When it comes to operating a truck safely, there are a few key technologies you need to be familiar with. In this article, we’ll break down the basics of each safety system and explain how it works.
We’ll also highlight some of the latest truck safety technology with knorr.
The Performance of Braking Systems
One of the essential advancements has been the development of braking systems. There are now a variety of braking systems available. Here are the common braking systems:
Hydraulic: The oldest and most common braking system. It uses brake fluid to create pressure and apply the brakes. It’s reliable and effective, but it can be expensive to maintain.
Air: This braking system uses compressed air to apply the brakes. It’s cheaper to maintain than hydraulic systems but can be less effective in extreme weather conditions.
Electric: Electric power activates the brakes. It’s reliable and efficient, but it can be more expensive than other types of braking systems.
Central Braking Systems
Trucks have three central braking systems: disc, drum and air. Let’s look at each one individually.
Disc Brakes: Disc brakes have been the standard in commercial vehicles for many years. They offer good stopping power, are durable and easy to maintain.
Drum Brakes: Drum brakes are less standard than disc brakes, but they are still famous for trucks because they are inexpensive and straightforward to repair.
Air Brakes: Air brakes are trucks’ most common type of brake system. They’re very reliable and can stop a truck quickly and safely.
Vibration Dampers
When the truck brakes, the vibration dampers help reduce that braking action’s impact on the truck itself. Dampers prevent excessive shaking and vibration, which could cause damage to the truck or its cargo. They are essential for keeping the driver safe; if the truck shakes too much, it may cause the driver to lose control.
Compressors
The most crucial safety feature of a truck is its compressor. A compressor is a device that pumps air into the brake system to help stop the truck. Keeping the compressor in good condition is essential, as it can help you stop quickly and safely in an emergency.
Few things to check when maintaining your truck’s compressor:
-Must be inspected regularly for damage or leaks.
-Belt should be checked for wear and replaced if necessary.
-Lubricate the compressor to prevent overheating.
-The compressor’s cooling fins should be kept clean and free of obstructions.
Exhaust Brakes
Exhaust brakes work by using the exhaust gases from the engine to create a vacuum. This vacuum helps to brake the truck by slowing down the speed of the motor.
Exhaust brakes are an excellent choice for big trucks, as they can help to reduce wear on the brakes and keep your truck under control on steep downhill grades. They’re also an excellent choice for drivers who tow trailers, as they can help to keep your speed under control and avoid brake fade.
Air Treatment
These systems help to keep the driver and other occupants of the truck safe by cleaning the air inside the vehicle.
The most common type of air treatment system is the diesel particulate filter (DPF). This system captures soot from the exhaust and breaks it down into small particles. The clean air will then circulate back into the truck’s cabin.
Other types of air treatment systems include activated carbon filters and ozone generators. Activated carbon filters remove odours and harmful gases from the air. At the same time, ozone generators produce ozone gas, which kills bacteria and viruses.
Transmission Management
Several different transmission management systems are available, but the torque converter is the most common.
The torque converter is an automatic transmission that uses a hydraulic coupling to transfer power from the engine to the transmission. Knowing how your torque converter works is essential, as it can affect your truck’s performance. For example, suppose you’re driving in hilly terrain. In that case, you’ll need to adjust your torque converter settings to ensure you have enough power and speed to make it up the hill.
Valves
Valves are an essential part of truck safety technology. They help to regulate the pressure and flow of air and fuel in the engine, which in turn helps to improve performance and fuel economy. There are many different valves, each with its specific function. Some of the most common valves are:
Intake valves: These allow air and fuel to enter the engine.
Exhaust valves: These allow burned gases to escape from the engine.
Spark plugs: These create a spark that ignites the air/fuel mixture in the engine.
Electronic Systems
The electronic systems in trucks are some of the most critical safety features of the vehicle. They help to keep the truck driver safe while they’re driving, as well as other drivers on the road. There are a few different electronic systems that you should be familiar with.
Braking system – This system helps to control the truck’s speed and keep it from going too fast. It also helps to stop the truck quickly if needed.
Stability control system – This system helps to keep the truck from tipping over when turning or going around curves. It also helps to maintain traction when driving on slippery surfaces.
Anti-lock braking system or ABS – This system helps to prevent the wheels from locking up when you hit the brakes. Knowing how these systems work is essential to use them safely and effectively while driving your truck.
Conclusion
Now that you know more about truck safety technology, you can be more informed when deciding to improve your truck.
Take safety as a priority when driving. Equip your truck with the latest technology to keep you safe on the road.