Have there been any studies performed by anyone to quantify steam leaks to atmosphere with respect to Ultrasonic energy? For example, if a leak found by whatever means is measured via Ultrasound, can the measured amount be related to a known orifice size if the pressure is known?

Billy,

I have been making ultrasound measurements and following the technology for many years. I have not seen any studies to quantify a leak based on ultrasound. You can use ultrasound to find a leak or to detect that a leak has occurred or changed, but that's about all. Forget about quantifying leak flow rate with ultrasound. If anyone says they can do it, then you should get proof.

You would have a better chance of success with audible sound. Unlike ultrasound, audible sound meters are calibrated to national (ANSI) physical standards and used following international (ISO) standards. There have been several analytical models and experimental studies correlating atmospheric steam venting to audible sound.

It would sure be nice to stand 20-ft from a steam vent and measure the leaking steam flow rate!!

Walt

Amen, "WHEN PIGS FLY"....