Fair Value Measurements (Fair Value Measurements Used In Testing) (Details) - Fair Value, Nonrecurring [Member] $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2020 USD ($)
Fair Value Measurements Used In Testing [Line Items]
Impairment, Property, plant and equipment, net	$ 16,522
Fair Value, Property, plant and equipment, net	$ 13,593

The aggregate amount of write-downs for impairments recognized during the period for property, plant and equipment held for use (including those held for disposal by means other than sale).

No definition available.

Name:	spn_ImpairmentOfPropertyPlantAndEquipment
Namespace Prefix:	spn_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	duration