In this final work, it is processed reciprocating compressors of the refrigeration systems. The compressor, speaking of it in general, is one of the most important and complex components used in a refrigeration system on a ship. The task of the compressor as part of the refrigeration system is to suck in the refrigerent (working fluid) and pressurize it to a higher pressure. In work are processed the refrigerants (fluids), from it's beginnings to the present day. Processed are single – stage and multy – stage compressors, degree of compressor supply, theoretical and actual supply. The paper also briefly covers and deals with the indicated pressure and the indicated power. Then, in final work are processed compressor cooling capacity, the actual refrigeration process and the compressor limit pressure. Construktive designs of refrigeration reciprocating compressors, lubrication and at the very end of the work the cooling of the compressors is processed.