Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Abstract] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures, Defined Benefit Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans [Domain] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain] United States pension liabilities [Member] United States Pension Plans of US Entity, Defined Benefit [Member] Non-United States pension liabilities [Member] Foreign Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] Other postretirement liabilities [Member] Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Changes in pension and other postretirement benefit liabilities recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive loss Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax, [Abstract] Balance at January 1 Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax Prior service cost arising during the year Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Prior Service Cost (Credit) Arising During Period, before Tax Net loss arising during the year Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Unamortized Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, before Tax Foreign currency translation Defined Benefit Plan Amounts Recognized In Other Comprehensive Income Foreign Currency Translation Defined Benefit Plan Amounts Recognized In Other Comprehensive Income Foreign Currency Translation. Less amounts included in expense during the year Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Gain (Loss) Recognized in Net Periodic Benefit Cost, before Tax Other Defined Benefit Plan Amounts Recognized In Other Comprehensive Income Other Defined benefit plan amounts recognizedIn other comprehensive income other. Net change for the year Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax Balance at December 31 Fair Value Measurements (Tables) [Abstract] Fair Value Measurements. Summary of financial instruments recognized at fair value and fair value measurement used Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Summary of carrying value of short-term investments Available-for-sale Securities [Table Text Block] Stock Options and Restricted Stock Units Textuals [Abstract] Stock Options and Restricted Stock Units Textuals [Abstract] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Axis] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Axis] Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Domain] Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Domain] Stock Compensation Plan [Member] Stock Compensation Plan [Member] Stock Options [Member] Stock Options [Member] Restricted Stock [Member] Restricted Stock [Member] Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) [Member] Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) [Member] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Summary of stock options Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Business Combinations [Abstract] ACQUISITIONS OF BUSINESSES Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Statement, Scenario [Axis] Statement, Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Net income Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Adjustments to reconcile to net cash provided by operating activities Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Deferred income taxes Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Income Taxes Pension expense Increase (Decrease) in Pension Plan Obligations Contributions to pension plans Pension Contributions Contributions to other postretirement benefits plans Other Postretirement Benefits Payments Excess tax benefit from equity-based compensation Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Operating Activities Changes in working capital Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Accounts receivable-net Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Inventory Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Accounts payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable Accrued compensation Increase (Decrease) in Accrued Salaries Accrued income and other taxes Increase (Decrease) in Accrued Taxes Payable Other current assets Increase (Decrease) in Other Current Assets Other current liabilites Increase (Decrease) in Other Current Liabilities Other-net Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Capital expenditures for property, plant and equipment Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Cash paid for acquisitions of businesses Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Sales (purchases) of short-term investments-net Payments for (Proceeds from) Short-term Investments Other-net Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Borrowings with original maturities of more than three months Proceeds from (Repayments of) Debt, Maturing in More than Three Months [Abstract] Proceeds Proceeds from Debt, Maturing in More than Three Months Payments Repayments of Debt, Maturing in More than Three Months Borrowings (payments) with original maturities of less than three months-net (primarily commercial paper) Proceeds from (Repayments of) Short-term Debt, Maturing in Three Months or Less Cash dividends paid Payments of Dividends Exercise of employee stock options Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised Repurchase of shares Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Excess tax benefit from equity-based compensation Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Financing Activities Other-net Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash used in financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Effect of foreign exchange rate changes on cash Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Total increase (decrease) in cash Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash at the beginning of the period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash at the end of the period Business Segment and Geographic Region Information [Abstract] Business segment and geographic region information. Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Statement, Geographical [Axis] Segment, Geographical [Domain] United States UNITED STATES Non-United States Foreign Country [Member] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Sales by customer destination Sales by Customer Destination Sales by Destination where the customer is located Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] 7.58% notes due 2012 [Member] 7.58% notes due 2012. 5.75% notes due 2012 [Member] Note 5 Point 75 Percentage Due 2012. 4.9% notes due 2013 [Member] 4.9% notes due 2013. 5.95% notes due 2014 [Member] 5.95% notes due 2014. Floating rate notes due 2014 [Member] Floating rate notes due 2014 [Member] Floating rate notes due 2014 [Member] 4.65% notes due 2015 [Member] 4.65% notes due 2015. 12.5% U.K. pound sterling debentures due 2014 [Member] 12.5% U.K. pound sterling debentures due 2014. 5.3% notes due 2017 [Member] 5.3% notes due 2017. 6.875% to 7.09% notes due 2018 [Member] 6.875% to 7.09% notes due 2018. 5.6% notes due 2018 [Member] 5.6% notes due 2018. 4.215% Japanese Yen notes due 2018 [Member] 4.215% Japanese Yen notes due 2018. 6.95% notes due 2019 [Member] 6.95% notes due 2019 [Member] 6.95% notes due 2019. 8-7/8% debentures due 2019 [Member] 8-7/8% debentures due 2019. 8.10% debentures due 2022 [Member] 8.10% debentures due 2022. 7.625% debentures due 2024 [Member] 7.625% debentures due 2024. 6-1/2% debentures due 2025 [Member] 6-1/2% debentures due 2025. 7.875% debentures due 2026 [Member] 7.875% debentures due 2026. 7.65% debentures due 2029 [Member] 7.65% debentures due 2029. 5.45% debentures due 2034 [Member] 5.45% debentures due 2034. 5.25% notes due 2035 [Member] 5.25% notes due 2035. 5.8% notes due 2037 [Member] 5.8% notes due 2037. Other long-term debt [Member] Other long term debt. Summary of long-term debt, including the current portion Debt Instrument [Line Items] Total long-term debt Long-term Debt Less current portion of long-term debt Other Long-term Debt, Current Long-term debt less current portion Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Total long-term debt Long Term Debt and Capital Lease Obligation Total long-term debt. Related long-term debt converted to floating interest rates by interest rate swaps Related long term debt converted to floating interest rates by interest rate swaps Related long-term debt converted to floating interest rates by interest rate swaps. Related long-term debt converted to fixed interest rate by interest rate swap Related long-term debt converted to fixed interest rate by interest rate swap Related long-term debt converted to fixed interest rate by interest rate swap Interest rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage $300 floating rate senior unsecured notes due June 16, 2014 $300 floating rate senior unsecured notes due June 6, 2014 $300 floating rate senior unsecured notes due June 6, 2014 Debt instrument basis spread on variable rate Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Short-term debt Short-term Debt Percentage of principal company must offer to purchase all or part of the note if certain change of control events occur Percentage of Princiapal Company Must Offer To Purchase Note At If Change of Control Events Occur Percentage of Princiapal Company Must Offer To Purchase Note At If Change of Control Events Occur Long-term line of credit Long-term Line of Credit Revolving credit due to expire Revolving credit expiring at a given date Minimum interest rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Minimum Maximum interest rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Maximum Line of credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Line of credit facility, current borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity Current portion of long-term debt Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current Borrowings outstanding under revolving credit facilities Proceeds from Lines of Credit Short-term Debt [Abstract] US short term commerical paper US short term commercial paper Short-term debt, weighted average interest rate Short-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate US other short-term debt US other short term debt US other short term debt Non-US short-term debt Non US short term debt Non US short term debt United States Line of Credit United States Line of Credit United States Line of Credit Non-US short-term line of credit available Non US Short term line of credit available Non US short term line of credit available Maturities of Long-term Debt [Abstract] 2012 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months 2013 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two 2014 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three 2015 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four 2016 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Interest Expense [Abstract] Interest paid on debt Interest Expense, Debt Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Summary of interest rate swaps Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions [Table Text Block] Floating to fixed interest rate swaps Schedule of floating to fixed interest rate swaps [Table Text Block] Floating to fixed interest rate swaps [Table Text Block] Fair value of derivative financial instruments recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheet Schedule of Derivative Instruments [Table Text Block] Amounts recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Derivative Financial Instruments Amounts Recognized In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Text Block Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income. Amounts recognized in net income Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) in Statement of Financial Performance [Table Text Block] Income Taxes (Textuals) [Abstract] Income Taxes Textuals Abstract. Income Taxes Textuals [Table] Income Taxes Textuals [Table] Income Taxes Textuals [Table] Income Taxes (Textuals) [Axis] Income Taxes (Textuals) [Axis] Income Taxes (Textuals) [Domain] Income Taxes (Textuals) [Domain] Income Taxes (Textuals) [Line Items] Income Taxes (Textuals) [Line Items] Unrecognized tax benefits that would impact effective tax rate Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Income Taxes [Abstract] Income Taxes [Abstract] Income tax expense without one time charges Income tax expense without one time charges Income tax expense without one time charges. Effective Tax Rate For Income Tax Expense With Out One Time Charges Effective Tax Rate For Income Tax Expense With Out One Time Charges Effective tax rate for income tax expense with out one time charges. Undistributed earnings of non-United States subsidiaries where no provision has been made Taxes On Undistributed Earnings Of Foreign Subsidiaries Taxes on undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries. Income tax expense (benefit) Income Tax Expense (Benefit) IRS Statutory Notice of Deficiency proposed assessment additional tax payments IRS Statutory Notice of Deficiency proposed assessment additional tax payments IRS Statutory Notice of Deficiency proposed assessment additional tax payments IRS Statutory Notice of Deficiency proposed assessment of additional taxes IRS Statutory Notice of Deficiency proposed assessment of additional federal taxes IRS Statutory Notice of Deficiency proposed assessment of additional federal and state taxes Penalties associated with IRS Statutory Notice of Deficiency proposed assessment Penalties associated with IRS Statutory Notice of Deficiency proposed assessment Penalties associated with IRS Statutory Notice of Deficiency proposed assessment Deferred Income Tax Assets and Liabilities [Abstract] Deferred Income Tax Assets and Liabilities [Abstract] United States deferred income tax assets for income tax loss carryforwards Tax Credit Carryforward, Deferred Tax Asset Reduction In deferred income tax assets for tax benefit related to exercise of stock optons Reduction In Income Tax Assets For Excess Income Tax Benefit Reduction in income tax assets for excess income tax benefit. US federal deferred income tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net Recoverability of Deferred Income Tax Assets [Abstract] Recoverability of Deferred Income Tax Assets [Abstract] Taxable income In carryforward period Taxable Income In carryforward period Taxable income in carryforward period. Exceptions related to realization of deferred income tax assets Exceptions related to realization of deferred income tax assets Exceptions related to realization of deferred income tax assets. Number of years of cumulative pretax income in a particular jurisdiction to determine deferred tax assets will not be recognized Number of years of cumulative pretax income in a particular jurisdiction to determine deferred tax assets will not be recognized Number of years of cumulative pretax income in a particular jurisdiction to determine deferred tax assets will not be recognized Number of years of cumulative pretax losses in particular jurisdiction to determine if deferred tax assets can be recognized Number of years of cumulative pretax losses in particular jurisdiction in determination of deferred tax assets Cumulative pretax losses in particular jurisdiction Percent reduction in assessed penalties by Brazilian tax authorities Percent reduction in assessed penalties by Brazilian tax authorities Percent reduction in assessed penalties by Brazilian tax authorities Number of years estimated to resolve Brazilian tax assessment Number of years estimated to resolve international tax assessment Number of years estimated to resolve international tax assessment Carryforward period for net operating losses and general business credits Tax Credit Carryforward, Expiration Dates Income tax examination, penalties and interest accrued Income Tax Examination, Penalties and Interest Accrued Components of current and long-term deferred income taxes [Abstract] Components of current and long-term deferred income taxes [Abstract] Components Of Current And Long-Term Deferred Income Taxes [Table] Components Of Current And Long-Term Deferred Income Taxes [Table] Components Of Current And Long-Term Deferred Income Taxes [Table] Deferred Tax Assets And Liabilities [Axis] Deferred tax assets and liabilities. Deferred Tax Assets And Liabilities [Domain] Deferred tax assets and liabilities. Current Assets [Member] Current assets. Long-term assets and liabilities [Member] Long-term assets and liabilities. Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] Deferred tax assets and liabilities. Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals [Abstract] Employee benefits Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Employee Benefits Depreciation and amortization Deferred tax liability depreciation and amortization Deferred tax liability depreciation and amortization Other accruals and adjustments Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Reserves Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities), Net [Abstract] Other items Deferred Tax Assets, Other United States federal income tax loss carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Domestic United States federal income tax credit carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets Tax Credit Carryforwards Domestic Deferred tax assets tax credit carryforwards domestic. United States state and local tax loss carryforwards and tax credit carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets State And Local Tax Loss Carryforwards And Tax Credit Carryforwards Deferred tax assets state and local tax loss carryforwards and tax credit carryforwards. Non-United States tax loss carryforward Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Foreign Non-United States income tax credit carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards, Foreign Valuation allowance for income tax loss and income tax credit carryforwards Valuation Allowance For Income Tax Loss And Income Tax Credit Carryforwards Valuation allowance for income tax loss and income tax credit carryforwards. Other valuation allowance Deferred Tax Asset Valuation Allowance Other Deferred tax asset valuation allowance other. Total deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities), Net Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] E.A. Pedersen Company [Member] E.A. Pedersen Company [Member] IE Power, Inc. [Member] IE Power, Inc. acquisition in November 30, 2010 E. Begerow GmbH & Co. KG [Member] E. Begerow GmbH Co. KG [Member] E. Begerow GmbH Co. KG acquisition ACTOM Low Voltage [Member] ACTOM Low Voltage acquisition C.I. ESI de Colombia S.A. [Member] C.I. ESI de Colombia S.A. [Member] Internormen Technology Group [Member] Internormen Technology Group [Member] Internormen Technology Group. Eaton-SAMC (Shanghai) Aircraft Conveyance System Manufacturing Co., Ltd. [Member] Eaton Samc Shanghai Aircraft Conveyance System Manufacturing Company Limited [Member] Eaton-SAMC (Shanghai) Aircraft Conveyance System Manufacturing Co., Ltd. Tuthill Coupling Group [Member] Tuthill Coupling Group [Member] Tuthill coupling group. Chloride Phoenixtec Electronics [Member] Chloride Phoenixtec Electronics [Member] CopperLogic, Inc. [Member] Copper Logic Inc Member CopperLogic, Inc. Wright Line Holding, Inc. [Member] Wright Line Holding Inc [Member] Wright Line Holding Inc [Member] EMC Engineers, Inc. [Member] EMC Engineers Inc [Member] EMC Engineers Inc [Member] Micro Innovation Holding AG [Member] Micro Innovation Holding AG acquired in 2008 SEG Middle East Power Solutions & Switchboard Manufacturer LLC [Member] SEG Middle East Power Solutions & Switchboard Manufacturer LLC [Member] SEG Middle East Power Solutions & Switchboard Manufacturer LLC acquired in 2008 Polimer Kaucuk Sanayi ve Pazarlama A.S. [Domain] Polimer Kaucuk Sanayi ve Pazarlama A.S. [Domain] Polimer Kaucuk Sanayi ve Pazarlama A.S. [Member] Statement, Business Segments [Axis] Statement, Business Segments [Axis] Segment, Business [Domain] Segment [Domain] Aerospace [Member] Segment Five Member Segment Five Member. Hydraulics [Member] Segment Two Member Segment two. Electrical Rest of World [Member] Segment One [Member] Segment One Member. Electrical Americas [Member] Segment Four Member Segment Four Member. Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Description of annual sales from acquired entity from previous periods Description of annual sales from acquired entity from previous periods Abstract Description of annual sales from acquired entity from previous periods. Revenue reported for last annual period of acquired entity Business Acquisition, Revenue Reported by Acquired Entity for Last Annual Period Cash paid for acquisition of businesses Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes Income Loss From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes [Text Block] Income loss from continuing operations before income taxes. Income tax expense benefit Income Tax Expense Benefit [Text Block] Income tax expense benefit. Reconciliations of income taxes from the United States federal statutory rate Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Worldwide income tax payments Income Taxes Paid Net [Text Block] Income taxes paid net. Components of current and long-term deferred income taxes Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] United States federal income tax loss carryforwards and income tax credit carryforwards and expiration dates Deferred Tax Assets Income Tax Loss Carryforwards And Income Tax Credit Carryforwards Domestic [Text Block] Deferred tax assets income tax loss carryforwards and income tax credit carryforwards domestic. United States state and local tax loss carryforwards and tax credit carryforwards and expiration dates Deferred Tax Assets Income Tax Loss Carryforwards And Income Tax Credit Carryforwards State And Local [Text Block] Deferred tax assets income tax loss carryforwards and income tax credit carryforwards state and local. Non-United States subsidiaries tax loss carryforwards and income tax credit carryforwards and expiration dates Deferred Tax Assets Income Tax Loss Carryforwards And Income Tax Credit Carryforwards Foreign [Text Block] Deferred tax assets income tax loss carryforwards and income tax credit carryforwards foreign. Summary of gross unrecognized income tax benefits Reconciliation Of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Excluding Amounts Pertaining To Examined Tax Returns [Text Block] Reconciliation of unrecognized tax benefits excluding amounts pertaining to examined tax returns. Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets by Measurement [Axis] Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets by Measurement [Axis] Fair Value Plan Asset Measurement [Domain] Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Other observable inputs (Level 2) [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Unobservable inputs (Level 3) [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Non-United States equity and global equities Common Collective Trusts, Non-United States Equity and Global Equities Fair Value of Pension Plan Assets - Common Collective Trusts, Non-United States Equity and Global Equities United States equity Common Collective Trusts, United States Equity Fair Value of Pension Plan Assets - Common Collective Trusts, United States Equity Fixed income Common Collective Trusts, Fixed Income Fair Value of Pension Plan Assets - Common Collective Trusts, Fixed Income Long duration funds Common Collective Trusts, Long Duration Funds Fair Value of Pension Plan Assets - Common Collective Trusts, Long Duration Funds Fixed income securities Fixed Income Securities Fair Value of Pension Plan Assets - Fixed Income Securities United States treasuries United States Treasuries Fair Value of Pension Plan Assets - United States Treasuries Real estate Real Estate Fair Value of Pension Plan Assets - Real Estate Equity securities Equity Securities Fair Value of Pension Plan Assets - Equity Securities Cash equivalents Cash Equivalents Fair Value of Pension Plan Assets - Cash Equivalents Registered investment companies Registered Investment Companies Fair Value of Pension Plan Assets - Registered Investment Companies Other Other Fair Value of Pension Plan Assets - Other Total pension plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations United States pension plan percentage of worldwide pension assets United States pension plan percentage of worldwide pension assets United States plan of worldwide pension assets United Kingdom pension plan percentage of worldwide pension assets United Kingdom pesnion plan percentage of worldwide pension assets United Kingdom plans of worldwide pension assets United States pension plan target allocation of United States equities United States pension plan target allocation of United States equities Defined Benefit Plan, Target Allocation Percentage of Assets, United States Equity Securities: Target allocation percentage of investments in United States equity securities to total plan assets presented on a weighted-average basis as of the measurement date of the latest statement of financial position. United States pension plan target allocation of non-United States equities United States pension plan target allocation of non-United States equities Defined Benefit Plan, Target Allocation Percentage of Assets, Non-United States Equity Securities: Defined Benefit Plan, Target Allocation Percentage of Assets, United States Equity Securities: Target allocation percentage of investments in non-United States equity securities to total plan assets presented on a weighted-average basis as of the measurement date of the latest statement of financial position. United States pension plan target allocation of real estate Defined Benefit Plan, Target Allocation Percentage of Assets, Real Estate United States target allocation of debt securities and other, including cash equivalents Defined Benefit Plan, Target Allocation Percentage of Assets, Debt Securities and Other, Including Cash Equivalents Defined Benefit Plan, Target Allocation Percentage of Assets, Debt Securities and Other: Target allocation percentage of investments in debt securities and other, including cash equivalents, to total plan assets presented on a weighted-average basis as of the measurement date of the latest statement of financial position. United Kingdom pension plan target allocation of equities United Kingdom pension plan target allocation of equities United Kingdom target allocation of equities Other postretirement benefits plans [Member] Assumptions used to determine benefit obligation at year-end Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Benefit Obligation [Abstract] Discount rate Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate Health care cost trend rate assumed for next year Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used to Determine Benefit Obligation, Health Care Cost Trend Rate Assumed For Next Year Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used to Determine Benefit Obligation, Health Care Cost Trend Rate Assumed For Next Year Ultimate health care cost trend rate Defined Benefit Plan Ultimate Health Care Cost Trend Rate Assumptions Used To Determine Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan Ultimate Health Care Cost Trend Rate Assumptions Used To Determine Benefit Obligation Year ultimate health care cost trend rate is achieved Defined Benefit Plan, Year that Rate Reaches Ultimate Trend Rate Assumptions used to determine expense Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract] Discount rate Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate Initial health care cost trend rate Assumptions Used To Determine Expense Initial Health Care Cost Trend Rate Assumptions used to determine expense initial health care cost trend rate. Ultimate health care cost trend rate Defined Benefit Plan, Ultimate Health Care Cost Trend Rate Year ultimate health care cost trend rate is achieved Defined Benefit Plan Year That Rate Reaches Ultimate Trend Rate Assumptions Used To Determine Expense Defined Benefit Plan Year That Rate Reaches Ultimate Trend Rate Assumptions Used To Determine Expense. Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One-Percentage Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Abstract] Effect on total service and interest cost, 1% increase Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Service and Interest Cost Components Effect on total service and interest cost, 1% decrease Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Service and Interest Cost Components Effect on other postretirement liabilities, 1% increase Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation Effect on other postretirement liabilities, 1% decrease Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation Geographic Regions [Abstract] Geographic Regions [Abstract] Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] Statement, Geographical [Axis] Segment, Geographical [Domain] Canada CANADA Latin America [Member] Latin America. Europe [Member] Europe. Asia Pacific [Member] Asia Pacific. Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] Net sales Revenue, Net Net property, plant and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Net United States operations net exports of products United States operations net exports of products United States operations net exports of products Description of annual sales from acquired entity from previous periods Description Of Annual Sales From Acquired Entity From Previous Periods Text Block Description Of Annual Sales From Acquired Entity From Previous Periods Text Block. Fair Value of Other Postretirement Benefits Plan Assets [Abstract] Fair Value of Other Postretirement Benefits Plan Assets [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Fair Value of Other Postretirement Benefit Plan Assets [Axis] Fair Value of Other Postretirement Benefit Plan Assets [Axis] Fair Value of Other Postretirement Benefit Plan Assets [Axis] Fair Value Postretirement Benefits Plan Assets [Domain] Fair Value Postretirement Benefits Plan Assets [Domain] Fair Value Postretirement Benefits Plan Assets [Domain] Fair Value of Other Postretirement Benefits Plan Assets [Line Items] Fair Value of Other Postretirement Benefits Plan Assets [Line Items] Fair Value of Other Postretirement Benefits Plan Assets Global securities Global Securities Fair Value of Other Postretirement Benefit Plan Assets Global Securities Fair Value of other postretirement benefits Fixed income securities Fixed Income Securities Fair Value of Other Postretirement Benefits Plans Fixed Income Securities Fair Value of Other Postretirement Benefits Plans Cash equivalents Cash Equivalents Fair Value of Postretirement Benefits Plan Assets Cash Equivalents Fair Value of Postretirement Benefits Plan Assets Total other postretirement benefit plan assets Fair Value of Other Postretirement Benefits Plan Assets Fair Value of Other Postretirement Benefits Plan Assets Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Foreign curency translation and related hedging instruments (net of income tax benefits of $43 in 2011 and $32 in 2010) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Pensions (net of income tax benefit of $651 in 2011 and $489 in 2010) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Defined Pension Plans Net of Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Defined Pension Plans Net of Tax Other postretirement benefits (net of income tax benefits of $110 in 2011 and $99 in 2010) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Defined Benefit Other Postretirement Plans Net Of Tax Accumulated other comprehensive income loss, defined benefit other postretirement plans, net of tax. Cash flow hedges (net of income tax benefit of $8 in 2011 and income tax expense of $4 in 2010) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax Total accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Foreign currency translation and related hedging instruments income tax benefit Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment Income Tax Benefit Accumulated other comprehensive loss foreign currency translation adjustment income tax benefit Pensions income tax benefits Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Defined Benefit Pension Plans Income Tax Benefit Accumulated other comprehensive income loss, defined benefit pension plans, net of tax. Postretirement benefits income tax benefits Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Postretirement Benefits Income Tax Benefits Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Postretirement Benefits Income Tax Benefits Cash flow hedges income tax expense Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Cash Flow Hedges Net of Income Taxes Accumulated other comprehensive income loss cumulative changes in net gain loss from cash flow hedges effect, tax. Cash flow hedges income tax benefit Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Cash Flow Hedges Net of Income Tax Benefit Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Cash Flow Hedges Net of Income Tax Benefit in the balance sheet Long-term Debt Long-term Debt [Text Block] United States pension plans [Member] Non-United States pension plans [Member] Rate of compensation increase Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Rate of Compensation Increase Expected long-term return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets Rate of compensation increase Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Rate of Compensation Increase Defined Contribution Pension and Other Postretirement Plans Disclosure [Abstract] Defined Contribution Plans [Table] Defined Contribution Plans [Table] Defined Contribution Plans [Table] - Employer Contributions Charged to Expense Defined Contribution Plans [Axis] Defined Contribution Plans [Axis] Defined Contribution Plans [Domain] Defined Contribution Plans [Domain] Defined Contribution Plans [Line Items] Defined Contribution Plans [Line Items] Employer contributions to defined contribution plans Defined Contribution Plans, Employer Contributions Defined Contribution Plans, Employer Contributions - Amounts charged to expense Fair Value Measurements (Details) [Abstract] Fair Value Measurements. Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis [Table] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Summary of financial insturments recognized at fair value and fair value measurement used [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Summary of financial instruments recognized at fair value and fair value measurement used Summary Of Financial Instruments Recognized At Fair Value And Fair Value Measurement Used Abstract Summary of financial instruments recognized at fair value and fair value measurement used. Cash Cash Short-term investments Short-term Investments Net derivative contracts Derivative, Fair Value, Net Long-term debt converted to floating interest rates by interest rate swaps Interest Rate Fair Value Hedge Derivative at Fair Value, Net Acquisition Integration and Restructuring Charges (Tables) [Abstract] Acquisition Integration and Restructuring Charges. Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Series of Individually Immaterial Business Acquisitions [Member] Series of Individually Immaterial Business Acquisitions [Member] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Axis] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Plant Closing and Other [Member] Facility Closing [Member] Workforce Reductions [Member] Employee Severance [Member] Employee Relocation [Member] Employee Relocation [Member] Contract Termination [Member] Contract Termination [Member] Acquisition Integration Charges [Line Items] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Acquisition Integration Charges [Text Block] Acquisition Integration Charges [Text Block] Acquisition Integration Charges Text Block. Total pension plans [Member] Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items] Employer contributions to pension plans Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer Funding postretirement Medicare Part D prescription drug benefits into VEBA trust Funding postretirement Medicare Part D prescription drug benefits Funding postretirement Medicare Part D prescription drug benefits for for union employees and non-union retirees. VEBA target trust allocation in diversified global equities VEBA target trust allocation in diversified global equities VEBA target trust allocation in diversified global equities VEBA target trust allocation in fixed income securities VEBA target trust allocation in fixed income securities VEBA target trust allocation in fixed income securities Company contribution to United States qualified pension plan Company contribution to United States qualified pension plan Company contribution to United States qualified pension plan Acquisition Integration and Restructuring Charges (Details) [Abstract] Acquisition Integration And Restructuring Charges. Schedule of Acquisition Integration Charges [Table] Schedule of Acquisition Integration Charges [Table] Total integration charges before income taxes [Domain] Automotive [Member] Segment Three Member Segment Three Member. All Segments [Member] All Segments. Corporate [Member] Unallocated Amount to Segment [Member] Acquisition Integration Charges [Line Items] Acquisition Integration Charges [Line Items] Acquisition Integration Charges Acquisition Integration Charges [Abstract] Acquisition Integration Charges Abstract. Total integration charges before income taxes Business Combination, Integration Related Costs After-tax integration charges Acquisition Integration After Tax Charges Acquisition Integration After Tax Charges. Per common share Acquisition Integration Charges Per Common Share Acquisition Integration Charges Per Common Share. Accounts Receivable And Inventory (Textuals) [Abstract] Accounts receivable and inventory. Percentage of inventory at FIFO accounted for using the LIFO method Percentage of LIFO Inventory Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Inventory Disclosure [Abstract] Raw materials Inventory, Raw Materials Work-in-process Inventory, Work in Process Finished goods Inventory, Finished Goods Inventories at FIFO FIFO Inventory Amount Excess of FIFO over LIFO cost Excess of Replacement or Current Costs over Stated LIFO Value Total inventory Inventory, Net Acquisition Integration and Restructuring Charges [Abstract] Acquisition Integration and Restructuring Charges. Acquisition Integration Charges Business Acquisition, Integration, Restructuring and Other Related Costs [Text Block] Components of pension plans with an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets [Abstract] Projected benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Projected Benefit Obligation Accumulated benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Accumulated Benefit Obligation Fair value of plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Fair Value of Plan Assets Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract] Eaton Shareholders' Equity [Text Block] Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Stock Options and Restricted Units (Details) [Abstract] Stock options and restricted units. Number of Restricted Stock Units Weighted-average fair value per award [Member] Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] Employee Stock Option [Member] Employee Stock Option [Member] Compensation expense not yet recognized related to non-vested RSU Employee Service Share-Based Compensation, Non Vested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not Yet Recognized, Other Than Options Employee Service Share-Based Compensation, Non Vested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not Yet Recognized, Other Than Options Weighted average period for total compensation expense not yet recognized Weighted average period for total compensation expense not yet recognized Employee Service Share-Based Compensation, Non Vested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not Yet Recognized, Period For Recognition, Other Than Options Excess tax benefit for restricted stock units and other equity-based compensation Proceeds and Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation Non-vested at January 1 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Granted Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Vested Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Forfeited Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Non-vested at December 31 Non-vested at January 1 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Granted Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Vested Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Forfeited Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Non-vested at December 31 Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Table] Derivatives, Fair Value, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis] Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis] Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Fixed-to-floating interest rate swaps Interest Rate Contract [Member] Foreign currency exchange contracts Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Commodity contracts Commodity Contract [Member] Cross currency swaps Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member] Related Long Term Debt Converted To Floating Interest Rates By Interest Rate Swaps [Member] Related Long Term Debt Converted To Floating Interest Rates By Interest Rate Swaps. Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Income Statement Location [Axis] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement and Other Comprehensive Income Location [Domain] Income Statement and Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Location [Domain] Cost of Sales [Member] Cost of Sales [Member] Interest Expense [Member] Interest Expense [Member] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship [Axis] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Fair Value Hedging [Member] Fair Value Hedging [Member] Cash Flow Hedging [Member] Cash Flow Hedging [Member] Net Investment Hedging [Member] Net Investment Hedging [Member] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income Amounts Recognized In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Abstract Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income. Gain (loss) recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Effective Portion, Net Gain (loss) reclassified from Accumulated other comprehensive loss Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net Amounts recognized in net income Amounts Recognized In Net Income Abstract Amounts recognized in net income. Gain (loss) recognized in net income Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Net Long Term Debt and Capital Lease Obligation Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities (Textuals) [Abstract] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities. Losses associated with commodity hedge contracts Gain (Loss) on Sale of Commodity Contracts Foreign currency debt designated as non-derivative investment hedging instruments Foreign Currency Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Liability at Fair Value Eaton's target percentage of managing intercompany balance sheet exposure Percentage of intercompany balance sheet exposure Percentage of intercompany balance sheet exposure. Cash received from early termination of interest rate swaps Proceeds from Early Termination of Interest Rate Swaps Proceeds from Early Termination of Interest Rate Swaps. Defined Benefit Pension Plans and Defined Benefit Postretirement Plans Disclosure [Abstract] Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] Actuarial loss Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Gains (Losses) Prior service cost (credit) Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit) Total Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Amounts that Will be Amortized from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) in Next Fiscal Year Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities, Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Summary of carrying value of short-term investments Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items] Time deposits, certificate of deposits and demand deposits with banks Time Deposits, at Carrying Value Money market investments Money Market Funds, at Carrying Value Other Other Short-term Investments Total short-term investments Available-for-sale Securities, Current Information Related to Restricted Stock Units [Abstract] Information Related to Restricted Stock Units [Abstract] Information related to RSU's Schedule Of Share Based Compensation Information related Restricted Stock Units Activity [Text Block] Schedule of share-based compensation information related restricted stock units activity. Fair Value Measurements [Abstract] Fair value measurements. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Acquisition and Integration Charges [Abstract] Acquisition and Integration Charges [Abstract] Beginning balance, employees Restructuring Reserve Employees Restructuring reserve, Employees Liabilities recognized employees Liabilities Recognized Employees Liabilities recognized employees. Utilized employees Utilization Of Various Components Employees Payment and other liability adjustments Ending balance, employees Beginning balance Restructuring Reserve Liabilities recognized Restructuring Reserve, Period Expense Utiliized Utilization Of Various Components utilization of various components. Ending balance Workforce Reduction and Plant Closing (Textuals) [Abstract] Workforce Reduction and Plant Closing (Textuals) [Abstract] Workforce Reduction and Plant Closing (Textuals) [Abstract] Reduction in full time work force Reduction In Full Time Work Force Reduction in full time work force. Restructuring charges Restructuring Charges Segment Reporting [Abstract] Assets, Capex and Depr for PPE by Segment [Table] Assets, Capex and Depr for PPE by Segment [Table] Assets, Capex and Depr for PPE by Segment [Table] Truck [Member] Segment Seven Member Segment Seven Member. Corporate [Member] Segment Six [Member] Segment Six Member. Goodwill Goodwill Other intangible assets Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Total assets Assets Capital expenditures for property, plant and equipment Depreciation of property, plant and equipment Depreciation Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] United States pension benefit expense United States pension benefit expense [Member] United States pension benefit expense Non-United States pension benefit expense [Member] Non-United States pension benefit expense [Member] Non-United States pension benefit expense Other postretirement benefits expense [Member] Other postretirement benefits expense [Member] Service cost Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost Interest cost Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost Expected return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets Amortization Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gains (Losses) Benefit plans Benefit Plans Total Benefit Plans. Curtailment loss Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailments Settlement loss Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net (Gain) Loss Due to Settlements United States pension settlement expense United States pension settlement expense United States pension settlement expense Total expense Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost Restricted lump sum payments, percent Restricted Lump Sum Payments, Percent Restricted percent for lump-sum payments, due to limitations imposed by the Pension Protection Act. Intangible Assets Future Amortization Expense [Abstract] Intangible Assets Future Amortization Expense [Abstract] Finite lived intangible assets future amortization expense [Table] Finite lived intangible assets future amortization expense [Table] Finite lived intangible assets future amortization expense [Table] Finite lived intangible assets future amortization [Axis] Finite lived intangible assets future amortization [Axis] finite lived intangible assets amortization year [Domain] finite lived intangible assets amortization year [Domain] Finite lived intangible assets future amortization expense [Line Items] FInite lived intangible assets future amortization expense [Line Items] FInite lived intangible assets future amortization expense [Line Items] 2011 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense 2012 Future Amortization Expense, Year One 2013 Future Amortization Expense, Year Two 2014 Future Amortization Expense, Year Three 2015 Future Amortization Expense, Year Four 2016 Future Amortization Expense, Year Five Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets [Abstract] Goodwill and other intangible assets. Schedule of Other Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Customer Relationships [Member] Customer Relationships [Member] Patents and Technology [Member] Patents And Technology Member. Finite Lived Intangible Assets, Other [Member] Finite lived intangible assets, other. Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Summary of other intangible assets Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) [Abstract] Intangible assets not subject to amortization (primarily trademarks) Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Intangible assets subject to amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract] Historical cost Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Accumulated amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Summary of Interest Rate Swaps Floating to Fixed Interest Rate Swaps [Abstract] Summary of Interest Rate Swaps [Line Items] Floating to fixed interest rate swaps [Table] Schedule of floating to fixed interest rate swaps [Table] Schedule of floating to fixed interest rate swaps [Table] Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Derivative, Name [Domain] Derivative, Name [Domain] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Notional amount Notional Amount of Interest Rate Fair Value Hedge Derivatives Floating interest rate received on swaps Floating interest rate received on swaps Floating interest rate received on swaps Fixed interest rate paid on swaps Fixed interest rate paid on swaps Fixed interest rate paid on swaps Basis for contracted floating interest rate paid Derivative, Description of Variable Rate Basis DEBT [Abstract] DEBT [Abstract] Summary of long-term debt, including the current portion Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Mandatory maturities of long-term debt for each of the next five years Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Interest paid on debt Interest Costs Incurred Text Block Interest Costs Incurred. Accounts Receivable and Inventory [Abstract] Accounts Receivable and Inventory [Abstract] Components of inventories Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Income from Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes [Abstract] Income from Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes [Abstract] Income from Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes [Table] Income from Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes [Table] Income from Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes [Table] used in the Income Taxes Note Income from Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes [Axis] Income from Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes [Axis] Income from Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes [Domain] Income from Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes [Domain] Income (loss) from Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes [Line Items] Income from Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes [Line Items] Income from Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes [Line Items] United States Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Domestic Non-United States Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Foreign Total income before income taxes Income loss from continuing operations before income taxes Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes. Information Related to Restricted Stock Units [Table] Information Related to Restricted Stock Units [Table] Information Related to Restricted Stock Units [Table] - pretax and after-tax expense for restricted stock units. Information Related to Restricted Stock Units [Axis] Information Related to Restricted Stock Units [Axis] - pretax and after-tax expense related to restricted stock units. Information Related to Restricted Stock Units [Domain] Information Related to Restricted Stock Units [Domain] - pretax and after-tax expense for restricted stock units. Information Related to RSU's [Line Items] Information Related to Relstricted Stock Units [Line Items] Information Related to Relstricted Stock Units [Line Items] - pretax and after-tax expenses related to restricted stock units. Pretax expense for RSU's Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Option Expenses before Taxes Share-based compensation arrangement by share-based payment award equity instruments other than option expenses before taxes. After-tax expense for RSU's Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Option Expenses After Taxes Share-based compensation arrangement by share-based payment award equity instruments other than option expenses after taxes. Estimated United States pension payments [Member] Estimated United States pension payments [Member] Estimated non-United States pension payments [Member] Estimated non-United States pension payments [Member] Estimated non-United States pension payments [Member] Gross [Member] Gross estimated other postretirement benefit payments [Member] Gross estimated other postretirement benefit payments [Member] Medicare Prescription Drug Subsidy [Member] Medicare Prescription Drug Subsidy [Member] Medicare Prescription Drug Subsidy [Member] 2012 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments in Year One Medicare prescription drug subsidy 2012 Prescription Drug Subsidy Receipts, Year One 2013 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments in Year Two Medicare prescription drug subsidy 2013 Prescription Drug Subsidy Receipts, Year Two 2014 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments in Year Three Medicare prescription drug subsidy 2014 Prescription Drug Subsidy Receipts, Year Three 2015 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments in Year Four Medicare prescription drug subsidy 2015 Prescription Drug Subsidy Receipts, Year Four 2016 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments in Year Five Medicare prescription drug subsidy 2016 Prescription Drug Subsidy Receipts, Year Five 2017 - 2021 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments in Five Fiscal Years Thereafter Medicare prescription drug subsidy 2017 - 2021 Prescription Drug Subsidy Receipts, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter Percentage Of Pension Lump Sum Payments Percentage of pension lump sum payments. Income Tax Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards, State and Local, Net of Federal Tax Effect [Abstract] Income Tax Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards, State and Local, Net of Federal Tax Effect [Abstract] Income Tax Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards, State and Local, Net of Federal Tax Effect [Table] Income Tax Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards, State and Local, Net of Federal Tax Effect [Table] Income Tax Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards, State and Local, Net of Federal Tax Effect [Table] Income Tax Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards, State and Local, Net of Federal Tax Effect [Axis] Income Tax Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards, State and Local, Net of Federal Tax Effect [Axis] Income Tax Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards, State and Local, Net of Federal Tax Effect [Domain] Income Tax Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards, State and Local, Net of Federal Tax Effect [Domain] 2012 through 2016 [Member] 2012 through 2016 [Member] 2017 through 2021 [Member] 2017 through 2021 [Member] 2022 through 2026 [Member] 2022 through 2026 [Member] 2027 through 2031 [Member] 2027 through 2031 [Member] Not subject to expiration [Member] Not subject to expiration. Valuation allowance [Member] Related valuation allowance [Member] Related valuation allowance. Income Tax Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards, State and Local, Net of Federal Tax Effect [Line Items] Income Tax Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards, State and Local, Net of Federal Tax Effect [Line Items] United States state and local income tax loss carryforwards - net of federal tax effect Income Tax Loss Carryforwards, State and Local, Net of Federal Tax Effect Income Tax Loss Carryforwards, State and Local, Net of Federal Tax Effect United States state and local income tax credit carryforwards - net of federal tax effect Income Tax Credit Carryforwards, State and Local, Net of Federal Tax Effect Income Tax Credit Carryforwards, State and Local, Net of Federal Tax Effect Information Related to Stock Options [Abstract] Information Related to Stock Options [Abstract] Pretax expense for stock options Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense After-tax expense for stock options Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense, Net of Tax Proceeds from stock options exercised Income tax benefit related to stock options exercised Income Tax Benefit Related To Stock Options Exercised Abstract Income tax benefit related to stock options exercised. Tax benefit classified in operating activities in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Tax benefit for stock options exercised classified in operating activities in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Tax benefit for stock options exercised classified in operating activities excluding RSU's. Excess tax benefit classified in financing activities in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Excess tax benefit for stock options exercised classified in Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Excess tax benefit for stock options exercised classified in Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows excluding RSU's Intrinsic value of stock options exercised Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Total Intrinsic Value Total fair value of stock options vesting Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Options Vesting Fair Value Share-based compensation arrangement by share-based payment award, options vesting, fair value. Stock options exercised, shares Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Non-vested stock option compensation expense not yet recognized Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Non-vested stock options weighted average period for total compensation expense to be recognized Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Stock Options' Fair Value Assumptions [Abstract] Stock Options' Fair Value Assumptions [Abstract] Summary of the assumptions used in determining the fair value of stock options Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block] BUSINESS SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHIC REGION INFORMATION Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Retirement Benefits Plans (Details) [Abstract] Retirement Benefits Plans Details. Change in plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] Balance at January 1 Actual return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets Employer contributions Gross benefits paid Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid Foreign currency translation Defined Benefit Plan, Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Changes, Plan Assets Other Defined benefit plan other changes, plan assets Defined benefit plan other changes, plan assets Balance at December 31 Operating Loss and Tax Carry Forward (United States) [Abstract] Operating Loss and Tax Carry Forward (United States) [Abstract] Operating Loss and Tax Credit Carry Forward [Table] Operating Loss and Tax Credit Carry Forward [Table] Operating loss and tax credit carry forward. Operating Loss and Tax Credit Carry Forward [Axis] Operating loss and tax credit carry forward. Operating Loss and Tax Credt Carry Forward [Domain] Operating loss and tax credt carry forward. State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] Worldwide [Member] Worldwide. Operating Loss and Tax Credit Carry Forward By Expiration Dates [Axis] Operating loss and tax credit carry forward by expiration dates. Operating Loss And Tax Credit Carry Forward By Expiration Dates [Domain] Operating loss and tax credit carry forward by expiration dates. Valuation allowance [Member] Operating Loss and Tax Credit Carry Forward [Line Items] Operating loss and tax credit carry forward. United States federal income tax loss carryforwards Operating Loss Carryforwards United States federal deferred income tax assets for income tax loss carryforwards Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Common Shares [Member] Common Stock [Member] Capital In Excess Of Par Value [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Other Additional Capital [Member] Other Additional Capital [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Retained Earnings, Appropriated [Member] Retained Earnings, Appropriated [Member] Retained Earnings, Unappropriated [Member] Retained Earnings, Unappropriated [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss) [Member] Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss) [Member] Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member] Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member] Accumulated Translation Adjustment [Member] Accumulated Translation Adjustment [Member] Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member] Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member] Deferred Compensation Plans [Member] Deferred Compensation, Share-based Payments [Member] Total Eaton Shareholders' Equity [Member] Parent [Member] Treasury Stock [Member] Treasury Stock [Member] Noncontrolling Interests [Member] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Comprehensive Income [Member] Comprehensive Income [Member] Common shares, shares, outstanding at period start Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Shareholders' equity attributable to parent at period start Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Beginning balance Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Stockholders' equity attributable to noncontrolling interest at period start Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Shareholders' equity attributable to parent at period end Ending balance Stockholders' equity attributable to noncontrolling interest at period end Common shares, shares, outstanding at period end Foreign currency translation and related hedging instruments (net of income tax benefit of $11 for the year 2011 and income tax expense of $45 for the year 2009) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Pensions (net of income tax benefit of $162 and $30 for the years 2011 and 2010 and income tax expense of $42 for the year 2009) Other Comprehensive Income Pension Net Of Tax Other comprehensive income pension net of tax. Other postretirement benefits (net of income tax benefit of $11, $4, and $14 for the years 2011, 2010, and 2009) Other Comprehensive Income Other Postretirement Benefit Net Of Tax Other comprehensive income other postretirement benefit net of tax. Cash flow hedges (net of income tax benefit of $12 for the year 2011 and income tax expense of $19 for the year 2009) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax Other comprehensive income (loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Total comprehensive income loss Total comprehensive income Loss Total comprehensive income loss. Cash dividends paid Dividends, Common Stock, Cash Issuance of shares under employee benefit plans-net (net of income tax benefit of $72 and $3 for the years 2011 and 2009 and income tax expense of $3 for the year 2010) Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Issuance of shares under employee benefit plans-net (net of income tax benefit of $72 and $3 for the years 2011 and 2009 and income tax expense of $3 for the year 2010) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Decrease in noncontrolling interests due to sale of businesses Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Equity Issuance or Sale of Parent Equity Interest Business divestiture Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Redemptions or Purchase of Interests Repurchase of shares Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Shares Repurchase of shares Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Value Restricted Stock Units [Abstract] Restricted Stock Units [Abstract] Summary of the RSU activity Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block] Stock Options Activity [Abstract] Stock Options Activity [Abstract] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table] Weighted-average price per option [Member] Weighted-average price per option [Member] Weighted-average price per option [Member] Weighted-average remaining contractual life in years [Member] Weighted-average remaining contractual life in years [Member] Weighted-average remaining contractual life in years [Member] Aggregate Intrinsic Value [Member] Aggregate Intrinsic Value [Member] Aggregate Intrinsic Value [Member] [Member] Outstanding at January 1, 2011 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Granted Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Exercised Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Forfeited and cancelled Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding at December, 31 2011 Exercisable at December 31,2011 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding at January 1, 2011, shares Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Granted Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures Exercised Stock options exercised and shares issued during the period Stock options exercised and shares issued during the period Forfeited and cancelled Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period Outstanding at December 31, 2011, shares Exercisable at December 31, 2011 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number Reserved for future grants at December 31, 2011 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant Outstanding at December 31, 2011 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Exercisable at December 31, 2011 Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Outstanding at December 31, 2011 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Exercisable at December 31, 2011 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value Closing price of Eaton common shares on last trading day Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award closing price of Common Shares Share-based compensation arrangement by share-based payment award closing price of common shares. Summary of goodwill Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Summary of other intangible assets Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Expense related to intangible assets subject to amortization in 2011, and for each of the next five years Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies. General Information General Information [Policy Text Block] General Information [Policy Text Block] Consolidation Policy Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Foreign Currency Translation Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Long-Lived Assets Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Goodwill and Indefinite Life Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Warranty Accruals Warranty Accruals Policy Text Block Warranty Accruals. Asset Retirement Obligations Asset Retirement Obligations and Environmental Cost, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Tax Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Equity-based Compensation Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Statement [Abstract] Cost of products sold Cost of Revenue Selling and administrative expense Selling, General and Administrative Expense Research and development expense Research and Development Expense Interest expense-net Interest Income (Expense), Net Interest Income (Expense), Nonoperating, Net Interest Income (Expense), Nonoperating, Net Other income-net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Income before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Net income Less net income for noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income attributable to Eaton common shareholders Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Net income per common share Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Diluted Earnings Per Share, Diluted Basic Earnings Per Share, Basic Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding Earnings Per Share, Diluted, Other Disclosures [Abstract] Diluted Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Basic Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Cash dividends paid per common share Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Change in benefit obligations Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward] Balance at January 1 Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation Actuarial loss Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Net (Gains) Losses Foreign currency translation Defined Benefit Plan, Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Changes, Benefit Obligation Other Defined Benefit Plan Other Defined benefit plan other Balance at December 31 Accumulated benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation Worldwide Income Tax Payments [Abstract] Worldwide Income Tax Payments [Abstract] Worldwide Income Tax Payments [Table] Worldwide Income Tax Payments [Table] Worldwide Income Tax Payments [Table] Worldwide Income Tax Payments [Axis] Worldwide Income Tax Payments [Axis] Worldwide Income Tax Payments [Domain] Worldwide Income Tax Payments [Domain] Worldwide Income Tax Payments [Line Items] Worldwide Income Tax Payments [Line Items] Income taxes paid Income Taxes Paid Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Assets Assets [Abstract] Current assets Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash Short-term investments Accounts receivable-net Receivables, Net, Current Inventory Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current Prepaid expenses and other current assets Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Land and buildings Land and buildings Land and buildings, gross Machinery and equipment Machinery and Equipment, Gross Gross property, plant and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Accumulated depreciation Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Net property, plant and equipment Other noncurrent assets Other Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Goodwill Other intangible assets Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Noncurrent Other assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Total assets Liabilities and shareholders' equity Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current liabilities Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Short-term debt Current portion of long-term debt Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current Accrued compensation Employee-related Liabilities, Current Other current liabilities Other Liabilities, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Noncurrent liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] Long-term debt Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Pension liabilities Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Liabilities, Noncurrent Other postretirement benefits liabilities Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plan, Liabilities, Noncurrent Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Liabilities, Noncurrent Other noncurrent liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total noncurrent liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent Shareholders' equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Common shares (334.4 million outstanding in 2011 and 339.9 million in 2010) Common Stock, Value, Outstanding Capital in excess of par Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive loss Deferred compensation plans Deferred Compensation Equity Total Eaton shareholders' equity Noncontrolling interests Total equity Total liabilities and equity Liabilities and Equity Fair Value Measurements Textuals Abstract Fair Value Measurements. Long-term debt and current portion of long term debt, carrying value Long-term debt and current portion of long-term debt, fair value Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure Equity [Abstract] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Comprehensive Income (Loss) Note [Text Block] Calculation of Net Income Per Share Attributable to Common Shareholders Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract] Commitments and contingencies. Current and long-term warranty accruals Schedule of Product Warranty Liability [Table Text Block] Future minimum rental commitments for noncancelable operating leases Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Rental expense Schedule of Rent Expense [Table Text Block] Accounts Receivable and Inventory Accounts Receivable and Inventory [Text Block] Accounts Receivable and Inventory [Text Block] Obligations and Funded Status (Details) [Abstract] Obligations and Funded Status (Details) [Abstract] Funded status Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan [Abstract] Fair value of plan assets Benefit obligations Funded status Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan Amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet [Abstract] Non-current assets Defined Benefit Plan, Assets for Plan Benefits, Noncurrent Current liabilities Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Current Liabilities Non-current liabilities Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent Total Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet Amounts recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive loss (pretax) Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax [Abstract] Net actuarial loss Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gains (Losses), before Tax Prior service cost (credit) Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax Total Summary of Interest Rate Swaps Outstanding [Abstract] Summary of Interest Rate Swaps Outstanding [Abstract] Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Forward Contracts [Member] Forward Contracts [Member] Future [Member] Future [Member] Options Held [Member] Options Held [Member] Swap [Member] Swap [Member] Warrant [Member] Warrant [Member] Debt [Member] Debt [Member] Derivative, Fixed Interest Rate Derivative, Fixed Interest Rate Derivative, Variable Interest Rate Derivative, Variable Interest Rate Earnings Per Share Reconciliation [Abstract] Net income attributable to Eaton common shareholders Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Weighted-average number of shares outstanding-diluted Less dilutive effect of stock options and restricted stock awards Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment Weighted-average number of shares outstanding-basic Net income per common share, diluted Net income per common share, basic Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Abstract] Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table] Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table] Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table] Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Axis] Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Axis] Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Domain] Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Domain] State and local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Line Items] Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Line Items] Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Abstract] Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Abstract] Federal Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) State and local Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) Non-United States Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Abstract] Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Abstract] Federal Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) State and local Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Non-United States Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total current income tax expense Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total deferred income tax (benefit) Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total income tax expense (benefit) Total current and deferred income tax expense benefit Total current and deferred income tax expense (benefits) Business Segment Information - Net sales, Segment operating profit (lLoss), and Corporate Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Business Segment Information - Acquisition integration charges Acquisition Integration Charges by Segment [Table Text Block] Acquisition Integration Charges by Segment [Table Text Block] Business Segment Information - Identifiable assets, Capital expenditures for property, plant, and equipment, and Depreciation of property, plant, and equipment Identifiable Assets, Capital Expenditures for PP&E, and Depreciation of PP&E by Segment [Table Text Block] Identifiable Assets, Capital Expenditures for PP&E, and Depreciation of PP&E by Segment [Table Text Block] Geographic Region Information - Net sales and long-lived assets Schedule of Revenue from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets, by Geographical Areas [Table Text Block] General Discussion of Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits [Abstract] RETIREMENT BENEFITS PLANS Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Income Tax Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards, Non-United States Subsidiaries, By Expiration Dates [Abstract] Income Tax Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards, Non-United States Subsidiaries, By Expiration Dates [Abstract] Income Tax Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards, Non-United States Subsidiaries, By Expiration Dates [Table] Income Tax Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards, Non-United States Subsidiaries, By Expiration Dates [Table] Income Tax Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards, Non-United States Subsidiaries, By Expiration Dates [Table] Income Tax Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards, Non-United States Subsidiaries, By Expiration Dates [Axis] Income Tax Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards, Non-United States Subsidiaries, By Expiration Dates [Axis] Income Tax Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards, Non-United States Subsidiaries, By Expiration Dates [Domain] Income Tax Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards, Non-United States Subsidiaries, By Expiration Dates [Domain] Income Tax Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards, Non-United States Subsidiaries, By Expiration Dates [Line Items] Income Tax Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards, Non-United States Subsidiaries, By Expiration Dates [Line Items] Non-United States federal income tax loss carryforwards Income Tax Loss Carryforwards, Foreign Income Tax Loss Carryforwards, Foreign Non-United States deferred income tax assets for income tax loss carryforwards Non-United States federal income tax credit carryforwards Tax Credit Carryforwards, Foreign Tax Credit Carryforwards, Foreign Summary of Stock Options Activity [Abstract] Summary of Stock Options Activity [Abstract] Summary of stock option activity Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block] Employee Trust [Abstract] Deferred compensation plan trust of shares and marketable secutities Deferred Compensation Trust of Shares and Marketable Secutities Deferred Compensation Trust of Shares and Marketable Secutities Shareholders Equity Textuals Abstract Shareholders' equity. Common shares authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common shares authorized, par value per share Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common shares issued and outstanding Number of holders of record of common shares Number of shareholders Number of shareholders. Number of current and former employees who were shareholders Number of current and former employees who were shareholders Number of current and former employees who were shareholders. Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share, amount Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Disclosure of Repurchase Agreements [Abstract] 2007 common share repurchase program, number of shares authorized to be repurchased 2007 Retired Stock Repurchase Program, Number of Shares Authorized to be Repurchased 2007 Retired Stock Repurchase Program, Number of Shares Authorized to be Repurchased Payments for stock repurchased under 2007 programs Payments for stock repurchased under 2007 programs 2011 share repurchase program, number of shares authorized to be repurchased Stock Repurchase Program, Number of Shares Authorized to be Repurchased 2011 share repurchase program, maximum aggregate purchase price of shares authorized Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount 2011 share repurchase progam, shares purchased 2011 share repurchase progam, shares purchased 2007 share repurchase program, shares purchased Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired under retired 2007 Stock Repurchase Program Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired under retired 2007 Stock Repurchase Program Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies Textuals Abstract Summary of Significant Accounting Policies. Number of Eaton employees Entity Number of Employees Countries of operation Countries of operation Countries of operation Area of operation Area Of Operation Number of countries that products are sold to customers Minimum ownership interest Equity Method Investment Ownership Percentage Minimum Equity method investment ownership percentage minimum. Maximum ownership interest Equity Method Investment Ownership Percentage Maximum Equity method investment ownership percentage maximum. Stock Dividend Percentage Stock Dividend Percentage. Stockholders' Equity Note, Stock Split Stockholders' Equity Note, Stock Split Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) [Abstract] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies. Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment by Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment by Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Sales Revenue, Goods, Net [Member] Weighted average amortization period for intangible assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Average Useful Life Machinery and Equipment [Member] Machinery and equipment minimum useful life Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life, Minimum Machinery and equipment maximum useful life Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life, Maximum Weighted average amortization period for customer relationships Customer Relationships Average Useful Life Customer Relationships Average Useful Life Software [Member] Software amortization maximum life Software Average Useful Life Software Average Useful Life Building [Member] Buildings useful life Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life, Average Information related to stock options Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Information related to stock options [Text Block] Share-based compensation arrangement by share-based payment award information related to stock options. GOODWILL Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Summary of Gross Unrecognized Income Tax Benefits [Abstract] Summary of Gross Unrecognized Income Tax Benefits [Abstract] Summary of Gross Unrecognized Income Tax Benefits [Table] Summary of Gross Unrecognized Income Tax Benefits [Table] Summary of Gross Unrecognized Income Tax Benefits [Table] Unrecognized Tax Benefits [Axis] Unrecognized Tax Benefits [Axis] Unrecognized Tax Benefits [Domain] Unrecognized Tax Benefits [Domain] Increases and Decreases as a Result of Positions Taken During Prior Years [Member] Increases and Decreases as a Result of Positions Taken During Prior Years [Member] Gross Unrecognized Income Tax Benefits [Line Items] Gross Unrecognized Income Tax Benefits [Line Items] Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued Balance at January 1 Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Beginning of Period Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Beginning of Period Increases and decreases as a result of positions taken during prior years Increases and Decreases As A Result Of Positions Taken During Prior Periods Abstract Increases and decreases as a result of positions taken during prior periods. Transfers to valuation allowances Increases and Decreases - Unrecognized Tax Benefits Transfers Resulting From Valuation Allowances Increases and Decreases - Unrecognized tax benefits transfers resulting from valuation allowances. Other increases Increases and Decreases - Unrecognized Tax Benefits Increases Other Increases and Decreases - Unrecognized tax benefits increases other. Other decreases, including foreign currency translation Increases and Decreases - Unrecognized Tax Benefits Other Decreases Including Foreign Currency Translation Increases and Decreases - Unrecognized tax benefits other decreases including foreign currency translation. Balances related to acquired businesses Unrecognized Tax Benefits Balances Related To Acquired Businesses Unrecognized tax benefits balances related to acquired businesses. Increases as a result of positions taken during the current year Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increases Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions Decreases relating to settlements with tax authorities Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities Decreases as a result of a lapse of the applicable statute of limitations Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reductions Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations Balance at December 31 Unrecognized Tax Benefits Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Fixed-to-floating interest rate swaps Interest Rate Contract Floating to Fixed Interest Rate Swap [Domain] Interest Rate Contract Floating to Fixed Interest Rate Swap [Domain] Interest Rate Contract Floating to Fixed Interest Rate Swap [Domain] Foreign currency exchange contracts Commodity contracts Cross currency swaps Related Long Term Debt Converted To Floating Interest Rates By Interest Rate Swaps [Member] Derivatives, Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Derivatives, Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Other current assets [Member] Other Assets [Member] Other long-term assets [Member] Other Long Term Assets [Member] Included In Other Long Term Assets. Other current liabilities [Member] Other Liabilities [Member] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives designated as hedges Derivatives Designated As Hedges Abstract Derivatives designated as hedges. Notional amount Notional Amount of Derivative Instruments Designated as Net Investment Hedges Derivative asset designated as hedging instrument Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Other current liabilities Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Period of derivatives designated as hedges Period of derivatives designated as hedges Period of derivatives designated as hedges. Derivatives not designated as hedges Derivatives Not Designated As Hedges Abstract Derivatives not designated as hedges. Notional amount Notional Amount of Other Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments Other current assets Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Asset, at Fair Value Other current liabilities Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Liability, at Fair Value Period of derivatives not designated as hedges Period of derivatives not designated as hedges Period of derivatives not designated as hedges. Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Aggregate Disclosures [Abstract] Stock Options Fair Value Assumptions [Line Items] Expected volatility Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Expected option life in years Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term Expected dividend yield Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate Risk free interest rate, minimum Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate, Minimum Risk free interest rate, maximum Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate, Maximum Weighted-average fair value of stock options granted Stock option vesting period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Stock option expiration period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Expiration Date Retirement Benefit Plans (Tables) [Abstract] Retirement benefit plans. Obligations and funded status Obligations and Funded Status [Table Text Block] Defined Benefits Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Obligations and Funded Status [Table Text Block] Change in benefit obligations Schedule of Changes in Projected Benefit Obligations [Table Text Block] Change in plan assets Schedule of Changes in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] Components of pension plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets Schedule of Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] Changes in pension and other postretirement benefits liabilities recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive loss Schedule of Defined Benefit Plan Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Benefits expense Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block] Estimated pretax net amounts that will be recognized from Accumulated other comprehensive loss into net periodic benefit cost Schedule of Amounts in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) to be Recognized over Next Fiscal Year [Table Text Block] Assumptions used to determine other postretirement obligations and expense Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block] Assumptions used to determine other postretirement benefits obligations and expense Defined Benefit Plan Assumptions Used In Other Post Retirement Plan Calculations Text Block Defined Benefit Plan Assumptions Used In Other Post Retirement Plan Calculations. 1-percentage change in the assumed health care cost trend rates Schedule of Effect of One-Percentage-Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Table Text Block] Employer contributions to pension plans Defined Benefit Plan Contributions By Employer Disclosure Text Block Defined Benefit Plan Contributions By Employer Disclosure. Expected pension and other postretirement benefit payments and expected subsidy Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block] Fair value of pension plan assets Fair Value Of Pension Plan Assets Text Block Fair value of pension plan assets. Fair value of other postretirement benefits plan assets Fair Value of Other Postretirement Benefits [Table Text Block] Fair Value of Other Postretirement Benefits Employer contributions to defined contribution benefit plans, charged to expense Defined Contribution Plan Cost Recognized Text Block Defined Contribution Plan Cost Recognized. INCOME TAXES Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Current and long-term warranty accruals [Table] Movement in Standard and Extended Product Warranty, Increase (Decrease) [Roll Forward] Balance at January 1 Standard Product Warranty Accrual Provision Product Warranty Accrual, Warranties Issued Settled Product Warranty Accrual, Payments Business acquisitions Product Warranty Accrual, Additions from Business Acquisition Other Product Warranty Accrual Other Product Warranty Accrual Other. Balance at December 31 Product Warranty Accrual Minimum rental commitments under noncancelable operating leases [Abstract] Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due [Abstract] 2012 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Current 2013 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2014 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2015 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2016 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Total noncancelable lease commitments Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Summary of Rental Expense [Abstract] Summary of Rental Expense [Abstract] Rental expense Operating Leases, Rent Expense Loss Contingency Accrual [Roll Forward] Loss contingency provision Loss Contingency Accrual, Carrying Value, Provision Total loss contingency accrual Loss Contingency Accrual, at Carrying Value Meritor judgment motion denial zero damages and no injuctive relief Meritor Judgment Motion Denial Zero Damages And No Injuctive Relief Meritor judgment motion denial, zero damages, and no injuctive relief Appeals accepted by Superior Court of Justice Appeals accepted by Superior Court of Justice Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract] Environmental Remediation Obligations [Abstract] Number of sites world wide Number Of Sites World Wide Total number of sites world wide. Accrual for environmental loss contingencies Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies Business Segment Information Net sales Segment operating profit Operating Income (Loss) Amortization of intangible assets Amortization of Intangible Assets Interest expense-net Pension and other postretirement benefits expense Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Expense Other corporate expense-net Other Corporate Expense Net Other corporate expense-net. Number of customers where net sales exceeded 10% Segment Reporting, Disclosure of Major Customers Share-based Compensation [Abstract] Equity-Based Compensation Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Reconciliations of Income Taxes from the United States Federal [Abstract] Reconciliations of Income Taxes from the United States Federal [Abstract] Reconciliations of Income Taxes from the United States Federal Statutory Rate [Table] Reconciliations of Income Taxes from the United States Federal [Table] Reconciliations of Income Taxes from the United States Federal [Table] Reconciliations of Income Taxes from the United States Federal Statutory Rate [Axis] Reconciliations of Income Taxes from the United States Federal [Axis] Reconciliations of Income Taxes from the United States Federal [Axis] Reconciliations of Income Taxes from the United States Federal Statutory Rate [Domain] Reconciliations of Income Taxes from the United States Federal [Domain] Reconciliations of Income Taxes from the United States Federal [Domain] United States [Member] United States. Non-United States Operations [Member] Non-United States Operations [Member] Worldwide Operations [Member] Worldwide Operations [Member] Effective Income Tax Rate [Member] Effective Income Tax Rate [Member] Reconciliations of Income Taxes Expense (Benefit) from the United States Federal Statutory Rate Reconciliations of Income Taxes from the United States Federal [Line Items] Reconciliations of Income Taxes from the United States Federal [Line Items] Income taxes at the United States federal statutory rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate State and local income taxes Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes Deductible dividends Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Deductions, Dividends Deductible Interest Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Deductions, Other Credit for research activities Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Credits, Research Impact of Health Care Reform and Education Reconciliation Act and pre-funding on taxation associated with Medicare Part D Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation Write Off Deferred Income Tax Asset Effective income tax rate reconciliation write off deferred income tax asset. Other-net Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Other Foreign tax credit Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Credits, Foreign Non-United States operations (earnings taxed at other than the United States tax rate) Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential Adjustments to tax liabilities Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments Adjustments to valuation allowances Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance Effective income tax rate expense (benefit) rate Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations Shareholders' Equity Parenthetical [Abstract] Shareholders' Equity Parenthetical [Abstract] Income tax expense on foreign currency translation and related hedging instruments Accumulated Other Comprehensive Gain on Foreign Currency Translation and Related Hedging Instruments Income Tax Expense Accumulated Other Comprehensive Gain on Foreign Currency Translation and Related Hedging Instruments Income Tax Expense Income tax benefit on foreign currency translation and related hedging instruments Accumulated Other Comprhensive Loss On Foreign Currency Translation and Related Hedging Instruments Income Tax Benefit Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss On Foreign Currency Translation and Related Hedging Instruments Income Tax Benefit Income tax expense on pensions Accumulated Other Comprehensive Gain Pension Income Tax Expense Accumulated Other Comprehensive Gain pension income taxes Income tax benefit on pensions Accumulated Other Income Loss Pension Income Tax Benefit Accumulated Other Income Loss Pension Income Tax Benefit Income tax benefit on other postretirement benefits Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Other Postretirement Benefits Income Tax Benefit Accumulated other comprehensive income loss defined benefit other postretirement plans, tax. Income tax expense on cash flow hedges Accumulated Other Comprehensve Gain Cash Flow Hedges Income Tax Expense Accumulated Other Comprehensve Gain Cash Flow Hedges Income Tax Expense Income tax benefit on cash flow hedges Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Cash Flow Hedges Income Tax Benefit Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Cash Flow Hedges Income Tax Benefit Income tax benefit on employee benefit plans Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense Income tax expense on employee benefit plans Issuance of Shares Under Employee Benefit Plans Income Tax Expense Issuance of Shares Under Employee Benefit Plans Income Tax Expense Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Document and Entity Information. Entities [Table] Entities [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity Information [Line Items] Entity Information [Line Items] Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Document Type Document Type Entity Public Float Entity Public Float Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Balance Sheet [Abstract] Balance Sheet [Abstract] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Common shares outstanding