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Air brakes use compressed air to make the brakes work. Air brakes are a good and safe way of stopping large and heavy vehicles, but the brakes must be well maintained and used properly. Air brakes are really three different braking systems: service brake, parking brake, and emergency brake. •= The service brake system applies and releases the ...
Most large commercial vehicles are equipped with an air brake system. You must have an air brake endorsement on your driver’s licence to drive these vehicles. The purpose of this handbook is to introduce you to the knowledge and skills you need to drive a vehicle with air brakes in a safe and lawful manner.
The actual air brake system pressure range must never be lower than 100 psi (690 kPa) or higher than 145 psi (1000 kPa). Air compressors are generally powered directly by the vehicle’s engine or by using belts and pulleys and can be mounted either directly on the engine or by brackets and fasteners.
Usually driven by the vehicle engine, the air compr essor builds the air pressure for the air brake system. The air compressor is typically cooled by the engine coolant system and lubricated by the engine oil sup ply. (Certain models have self-lubricated and/or air-coo led versions available.)
The Seven-Step Air Brake check is designed to test the governor cut-in and cut-out pressures, air pressure leakage, warning buzzer, brake valves and air pressure rebuild rates. Brakes off means the yellow and/or red valve is pushed in (on = valve out).
Using Compressed Air Air compressor stores energy in reservoirs as compressed air. Air pressure is directed to brake chambers through valves and air lines. Pressure builds in brake chambers and applies foundation brakes.
This chapter includes inspection checklists, charts and circuit diagrams that will help you complete the inspections you need to make, as well as help you prepare for the Ministry of Transportation air brake endorsement practical examination.
