Manitoba Airbrake Practice Exam

How does the air compressor work in an air brake system?

1. It cools down the air in the tanks

2. It generates compressed air to charge the air tanks

3. It releases air to release brake pressure

4. It filters contaminants from the air

The correct answer is: It generates compressed air to charge the air tanks

The air compressor plays a crucial role in an air brake system by generating compressed air, which is essential for charging the air tanks. This process involves drawing in ambient air, which is then compressed and stored in the air tanks until it is needed for braking. When the driver applies the brakes, the compressed air is released from the tanks to activate the braking mechanism. This is vital for ensuring that the brakes function effectively, as the ability to generate and store sufficient air pressure directly influences the braking performance of the vehicle. The other options focus on functions that the air compressor does not perform. For instance, while air tanks may need to be drained of moisture, the compressor is primarily responsible for the generation of air, making the key aspect of its operation the production of compressed air.