The document provides information about vibration excitation and vibration patterns which, arising from the excitation forces of reciprocating piston engines, can occur in these engines themselves or in machines driving or driven by them. It is applicable to reciprocating machines with power ratings in excess of 100 kW as engines in stationary systems for the purpose of generating energy, as drives for compressors, pumps and other machines in process technology, in ships and in railtrack vehicles. It is also applicable to reciprocating compressors in this power output range. Reciprocating machines dealt with in this guideline are without exception reciprocating piston machines.