RATIONALIZATION AND ASSET IMPAIRMENTS

The Company recorded rationalization and asset impairment net charges of $21,717 in the six months ended June 30, 2018. The 2018 charges are primarily related to employee severance, asset impairments and other costs. A description of the Company's restructuring plans and the related costs is as follows:

During 2018, the Company initiated rationalization plans within International Welding. The plans include headcount restructuring and the consolidation of manufacturing operations to better align the cost structures with economic conditions and operating needs. At June 30, 2018, liabilities of $14,043 were recognized in Other current liabilities in the Company's Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet.

During 2017, the Company initiated rationalization plans within International Welding. The plans includes headcount restructuring and the consolidation of manufacturing operations to better align the cost structures with economic conditions and operating needs. At June 30, 2018, liabilities of $246 were recognized in Other current liabilities in the Company's Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet.

As of June 30, 2018, the Company expects additional charges of approximately $5,000 to be recorded related to the completion of the International Welding plans.

The Company believes the rationalization actions will positively impact future results of operations and will not have a material effect on liquidity and sources and uses of capital. The Company continues to evaluate its cost structure and additional rationalization actions may result in charges in future periods. The following table summarizes the activity related to the rationalization liabilities in the International Welding segment:



	Six Months Ended June 30, 2018
Balance, December 31, 2017	$	6,803
Payments and other adjustments	(10,477		)
Charged to expense	21,091
Balance, June 30, 2018	$	17,417