Note 8 - Long-Lived Assets (Detail) - Intangible assets, net: (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Cost	$ 47,435	$ 47,435
Accumulated amortization	(9,949)	(7,548)
Net	37,486	39,887
Steel Sports [Member] | Customer Relationships [Member]
Cost	235	235
Accumulated amortization	(78)	(67)
Net	157	168
Estimated Useful life	5 years	5 years
Steel Energy [Member] | Customer Relationships [Member]
Cost	43,100	43,100
Accumulated amortization	(8,372)	(6,356)
Net	34,728	36,744
Estimated Useful life	10 years	10 years
Steel Energy [Member] | Trade Names [Member]
Cost	4,100	4,100
Accumulated amortization	(1,499)	(1,125)
Net	2,601	2,975
Estimated Useful life	5 years	5 years
Steel Energy [Member]
Cost	47,200	47,200
Accumulated amortization	(9,871)	(7,481)
Net	$ 37,329	$ 39,719