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RATIONALIZATION AND ASSET IMPAIRMENTS (Summary of Activity Related to Rationalization Liabilities by Segment) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Sep. 30, 2019	Jun. 30, 2019	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Rationalization and asset impairment charges (gains)	$ 8,851	$ 1,495	$ 1,307	$ 3,535	$ 932	$ 2,636	$ 11,542	$ 10,175	$ 15,188	$ 25,285	$ 6,590
Activity related to the rationalization liabilities by segment
Balance at the beginning of the period				$ 11,192				$ 6,803	11,192	6,803
Payments and other adjustments									(14,678)	(26,874)
Charged to expense									11,688	31,263
Balance at the end of the period	$ 8,202				$ 11,192				8,202	11,192	6,803
Americas Welding [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Rationalization and asset impairment charges (gains)									1,716
International Welding [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Rationalization and asset impairment charges (gains)									11,702	$ 25,285	$ 5,498
The Harris Products Group
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Rationalization and asset impairment charges (gains)									$ 1,770