What does oil ash content mean?
3 Answers
Oil ash content refers to the residue (non-combustible material) left after complete combustion of the oil product under specified conditions, expressed as a percentage by mass. Ash mainly consists of metal salts and metal oxides formed after complete combustion of lubricating oil. Typically, base oils have very low ash content. When certain high-ash additives are added to lubricating oils, the ash content of the oil product increases. Relevant information is introduced as follows: Increased ash content in engine fuel will accelerate cylinder block wear. Excessive ash content in lubricating oil can easily form hard carbon deposits on mechanical components, leading to wear of mechanical parts. As ash content increases, the engine displacement gradually decreases while power output remains unchanged, meaning the "power per liter" continuously increases, which invisibly increases engine pressure. Knocking phenomenon can directly damage the engine and even cause engine failure, so it must be resolved as early as possible.
Simply put, oil ash is the residue left after oil combustion, primarily derived from additives in the oil, such as metallic salts, which help lubricate the engine and reduce wear. However, excessive ash content can be problematic, leading to the accumulation of deposits in the engine, clogging the filtration system, and affecting emission performance. Modern oils are labeled with ash content, and low-ash oils are more environmentally friendly, reducing particulate emissions and protecting the environment. When selecting oil, pay attention to the API standard—lower ash content means a cleaner engine and longer service life. I often use low-ash oil for car maintenance and recommend regular oil changes to avoid high-ash issues, ensuring smooth vehicle performance and safe driving.
Speaking of oil ash content, let me share its impact on daily driving based on my experience. Ash content refers to the residue left after oil combustion. Excessive ash can clog the exhaust particulate filter, causing the vehicle to exceed emission standards and increase fuel consumption. It's recommended to choose low-ash oil brands after purchasing a car, such as those labeled LowSAPS, and perform simple maintenance with regular checks of oil labels. Engine protection is more important to avoid costly and time-consuming overhauls—safety comes first.
