The ash content analysis measures how much inorganic residue remains when an oil sample is completely incinerated. This residue -- the ash -- typically originates from additives, contaminants, or wear particles, and provides insight into both the composition of the oil and potential deposition problems.
During the analysis, the sample is incinerated in an oven at high temperature. After all organic matter is burned away, the remaining ash is weighed. The result is given as a percentage of the original sample quantity.
A high ash content may indicate contamination from dust, metal particles or wear, and in some cases may result in deposits on components such as valves, filters and combustion chambers. For applications where low ash content is critical — such as in modern engines with particulate filters — this analysis is particularly important.
The customer receives a clear assessment of the purity and suitability of the oil, and can use the result to follow up on sources of contamination or adjust maintenance routines.