Abstract: This paper mainly expounds the generation mechanism of vibrations in centrifugal compressor units. It makes a detailed analysis on the characteristics of common compressor vibrations such as rotor unbalance and misalignment produced by rotor design, manufacture or use, half-speed whirl and oil whip induced by high speed hydrodynamic bearings, labyrinth seal fluid-induced vibration, surge, and so forth. Besides, corresponding prevention and countermeasures are put forward from the aspects of compressor design, engineering design and compressor operation. This provides guidance for designers and operators.