Manitoba Airbrake Practice Exam

How should spring brakes operate after the air pressure is released?

1. They should remain inactive

2. They should activate and hold the vehicle in place

3. They should release automatically

4. They should require manual engagement

The correct answer is: They should activate and hold the vehicle in place

Spring brakes are a crucial safety feature in airbrake systems, designed to engage automatically when air pressure is released. The correct understanding is that when the air pressure drops to a certain level, the spring brakes activate, using stored mechanical energy from powerful springs to apply the brakes. This function is intended to prevent movement of the vehicle, effectively holding it in place to avoid accidents or unintended rollaways. This automatic engagement is fundamental to the operation of the braking system in commercial vehicles, especially for heavy trucks and buses, to ensure safety in emergencies or when the air supply is compromised. The response of the spring brakes is reliant on their design to automatically activate rather than depend on the driver or the air system's operational state at that moment. Understanding the mechanics of how spring brakes function underscores the importance of maintaining proper air pressure and recognizing the critical role these brakes play in vehicle safety.