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Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified | 12 Months Ended |
--- | --- | ---
Dec. 31, 2011 metalproduct M Location state | Dec. 31, 2010
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies |  |
Minimum number of locations in which company operates metal service network | 220 |
Number of states in which the company operates metal service center network | 38 |
Minimum number of metal products distributes by the company | 100,000 |
Fair Values of Financial Instruments |  |
Carrying value, before deducting unamortized discount or premiums | $ 1,332.8 | $ 943.1
Cash Equivalents |  |
Maximum term of original maturity to classify instruments as cash and cash equivalents (in months) | 3 |
Senior Unsecured Notes - Publicly Traded |  |
Fair Values of Financial Instruments |  |
Carrying value, before deducting unamortized discount or premiums | 600.0 |
Fair value | 638.1 | 612.1
Carrying value | $ 598.4 | $ 598.2

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