Air Brake Systems Flashcards
7 cards from real CLP practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Air Brake Systems flashcards as text
What is the purpose of the air compressor governor in an air brake system?
Answer: To cut out the compressor when tank pressure reaches the maximum level and cut it in when pressure drops
The governor controls the air compressor by cutting it out when tank pressure reaches about 125 psi and cutting it back in when pressure drops to around 100 psi.
How does a dual air brake system improve safety compared to a single system?
Answer: It provides two separate air systems so that if one fails, the other can still stop the vehicle
A dual air brake system has two separate air systems — if one system fails, the other still provides enough braking power to stop the vehicle safely.
What should you do if the low air pressure warning activates while driving?
Answer: Stop the vehicle safely and as quickly as possible
When the low air pressure warning activates, you should stop the vehicle immediately and safely, as braking ability will soon be severely impaired.
What is the function of the brake chambers in an air brake system?
Answer: They convert air pressure into mechanical force to apply the brakes
Brake chambers convert compressed air pressure into the mechanical force needed to push the brake shoes against the brake drums.
At what approximate air pressure do spring brakes (parking brakes) fully apply on most vehicles?
Answer: 20 psi
Spring brakes are designed to fully apply when air pressure drops to approximately 20 psi, ensuring the vehicle stops if air is lost.
What is brake fade in drum brake systems?
Answer: A loss of braking power caused by heat build-up from prolonged brake use
Brake fade occurs when excessive heat from prolonged braking reduces friction between the brake shoes and drum, resulting in decreased stopping power.
What does the air pressure gauge tell the driver during operation?
Answer: The pressure in both the primary and secondary air tanks
The air pressure gauge shows the driver the current pressure levels in the primary and secondary air systems so they can monitor system health while driving.