What does the air compressor governor do?
Answers
It stops the compressor from pumping air.
It turns on the air compressor.
It stores the compressed air.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is: It stops the compressor from pumping air.
Explanation:
An air compressor governor is a critical component in air brake systems, especially in heavy-duty vehicles such as trucks and buses. Its primary function is to control the operation of the air compressor by regulating the pressure at which the compressor operates, ensuring that the system remains within safe limits.
In an air brake system, the air compressor is responsible for pressurizing air that is stored in air tanks, which then powers the vehicle’s braking system. However, if the air compressor continues to pump air indefinitely, the air pressure in the system can exceed the safe operating range, which could cause damage to the components or create safety hazards. To prevent this, the governor plays an essential role in regulating the compressor’s operation.
How it Works:
- Pressure Monitoring: The governor monitors the air pressure in the storage tanks. It is usually set with two pressure points—cut-in and cut-out pressures.
- Cut-In Pressure: This is the lower pressure point at which the governor activates the compressor to begin pumping air into the storage tanks.
- Cut-Out Pressure: This is the upper pressure point at which the governor turns off the compressor, stopping it from pumping air into the system.
- Regulation: When the air pressure in the tanks drops to the cut-in pressure, the governor sends a signal to the compressor to start. As the compressor pumps air, the pressure increases. Once the air pressure reaches the cut-out pressure, the governor disengages the compressor, halting further air intake.
- Maintaining Optimal Pressure: This regulation helps maintain an optimal pressure range in the air system, ensuring the vehicle has enough air for braking, but preventing the system from becoming over-pressurized.
In summary, the governor ensures that the compressor only operates when needed and stops when the pressure reaches a safe level, safeguarding the air system’s functionality and the vehicle’s overall safety.