Semi-trucks are among the largest vehicles on the road and they require equally large brakes to safely bring them to a stop. Semi-trucks use a combination of air brakes, service brakes, and parking brakes to effectively bring the vehicle to a halt.
Each type of brake serves a different purpose, and all three must be working correctly to ensure safe stopping.
Air Brakes
Air brakes are used on semi-trucks and many other commercial vehicles. The main components of an air brake system are an air compressor, air tanks, and an air brake chamber.
When a driver presses down on the brake pedal, compressed air is released from the compressor and directed into the air brake chamber which activates the brakes. Air brakes are very reliable since there are no mechanical components to wear out or fail.
Service Brakes
Service brakes are mechanical in nature and can be found in both semi-trucks and passenger cars. Service brakes use friction between two metal surfaces (pads or shoes) to slow down or stop a vehicle when pressure is applied to the brake pedal. Service brakes are more responsive than air brakes but require more frequent maintenance since they have mechanical parts that can wear out over time.
Parking Brakes
Parking brakes are also known as emergency or handbrakes because they provide an extra layer of protection if all other braking systems fail. Parking brakes are usually found as drum type systems located inside each wheel hub or as disc type systems located behind each wheel. They provide an extra level of security for when a vehicle is parked since they apply constant pressure on the wheels even when the engine is off.
Semi-trucks rely on a combination of air brakes, service brakes, and parking brakes to safely bring them to a stop. Air brakes provide reliable stopping power since there are no moving parts that can wear out over time while service brakes provide more responsive braking but require more frequent maintenance due to their mechanical components. Parking Brakes provide extra protection in case all other braking systems fail.
Conclusion:
Semi-trucks have complex braking systems which combine air brakes, service brakes, and parking/emergency/handbrakes for effective stopping power in any situation. All three types of braking systems must be functioning correctly in order for semi trucks to safely come to halt.
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