Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Policy)	12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2011
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis Of Presentation	*Basis of Presentation* The accompanying consolidated financial statements reflect the operations of Gardner Denver, Inc. ("Gardner Denver" or the "Company") and its subsidiaries.Certain prior year balance sheet items have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation.
Principles of Consolidation	*Principles of Consolidation* The accompanying consolidated financial statements are presented in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States ("GAAP") and include the accounts of the Company and its majority-owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany transactions and accounts have been eliminated in consolidation.
Use Of Estimates	*Use of Estimates* The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. The Company regularly evaluates the estimates and assumptions related to the allowance for doubtful trade receivables, inventory obsolescence, warranty reserves, fair value of equity-based awards, goodwill and purchased intangible asset valuations, asset impairments, employee benefit plan liabilities, income tax liabilities and assets and related valuation allowances, uncertain tax positions, restructuring reserves, litigation and other loss contingencies, and the allocation of corporate costs to reportable segments. Actual results could differ materially and adversely from those estimates and assumptions, and such results could affect the Company's consolidated net income, financial position, or cash flows.
Foreign Currency Translation	*Foreign Currency Translation* Assets and liabilities of the Company's foreign subsidiaries, where the functional currency is not the U.S. Dollar ("USD"), are translated at the exchange rate in effect at the balance sheet date, while revenues and expenses are translated at average rates prevailing during the year. Adjustments resulting from the translation of the financial statements of foreign operations into USD are excluded from the determination of net income, and are reported in accumulated other comprehensive income, a separate component of stockholders' equity, and included as a component of other comprehensive income (loss). Assets and liabilities of subsidiaries that are denominated in currencies other than the subsidiaries' functional currency are remeasured into the functional currency using end of period exchange rates, or historical rates, for certain balances, where applicable. Gains and losses related to these remeasurements are recorded within the Consolidated Statements of Operations as a component of "Other operating expense, net."
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition The Company recognizes revenue from the sale of products and services under the provisions of Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 605, Reveunue Recognition. Accordingly, revenue is recognized only when a firm sales agreement is in place, delivery has occurred or services have been rendered and collectability of the fixed or determinable sales price is reasonably assured. These criteria are usually met at the time of product shipment. Service revenue is earned and recognized when services are performed and collection is reasonably assured and is not material to any period presented. The Company's revenue recognition policy does not vary among its various marketing venues, including independent distributors, sales representatives and original equipment manufacturers ("OEM"). In revenue transactions where installation is required, revenue can be recognized when the installation obligation is not essential to the functionality of the delivered product. Certain of the Company's sales of products involve inconsequential or perfunctory performance obligations for non-essential installation supervision or training. These obligations are inconsequential and perfunctory as their fair value is relatively insignificant compared to the related revenue; the Company has a demonstrated history of completing the remaining tasks in a timely manner; the skills required to complete these tasks are not unique to the Company and, in many cases, can be provided by third parties or the customer; and in the event that the Company fails to complete the remaining obligations under the sales contract, it does not have a refund obligation with respect to the product that was delivered. When the only remaining undelivered performance obligation under an arrangement is inconsequential or perfunctory, revenue is recognized on the total contract and a provision for the cost of the unperformed obligation is recorded. In revenue transactions where the sales agreement includes customer-specific objective criteria, revenue is recognized only after formal acceptance occurs or the Company has reliably demonstrated that all specified customer acceptance criteria have been met. The Company defers the recognition of revenue when advance payments are received from customers before performance obligations have been completed and/or services have been performed. Sales volume discounts offered to customers are recorded as deductions to gross revenues when the discount is earned. Product returns from customers are recorded as a deduction to gross revenues when the Company can reasonably estimate the amount of such returns. Other sales credits, which may include correction of billing errors, incorrect shipments and settlement of customer disputes, are recorded as deductions to gross revenues.
Cash And Cash Equivalents	*Cash and Cash Equivalents* Cash and equivalents are highly liquid investments primarily consisting of demand deposits. Cash and cash equivalents have original maturities of three months or less. Accordingly, the carrying amount of such instruments is considered a reasonable estimate of fair value. As of December 31, 2011, cash of $6.9 million was pledged to financial institutions as collateral to support the issuance of standby letters of credit and similar instruments on behalf of the Company and its subsidiaries.
Accounts Receivable	*Accounts Receivable* Trade accounts receivable consist of amounts owed for orders shipped to or services performed for customers and are stated net of an allowance for doubtful accounts. Reviews of customers' creditworthiness are performed prior to order acceptance or order shipment. Trade accounts receivable are recorded at net realizable value. This value includes an appropriate allowance for doubtful accounts for estimated losses that may result from the Company's inability to fully collect amounts due from its customers. The allowance is determined based on a combination of factors, including the length of time that the trade receivables are past due, history of write-offs and the Company's knowledge of circumstances relating to specific customers' ability to meet their financial obligations.
Inventories	*Inventories* Inventories, which consist primarily of raw materials and finished goods, are carried at the lower of cost or market value. Fixed manufacturing overhead is allocated to the cost of inventory based on the normal capacity of production facilities. Unallocated overhead during periods of abnormally low production levels is recognized as cost of sales in the period in which it is incurred. As of December 31, 2011, $248.4 million (80%) of the Company's inventory is accounted for on a first-in, first-out (FIFO) basis and the remaining $63.3 million (20%) is accounted for on a last-in, first-out (LIFO) basis. The Company establishes inventory reserves for estimated obsolescence or unmarketable inventory in an amount equal to the difference between the cost of inventory and its estimated realizable value based upon assumptions about future demand and market conditions. Shipping and handling costs are classified as a component of "Cost of sales" in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Property, Plant And Equipment	Propert, Plant and Equipment Property, plant and equipment includes the historical cost of land, buildings, equipment and significant improvements to existing plant and equipment or in the case of acquisitions, a fair market value appraisal of such assets completed at the time of acquisition. Repair and maintenance costs that do not extend the useful life of an asset are recorded as expense as incurred. Depreciation is provided using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets as follows: buildings — 10 to 50 years; machinery and equipment — 7 to 15 years; office furniture and equipment — 3 to 10 years; and tooling, dies, patterns, etc. — 3 to 7 years.
Goodwill And Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets	Goodwill and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets Goodwill is recorded as the difference, if any, between the aggregate consideration paid for an acquisition and the fair value of the net tangible and intangible assets acquired, liabilities assumed, and non-controlling interests, if any. Intangible assets, including goodwill, are assigned to the Company's reporting units based upon their fair value at the time of acquisition. Intangible assets with finite useful lives are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives, which range from 5 to 25 years. In accordance with FASB ASC 350, Intangibles — Goodwill and Other ("FASB ASC 350"), intangible assets deemed to have indefinite lives and goodwill are not subject to amortization but are tested for impairment annually, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset might be impaired or that there is a probable reduction in the fair value of a reporting unit below its aggregate carrying value. The Company performs the impairment test of the carrying values of its goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets at the reporting unit level during the third quarter of each fiscal year using balances as of June 30. The goodwill impairment test involves a two-step process. The first step involves comparing the estimated fair value of each reporting unit with its aggregate carrying value, including goodwill. If a reporting unit's aggregate carrying value exceeds its estimated fair value, the Company performs the second step of the goodwill impairment test. The second step involves comparing the implied fair value of the affected reporting unit's goodwill with the carrying value of that goodwill to measure the amount of impairment loss, if any. The impairment test for indefinite-lived intangibles involves a comparison of the estimated fair value of the intangible asset with its carrying value. If the carrying value of the intangible asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.
Long-Lived Assets	Long-lived Assets The Company accounts for long-lived assets, including intangible assets that are amortized, in accordance with FASB ASC 360-10-05-4, Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets ("FASB ASC 360-10-05-4") which requires that all long-lived assets be reviewed for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Such events and circumstances include the occurrence of an adverse change in the market involving the business employing the related long-lived assets or a situation in which it is more likely than not that the Company will dispose of such assets. If indicators of impairment are present, reviews are performed to determine whether the carrying value of the long-lived assets to be held and used is impaired. Such reviews involve a comparison of the carrying amount of the asset group to the future net undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by those assets over their remaining useful lives. If the comparison indicates that there is impairment, the impairment loss to be recognized as a non-cash charge to earnings is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds their fair value and the impaired assets are written down to their fair value or, if fair value is not readily determinable, to an estimated fair value based on discounted expected future cash flows. Assets to be disposed are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value, less costs to dispose.
Warranty Reserves	*Warranty Reserves* Most of the Company's sales are covered by warranty provisions that generally provide for the repair or replacement of qualifying defective items for a specified period after the time of sale, typically 12 months. The Company establishes reserves for estimated product warranty costs at the time revenue is recognized based upon historical warranty experience and additionally for any known product warranty issues. Although the Company engages in extensive product quality programs and processes, the Company's warranty obligation has been and may in the future be affected by product failure rates, repair or field replacement costs and additional development costs incurred in correcting any product failure.
Stock-Based Compensation	*Stock-Based Compensation* The Company accounts for share-based payment awards in accordance with FASB ASC 718, Compensation — Stock Compensation ("FASB ASC 718"). Share-based payment expense is measured at the grant date based on the fair value of the award and is recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period (generally the vesting period of the award). Determination of the fair values of share-based payment awards at grant date requires judgment, including estimating the expected term of the relevant share-based awards and the expected volatility of the Company's stock. Additionally, management must estimate the amount of share-based awards that are expected to be forfeited. The expected term of share-based awards represents the period of time that the share-based awards are expected to be outstanding and is determined based on historical experience of similar awards, giving consideration to the contractual terms of the awards, vesting schedules and expectations of future employee behavior. The expected volatility is based on the historical volatility of the Company's stock over the expected term of the award. Expected forfeitures are based on historical experience and have not fluctuated significantly during the past three fiscal years.
Pension And Other Postretirement Benefits	*Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits* Gardner Denver sponsors a number of pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans worldwide. The calculation of the pension and other postretirement benefit obligations and net periodic benefit cost under these plans requires the use of actuarial valuation methods and assumptions. In determining these assumptions, the Company consults with outside actuaries and other advisors. These assumptions include the discount rates used to value the projected benefit obligations, future rate of compensation increases, expected rates of return on plan assets and expected healthcare cost trend rates. The discount rates selected to measure the present value of the Company's benefit obligations as of December 31, 2011 and 2010 were derived by examining the rates of high-quality, fixed income securities whose cash flows or duration match the timing and amount of expected benefit payments under the plans. In accordance with GAAP, actual results that differ from the Company's assumptions are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income and amortized through net periodic benefit cost over future periods. While management believes that the assumptions are appropriate, differences in actual experience or changes in assumptions may affect the Company's pension and other postretirement benefit obligations and future net periodic benefit cost. See Note 11 "Benefit Plans" for disclosures related to Gardner Denver's benefit plans, including quantitative disclosures reflecting the impact that changes in certain assumptions would have on service and interest costs and benefit obligations.
Income Taxes	Income *Taxes* The Company has determined tax expense and other deferred tax information based on the asset and liability method. Deferred income taxes are provided on temporary differences between assets and liabilities for financial and tax reporting purposes as measured by enacted tax rates expected to apply when temporary differences are settled or realized. A valuation allowance is established for the portion of deferred tax assets for which it is not more likely than not that a tax benefit will be realized. In accordance with the provisions of FASB ASC 740 Income Taxes, tax benefits are recognized only for tax positions that are more likely than not to be sustained upon examination by tax authorities. The amount recognized is measured as the largest amount of benefit that is greater than 50% likely to be realized upon ultimate settlement. Unrecognized tax benefits are tax benefits claimed in the Company's tax returns that do not meet these recognition and measurement standards. The Company believes that its income tax liabilities, including related interest, are adequate in relation to the potential for additional tax assessments. There is a risk, however, that the amounts ultimately paid upon resolution of audits could be materially different from the amounts previously included in income tax expense and, therefore, could have a material impact on the Company's tax provision, net income and cash flows. The Company reviews its liabilities quarterly, and may adjust such liabilities due to proposed assessments by tax authorities, changes in facts and circumstances, issuance of new regulations or new case law, negotiations between tax authorities of different countries concerning transfer prices, the resolution of audits, or the expiration of statutes of limitations. Adjustments are most likely to occur in the year during which major audits are closed.
Research And Development	*Research and Development* During the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009, the Company spent approximately $39.3 million, $35.9 million, and $36.0 million, respectively on research activities relating to the development of new products and the improvement of existing products. All such expenditures were funded by the Company and were expensed as incurred.
Derivative Financial Instruments	*Derivative Financial Instruments* All derivative financial instruments are reported on the balance sheet at fair value. For derivative instruments that are not designated as hedges, any gain or loss on the derivative is recognized in earnings in the current period. A derivative instrument may be designated as a hedge of the exposure to changes in the fair value of an asset or liability or variability in expected future cash flows if the hedging relationship is expected to be highly effective in offsetting changes in fair value or cash flows attributable to the hedged risk during the period of designation. If a derivative is designated as a fair value hedge, the gain or loss on the derivative and the offsetting loss or gain on the hedged asset, liability or firm commitment are recognized in earnings. For derivative instruments designated as a cash flow hedge, the effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative instrument is reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income and reclassified into earnings in the same period that the hedged transaction affects earnings. The ineffective portion of the gain or loss is immediately recognized in earnings. Gains or losses on derivative instruments recognized in earnings are reported in the same line item as the associated hedged transaction in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Hedge accounting is discontinued prospectively when (1) it is determined that a derivative is no longer effective in offsetting changes in the fair value or cash flows of a hedged item; (2) the derivative is sold, terminated or exercised; (3) the hedged item no longer meets the definition of a firm commitment; or (4) it is unlikely that a forecasted transaction will occur within two months of the originally specified time period. When hedge accounting is discontinued because it is determined that the derivative no longer qualifies as an effective fair-value hedge, the derivative continues to be carried on the balance sheet at its fair value, and the hedged asset or liability is no longer adjusted for changes in fair value. When cash flow hedge accounting is discontinued because the derivative is sold, terminated, or exercised, the net gain or loss remains in accumulated other comprehensive income and is reclassified into earnings in the same period that the hedged transaction affects earnings or until it becomes unlikely that a hedged forecasted transaction will occur within two months of the originally scheduled time period. When hedge accounting is discontinued because a hedged item no longer meets the definition of a firm commitment, the derivative continues to be carried on the balance sheet at its fair value, and any asset or liability that was recorded pursuant to recognition of the firm commitment is removed from the balance sheet and recognized as a gain or loss currently in earnings. When hedge accounting is discontinued because it is probable that a forecasted transaction will not occur within two months of the originally specified time period, the derivative continues to be carried on the balance sheet at its fair value, and gains and losses reported in accumulated other comprehensive income are recognized immediately through earnings.
Comprehensive Income (Loss)	*Comprehensive Income (Loss)* The Company's comprehensive income (loss) consists of net income (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss), consisting of (i) unrealized foreign currency net gains and losses on the translation of the assets and liabilities of its foreign operations, (ii) realized and unrealized foreign currency gains and losses on intercompany notes of a long-term nature and certain hedges of net investments in foreign operations, (iii) unrealized gains and losses on cash flow hedges (consisting of interest rate swaps), net of income taxes, and (iv) pension and other postretirement prior service cost and actuarial gains or losses, net of income taxes. See Note 13 "Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income."
Restructuring Charges	Restructuring *Charges* The Company accounts for costs incurred in connection with the closure and consolidation of facilities and functions in accordance with FASB ASC 420, Exit or Disposal Cost Obligations ("FASB ASC 420"); FASB ASC 712 Compensation — Nonretirement Postemployment Benefits ("FASB ASC 712"); FASB ASC 360-10-05-4; FASB ASC 805, Business Combinations ("FASB ASC 805"); and EITF No. 95-3 (superseded by FASB ASC 805). Such costs include employee termination benefits (one-time arrangements and benefits attributable to prior service); termination of contractual obligations; the write-down of current and long-term assets to the lower of cost or fair value; and other direct incremental costs including relocation of employees, inventory and equipment. A liability is established through a charge to operations for (i) one-time employee termination benefits when management commits to a plan of termination and communicates such plan to the affected group of employees; (ii) employee termination benefits that accumulate or vest based on prior service when it becomes probable that such termination benefits will be paid and the amount of the payment can be reasonably estimated; and (iii) contract termination costs when the contract is terminated or the Company becomes contractually obligated to make such payment. If an operating lease is not terminated, a liability is established when the Company ceases use of the leased property. Other direct incremental costs are charged to operations as incurred. With respect to certain restructuring charges for which the Company expects to receive funding from government grants, such charges are reduced by the amount of anticipated funding in accordance with International Accounting Standard No. 20.
Business Combinations	*Business Combinations* The Company accounts for business combinations by applying the acquisition method in accordance with FASB ASC 805, Business Combinations ("FASB ASC 805"). The Company's consolidated financial statements include the operating results of acquired entities from the respective dates of acquisition. FASB ASC 805 requires that identifiable assets acquired, liabilities assumed and any non-controlling interest in an acquired target be recognized and measured as of the acquisition date at fair value. The excess, if any, of total consideration transferred in a business combination over the fair value of identifiable assets acquired, liabilities assumed and any non-controlling interest is recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as goodwill. Costs incurred by the Company to effect a business combination other than costs related to the issuance of debt or equity securities are included in the Consolidated Statements of Operations in the period the costs are incurred and the services are received.

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Policy)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements reflect the operations of Gardner Denver, Inc. ("Gardner Denver" or the "Company") and its subsidiaries.Certain prior year balance sheet items have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation.

Principles of Consolidation

Principles of Consolidation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements are presented in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States ("GAAP") and include the accounts of the Company and its majority-owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany transactions and accounts have been eliminated in consolidation.

Use Of Estimates

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. The Company regularly evaluates the estimates and assumptions related to the allowance for doubtful trade receivables, inventory obsolescence, warranty reserves, fair value of equity-based awards, goodwill and purchased intangible asset valuations, asset impairments, employee benefit plan liabilities, income tax liabilities and assets and related valuation allowances, uncertain tax positions, restructuring reserves, litigation and other loss contingencies, and the allocation of corporate costs to reportable segments. Actual results could differ materially and adversely from those estimates and assumptions, and such results could affect the Company's consolidated net income, financial position, or cash flows.

Foreign Currency Translation

Foreign Currency Translation

Assets and liabilities of the Company's foreign subsidiaries, where the functional currency is not the U.S. Dollar ("USD"), are translated at the exchange rate in effect at the balance sheet date, while revenues and expenses are translated at average rates prevailing during the year. Adjustments resulting from the translation of the financial statements of foreign operations into USD are excluded from the determination of net income, and are reported in accumulated other comprehensive income, a separate component of stockholders' equity, and included as a component of other comprehensive income (loss). Assets and liabilities of subsidiaries that are denominated in currencies other than the subsidiaries' functional currency are remeasured into the functional currency using end of period exchange rates, or historical rates, for certain balances, where applicable. Gains and losses related to these remeasurements are recorded within the Consolidated Statements of Operations as a component of "Other operating expense, net."

Revenue Recognition

Revenue Recognition

The Company recognizes revenue from the sale of products and services under the provisions of Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 605, Reveunue Recognition. Accordingly, revenue is recognized only when a firm sales agreement is in place, delivery has occurred or services have been rendered and collectability of the fixed or determinable sales price is reasonably assured. These criteria are usually met at the time of product shipment. Service revenue is earned and recognized when services are performed and collection is reasonably assured and is not material to any period presented. The Company's revenue recognition policy does not vary among its various marketing venues, including independent distributors, sales representatives and original equipment manufacturers ("OEM").

In revenue transactions where installation is required, revenue can be recognized when the installation obligation is not essential to the functionality of the delivered product. Certain of the Company's sales of products involve inconsequential or perfunctory performance obligations for non-essential installation supervision or training. These obligations are inconsequential and perfunctory as their fair value is relatively insignificant compared to the related revenue; the Company has a demonstrated history of completing the remaining tasks in a timely manner; the skills required to complete these tasks are not unique to the Company and, in many cases, can be provided by third parties or the customer; and in the event that the Company fails to complete the remaining obligations under the sales contract, it does not have a refund obligation with respect to the product that was delivered. When the only remaining undelivered performance obligation under an arrangement is inconsequential or perfunctory, revenue is recognized on the total contract and a provision for the cost of the unperformed obligation is recorded.

In revenue transactions where the sales agreement includes customer-specific objective criteria, revenue is recognized only after formal acceptance occurs or the Company has reliably demonstrated that all specified customer acceptance criteria have been met. The Company defers the recognition of revenue when advance payments are received from customers before performance obligations have been completed and/or services have been performed.

Sales volume discounts offered to customers are recorded as deductions to gross revenues when the discount is earned. Product returns from customers are recorded as a deduction to gross revenues when the Company can reasonably estimate the amount of such returns. Other sales credits, which may include correction of billing errors, incorrect shipments and settlement of customer disputes, are recorded as deductions to gross revenues.

Cash And Cash Equivalents

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and equivalents are highly liquid investments primarily consisting of demand deposits. Cash and cash equivalents have original maturities of three months or less. Accordingly, the carrying amount of such instruments is considered a reasonable estimate of fair value. As of December 31, 2011, cash of $6.9 million was pledged to financial institutions as collateral to support the issuance of standby letters of credit and similar instruments on behalf of the Company and its subsidiaries.

Accounts Receivable

Accounts Receivable

Trade accounts receivable consist of amounts owed for orders shipped to or services performed for customers and are stated net of an allowance for doubtful accounts. Reviews of customers' creditworthiness are performed prior to order acceptance or order shipment.

Trade accounts receivable are recorded at net realizable value. This value includes an appropriate allowance for doubtful accounts for estimated losses that may result from the Company's inability to fully collect amounts due from its customers. The allowance is determined based on a combination of factors, including the length of time that the trade receivables are past due, history of write-offs and the Company's knowledge of circumstances relating to specific customers' ability to meet their financial obligations.

Inventories

Inventories

Inventories, which consist primarily of raw materials and finished goods, are carried at the lower of cost or market value. Fixed manufacturing overhead is allocated to the cost of inventory based on the normal capacity of production facilities. Unallocated overhead during periods of abnormally low production levels is recognized as cost of sales in the period in which it is incurred. As of December 31, 2011, $248.4 million (80%) of the Company's inventory is accounted for on a first-in, first-out (FIFO) basis and the remaining $63.3 million (20%) is accounted for on a last-in, first-out (LIFO) basis. The Company establishes inventory reserves for estimated obsolescence or unmarketable inventory in an amount equal to the difference between the cost of inventory and its estimated realizable value based upon assumptions about future demand and market conditions. Shipping and handling costs are classified as a component of "Cost of sales" in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Property, Plant And Equipment

Propert, Plant and Equipment

Property, plant and equipment includes the historical cost of land, buildings, equipment and significant improvements to existing plant and equipment or in the case of acquisitions, a fair market value appraisal of such assets completed at the time of acquisition. Repair and maintenance costs that do not extend the useful life of an asset are recorded as expense as incurred. Depreciation is provided using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets as follows: buildings — 10 to 50 years; machinery and equipment — 7 to 15 years; office furniture and equipment — 3 to 10 years; and tooling, dies, patterns, etc. — 3 to 7 years.

Goodwill And Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets

Goodwill and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets

Goodwill is recorded as the difference, if any, between the aggregate consideration paid for an acquisition and the fair value of the net tangible and intangible assets acquired, liabilities assumed, and non-controlling interests, if any. Intangible assets, including goodwill, are assigned to the Company's reporting units based upon their fair value at the time of acquisition. Intangible assets with finite useful lives are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives, which range from 5 to 25 years. In accordance with FASB ASC 350, Intangibles — Goodwill and Other ("FASB ASC 350"), intangible assets deemed to have indefinite lives and goodwill are not subject to amortization but are tested for impairment annually, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset might be impaired or that there is a probable reduction in the fair value of a reporting unit below its aggregate carrying value. The Company performs the impairment test of the carrying values of its goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets at the reporting unit level during the third quarter of each fiscal year using balances as of June 30.

The goodwill impairment test involves a two-step process. The first step involves comparing the estimated fair value of each reporting unit with its aggregate carrying value, including goodwill. If a reporting unit's aggregate carrying value exceeds its estimated fair value, the Company performs the second step of the goodwill impairment test. The second step involves comparing the implied fair value of the affected reporting unit's goodwill with the carrying value of that goodwill to measure the amount of impairment loss, if any.

The impairment test for indefinite-lived intangibles involves a comparison of the estimated fair value of the intangible asset with its carrying value. If the carrying value of the intangible asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.

Long-Lived Assets

Long-lived Assets

The Company accounts for long-lived assets, including intangible assets that are amortized, in accordance with FASB ASC 360-10-05-4, Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets ("FASB ASC 360-10-05-4") which requires that all long-lived assets be reviewed for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Such events and circumstances include the occurrence of an adverse change in the market involving the business employing the related long-lived assets or a situation in which it is more likely than not that the Company will dispose of such assets. If indicators of impairment are present, reviews are performed to determine whether the carrying value of the long-lived assets to be held and used is impaired. Such reviews involve a comparison of the carrying amount of the asset group to the future net undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by those assets over their remaining useful lives. If the comparison indicates that there is impairment, the impairment loss to be recognized as a non-cash charge to earnings is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds their fair value and the impaired assets are written down to their fair value or, if fair value is not readily determinable, to an estimated fair value based on discounted expected future cash flows. Assets to be disposed are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value, less costs to dispose.

Warranty Reserves

Warranty Reserves

Most of the Company's sales are covered by warranty provisions that generally provide for the repair or replacement of qualifying defective items for a specified period after the time of sale, typically 12 months. The Company establishes reserves for estimated product warranty costs at the time revenue is recognized based upon historical warranty experience and additionally for any known product warranty issues. Although the Company engages in extensive product quality programs and processes, the Company's warranty obligation has been and may in the future be affected by product failure rates, repair or field replacement costs and additional development costs incurred in correcting any product failure.

Stock-Based Compensation

Stock-Based Compensation

The Company accounts for share-based payment awards in accordance with FASB ASC 718, Compensation — Stock Compensation ("FASB ASC 718"). Share-based payment expense is measured at the grant date based on the fair value of the award and is recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period (generally the vesting period of the award). Determination of the fair values of share-based payment awards at grant date requires judgment, including estimating the expected term of the relevant share-based awards and the expected volatility of the Company's stock. Additionally, management must estimate the amount of share-based awards that are expected to be forfeited. The expected term of share-based awards represents the period of time that the share-based awards are expected to be outstanding and is determined based on historical experience of similar awards, giving consideration to the contractual terms of the awards, vesting schedules and expectations of future employee behavior. The expected volatility is based on the historical volatility of the Company's stock over the expected term of the award. Expected forfeitures are based on historical experience and have not fluctuated significantly during the past three fiscal years.

Pension And Other Postretirement Benefits

Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits

Gardner Denver sponsors a number of pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans worldwide. The calculation of the pension and other postretirement benefit obligations and net periodic benefit cost under these plans requires the use of actuarial valuation methods and assumptions. In determining these assumptions, the Company consults with outside actuaries and other advisors. These assumptions include the discount rates used to value the projected benefit obligations, future rate of compensation increases, expected rates of return on plan assets and expected healthcare cost trend rates. The discount rates selected to measure the present value of the Company's benefit obligations as of December 31, 2011 and 2010 were derived by examining the rates of high-quality, fixed income securities whose cash flows or duration match the timing and amount of expected benefit payments under the plans. In accordance with GAAP, actual results that differ from the Company's assumptions are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income and amortized through net periodic benefit cost over future periods. While management believes that the assumptions are appropriate, differences in actual experience or changes in assumptions may affect the Company's pension and other postretirement benefit obligations and future net periodic benefit cost. See Note 11 "Benefit Plans" for disclosures related to Gardner Denver's benefit plans, including quantitative disclosures reflecting the impact that changes in certain assumptions would have on service and interest costs and benefit obligations.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes

The Company has determined tax expense and other deferred tax information based on the asset and liability method. Deferred income taxes are provided on temporary differences between assets and liabilities for financial and tax reporting purposes as measured by enacted tax rates expected to apply when temporary differences are settled or realized. A valuation allowance is established for the portion of deferred tax assets for which it is not more likely than not that a tax benefit will be realized.

In accordance with the provisions of FASB ASC 740 Income Taxes, tax benefits are recognized only for tax positions that are more likely than not to be sustained upon examination by tax authorities. The amount recognized is measured as the largest amount of benefit that is greater than 50% likely to be realized upon ultimate settlement. Unrecognized tax benefits are tax benefits claimed in the Company's tax returns that do not meet these recognition and measurement standards. The Company believes that its income tax liabilities, including related interest, are adequate in relation to the potential for additional tax assessments. There is a risk, however, that the amounts ultimately paid upon resolution of audits could be materially different from the amounts previously included in income tax expense and, therefore, could have a material impact on the Company's tax provision, net income and cash flows. The Company reviews its liabilities quarterly, and may adjust such liabilities due to proposed assessments by tax authorities, changes in facts and circumstances, issuance of new regulations or new case law, negotiations between tax authorities of different countries concerning transfer prices, the resolution of audits, or the expiration of statutes of limitations. Adjustments are most likely to occur in the year during which major audits are closed.

Research And Development

Research and Development

During the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009, the Company spent approximately $39.3 million, $35.9 million, and $36.0 million, respectively on research activities relating to the development of new products and the improvement of existing products. All such expenditures were funded by the Company and were expensed as incurred.

Derivative Financial Instruments

Derivative Financial Instruments

All derivative financial instruments are reported on the balance sheet at fair value. For derivative instruments that are not designated as hedges, any gain or loss on the derivative is recognized in earnings in the current period. A derivative instrument may be designated as a hedge of the exposure to changes in the fair value of an asset or liability or variability in expected future cash flows if the hedging relationship is expected to be highly effective in offsetting changes in fair value or cash flows attributable to the hedged risk during the period of designation. If a derivative is designated as a fair value hedge, the gain or loss on the derivative and the offsetting loss or gain on the hedged asset, liability or firm commitment are recognized in earnings. For derivative instruments designated as a cash flow hedge, the effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative instrument is reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income and reclassified into earnings in the same period that the hedged transaction affects earnings. The ineffective portion of the gain or loss is immediately recognized in earnings. Gains or losses on derivative instruments recognized in earnings are reported in the same line item as the associated hedged transaction in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Hedge accounting is discontinued prospectively when (1) it is determined that a derivative is no longer effective in offsetting changes in the fair value or cash flows of a hedged item; (2) the derivative is sold, terminated or exercised; (3) the hedged item no longer meets the definition of a firm commitment; or (4) it is unlikely that a forecasted transaction will occur within two months of the originally specified time period.

When hedge accounting is discontinued because it is determined that the derivative no longer qualifies as an effective fair-value hedge, the derivative continues to be carried on the balance sheet at its fair value, and the hedged asset or liability is no longer adjusted for changes in fair value. When cash flow hedge accounting is discontinued because the derivative is sold, terminated, or exercised, the net gain or loss remains in accumulated other comprehensive income and is reclassified into earnings in the same period that the hedged transaction affects earnings or until it becomes unlikely that a hedged forecasted transaction will occur within two months of the originally scheduled time period. When hedge accounting is discontinued because a hedged item no longer meets the definition of a firm commitment, the derivative continues to be carried on the balance sheet at its fair value, and any asset or liability that was recorded pursuant to recognition of the firm commitment is removed from the balance sheet and recognized as a gain or loss currently in earnings. When hedge accounting is discontinued because it is probable that a forecasted transaction will not occur within two months of the originally specified time period, the derivative continues to be carried on the balance sheet at its fair value, and gains and losses reported in accumulated other comprehensive income are recognized immediately through earnings.

Comprehensive Income (Loss)

Comprehensive Income (Loss)

The Company's comprehensive income (loss) consists of net income (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss), consisting of (i) unrealized foreign currency net gains and losses on the translation of the assets and liabilities of its foreign operations, (ii) realized and unrealized foreign currency gains and losses on intercompany notes of a long-term nature and certain hedges of net investments in foreign operations, (iii) unrealized gains and losses on cash flow hedges (consisting of interest rate swaps), net of income taxes, and (iv) pension and other postretirement prior service cost and actuarial gains or losses, net of income taxes. See Note 13 "Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income."

Restructuring Charges

Restructuring Charges

The Company accounts for costs incurred in connection with the closure and consolidation of facilities and functions in accordance with FASB ASC 420, Exit or Disposal Cost Obligations ("FASB ASC 420"); FASB ASC 712 Compensation — Nonretirement Postemployment Benefits ("FASB ASC 712"); FASB ASC 360-10-05-4; FASB ASC 805, Business Combinations ("FASB ASC 805"); and EITF No. 95-3 (superseded by FASB ASC 805). Such costs include employee termination benefits (one-time arrangements and benefits attributable to prior service); termination of contractual obligations; the write-down of current and long-term assets to the lower of cost or fair value; and other direct incremental costs including relocation of employees, inventory and equipment.

A liability is established through a charge to operations for (i) one-time employee termination benefits when management commits to a plan of termination and communicates such plan to the affected group of employees; (ii) employee termination benefits that accumulate or vest based on prior service when it becomes probable that such termination benefits will be paid and the amount of the payment can be reasonably estimated; and (iii) contract termination costs when the contract is terminated or the Company becomes contractually obligated to make such payment. If an operating lease is not terminated, a liability is established when the Company ceases use of the leased property. Other direct incremental costs are charged to operations as incurred.

With respect to certain restructuring charges for which the Company expects to receive funding from government grants, such charges are reduced by the amount of anticipated funding in accordance with International Accounting Standard No. 20.

Business Combinations

Business Combinations

The Company accounts for business combinations by applying the acquisition method in accordance with FASB ASC 805, Business Combinations ("FASB ASC 805"). The Company's consolidated financial statements include the operating results of acquired entities from the respective dates of acquisition. FASB ASC 805 requires that identifiable assets acquired, liabilities assumed and any non-controlling interest in an acquired target be recognized and measured as of the acquisition date at fair value. The excess, if any, of total consideration transferred in a business combination over the fair value of identifiable assets acquired, liabilities assumed and any non-controlling interest is recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as goodwill. Costs incurred by the Company to effect a business combination other than costs related to the issuance of debt or equity securities are included in the Consolidated Statements of Operations in the period the costs are incurred and the services are received.