SKF
Machine Protection Systems
SKF machine protection systems are high-reliability, fail-safe vibration and position monitors designed to automatically shut down or alarm critical turbomachinery (steam turbines, gas turbines, compressors, large pumps) when measured parameters exceed safe limits. These systems are built to API 670 standards, ensuring the highest level of safety and integrity required for high-speed, high-energy rotating equipment where a failure poses a risk to personnel, the environment, and the asset. The Multilog IMx-M and VM-600 are key platforms, accepting signals from eddy current proximity probes, seismic accelerometers, and speed sensors. They provide real-time continuous monitoring of radial vibration, thrust position, shaft speed, and axial displacement, with hardwired relay outputs to the trip system. SKF machine protection systems are engineered with triple-redundant power supplies, hot-swappable modules, and rigorous self-diagnostics, providing the confidence that the protection layer will function exactly when required.
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Trusted by Industry Leaders
API 670 Compliant
Meets the global standard for turbomachinery protection systems.
Critical Parameter Monitoring
Radial vibration, axial thrust position, speed, and piston rod drop.
Fail-Safe Relay Logic
Hardwired trip outputs ensure safe shutdown on sensor or system fault.
Triple Redundancy
Modular power supplies and voting logic for maximum availability.
Proven Reliability
Installed on thousands of critical turbines, compressors, and generators globally.
Seamless Integration
Can connect to the process control system (DCS) and SKF’s predictive maintenance tools.
API 670: The Standard for Turbomachinery Protection
API 670 is the globally recognised standard for machinery protection systems in the oil, gas, and petrochemical sectors. It mandates specific requirements for sensor types, system redundancy, relay outputs, and self-diagnostics. SKF’s compliance assures operators and insurers that the protection layer is designed and manufactured to the highest safety integrity, reducing the risk of uncontained rotor failures.
Combining Protection and Predictive Monitoring
SKF’s machine protection systems can simultaneously feed conditioned signals to the plant’s condition monitoring software without compromising the protection function. This allows operators to gain deep diagnostic insights into the machine’s behaviour while the protection system remains totally independent, providing both safety assurance and the data for life optimisation.