Forced Draft vs. Induced Draft: A Direct Comparison
| Feature | Forced Draft (FD) | Induced Draft (ID) |
| Fan Location | Below the bundle | On top of the bundle |
| Airflow Mechanism | Pushes air across tubes | Pulls air across tubes |
| Air Pressure in Bundle | Positive pressure | Negative pressure (vacuum) |
| Air Distribution | Less even, can have dead zones | Excellent and even |
| Hot Air Recirculation | High potential | Low potential |
| Power Consumption | Lower (moves cold, dense air) | Higher (moves hot, less dense air) |
| Leak Consequences | Process fluid leaks out | Air ingression into process |
| Fan/Drive Maintenance | Accessible at ground level, but exposed to weather | Accessible on top, protected from weather |
| Bundle Maintenance | Very accessible from top | Requires fan removal for full access |