How Fast Is Industrial Steam Jet?

An industrial steam jet emerges at 250 m/s — invisible at any distance over a metre, but extremely dangerous up close. Industrial pipes are routinely inspected for leaks using a length of broomstick rather than a hand — a long-standing safety practice.

Industrial steam at 250 m/s carries up to 100× the energy density of compressed air — which is why it remains the dominant power-transfer medium in chemical plants and ships.

• Same speed as a commercial airliner
• Industrial leaks checked with broomsticks