Abstract: A surge detection apparatus for use in a refrigeration system having a centrifugal compressor driven by an electric motor includes a first pressure transducer for sensing a condenser pressure and a second pressure transducer for sensing an evaporator pressure. A first bandpass digital filter responsive to the condenser pressure and the evaporator pressure is provided for generating a first signal representative of the rate of change of the pressure developed across the compressor. A current transformer is used to sense a current in the electric motor driving the compressor. A second bandpass digital filter responsive to the motor current is provided for generating a second signal representative of the rate of change of the RMS current being drawn by the compressor drive motor. A third signal representative of a differential pressure threshold and a fourth signal representative of a first motor current threshold and a second motor current threshold are provided.