Air Brake Components

Question 1

Compressor

Answer 1

Forces air into small space/Always run by engine using pulleys, gears etc…

Question 2

Governor

Answer 2

Regulates compressor to maintain proper air pressure. When air pressure reaches 125psi inlet opens to release air, and when pressure drops below 100psi it closes to allow compressor to build up pressure

Question 3

Air Reservoir

Answer 3

Tanks that holds compressed air- there are 3 in the following order, wet, dry, trailer reservoir.

Question 4

One-way check valve

Answer 4

Prevents air from flowing back to compressor from reservoirs- there’s (2) located between compressor and (wet) and between (wet) and (dry) reservoirs

Question 5

Safety Valve

Answer 5

Keeps air from rising to dangerous levels- one valve in each tank that opens when air reaches 150psi

Question 6

Drain Cocks

Answer 6

drains to drain moisture from reservoirs

Question 7

What is moisture in compressed air

Answer 7

When air is compressed it becomes hot, when it reaches tanks, it cools, expands and releases moisture. (Drain daily, especially in winter-freeze problems)

Question 8

Air pressure gauge

Answer 8

Tells you hoe much air pressure is in the system. NOTE: normal 90 to 120psi

Question 9

Low-pressure warning alarm

Answer 9

Tells you when pressure drops below 60 psi or 414kPa. Red light and/or buzzer. IF these occur, engage brakes- if you don’t, pressure may drop and spring brakes will apply between 20 and 40 psi. NOTE: Cause of LP must be identified before resuming trip.

Question 10

Air application pressure gauge

Answer 10

shows how much air is being applied to brake

Question 11

Treadle Valve

Answer 11

(foot brake) the more the foot brake is applied the more air is pushed into the system

Question 12

Independent trailer brake

Answer 12

(trolley valve) Hand valve that regulates air flow to trailer ONLY

Question 13

Glad hands

Answer 13

Connects the service and emergency air lines of trailer to tractor- check for dirt and sand before connecting, seal when not in use.

Question 14

Quick release Valve

Answer 14

This relay valve speeds up the braking action of the trailer brakes. Because of long air lines there would otherwise be a dely.

Question 15

Emergency brake valve

Answer 15

Relays air from the trailer air tank to the brake chambers. If theres a break in the lines between the trailer and tractor the valve sends air to the brake chambers.