition.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsNetCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanPensionPlansWithAccumulatedBenefitObligationsInExcessOfPlanAssetsAggregateFairValueOfPlanAssets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_MaximumPercentageOfTotalRevenueAttributableToOneCustomer">
    <definition>Maximum percentage of total revenue attributable to one customer.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_DefinedContributionPlanContributionsToPlanForNonUSEmployees">
    <definition>Total contributions made to non-qualified defined contribution plans for non-US employees.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_AssumedOnAcquisitionOfBjServices">
    <definition>Assumed on acquisition of BJ Services.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DisposalGroupNotDiscontinuedOperationGainLossOnDisposal">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionExpirationsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice">
    <definition>The weighted average price at which grantees could have acquired the underlying shares with respect to stock options that expired during the reporting period due to the contractual term ending during the reporting period.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncreasesResultingFromAcquisitionOfCompany">
    <definition>Unrecognized tax benefits increases resulting from acquisition Of company.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncreasesResultingFromCurrentPeriodTaxPositions">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsRiskFreeInterestRate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredForeignIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlanExercisePriceRangeExercisableOptionWeightedAverageExercisePrice">
    <definition>The weighted average price as of the end of the year at which grantees can acquire the shares reserved for issuance under the stock option plan.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLossCarryforwardsExpirationDates">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAuthorized">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationTaxBenefitFromCompensationExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InventoryNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationPropertyPlantAndEquipment">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionCostOfAcquiredEntityOtherNoncashConsideration">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossDefinedBenefitPensionAndOtherPostretirementPlansNetOfTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RevenueRecognitionPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeNumberOfOutstandingOptions">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CurrentForeignTaxExpenseBenefit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresInPeriod">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanUltimateHealthCareCostTrendRate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ExcessTaxBenefitFromShareBasedCompensationFinancingActivities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_ImpairmentOfGoodwillAndOtherLongLivedAssetsPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>Impairment of Goodwill and Other Long-Lived Assets.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_MaturitiesOfInvestment">
    <definition>Maturities of Investment.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaNetIncomeLoss">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies2009">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_TaxBenefitFromStockOptionsExercised">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearFive">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfNotesReceivable">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPensionAndPostretirementObligations">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableWeightedAverageExercisePrice">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromRepaymentsOfOtherLongTermDebt">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionCostOfAcquiredEntityCashPaid">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IntangibleAssetsDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LitigationSettlementGross">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationStateAndLocalIncomeTaxes">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanEffectOfOnePercentagePointIncreaseOnServiceAndInterestCostComponents">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_DisclosureOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentOtherThanOptionsTextBlock">
    <definition>Disclosure of share based compensation arrangements by share based payment other than options.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherAssetsCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriod">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_MaximumAmountContributableByEmployeesUnderEspp">
    <definition>The maximum $ amount that an employee is permitted to contribute to ESPP, if lower than maximum percentage of pay.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_DeferredTaxAssetsCapitalizedResearchAndDevelopmentCosts">
    <definition>Deferred tax assets, capitalized research and development costs.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_NumberOfCountriesOfOperation">
    <definition>Number of countries of operation.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityWellKnownSeasonedIssuer">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DebtDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosureOffBalanceSheetRisksAmount">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_ReallocationForChangeInSegments">
    <definition>Reallocation For Change In Segments.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_MaximumMaturityPeriodForForeignCurrencyForwardContracts">
    <definition>Maximum maturity period for foreign currency forward contracts.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_NumberOfReportableSegment">
    <definition>Number of reportable segment.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsOfDividendsCommonStock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_OtherComprehensiveIncomeAmortizationOfActuarialNetLossNetOfTax">
    <definition>Other Comprehensive Income Amortization Of Actuarial Net Loss Net Of Tax.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_CorporateAndOtherSegmentLossTextBlock">
    <definition>Corporate and other segment loss.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsUsefulLifeMinimum">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaRevenue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_TotalWeightedAverageFairValuePerShareAtGrantDate">
    <definition>The total fair value per share of ESPP shares purchased in the accounting period.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationOtherReconcilingItems">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansByExercisePriceRangeTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanPensionPlansWithAccumulatedBenefitObligationsInExcessOfPlanAssetsAggregateProjectedBenefitObligation">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_ExercisePriceOfRestrictedStockAwardsGrantedToOfficersDirectorsAndKeyEmployees">
    <definition>Exercise price of restricted stock awards granted to officers, directors and key employees.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_EarliestTaxYearsThatRemainSubjectToExaminationByMajorTaxingJurisdictionsTextBlock">
    <definition>Earliest tax years that remain subject to examination by major taxing jurisdictions.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsShareBasedPaymentsTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BuildingsAndImprovementsGross">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_GrossUnrecognizedTaxBenefitsSettlementPeriod">
    <definition>Gross unrecognized tax benefits settlement period.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodTotalIntrinsicValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedFutureBenefitPaymentsInYearThree">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsValuationAllowance">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsForRepurchaseOfCommonStock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionRelatedCosts">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionForfeituresInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice">
    <definition>The weighted average price at which grantees could have acquired the underlying shares with respect to stock options that were forfeited due to noncompliance with plan terms during the reporting period.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_DefinedBenefitPlanChangeInBenefitObligationOther">
    <definition>A component of the change in the benefit obligation for defined benefit plans for the period, not specifically attributable to any other defined components of changes in benefit obligation.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ResearchDevelopmentAndComputerSoftwarePolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_DefinedBenefitPlanHealthCareCostTrendRateAssumedForNextFiscalYearOverAge65">
    <definition>The assumed health care cost trend rate for the next year used to measure the expected cost of benefits covered by the plan (gross eligible charges) for employees over age 65.This is based upon the annual rate of change in the cost of health care
benefits currently provided by the postretirement benefit plan, due
to factors other than changes in the composition of the plan
population by age and dependency status.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_FairValuePerShareOfCashDiscount">
    <definition>The fair value per share of the look-back feature of ESPP, calculates using the Black-scholes option pricing model.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueThereafter">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeNetPriorServiceCostCreditBeforeTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_ExpensesOnOptionsVestedAtAcquisition">
    <definition>Expenses on options vested at acquisition.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_ExpectedBenefitPaymentPeriod">
    <definition>Expected benefit payment period.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsInventory">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeForeignCurrencyTransactionAndTranslationAdjustmentNetOfTaxPeriodIncreaseDecrease">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PensionAndOtherPostretirementDefinedBenefitPlansLiabilitiesNoncurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedTerm">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InterestPaid">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationProFormaInformationEarningsOrLossOfAcquireeSinceAcquisitionDateActual">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InterestExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsInterestOnIncomeTaxesAccrued">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationCurrentLiabilities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmountsRecognizedInBalanceSheet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_NumberOfSharesReservedForFutureIssuanceUnderEspp">
    <definition>The maximum number of shares reserved for future issuance under ESPP.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCostOther">
    <definition>A component of net periodic benefit cost for defined benefit plans for the period, not specifically attributable to any other defined components of net periodic benefit cost.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_DisposalGroupNotDiscontinuedOperationGainLossOnDisposalNetOfTax">
    <definition>Disposal group not discontinued operation gain loss on disposal net of tax.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_DeferredTaxAssetsProperty">
    <definition>Deferred tax assets property.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedVolatilityRate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInTwoYears">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_GoodwillFinalAcqusitionAccountingAdjustments">
    <definition>Goodwill, final acqusition accounting adjustments</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionForfeitedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue">
    <definition>The weighted average fair value as of grant dates pertaining to a share-based award plan other than a stock option plan which were forfeited during the reporting period due to a failure to satisfy vesting conditions pertaining to the plan.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_SummaryOfFundedPositionTextBlock">
    <definition>Summary of funded position.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingCapitalNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_NumberOfInterestRateSwapContractsEntered">
    <definition>Number of interest rate swap contracts entered.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_SeniorNotesSold">
    <definition>Senior notes sold.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfAvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebt">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PostemploymentBenefitsLiabilityNoncurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesForeign">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeReclassificationOfDefinedBenefitPlansNetGainLossRecognizedInNetPeriodicBenefitCostNetOfTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_NumberOfSharesUsedForCalculationOfBasicAndDilutedEarningsPerShareTextBlock">
    <definition>Number of shares used for calculation of basic and diluted earnings per share.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIntangibles">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_DefinedBenefitPlanPensionPlansWithAccumulatedBenefitObligationsInExcessOfPlanAssetsTextBlock">
    <definition>Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedGoodsAndNonemployeeServicesTransactionValuationMethodExpectedTerm">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebt">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationOtherNoncurrentLiabilities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFourYears">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_RevenueOfAcquireeCompanyIncludedInAcquireeCompany">
    <definition>Revenue Of Acquiree Company Included In Acquiree Company.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanInterestCost">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsUsefulLifeMaximum">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsGross">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumedHealthCareCostTrendRatesTextBlock">
    <definition>Defined Benefit Plan, Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardExpirationDating">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_AssumedOnAcquisitionOfBjServicesPerSharePrice">
    <definition>Assumed on Acquisition of BJ Services Per Share Price.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsExcludingGoodwill">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueLevel3PurchasesSales">
    <definition>Net purchases and sales of Level 3 Plan Assets of Defined Benefit Plan.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionOutstandingWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm">
    <definition>The weighted average period between the balance-sheet date and expiration for all stock options outstanding under the plan, which may be expressed in a decimal value for number of years.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeInterestAndDividend">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccrualForEnvironmentalLossContingencies">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedFutureBenefitPaymentsInYearFour">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_SignificantAccountingPoliciesTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicCurtailmentsCost">
    <definition>Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Curtailments Cost.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_CorporateAndOtherTotalAssetsTextBlock">
    <definition>Corporate and Other total assets text block.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpenseExcludingAcquiredInProcessCost">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesDeductions">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_Assets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EmployeeRelatedLiabilitiesCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumptionsUsedCalculatingNetPeriodicBenefitCostDiscountRate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_AdjustmentForDeferredTaxes">
    <definition>Adjustment for deferred taxes.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedReturnOnPlanAssets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableNumber">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PensionAndOtherPostretirementBenefitsDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationProjectedBenefitObligationAsset">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeNumberOfExercisableOptions">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ValuationAllowanceDeferredTaxAssetChangeInAmount">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsOperatingLossCarryforwards">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossForeignCurrencyTranslationAdjustmentNetOfTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanBusinessCombinationsAndAcquisitionsBenefitObligation">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_DefinedBenefitPlanAmountsRecognizedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeTextBlock">
    <definition>Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationCurrentAssetsInventory">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumptionsUsedCalculatingNetPeriodicBenefitCostSocialSecurityIncrease">
    <definition>Defined Benefit Plan Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost Social Security Increase.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsReductionsResultingFromLapseOfApplicableStatuteOfLimitations">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxesPaidNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayableTrade">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfCommercialPaper">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssetsForPlanBenefitsNoncurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesPropertyPlantAndEquipment">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanBusinessCombinationsAndAcquisitionsPlanAssets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FutureAmortizationExpenseYearFive">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeDefinedBenefitPlansTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_OperationOfBusiness">
    <definition>Operation of business.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ReconciliationOfOtherSignificantReconcilingItemsFromSegmentsToConsolidatedTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_AggregatePurchasePriceRelatedToOtherAcqusition">
    <definition>Aggregate purchase price related to other acqusition.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShortTermBorrowings">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LeaseAndRentalExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_AgreementValueToSellPackageOfAssets">
    <definition>Agreement value to sell package of assets.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfValuationAndQualifyingAccountsDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlanExercisePriceRangeOutstandingOptionsWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm">
    <definition>The weighted average period between the balance-sheet date and expiration for all stock options outstanding under the plan, which may be expressed in a decimal value for number of years.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_ConsiderationTransferredTextBlock">
    <definition>Consideration transferred.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityExpirationDate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionExercisesInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice">
    <definition>The weighted average price at which option holders acquired shares when converting their stock options into shares under the plan during the reporting period.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DescriptionOfDefinedContributionPensionAndOtherPostretirementPlans">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CurrentIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpenseReservesAndAccrualsOther">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_SegmentReportingReconcilingItemForDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationFromSegmentToConsolidatedAmount">
    <definition>Segment Reporting Reconciling Item For Depreciation Depletion And Amortization From Segment To Consolidated Amount.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipment">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DividendsCommonStockCash">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanForeignCurrencyExchangeRateChangesPlanAssets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_CommonStockMarketPriceLow">
    <definition>Common Stock Market Price Low.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesGoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsGoodwill">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EffectOfExchangeRateOnCashAndCashEquivalents">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_MaximumEconomicBenefitsOfIntangibleAssetsAreExpectedToBeRealized">
    <definition>Maximum economic benefits of intangible assets are expected to be realized.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_ClosingPriceOfCommonStockOnAcquisitionDate">
    <definition>Closing price of common stock on acquisition date.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationCurrentAssetsPrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_SegmentReportingReconcilingItemsAssets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityRegistrantName">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionEquityInterestIssuedOrIssuableNumberOfSharesIssued">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsWeightedAverageVolatilityRate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_SalesRevenueServicesNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumptionsUsedCalculatingNetPeriodicBenefitCostRateOfCompensationIncrease">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalAfterYearFive">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_AdjustmentRelatedToLiabilitiesForPensionAndOtherPostRetirementBenefits">
    <definition>Adjustment Related To Liabilities For Pension and Other Post Retirement Benefits.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_QuarterlyFinancialInformationTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeBeforeTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueLevel3RollforwardTextBlock">
    <definition>Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value Level 3 Rollforward.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionCostOfAcquiredEntityEquityInterestsIssuedAndIssuable">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionEquityInterestIssuedOrIssuableValueAssigned">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OpenTaxYearsByMajorTaxJurisdiction">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossRecognizedInIncomeNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InventoryFinishedGoodsNetOfReserves">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_DefinedBenefitPlanWeightedAverageAssumptionsUsedInCalculatingBenefitObligationTextBlock">
    <definition>Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions used in Calculating Benefit Obligation.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireProductiveAssets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOptionsVestedInPeriodTotalFairValue">
    <definition>The total fair value of all vested stock options outstanding under the plan as of the balance-sheet date.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCost">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanPensionPlansWithAccumulatedBenefitObligationsInExcessOfPlanAssetsAggregateAccumulatedBenefitObligation">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFundedStatusOfPlan">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationUnrecognizedCompensationCostsOnNonvestedAwards">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesDomestic">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_EstimatedMedicareSubsidyPerYear">
    <definition>The estimated annual amount of Medicare
subsidies to be received, offsetting expected future benefit
payments.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentOptionsFairValueAssumptionsAndMethodologyTextBlock">
    <definition>Share-based compensation arrangement by share based payment options fair value assumptions and methodology.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCostTextBlock">
    <definition>Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_DefinedBenefitPlanHealthCareCostTrendRateAssumedForNextFiscalYearUnderAge65">
    <definition>The assumed health care cost trend rate for the next year used to measure the expected cost of benefits covered by the plan (gross eligible charges) for employees under age 65.This is based upon the annual rate of change in the cost of health care
benefits currently provided by the postretirement benefit plan, due
to factors other than changes in the composition of the plan
population by age and dependency status.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_AdjustmentRelatedToPropertyPlantAndEquipment">
    <definition>Adjustment Related To Property Plant And Equipment.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAccumulatedAmortization">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_SalesRevenueGoodsNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfNewAccountingPronouncementsAndChangesInAccountingPrinciplesTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueAcquisitions">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanForeignCurrencyExchangeRateChangesBenefitObligation">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanContributionsByEmployer">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InvestmentPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativesPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanEstimatedFutureEmployerContributionsInNextFiscalYear">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesChargedToCostAndExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumptionsUsedCalculatingBenefitObligationDiscountRate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationPriorYearIncomeTaxes">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_CommonStockMarketPriceHigh">
    <definition>Common Stock Market Price High.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_AdjustmentRelatedToDeferredTaxesAndOtherTaxLiabilitiesAtFairValue">
    <definition>Adjustment related to deferred taxes and other tax liabilities at fair value.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PensionAndOtherPostretirementDefinedBenefitPlansCurrentLiabilities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionCostOfAcquiredEntityPurchasePrice">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDebtSecurities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPercentageOfVotingInterestsAcquired">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CostOfServices">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentBasedOnLocationOfAssetTextBlock">
    <definition>Net property, plant and equipment based on the location of the asset.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InventoryValuationReserves">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_SegmentReportingSegmentAssets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumptionsUsedCalculatingNetPeriodicBenefitCostExpectedLongTermReturnOnAssets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearTwo">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_MachineryAndEquipmentUsefulLifePeriod">
    <definition>Machinery And Equipment Useful Life Period.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanEstimatedFutureBenefitPaymentsDescription">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsSold">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_NotionalAmountInterestRateSwap">
    <definition>Notional amount interest rate swap.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LossContingencyEstimateOfPossibleLoss">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FutureAmortizationExpenseYearFour">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxCreditCarryforwards">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_IntangibleAssetsGrossCarryingAmountTotal">
    <definition>Intangible Assets Gross Carrying Amount total.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_CorporateAndOtherExpenses">
    <definition>Corporate and other expenses.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanBenefitsPaid">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentOtherThanOptionsFairValueAssumptionsAndMethodologyTextBlock">
    <definition>Share-based compensation arrangement by share based payment other than options fair value assumptions and methodology.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CapitalExpendituresIncurredButNotYetPaid">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherAssetsNoncurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationCurrentAssetsReceivables">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationForeignIncomeTaxRateDifferential">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AssetsCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_PurchasePriceAndOtherAdjustments">
    <definition>Purchase price and other adjustments.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardCompensationCost">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareCashPaid">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedFutureBenefitPaymentsInFiveFiscalYearsThereafter">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingIntrinsicValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_ProvisionForIncomeTaxesTextBlock">
    <definition>Provision for income taxes.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAvailableForGrant">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherAccruedLiabilitiesCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InventoryWorkInProcessNetOfReserves">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_ReasonsForDifferenceBetweenProvisionForIncomeTaxesFromAmountComputedByApplyingUSStatutoryIncomeTaxRateToIncomeBeforeIncomeTaxesTextBlock">
    <definition>Reasons for difference between provision for income taxes from the amount computed by applying the U.S. statutory income tax rate to income before income taxes.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfPriorServiceCostCredit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_PeriodOverWhichCompanyMayBeRequiredToMakeContributionToQualifiedPensionPlan">
    <definition>Period Over Which Company May Be Required To Make Contribution To Qualified Pension Plan.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_StockRepurchasedAndRetiredDuringPeriodValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDateRangeEnd">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentOtherUsefulLifePeriod">
    <definition>Property Plant And Equipment Other Useful Life Period.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_DeferredTaxAssetsAndLiabilitiesTextBlock">
    <definition>Deferred Tax Assets And Liabilities.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IntangibleAssetsNetExcludingGoodwill">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionExercisableWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm">
    <definition>The weighted average period between the balance-sheet date and expiration for all vested stock options outstanding under the plan, which may be expressed in a decimal value for number of years.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_DeferredTaxAssetThatWeDidNotPrevailOnAllUncertainTaxPosition">
    <definition>Deferred tax asset that we did not prevail on all uncertain tax position.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccruedLiabilities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesOther">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationDeferredIncomeTaxesAssetLiabilityNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CashAcquiredFromAcquisition">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesAndLiabilitiyForUncertainTaxPositionsNonCurrent">
    <definition>Represents the noncurrent portion of deferred tax liabilities, which result from applying the applicable tax rate to net taxable temporary differences pertaining to each jurisdiction to which the entity is obligated to pay income tax. A noncurrent taxable temporary difference is a difference between the tax basis and the carrying amount of a noncurrent asset or liability in the financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. In a classified statement of financial position, an enterprise shall separate deferred tax liabilities and assets into a current amount and a noncurrent amount. Deferred tax liabilities and assets shall be classified as current or noncurrent based on the classification of the related asset or liability for financial reporting. A deferred tax liability or asset that is not related to an asset or liability for financial reporting, including deferred tax assets related to carryforwards, shall be classified according to the expected reversal date of the temporary difference.  Liability for uncertain tax positions is the noncurrent portion of the amount recognized for uncertain tax positions as of the balance sheet date.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_ProFormaImpactOfAcquisitionTextBlock">
    <definition>Pro forma impact of the acquisition.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanBenefitObligation">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanCurtailments">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_GoodwillAcquiredDuringPeriod">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CurrentFederalTaxExpenseBenefit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_FutureRepaymentOfNotesPayable">
    <definition>Future cash outflow for payment of notes payable.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_BuildingsAndImprovementsUsefulLifePeriod">
    <definition>Buildings And Improvements Useful Life Period.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesBalance">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanRealEstate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_DebtInstrumentDueDate">
    <definition>Debt Instrument, Due Date.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBusinessesNetOfCashAcquired">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAccumulatedBenefitObligation">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesChargedToOtherAccounts">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNoteTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilityNotRecognizedCumulativeAmountOfTemporaryDifference">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_GrossProfit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_RevenuesBasedOnLocationOfUseOfProductsOrServicesTextBlock">
    <definition>Revenues based on the location of the use of the products or services.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_MinimumEconomicBenefitsOfIntangibleAssetsAreExpectedToBeRealized">
    <definition>Minimum economic benefits of intangible assets are expected to be realized.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalTaxEffectFromShareBasedCompensation">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanPlanAmendments">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecrease">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedGoodsAndNonemployeeServicesTransactionValuationMethodRiskFreeInterestRate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_DefinedBenefitPlanByPlanAssetCategoriesTextBlock">
    <definition>Defined Benefit Plan by Plan Asset Categories.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProfitLoss">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeAmortizationOfDefinedBenefitPlanNetPriorServiceCostRecognizedInNetPeriodicPensionCostNetOfTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityPublicFloat">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumptionsUsedCalculatingBenefitObligationRateOfCompensationIncrease">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedFinancialLiabilities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityVoluntaryFilers">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccrualForEnvironmentalLossContingenciesIncreaseDecreaseForAcquisitionsAndDivestitures">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueLevel3UnrealizedLossesGains">
    <definition>Unrealized (losses) gains on Level 3 Plan Assets of Defined Benefit Plan.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccruedIncomeTaxesPayable">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationGoodwillAmount">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefits">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationAtFederalStatutoryIncomeTaxRate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_BasisOfConversionOfCommonStockShareIssuedForMerger">
    <definition>Basis of conversion of Common stock Share Issued for merger.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfGainsLosses">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDebtInstrumentsTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_BasisOfPresentationPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>Basis of Presentation Policy.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="bhi_InventoriesNetOfReservesTextBlock">
    <definition>Inventories net of reserves.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriod">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberDilutedSharesOutstandingAdjustment">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationUnrecognizedCompensationCostsOnNonvestedAwardsWeightedAveragePeriodOfRecognition">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_MarketableSecuritiesGainLoss">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDerivativeInstrumentsInStatementOfFinancialPositionFairValueTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
</DefinitionAndReference>
