Drafting
Drafting turns up in 2 fields: automotive, fire & safety. Here is what it means to the people in each one.
Drafting in automotive
Driving closely behind another vehicle to utilize its slipstream and reduce aerodynamic drag.
An aerodynamic technique where a trailing vehicle tucks into the low-pressure wake created by a leading vehicle. This significantly reduces wind resistance for the trailing car, allowing it to use less power to maintain speed or conserve momentum to slingshot past the leader.
"He spent five laps drafting the leader to save fuel before making his move on the final straight."
Drafting in fire & safety
The process of pulling water from a static source into a fire pump.
The technique of using a fire engine's pump to create a vacuum, allowing atmospheric pressure to push water from a static source like a pond, pool, or portable tank up through hard suction hose. It is essential in rural firefighting where municipal fire hydrants are not available. A successful draft requires an airtight seal in the pump and hose connections.
"We'll be drafting from the retention pond at the end of the driveway to supply the attack engine."