Steam probe with condensation return

A probe defining a transmission line for use with a measurement instrument including a pulse circuit connected to the probe for generating pulses on the transmission line and receiving reflected pulses on the transmission line, the probe comprising:

• a process connection for mounting to a process vessel;
• a sealed connector for connection to the measurement instrument and including an extension sleeve;
• a return tube extending from the extension sleeve and secured to the process connection, the return tube having a connector end proximate the sealed connector and a distal end including vent openings below the process connection;
• a process tube connected to the distal end of the return tube and extending into the process vessel
• a center conductor coaxial with the return tube and the process tube for conducting the pulses;
• and
• a target tube coaxial with and received within the return tube to define a condensation path therebetween, the target tube extending downward from a near end at the return tube connecter end to a bottom end below the process connection, the target tube including apertures at the near end opening into the condensation path, whereby steam from the process vessel flows from inside the target tube through the target tube apertures and into the condensation path whereby the steam condenses and exits via the vent openings into the process vessel.