Reportable Segments and Geographic Data (Schedule of Restructuring Costs by Reporting Segment) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Pension settlement expense
Pension settlement expense		$ 8,190
Restructuring expenses, net
Charges/ (reversals)	$ 23,846	5,759	$ 25,108
Machine Clothing [Member]
Restructuring expenses, net
Charges/ (reversals)	$ 22,211	4,828	24,568
Albany Engineered Composites [Member]
Restructuring expenses, net
Charges/ (reversals)		931	$ 540
Corporate Expenses [Member]
Pension settlement expense
Pension settlement expense		$ 8,190
Restructuring expenses, net
Charges/ (reversals)	$ 1,635