The air system in a semi truck is responsible for controlling the brakes, suspension, and other functions of the vehicle. It consists of a compressor, air tanks, valves, hoses, and other parts that work together to provide the necessary air pressure to make the truck move.
The compressor is the heart of the system and is powered by the engine. It takes in outside air and compresses it into a high-pressure stream that is then fed into storage tanks.
The tanks store this compressed air at a pressure of up to 120 psi (pounds per square inch).
The compressed air from the tanks is then routed through hoses to various parts of the truck such as the brakes, suspension, steering system, etc. When these components need more pressure or less pressure for their respective functions, they can send signals to a valve on the air line which will either open or close in order to adjust the pressure accordingly.
The valves are controlled by an electronic control unit (ECU) which monitors all of the various functions and adjusts them accordingly. The ECU also monitors how much air is being used so that it can alert drivers when they need to refill their tanks.
Conclusion:
Overall, understanding how an air system in a semi truck works is essential for any driver who wants to keep their vehicle running smoothly. By having an understanding of how compressors, storage tanks, valves, hoses and ECUs work together to provide necessary levels of air pressure for different components within a semi truck, drivers can ensure that their vehicles remain safe and reliable on long journeys.
