Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Statement Of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 63,039	$ 52,706	$ 58,297
Currency translation adjustments	(13,772)	(24,869)	(15,701)
Defined Benefit Plans [Abstract]
Net gain (loss) arising during the period, other	(2,990)	3,821	(6,210)
Amortization of actuarial loss	2,155	2,561	2,162
Amortization of prior service (gain) loss	(82)	(82)	(70)
Unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities	537	(978)	(124)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	(14,152)	(19,547)	(19,943)
Comprehensive Income	48,887	33,159	38,354
Less: comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest	(1,575)	(889)	(1,568)
Comprehensive income attributable to Quaker Chemical Corporation	$ 47,312	$ 32,270	$ 36,786