Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Statement Of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 50,240	$ 48,223	$ 34,404
Currency translation adjustments	(2,111)	(9,155)	805
Defined Benefit Plans [Abstract]
Net gain (loss) arising during the period, other	(13,980)	(9,698)	(6,267)
Amortization of actuarial loss	1,852	1,230	1,832
Amortization of prior service cost	76	77	91
Amortization of Initial Net Asset	0	0	(3)
Current period changes in fair value of derivatives	272	395	708
Unrealized gain on available-for-sale securities	866	(138)	248
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	(13,025)	(17,289)	(2,586)
Comprehensive Income	37,215	30,934	31,818
Less: comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest	(2,698)	(1,256)	(2,761)
Comprehensive income attributable to Quaker Chemical Corporation	$ 34,517	$ 29,678	$ 29,057