v2.4.0.6

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified | 12 Months Ended
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Dec. 31, 2012 | Dec. 31, 2011 | Dec. 31, 2010
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies Textuals Abstract |  |  |
Net sales | $ 16,311 | $ 16,049 | $ 13,715
Number of Eaton employees | 103,000 |  |
Countries of operation | over 50 |  |
Countries where products are sold | 175 |  |
Equity method of accounting minimum ownership interest | 20.00% |  |
Equity method of accounting maximum ownership interest | 50.00% |  |
Weighted average amortization period for customer relationships | 15 |  |
Property, plant and equipment, estimated useful lives | 40 |  |
Machinery and equipment useful life range | 3 to 10 years |  |
RSU and awards vesting period | three to four years |  |
Weighted average amortization period for intangible assets | 17 years |  |
Software amortization maximum life | 10 |  |

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