What happens to the brakes if the airflow is interrupted?

When airflow is interrupted in an air brake system, the system relies on pressurized air to operate the brake components. Air brakes use air pressure to push the brake shoes against the drums, allowing for effective stopping power. If there is an interruption in the airflow, such as a leak in the system or a failure of the air compressor, the pressure needed to keep the brakes functioning properly is lost.

In this situation, the brakes can indeed malfunction. Specifically, loss of pressure may cause the brakes to release or become ineffective, but it can also lead to unpredictable behavior in the braking system. Therefore, the brakes will not perform as intended, which could result in compromised safety during operation.

Understanding the consequence of interrupted airflow is crucial for drivers operating vehicles equipped with air brakes, as it highlights the importance of regular maintenance and checks to ensure that the air brake system is functioning properly and no leaks are present.