Reportable Segments and Geographic Data (Schedule of Restructuring Costs by Reporting Segment) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Pension settlement
Pension settlement expense	$ 119,735
Restructuring expense
Charges/ (reversals)	7,061	9,317	3,747
Machine Clothing [Member]
Restructuring expense
Charges/ (reversals)	7,386	5,680	4,762
Engineered Composites [Member]
Restructuring expense
Charges/ (reversals)		57	930
Unallocated Expenses [Member]
Pension settlement
Pension settlement expense	119,735	0	0
Restructuring expense
Charges/ (reversals)	$ (325)	$ 3,580	$ (1,945)