Air Brake Practice Test

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Prepare for the Air Brake Test with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each offering hints and explanations. Get set to ace your test!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.

Why does compressed air tanks drain water?

Water over cools the compressor
The water's low boiling point decreases braking power
In cold weather, water can freeze and lead to brake failure
To prevent the air compressor oil from fouling

The correct answer is: In cold weather, water can freeze and lead to brake failure

The correct choice focuses on the critical function of draining water from compressed air tanks, particularly in maintaining brake system performance. When air is compressed, moisture from the atmosphere naturally gets trapped in the air system. If this moisture accumulates and is not drained, it can become a significant issue, especially in colder temperatures where water can freeze. When water freezes within the air brake system, it can block air passages, impairing the system's ability to function effectively. This can lead to problems with brake application and release, which are crucial for safe vehicle operation. Therefore, regular drainage of water from the air tanks is essential to prevent freezing, maintaining operational reliability and enhancing overall safety. The other options address various elements of the air brake system but do not directly relate to the primary consequence of water accumulation, which is the potential for freezing and compromising braking effectiveness.