Ash content analysis measures the amount of inorganic residue left behind when an oil sample is completely combusted. This residue – ash – typically comes from additives, contaminants or wear particles, and provides insight into both the oil’s composition and potential deposit problems.
During the analysis, the sample is burned in a furnace at a high temperature. After all organic material has been burned away, the remaining ash is weighed. The result is given as a percentage of the original sample amount.
A high ash content can indicate contamination from dust, metal particles or wear, and in some cases can lead to 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 oil's purity and suitability, and can use the results to follow up on sources of contamination or adjust maintenance routines.