What is the working principle of air brakes?
2 Answers
The working principle of air brakes is that when the brake pedal is pressed, compressed air enters the front brake cylinder and rear brake spring cylinder through a one-way valve, pushing the brake arm and causing the brake cam to rotate. This action expands the brake shoes, pressing them tightly against the brake drum to achieve braking. Below are specific details about air brakes: Components: The air brake system consists of a brake control mechanism, dual-circuit brake mechanism, central disc brake mechanism, brake assembly, air compressor, etc. Air brake technique: Vehicles with air brakes require at least 3 bars of pressure to move, ensuring effective braking performance.
How Air Brakes Work Listen, I've driven some small trucks before, and this system is pretty smart. The compressor is engine-driven and compresses air into storage tanks. When you press the brake pedal, it controls a valve that releases compressed air into the brake chambers, pushing pistons or diaphragms to apply force to the drum or disc brakes on the wheels, slowing the vehicle down. Safety-wise, it's well-designed with dual air tanks—if one fails, the other can still function, preventing accidents. It's used in large vehicles like trucks and buses because it's more suitable than hydraulic brakes. Air distributes force more evenly and handles heavy loads more reliably. Maintenance isn't too troublesome either—just remember to regularly check the air pressure gauge and drain valves since compressed air can carry moisture. Although the system responds slightly slower, it has a high safety factor.