What’s the difference between a receiving hood and a backdraft plenum?

A receiving hood sits above or in front of the work area and relies on upward or outward air movement to “receive” fumes, dust or mist into the hood opening. It works best when contaminants naturally rise (such as smoke from welding or grinding) and when the workpiece remains in a consistent location.

A backdraft plenum, on the other hand, pulls air horizontally or diagonally across the work surface, drawing contaminants away from the operator and into a slotted or perforated capture panel behind the part. This creates a more controlled capture zone and is ideal for bench welding, grinding and sanding, and fume-intensive small-part fabrication.

In general:

• Receiving hoods are better for lighter fumes or processes that naturally vent upward.
• Backdraft plenums offer more aggressive, directional capture for processes requiring stronger control or closer proximity to the workpiece.