Reportable Segments (Schedule of Restructuring Costs by Reporting Segment) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Restructuring expense
Restructuring expenses, net	$ 5,503	$ 326	$ 10,220	$ 7,653
Machine Clothing [Member]
Restructuring expense
Restructuring expenses, net	96	(212)	1,012	5,921
Albany Engineered Composites [Member]
Restructuring expense
Restructuring expenses, net	5,407	640	9,208	1,787
Corporate Expenses [Member]
Restructuring expense
Restructuring expenses, net		$ (102)		$ (55)