The SKF Multilog On-Line System IMx-8 is a compact, 8-channel continuous condition monitoring and vibration
measurement system. Sized no larger than a paperback book, it provides high-specification early fault detection,
adaptive alarms, and 4 GB of non-volatile buffer memory to safeguard rotating industrial machinery against
unexpected failure.
Executive Summary and Core Capabilities
Designed for applications where high channel-density racks are impractical, the IMx-8 packs 8 analog dynamic channels and 2 speed/digital channels into a space-saving DIN-rail package. It simultaneously measures all connected channels to provide synchronous vibration time waveforms, FFT spectra, and overall velocity metrics.
4 GB Autonomous Buffer Memory: The unit includes 4 GB of internal memory configured specifically for trend data,
transient dynamic event captures, and offline storage. If plant network connectivity drops, the IMx-8 buffers data
continuously without data loss and automatically resynchronizes once reconnected.
- SKF Acceleration Enveloping: Applies multi-stage digital filtering to isolate low-energy repetitive impact signals generated by micro-cracks in rolling element bearings and gear mesh faults.
- Machine Tool Crash Detection: Includes high-speed response logic capable of triggering relay drivers in under milliseconds during machine spindle collisions.
- Multi-Parameter Gating: Suppresses false alarms by correlating vibration metrics against operating conditions such as speed, load, or process state.
- Standalone or Networked: Functions as an autonomous local monitor with direct mobile app configuration via Bluetooth 5.0, or connects seamlessly to the SKF @ptitude Observer software suite and SKF Remote Diagnostics Cloud.
- Versatile Field Interfaces: Interfaces with external DCS/PLC systems via Modbus TCP/IP, Modbus RTU (RS-485), and CAN-bus interfaces.
Technical Specifications Matrix
| Parameter | Specification Details |
|---|---|
| Analog Channels | 8 simultaneous dynamic or DC inputs (Accelerometers, Velocity, Proximity, Volt) |
| Digital / Speed Channels | 2 channels for optocoupler or inductive speed sensors |
| Frequency Response | DC to synchronous sampling across all channels |
| Measurement Accuracy | Amplitude: (), () |
| Signal Processing | Overall RMS, Peak, Peak-to-Peak, True Peak, SKF Enveloping (gE) |
| Component | Specification Details |
|---|---|
| Internal Memory Storage | total ( trend/dynamic, event capture, system) |
| Power Supply Options | Power over Ethernet (PoE 802.3af) or redundant terminal |
| Enclosure & Mounting | Compact DIN-rail mount or optional IP65 field enclosure |
| Operating Temperature | to ( to ) |
| Interface | Protocol / Support |
|---|---|
| Ethernet Port | RJ-45 10/100 Mbps (Modbus TCP/IP, NTP time sync, SKF Protocol) |
| Serial / Fieldbus Ports | RS-485 (Modbus RTU), CAN-bus interface |
| Mobile Configuration | Bluetooth 5.0 via iOS and Android IMx Manager mobile apps |
| Software Platform | SKF @ptitude Observer / SKF Cloud Remote Diagnostics |
Target Industry Applications
Wind Turbine Drivetrains
Continuous tracking of gearbox high-speed shafts, generator bearings, and planetary gear stages in wind turbines.
Machine Tool Spindles
Millisecond crash detection and precision spindle bearing health monitoring for automated machining centers.
External Resources and Documentation
Access datasheets, firmware downloads, and user guides directly from SKF:
