Note 2 - Inventories (Details) - Inventories, net of reserves: (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Inventories, net of reserves: [Abstract]
Raw materials	$ 5,414	$ 8,631
Work-in-process	13,135	15,192
Finished goods	49,430	40,787
Consigned inventory	3,227	2,896
Supplies and other	739	436
	$ 71,945	$ 67,942

Carrying amount, net of valuation reserves and adjustments, as of the balance sheet date of merchandise or goods held by the company that are readily available for sale.

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Amount after valuation and LIFO reserves of inventory expected to be sold, or consumed within one year or operating cycle, if longer.

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Aggregated amount of unprocessed materials to be used in manufacturing or production process and supplies that will be consumed. This amount is net of valuation reserves and adjustments.

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Carrying amount, net of valuation reserves and adjustments, as of the balance sheet date of unprocessed items to be consumed in the manufacturing or production process.

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Carrying amount, net of reserves and adjustments, as of the balance sheet date of merchandise or goods which are partially completed. This inventory is generally comprised of raw materials, labor and factory overhead costs, which require further materials, labor and overhead to be converted into finished goods, and which generally require the use of estimates to determine percentage complete and pricing.

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Gross amount of merchandise or materials to which the entity holds the title, but physically at another entity's facilities (for example, but not limited to, work in process may be temporarily at the site of a subcontractor).

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