New Jersey Air Brakes Practice Test

What component in the brake system helps to increase stopping power in emergency situations?

1. Master cylinder

2. Spring brakes

3. Air compressor

4. Brake booster

The correct answer is: Spring brakes

In an air brake system, spring brakes are crucial for enhancing the stopping power during emergency situations. They are designed to automatically engage when air pressure drops below a certain level, providing immediate braking force without relying on the standard air pressure system. This function is particularly vital if the primary air system fails or if the vehicle experiences a loss of air pressure, ensuring that the vehicle can come to a stop safely. The other components play different roles in the braking system. The master cylinder is responsible for converting the force from the brake pedal into hydraulic pressure that activates the brakes. An air compressor maintains the pressure needed in the air brake system but does not directly contribute to increasing stopping power in emergencies. The brake booster assists in reducing the effort needed to apply the brakes, but it does not provide the immediate and fail-safe braking required in urgent situations like the spring brakes do.