Abstract: A method and apparatus for compressing a gaseous medium, specifically hydrogen, is disclosed. Compression is managed by a reciprocating piston compressor, where the piston or pistons of which have a dynamic seal or dynamic seals. A graphite-bearing medium is supplied to the cylinder chamber or chambers before and/or during compression, where the graphite-bearing medium is configured such that it settles on the dynamic seal or seals. The reciprocating piston compressor has a means to supply/introduce the graphite-bearing medium into the cylinder chamber or chambers.