If you’re managing a fleet that includes heavy trucks and buses, then you know exactly how much hard work it takes to guarantee that every component of these vehicles is working at optimal capacity. You surely employ a group of great drivers and keep an elite group of mechanics on your roster – perhaps you have even adopted a fleet tracking system to keep track of the movement, service appointments, and important warranty information that applies to these pricey assets.
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But, just because you’ve taken steps to follow smart hiring practices and invest in automation doesn’t mean that all of your bases are covered.
Take the issue of air brake systems, for instance. Most managers and drivers have a general understanding of how these specialized friction brakes work, but not enough fully grasp the true mechanics of this important safety system.
To correct this, take the time to read through our list of the 5 basic components of elementary air brake systems.
Remember, the clearer your understanding on this topic, the better informed you will be when forced to make big decisions regarding your fleet.
An air compressor maintains the proper level of air pressure so that the air brakes and any other air-powered accessories operate safely and consistently.
Depending on the make and model of your heavy truck, its compressor is either gear or belt-driven and gets cooled by either air or an engine cooling system. The compressor(s) startup every time the engine is triggered, and the device loads and unloads air which is pumped in and out of the reservoirs and the other two-cylinder compressors.
Maintenance Tip: If the air compressor’s temperature is governed by an engine cooling system, it may have its own, separate oil supply. If this is the case, ensure that the operator and/or designated fleet team mechanic check the compressor’s oil levels before the truck hits the road.
Additionally, many compressors have their own filtration system, which also must be serviced on a regular basis.
In the case of heavy truck and bus air brake systems, it’s the reservoirs that hold onto a sufficient amount of compressed air, until the supply is required for braking. Note: drivers cannot control the amount of air that they use when the air brakes are triggered; the amount solely depends on how much has been circulated by the compressor.
In terms of design, reservoirs are pressure-rated tanks that feature special drain valves called draincocks. When the draincocks are in the ‘open’ position, they drain themselves of any moisture or pollutants that might compromise the integrity of the air.
Maintenance Tip: In order to guarantee that your reservoirs are in top shape, each must be drained entirely at least once a day when in service.
The foot valve, otherwise known as the treadle or the brake pedal, is the tool that determines the volume of air pressure used. In this case, the volume is determined by how hard the operator presses their foot on the foot valve.
When the compressed air is released through the brake system, it takes time for it to be produced again through the compressor function (described above). That said, if too much pressure is released in a short period of time, the entire system could fail.
Maintenance Tip: Supply your operators with proper training of the air brake system before they are allowed to join your team. If they are not properly educated on brake maintenance (i.e., they press and release the brakes often and unnecessarily) the air brake system can incur permanent damage.
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Brake chambers, otherwise known as brake pots, are the devices that turn the compressed air into mechanical force. It is through this mechanism that the brakes are triggered and the heavy truck or bus is able to safely halt.
Each one of the brake chambers comes equipped with a specific pushrod stroke adjustment limit. The chamber itself is held together by a clamp assembly that is specially made to regulate the compressed air that is released into the chambers.
Maintenance Tip: Regular maintenance must be performed directly to the brake chambers as dictated by the truck’s manual. This required maintenance is to guarantee that the pushrod stroke is operating within normal range. If this maintenance is not performed, the entire air brake system could fail.
By making use of friction, the brake shoes – or pads, depending on the make and model of the truck – are forced outwards, thus initiating the air brake system.
A special brake lining material is attached to the brake shoes to help promote consistency. If the type of lining is a good fit, it should also regulate heat that is created from the friction.
Maintenance Tip: Always replace the aforementioned lining when necessary. Also, make sure that your mechanic frequently services other possible over-worked areas. These issues include distorted drums, poor adjustment, or dirty linings.
Understanding the critical components of an air brake system is essential for maintaining the safety and efficiency of heavy trucks and buses.
The five fundamental elements include
Regular maintenance of these components is vital to prevent system failures and ensure optimal performance.
Paying attention to your driving habits can have a big impact on the health of your car overall but especially your brakes. If you enjoy speeding from point A to point B, you’re likely causing extra wear on your brake pads and rotors from braking more whenever you hit traffic or a stop light. If you frequently drive close to the car in front of you, you’re likely using your brake more often to keep from hitting them when speed changes. Instead of braking every time you have to slow down a little bit, you can try coasting to cause less wear on your brake system. Most people do not think about how simple driving habits can impact essential systems in their car.
For some people, avoiding towing heavy loads is not possible. However, if you don’t have to, it will save your brakes if you limit how often you carry around extra weight with your car. It takes a bigger toll on your car’s brake pads and rotors to bring a heavier vehicle to a complete stop. The heavier your car and anything it’s carrying, the faster you’ll wear through brake pads and rotors.
You can easily check the wear on your brake pads and rotors at home and should do so regularly to ensure you catch them before they become over-worn. Once brake pads have worn down to 3mm or less in thickness, it’s time to think about making an appointment with your local brake mechanic. Likewise, if you notice a rim around the outside of your rotors, it’s probably time you get those replaced as well.
Generally speaking, brake pads will need to be replaced every 50,000 miles or so but that timeframe can depend on several different factors. Brake rotors can go up to around 70,000 miles before needing to be replaced. Both will depend on the brand you purchase and the type of driving you most commonly do. Regardless of mileage, it’s important to keep an eye on your brake pads’ thickness.
Roughly every 30,000 miles or so, though some manufacturers say you can go 2-4 years, you should schedule a brake fluid flush. It’s a brake service that often goes overlooked but is important to keep your brake system operating well. Over time, your brake fluid becomes contaminated from a combination of use and the surrounding environment. If you drive down dirt roads, you’ll likely need to get all of your car’s fluids flushed more often than those who do more suburban driving with minimal dust and debris. Over time, your brake fluid absorbs more water and therefore becomes less effective. It’s likely you won’t notice it happening over time because it is so gradual but after a brake flush, you should notice your brakes working better.
Noticing a spongy brake pedal? You likely need to bleed your brakes. No, this is not the same as having your brake fluid flushed. Roughly every two years, you should get air pockets removed from your brake line by having your brakes bled. If this brake service is necessary, you’ll notice a spongy brake pedal and your brakes will be less effective in general.
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