CONTENTS What is an air brake system? Components of air brake system. Working of Air brake system Brake assembly Advantages Limitations Applications Conclusion

AIR BRAKE SYSTEM An air brake system uses compressed air to apply the brakes. Air under pressure can be conveniently stored and carried through lines or tubes.

Brake chambers and slack adjusters. Brake linings and drums. The Components of an Air Brake System.  A basic air brake system capable of stopping a vehicle has the following components:   A compressor. A Reservoir. A Foot valve. Brake chambers and slack adjusters. Brake linings and drums.

Reservoir Brake chamber Actuator Dual brake valve System protection valve Unloader valve Brake lining and drums   Slack adjusters Foot valve

Brake chamber Push rod, clevis and pin S- cam Brake lining Brake drum

ADVANTAGES Free resources so no refilling or changing required. Air pressure is quick to act and hence air brakes are immediate.   The pressure of brake applied is directly proportional to the air pressure. A little feather touch would apply the same pressure. Air brakes can effectively stop loads of over 14 tons.

LIMITATIONS Excessive use of brake results in overheating and leads to brake fade. Brake fade results from excessive heat causing chemical changes in the brake lining that reduces friction and causes expansion of the brake drums. To reduce pressure loss problems : Reservoirs can be charged independently of the brake pipe, this being accomplished via a check valve to prevent back feeding into the pipe. This arrangement helps to reduce the pressure loss problems, and also reduces the time required for the brakes to release. Air brake systems are not applicable to the pressure less than 60psi.    Excessive Oil and Water Present in the Air Brake System causes the Reservoirs to corrode if not drained often enough. 

APPLICATIONS Air brakes are used on heavy trucks.  Agricultural tractor and trailer.  Forestry vehicles.  City Works vehicles.   Tractors with self propelled power engines. 

CONCLUSION  The air brake system is quick to act and the pressure applied on the brake is directly proportional to the air brake system. The efficiency of air brake system is relatively high when compared to the other types of brakes.  

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