铁谱分析技术是利用高梯度的强磁场将润滑油试样中的微粒按照尺寸大小有序沉降在铁谱基片上，通过铁谱显微镜等设备对铁谱基片上微粒的成分、数量、尺寸、形态等进行分析，进而判断磨损程度、磨损部位和分析磨损机理等。铁谱收集微粒的尺寸可以覆盖绝大多数磨损形式可能产生的微粒尺寸范围，并且可以在不拆卸、不停止机械运行的条件下了解机械的磨损状态，对磨损发展趋势进行预测。
Ferrographic analysis technology is to use high gradient strong magnetic field to deposit particles in lubricating oil samples orderly on Ferrographic substrates according to size. The composition, quantity, size and morphology of particles on Ferrographic substrates are analyzed by means of Ferrographic microscopy and other equipment, and then the wear degree, wear location and wear mechanism are judged. And so on. The size of particles collected by ferrography can cover the possible size range of particles produced by most wear forms, and the wear state of machinery can be understood without disassembly and without stopping the operation of machinery, and the wear trend can be predicted.
随着铁谱技术的发展，产生了适用于不同场合和要求的铁谱仪。目前较为广泛使用的铁谱仪器有分析式铁谱仪、旋转式铁谱仪、直读式铁谱仪和在线铁谱仪等。
With the development of Ferrography technology, ferrographers suitable for different occasions and requirements have been produced. At present, the most widely used ferrography instruments are analytical ferrography, rotary ferrography, direct reading Ferrography and online ferrography.