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This paper presents analytical studies of a fractional horse-power rotary refrigeration compressor and its performance comparison with measured results. The study employed a general-purpose performance model by considering the thermodynamic cycle of the compressor and its mechanical losses. The real gas equation of state is used to describe the changes of state of the refrigerant. The study reveals that for this quarter horse-power compressor unit the energy consumption in performing the compression cycle was 80–90% of the compressor shaft energy input, and the other 10–15% of the energy was dissipated as mechanical friction. The results also show that the performance predictions are satisfactory when compared with measured results. The model has been used in assisting the design of new compressors for use with new environmentally friendly refrigerants. This study also paves the way for more …