Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
Oct. 28, 2011
Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation and Principle of Consolidation	Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation - The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of Joy Global Inc. and its domestic and non-U.S. subsidiaries and are presented in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). Investments in affiliates that are owned 20% to 50% are accounted for under the equity method.
Use of Estimates	Use of Estimates - The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Ultimate realization of assets and settlement of liabilities in the future could differ from those estimates.
Cash Equivalents	Cash Equivalents - All highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less when issued are considered cash equivalents. These primarily consist of money market funds and to a lesser extent, certificates of deposit and commercial paper. Cash equivalents were $3.4 million and $517.7 million at October 28, 2011 and October 29, 2010, respectively.
Inventories	Inventories - Our inventories are carried at the lower of cost or net realizable value using the first-in, first-out (“FIFO”) method for all inventories. We evaluate the need to record adjustments for inventory on a regular basis. Our policy is to evaluate all inventories including raw material, work-in-process, finished goods, and spare parts. Inventory in excess of our estimated usage requirements is written down to its estimated net realizable value. Inherent in the estimates of net realizable value are estimates related to our future manufacturing schedules, customer demand, possible alternative uses and ultimate realization of potentially excess inventory.
Property, Plant and Equipment	Property, Plant and Equipment - Property, plant and equipment are stated at historical cost. Expenditures for major renewals and improvements are capitalized, while maintenance and repair costs that do not significantly improve the related asset or extend its useful life are charged to expense as incurred. For financial reporting purposes, plant and equipment are depreciated primarily by the straight line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets which generally range from 5 to 45 years for improvements, from 10 to 45 years for buildings, from 3 to 12 years for machinery and equipment and 3 to 5 years for software. Depreciation expense was $59.5 million, $51.5 million and $49.3 million for 2011, 2010, and 2009, respectively. Depreciation claimed for income tax purposes is computed by accelerated methods.
Impairment of Long-lived assets	Impairment of Long-Lived Assets – We assess the realizability of our held and used long-lived assets to evaluate such assets for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets (or group of assets) may not be recoverable. Impairment is determined to exist if the estimated future undiscounted cash flows related to such assets are less than the carrying value. If impairment is determined to exist, any related impairment loss is calculated based on the fair value of the asset compared to its carrying value.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets	Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Intangible assets include drawings, patents, trademarks, technology, customer relationships and other specifically identifiable assets. Indefinite-lived intangible assets are not being amortized. Assets not subject to amortization are evaluated for impairment annually or more frequently if events or changes occur that suggest impairment in carrying value. Finite-lived intangible assets are amortized to reflect the pattern of economic benefits consumed, which is primarily the straight line method. Intangible assets that are subject to amortization are evaluated for potential impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of identifiable net assets acquired in a business combination. Goodwill is tested for impairment using the two-step approach, in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) No. 350, “Goodwill and Other.” Goodwill is assigned to specific reporting units, which we have identified as our operating segments, and tested for impairment at least annually, during the fourth quarter of our fiscal year, or more frequently upon the occurrence of an event or when circumstances indicate that a reporting unit's carrying amount is greater than its fair value. We recognize an impairment charge if the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value and the carrying amount of the reporting unit's goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of that goodwill. The fair value of goodwill is established using the discounted cash flow method and market approach. We performed our goodwill impairment testing in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2011, 2010 and 2009 and no impairment was identified.
Risks and Uncertainties	Risks and Uncertainties - As of October 28, 2011, we employed 14,500 employees worldwide, with 7,218 employed in the United States. Collective bargaining agreements or similar type arrangements cover 32% of our U.S. workforce and 27% of our international employees. In 2012, union agreements are to expire for 3% of our employees with the largest covering the United Steel Workers union at our Milwaukee, Wisconsin, facility and the International Union of Electrical Workers at our facility in Bluefield, Virginia.
Foreign Currency Translation	Foreign Currency Translation - Exchange gains or losses incurred on transactions conducted by one of our operations in a currency other than the operation's functional currency are normally reflected in cost of sales in our Consolidated Statement of Income. An exception is made where the transaction is a long-term intercompany loan that is not expected to be repaid in the foreseeable future, in which case the transaction gain or loss is included in shareholders' equity as an element of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). Assets and liabilities of international operations that have a functional currency that is not the U.S. dollar are translated into U.S. dollars at year-end exchange rates and revenue and expense items are translated using weighted average exchange rates. Any adjustments arising on translations are included in shareholders' equity as an element of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). Assets and liabilities of operations which have the U.S. dollar as their functional currency (but which maintain their accounting records in local currency) have their values remeasured into U.S. dollars at year-end exchange rates, except for non-monetary items for which historical rates are used. Exchange gains or losses arising on remeasurement of the values into U.S. dollars are recognized in cost of sales. Pre-tax foreign exchange gains included in operating income were $1.2 million, $5.7 million, and $0.4 million in 2011, 2010, and 2009, respectively.
Foreign Currency Hedging and Derivative Financial Instruments	Foreign Currency Hedging and Derivative Financial Instruments - We enter into derivative contracts, primarily foreign currency forward contracts, to protect against fluctuations in exchange rates. These contracts are for committed transactions, and receivables and payables denominated in foreign currencies are not for speculative purposes. ASC No. 815, “Derivatives and Hedging,” requires companies to record derivatives on the balance sheet as assets or liabilities, measured at fair value, when certain designation and documentation requirements are established at hedge inception and assessed on an ongoing basis. Each derivative is designated as either a cash flow hedge or a fair value hedge. Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and effective as cash flow hedges are recorded in other comprehensive income and reclassified to the income statement when the effects of the item being hedged are recognized in the income statement. Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and effective as fair value hedges are recognized currently in net income. These changes are offset in net income to the extent the hedge was effective by fair value changes related to the risk being hedged on the hedged item. All ineffective changes in derivative fair values are recognized currently in net income.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition - We recognize revenue on aftermarket products and services when the following criteria are satisfied: persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, product delivery and title transfer has occurred or the services have been rendered, the price is fixed and determinable, and collectability is reasonably assured. We recognize revenue on long-term contracts, such as for the manufacture of mining shovels, draglines, roof support systems and conveyor systems, using the percentage-of-completion method. When using the percentage-of-completion method, sales and gross profit are recognized as work is performed based on the relationship between actual costs incurred and total estimated costs at completion. Sales and gross profit are adjusted prospectively for revisions in estimated total contract costs and contract values. Estimated losses are recognized in full when identified. We have life cycle management contracts with customers to supply parts and service for terms of 1 to 17 years. These contracts are established based on the conditions the equipment will be operating in, the time horizon that the contract will cover, and the expected operating cycle that will be required for the equipment. Based on this information, a model is created representing the projected costs and revenues of servicing the respective machines over the specified contract terms. Accounting for these contracts requires us to make various estimates, including estimates of the relevant machine's long-term maintenance requirements. Under these contracts, customers are generally billed monthly based on hours of operation or units of production achieved by the equipment, with the respective deferred revenues recorded when billed. Revenue is recognized in the period in which parts are supplied or services provided. These contracts are reviewed quarterly by comparison of actual results to original estimates or most recent analysis, with revenue recognition adjusted appropriately for future estimated costs. If a loss is expected at any time, the full amount of the loss is recognized immediately. We have customer agreements that are multiple element arrangements as defined by ASC No. 605-25 “Multiple-Element Arrangements.” The agreements are assessed for multiple elements based on the following criteria: the delivered item has value to the customer on a standalone basis, there is objective and reliable evidence of the fair value of the undelivered item and the arrangement includes a general right of return relative to the delivered item and delivery or performance of the undelivered item is considered probable and substantially in the control of the vendor. Revenue is then allocated to each identified unit of accounting based on our estimate of their relative fair values. Revenue recognition involves judgments, including assessments of expected returns, the likelihood of nonpayment, and estimates of expected costs and profits on long-term contracts. We analyze various factors, including a review of specific transactions, historical experience, credit-worthiness of customers, and current market and economic conditions, in determining when to recognize revenue. Changes in judgments on these factors could impact the timing and amount of revenue recognized with a resulting impact on the timing and amount of associated income.
Comprehensive Income (Loss)	Comprehensive Income (Loss) – ASC No. 220, “Comprehensive Income,” requires the reporting of comprehensive income in addition to net income. Comprehensive income is a more inclusive financial reporting method that includes disclosure of financial information that historically has not been recognized in the calculation of net income. We have chosen to report Comprehensive Income (Loss) and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) which encompasses net income, foreign currency translation, unrecognized pension obligations, and unrealized gain (loss) on derivatives in the Consolidated Statement of Shareholders' Equity
Sales Incentives	Sales Incentives - In accordance with ASC No. 605-50, “Customer Payments and Incentives,” we account for cash consideration (such as sales incentives and cash discounts) given to our customers or resellers as a reduction of net sales.
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts	Allowance for Doubtful Accounts - We establish an allowance for doubtful accounts on a specific account identification basis through a review of several factors, including the aging status of our customers' account, financial condition of our customers, and historical collection experience.
Shipping and Handling Fees and Costs	Shipping and Handling Fees and Costs - We account for shipping and handling fees and costs in accordance with ASC No. 605-45, “Principal Agent Considerations.” Under ASC No. 605-45, amounts billed to a customer in a sale transaction related to shipping costs are reported as net sales and the related costs incurred for shipping are reported as cost of sales.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes - Deferred income taxes are recognized for the tax consequences of temporary differences by applying enacted statutory tax rates applicable to future years to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax basis of existing assets and liabilities, and for tax loss carryforwards. Valuation allowances are provided for deferred tax assets where it is considered more likely than not that we will not realize the benefit of such assets. Certain tax benefits existed as of our emergence from protection under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code in 2001 but were offset by valuation allowances. Realization of net operating loss, tax credits, and other deferred tax benefits from pre-emergence attributes will be credited to additional paid in capital.
Research and Development Expenses	Research and Development Expenses - Research and development costs are expensed as incurred. Such costs incurred in the development of new products or significant improvements to existing products amounted to $40.4 million, $29.8 million and $22.3 million for fiscal 2011, 2010, and 2009, respectively.
Earnings Per Share	Earnings Per Share - Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net earnings by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the reporting period. Diluted earnings per share is computed similar to basic earnings per share except that the weighted average number of shares outstanding is increased to include additional shares from the assumed exercise of stock options, performance shares, and restricted stock units if dilutive. See Note 17 - Earnings Per Share for further information.
Accounting for Share-Based Compenation	Accounting For Share-Based Compensation – We account for awards of stock in accordance with ASC No. 718, “Compensation – Stock Compensation.” ASC No. 718 requires measurement of the cost of employee services received in exchange for an award of equity instruments based on the grant date fair value of the award. Compensation expense is recognized using the straight line method.
Reclassifications	Reclassifications – Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation. The reclassifications did not impact net income or earnings per share.

Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)

12 Months Ended

Oct. 28, 2011

Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Basis of Presentation and Principle of Consolidation

Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation - The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of Joy Global Inc. and its domestic and non-U.S. subsidiaries and are presented in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). Investments in affiliates that are owned 20% to 50% are accounted for under the equity method.

Use of Estimates

Use of Estimates - The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Ultimate realization of assets and settlement of liabilities in the future could differ from those estimates.

Cash Equivalents

Cash Equivalents - All highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less when issued are considered cash equivalents. These primarily consist of money market funds and to a lesser extent, certificates of deposit and commercial paper. Cash equivalents were $3.4 million and $517.7 million at October 28, 2011 and October 29, 2010, respectively.

Inventories

Inventories - Our inventories are carried at the lower of cost or net realizable value using the first-in, first-out (“FIFO”) method for all inventories. We evaluate the need to record adjustments for inventory on a regular basis. Our policy is to evaluate all inventories including raw material, work-in-process, finished goods, and spare parts. Inventory in excess of our estimated usage requirements is written down to its estimated net realizable value. Inherent in the estimates of net realizable value are estimates related to our future manufacturing schedules, customer demand, possible alternative uses and ultimate realization of potentially excess inventory.

Property, Plant and Equipment

Property, Plant and Equipment - Property, plant and equipment are stated at historical cost. Expenditures for major renewals and improvements are capitalized, while maintenance and repair costs that do not significantly improve the related asset or extend its useful life are charged to expense as incurred. For financial reporting purposes, plant and equipment are depreciated primarily by the straight line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets which generally range from 5 to 45 years for improvements, from 10 to 45 years for buildings, from 3 to 12 years for machinery and equipment and 3 to 5 years for software. Depreciation expense was $59.5 million, $51.5 million and $49.3 million for 2011, 2010, and 2009, respectively. Depreciation claimed for income tax purposes is computed by accelerated methods.

Impairment of Long-lived assets

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets – We assess the realizability of our held and used long-lived assets to evaluate such assets for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets (or group of assets) may not be recoverable. Impairment is determined to exist if the estimated future undiscounted cash flows related to such assets are less than the carrying value. If impairment is determined to exist, any related impairment loss is calculated based on the fair value of the asset compared to its carrying value.

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Intangible assets include drawings, patents, trademarks, technology, customer relationships and other specifically identifiable assets. Indefinite-lived intangible assets are not being amortized. Assets not subject to amortization are evaluated for impairment annually or more frequently if events or changes occur that suggest impairment in carrying value. Finite-lived intangible assets are amortized to reflect the pattern of economic benefits consumed, which is primarily the straight line method. Intangible assets that are subject to amortization are evaluated for potential impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable.

Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of identifiable net assets acquired in a business combination. Goodwill is tested for impairment using the two-step approach, in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) No. 350, “Goodwill and Other.” Goodwill is assigned to specific reporting units, which we have identified as our operating segments, and tested for impairment at least annually, during the fourth quarter of our fiscal year, or more frequently upon the occurrence of an event or when circumstances indicate that a reporting unit's carrying amount is greater than its fair value. We recognize an impairment charge if the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value and the carrying amount of the reporting unit's goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of that goodwill. The fair value of goodwill is established using the discounted cash flow method and market approach. We performed our goodwill impairment testing in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2011, 2010 and 2009 and no impairment was identified.

Risks and Uncertainties

Risks and Uncertainties - As of October 28, 2011, we employed 14,500 employees worldwide, with 7,218 employed in the United States. Collective bargaining agreements or similar type arrangements cover 32% of our U.S. workforce and 27% of our international employees. In 2012, union agreements are to expire for 3% of our employees with the largest covering the United Steel Workers union at our Milwaukee, Wisconsin, facility and the International Union of Electrical Workers at our facility in Bluefield, Virginia.

Foreign Currency Translation

Foreign Currency Translation - Exchange gains or losses incurred on transactions conducted by one of our operations in a currency other than the operation's functional currency are normally reflected in cost of sales in our Consolidated Statement of Income. An exception is made where the transaction is a long-term intercompany loan that is not expected to be repaid in the foreseeable future, in which case the transaction gain or loss is included in shareholders' equity as an element of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). Assets and liabilities of international operations that have a functional currency that is not the U.S. dollar are translated into U.S. dollars at year-end exchange rates and revenue and expense items are translated using weighted average exchange rates. Any adjustments arising on translations are included in shareholders' equity as an element of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). Assets and liabilities of operations which have the U.S. dollar as their functional currency (but which maintain their accounting records in local currency) have their values remeasured into U.S. dollars at year-end exchange rates, except for non-monetary items for which historical rates are used. Exchange gains or losses arising on remeasurement of the values into U.S. dollars are recognized in cost of sales. Pre-tax foreign exchange gains included in operating income were $1.2 million, $5.7 million, and $0.4 million in 2011, 2010, and 2009, respectively.

Foreign Currency Hedging and Derivative Financial Instruments

Foreign Currency Hedging and Derivative Financial Instruments - We enter into derivative contracts, primarily foreign currency forward contracts, to protect against fluctuations in exchange rates. These contracts are for committed transactions, and receivables and payables denominated in foreign currencies are not for speculative purposes. ASC No. 815, “Derivatives and Hedging,” requires companies to record derivatives on the balance sheet as assets or liabilities, measured at fair value, when certain designation and documentation requirements are established at hedge inception and assessed on an ongoing basis. Each derivative is designated as either a cash flow hedge or a fair value hedge. Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and effective as cash flow hedges are recorded in other comprehensive income and reclassified to the income statement when the effects of the item being hedged are recognized in the income statement. Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and effective as fair value hedges are recognized currently in net income. These changes are offset in net income to the extent the hedge was effective by fair value changes related to the risk being hedged on the hedged item. All ineffective changes in derivative fair values are recognized currently in net income.

Revenue Recognition

Revenue Recognition - We recognize revenue on aftermarket products and services when the following criteria are satisfied: persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, product delivery and title transfer has occurred or the services have been rendered, the price is fixed and determinable, and collectability is reasonably assured. We recognize revenue on long-term contracts, such as for the manufacture of mining shovels, draglines, roof support systems and conveyor systems, using the percentage-of-completion method. When using the percentage-of-completion method, sales and gross profit are recognized as work is performed based on the relationship between actual costs incurred and total estimated costs at completion. Sales and gross profit are adjusted prospectively for revisions in estimated total contract costs and contract values. Estimated losses are recognized in full when identified.

We have life cycle management contracts with customers to supply parts and service for terms of 1 to 17 years. These contracts are established based on the conditions the equipment will be operating in, the time horizon that the contract will cover, and the expected operating cycle that will be required for the equipment. Based on this information, a model is created representing the projected costs and revenues of servicing the respective machines over the specified contract terms. Accounting for these contracts requires us to make various estimates, including estimates of the relevant machine's long-term maintenance requirements. Under these contracts, customers are generally billed monthly based on hours of operation or units of production achieved by the equipment, with the respective deferred revenues recorded when billed. Revenue is recognized in the period in which parts are supplied or services provided. These contracts are reviewed quarterly by comparison of actual results to original estimates or most recent analysis, with revenue recognition adjusted appropriately for future estimated costs. If a loss is expected at any time, the full amount of the loss is recognized immediately.

We have customer agreements that are multiple element arrangements as defined by ASC No. 605-25 “Multiple-Element Arrangements.” The agreements are assessed for multiple elements based on the following criteria: the delivered item has value to the customer on a standalone basis, there is objective and reliable evidence of the fair value of the undelivered item and the arrangement includes a general right of return relative to the delivered item and delivery or performance of the undelivered item is considered probable and substantially in the control of the vendor. Revenue is then allocated to each identified unit of accounting based on our estimate of their relative fair values.

Revenue recognition involves judgments, including assessments of expected returns, the likelihood of nonpayment, and estimates of expected costs and profits on long-term contracts. We analyze various factors, including a review of specific transactions, historical experience, credit-worthiness of customers, and current market and economic conditions, in determining when to recognize revenue. Changes in judgments on these factors could impact the timing and amount of revenue recognized with a resulting impact on the timing and amount of associated income.

Comprehensive Income (Loss)

Comprehensive Income (Loss) – ASC No. 220, “Comprehensive Income,” requires the reporting of comprehensive income in addition to net income. Comprehensive income is a more inclusive financial reporting method that includes disclosure of financial information that historically has not been recognized in the calculation of net income. We have chosen to report Comprehensive Income (Loss) and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) which encompasses net income, foreign currency translation, unrecognized pension obligations, and unrealized gain (loss) on derivatives in the Consolidated Statement of Shareholders' Equity

Sales Incentives

Sales Incentives - In accordance with ASC No. 605-50, “Customer Payments and Incentives,” we account for cash consideration (such as sales incentives and cash discounts) given to our customers or resellers as a reduction of net sales.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts - We establish an allowance for doubtful accounts on a specific account identification basis through a review of several factors, including the aging status of our customers' account, financial condition of our customers, and historical collection experience.

Shipping and Handling Fees and Costs

Shipping and Handling Fees and Costs - We account for shipping and handling fees and costs in accordance with ASC No. 605-45, “Principal Agent Considerations.” Under ASC No. 605-45, amounts billed to a customer in a sale transaction related to shipping costs are reported as net sales and the related costs incurred for shipping are reported as cost of sales.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes - Deferred income taxes are recognized for the tax consequences of temporary differences by applying enacted statutory tax rates applicable to future years to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax basis of existing assets and liabilities, and for tax loss carryforwards. Valuation allowances are provided for deferred tax assets where it is considered more likely than not that we will not realize the benefit of such assets. Certain tax benefits existed as of our emergence from protection under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code in 2001 but were offset by valuation allowances. Realization of net operating loss, tax credits, and other deferred tax benefits from pre-emergence attributes will be credited to additional paid in capital.

Research and Development Expenses

Research and Development Expenses - Research and development costs are expensed as incurred. Such costs incurred in the development of new products or significant improvements to existing products amounted to $40.4 million, $29.8 million and $22.3 million for fiscal 2011, 2010, and 2009, respectively.

Earnings Per Share

Earnings Per Share - Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net earnings by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the reporting period. Diluted earnings per share is computed similar to basic earnings per share except that the weighted average number of shares outstanding is increased to include additional shares from the assumed exercise of stock options, performance shares, and restricted stock units if dilutive. See Note 17 - Earnings Per Share for further information.

Accounting for Share-Based Compenation

Accounting For Share-Based Compensation – We account for awards of stock in accordance with ASC No. 718, “Compensation – Stock Compensation.” ASC No. 718 requires measurement of the cost of employee services received in exchange for an award of equity instruments based on the grant date fair value of the award. Compensation expense is recognized using the straight line method.

Reclassifications

Reclassifications – Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation. The reclassifications did not impact net income or earnings per share.