Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012 Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment	Oct. 01, 2011 Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment	Mar. 31, 2012 Harsco Infrastructure Segment	Oct. 01, 2011 Harsco Infrastructure Segment	Mar. 31, 2012 Harsco Rail Segment	Dec. 31, 2011 Harsco Rail Segment
Changes in carrying amounts of goodwill
Balance at the beginning of the period	$ 680,901	$ 411,876		$ 259,715		$ 9,310	$ 9,310
Changes to goodwill	(807)			(807)
Foreign currency translation	12,732	6,855		5,877
Balance at the end of the period	$ 692,826	$ 418,731		$ 264,785		$ 9,310	$ 9,310
Approximate percentage of fair value exceeded carrying value			7.40%		9.10%

Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date, which is the cumulative amount paid and (if applicable) the fair value of any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree, adjusted for any amortization recognized prior to the adoption of any changes in generally accepted accounting principles (as applicable) and for any impairment charges, in excess of the fair value of net assets acquired in one or more business combination transactions.

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