Where it usually works
In compressed air and gas leak detection, ultrasound can be a very effective technology for predictive maintenance.
Technical note
Why does ultrasound not always correctly detect leaks in steam traps?
In steam networks, ultrasound is useful for certain scenarios, but in steam traps it can create false interpretations due to flash steam behavior during condensate discharge.
Technical context
When it works well and where it fails
Limitation in steam traps
In steam traps, noise from flash steam during condensate discharge can be mistaken for a leak, increasing the risk of incorrect diagnostics.
Observed result
Difference between estimated and real leak rates
Ultrasound estimate
3%
Recorded real rate
27%
In field analyses reported by BiTherm, the discrepancy can be high if a steam-trap-specific validation methodology is not applied.
BiTherm recommendation
How to improve diagnostic reliability
Continuous monitoring
Track asset behavior 24/7, not just isolated measurements.
Process context
Analyze operating conditions to distinguish normal events from real leaks.
Technical prioritization
Prioritize interventions by operational and energy impact.
Post-action validation
Confirm outcomes after maintenance to close the continuous-improvement loop.
Next step
We can assess your network and estimate technical-economic impact
If you want, we can define an initial diagnosis with a methodology applicable to steam traps and steam network.