Can the Air Brake Be Kept Pressed Continuously?
1 Answers
Air brakes should not be kept pressed continuously because doing so will deplete the air in the air tank, leading to a loss of braking capability. It will also increase the workload on the engine, causing engine vibration. Reasons why air brakes should not be kept pressed: The principle of air brakes involves using compressed air from the storage tank to inflate the brake chamber, thereby pushing the brake shoes. Keeping the brake pressed continuously will reduce the air pressure in the tank, eventually resulting in insufficient pressure and failure to brake properly. Moreover, braking is crucial for trucks, and for safety reasons, most truck drivers currently need to pressurize the air brake system to 5-6 Bar before setting off. Consequences of keeping the air brake pressed continuously: Air brakes work by using the cylinder regulator valve to create resistance against the engine's operation, thereby reducing engine speed and slowing the vehicle. If the exhaust brake remains engaged, it will increase the engine's workload, causing vibration. In severe cases, it may even cause the cylinder regulator valve to be forced open and damaged. How the air brake system works: The air pump, driven by the engine, compresses air into high-pressure gas and stores it in the storage tank. One storage tank is connected to the master brake cylinder via piping. When the driver presses the brake pedal, the upper air is opened first, and the high-pressure gas from the storage tank is transmitted to the relay valve.