Plant Operation Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Mechanical draft in the context of plant operation refers to the method of promoting airflow through a system, particularly in processes like combustion in boilers. The correct classification into "forced" or "induced" relates to how the airflow is generated and managed within those systems.

In forced draft, fans or blowers generate a positive pressure, pushing air into the combustion zone and helping maintain the necessary airflow. This ensures that combustion occurs efficiently by supplying adequate air to the fuel being burned.

Conversely, induced draft utilizes fans that create a negative pressure within the exhaust system. By drawing flue gases out of the furnace and into the stack, induced draft systems enhance the efficiency of the combustion process and improve the overall control of emissions.

This classification is crucial for plant operatives as it impacts how air and gases flow through the systems, which in turn affects efficiency, emissions, and the safety of operations. Understanding the differences between forced and induced draft enables operators to make informed decisions regarding maintenance, safety measures, and operational adjustments.