Ash Analysis

SGS provides a wide range of reliable ash analysis services for the global coal industry.

The data resulting from ash elemental analysis, ash fusion tests and other coal ash analyses performed in our state-of-the-art laboratories around the world will help you to make important decisions that affect the efficiency of your plant operation, and help you to control your coal quality challenges.

SGS provides a complete range of laboratory procedures to meet your testing needs whether you are a producer, buyer, transporter or consumer of coal. Our laboratory analysis and assay procedures are performed under strict control in accordance with recognized global standards. SGS proximate coal ash analysis services include:

Ash Fusion

An SGS ash fusion test gives you an indication of the softening and melting behavior of coal ash at high temperatures within the boiler. Critical ash softening temperatures are determined by monitoring the increasing deformation of the sample as it is heated. Ash fusion testing by SGS provides you with a valuable tool to estimate and control the slagging potential of your coal.

Ash Viscosity

Ash viscometer testing allows direct measurement of the temperature-viscosity relationship of your coal and coal blends. Information from this test helps you to determine the slag potential of the ash in your sample.

Chemical Ash Elemental Analysis

SGS has the technical expertise and laboratory facilities to perform complete ash elemental analysis in accordance with global industry standards. Ash elemental analysis performed by qualified SGS technical staff provides a quantitative evaluation of oxides that adversely affect the ash fusion temperature within your boiler.

Fly Ash Resistivity

Fly ash resistivity is the primary parameter that affects electrostatic precipitator performance. Resistivity is a measure of how easily the fly ash or particulate acquires an electric charge. SGS technical experts can provide you with complete fly ash resistivity testing in accordance with recognized industry standards.

Coal Petrography

Coal petrography is used to determine a sample’s degree of coalification and the amount and class of macerals. Petrography is primarily used as a tool to evaluate bituminous coals and coal blends and their ability to produce blast furnace coke. Coal petrography can also be used to determine whether contaminants are present in the coal and to detect oxidized coal in your sample. Our experienced staff will provide you with expert rank and type determination, as well as complete coke and by-product analysis.

Ash analysis is one type of coal and coke analysis offered by the SGS global team of independent testing experts. Results of our tests and assays provide valuable data that help you to meet contractual agreements and optimize your boiler operations.